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The Painter's Daughter: A Marriage of Convenience Historical Regency Romance Novel
Sophie Dupont assists her father in his studio, keeping her own artwork out of sight. In private, she paints the picturesque north Devon coast, popular with artists--including handsome Wesley Overtree, who seems more interested in Sophie than the landscape.
Captain Stephen Overtree is accustomed to taking on his brother Wesley's responsibilities. Near the end of his leave, he is sent to find his brother and bring him home. Upon reaching Devonshire, however, Stephen is stunned to learn Wesley has sailed for Italy and left his host's daughter in serious trouble.
Stephen feels duty-bound to act, and strangely protective of the young lady, who somehow seems familiar. Wanting to make some recompense for his own past failings as well as his brother's, Stephen proposes to Miss Dupont. He does not offer love, but marriage "in name only" to save her from scandal. If he dies in battle, as he fears, she will at least be a respectable widow.
Desperate for a way to escape her predicament, Sophie finds herself torn between her first love and this brooding man she barely knows. Dare she wait for Wesley to return? Or should she elope with the captain and pray she doesn't come to regret it?
Captain Stephen Overtree is accustomed to taking on his brother Wesley's responsibilities. Near the end of his leave, he is sent to find his brother and bring him home. Upon reaching Devonshire, however, Stephen is stunned to learn Wesley has sailed for Italy and left his host's daughter in serious trouble.
Stephen feels duty-bound to act, and strangely protective of the young lady, who somehow seems familiar. Wanting to make some recompense for his own past failings as well as his brother's, Stephen proposes to Miss Dupont. He does not offer love, but marriage "in name only" to save her from scandal. If he dies in battle, as he fears, she will at least be a respectable widow.
Desperate for a way to escape her predicament, Sophie finds herself torn between her first love and this brooding man she barely knows. Dare she wait for Wesley to return? Or should she elope with the captain and pray she doesn't come to regret it?
466 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2015
722 people are currently reading
9295 people want to read
About the author
Julie Klassen
32 books6,119 followersJulie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. Three of her books, The Silent Governess, The Girl in the Gatehouse, and The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, have won the Christy Award for Historical Romance. She has also won the Midwest Book Award, the Minnesota Book Award, and Christian Retailing’s BEST Award, and been a finalist in the Romance Writers of America’s RITA Awards and ACFW’s Carol Awards. She blogs at http://www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com.
Julie and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.
Julie and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,224 reviews
January 20, 2018
Yowza, that was intense. What a sordid mess indeed! Although this was a very captivating read and I often found myself holding my breath, getting heart flutters, and feeling downright mad at certain characters, I can't say it's a read that all would enjoy. This definitely is NOT a book that will cause you to feel all warm and cozy inside. No, this is a story that deals with the after effects of a women who becomes with child out of wedlock thus leading it to be more sensual than the majority of books that I read. However, it is still a clean read, but if too many details bother you, I wouldn't recommend it. With Lady Maybe as an exception, I have loved all of Klassen's novels and this one was very good. The writing held me spell bound because I cared for the characters and wanted the best for them. Trust me, if you read this, the last two hundred pages make it impossible to put the book down. ( I would suggest making some frozen meals in advance so your family can still eat while your nose is stuck in this book.)
Note: Readers, there is even a crazy lady in the attic! How can you resist?!? If you are looking for a book to maybe pull you out of a reading slump, this one might do the job;-)
Note: Readers, there is even a crazy lady in the attic! How can you resist?!? If you are looking for a book to maybe pull you out of a reading slump, this one might do the job;-)
February 10, 2017
3 stars: updated rating
When I purchased the hardcover edition, I reread a lot of it for fun. I apparently read through it too fast to notice some content issues the first time... I was so interested in seeing how the plot would end that I didn't see how sensual many of the details were. Unless the hardcover is a different book than the paperback, which I don't think likely!
18+ only
Original review below.
4.5 stars
This book was so hard to put down. It's Julie Klassen at her best, with intrigue, danger, and a young heroine dealing with her first broken heart.
When Wesley Overtree deceives Sophie into giving him everything and then rushes off in search of new things to paint, his brother Stephen comes right behind, trying to find him and bring him home to family duties. Thus Stephen finds Sophie just as she's realizing she's been deserted and left pregnant and unmarried.
Something about her face will not let Stephen go. He offers to marry her before he leaves for war, giving her a name for her child and a home with his family. Sophie has little choice, with an unwanted suitor her father likes or a ruined name as her only other choices.
Once Sophie comes to the family home, there's intrigue, secret passageways, and more. I loved Kate best and hated Wesley most. There's a conflicted soldier seeking to throw off his demons and move one, and a young lady who becomes Sophie's friend, and a mysterious old nurse of Stephen's who somehow knows all sorts of things.
Will Stephen return from battle and become a true husband? Or will Wesley return and convince her to follow her girlish infatuation with him instead?
15+ for subject matter
When I purchased the hardcover edition, I reread a lot of it for fun. I apparently read through it too fast to notice some content issues the first time... I was so interested in seeing how the plot would end that I didn't see how sensual many of the details were. Unless the hardcover is a different book than the paperback, which I don't think likely!
18+ only
Original review below.
4.5 stars
This book was so hard to put down. It's Julie Klassen at her best, with intrigue, danger, and a young heroine dealing with her first broken heart.
When Wesley Overtree deceives Sophie into giving him everything and then rushes off in search of new things to paint, his brother Stephen comes right behind, trying to find him and bring him home to family duties. Thus Stephen finds Sophie just as she's realizing she's been deserted and left pregnant and unmarried.
Something about her face will not let Stephen go. He offers to marry her before he leaves for war, giving her a name for her child and a home with his family. Sophie has little choice, with an unwanted suitor her father likes or a ruined name as her only other choices.
Once Sophie comes to the family home, there's intrigue, secret passageways, and more. I loved Kate best and hated Wesley most. There's a conflicted soldier seeking to throw off his demons and move one, and a young lady who becomes Sophie's friend, and a mysterious old nurse of Stephen's who somehow knows all sorts of things.
Will Stephen return from battle and become a true husband? Or will Wesley return and convince her to follow her girlish infatuation with him instead?
15+ for subject matter
November 30, 2017
I've heard Klassen's praises for years and finally dived into this book...and boy, I was glad I did! It was an utterly absorbing novel...lots of family drama, romance and more in a beautiful setting. I'll be looking for more of Julie's books in the future.
February 3, 2021
This was one of the best stories I have ever read!! Wow!
I had never read a Julie Klassen! I LOVED everything about this book— the setting, the characters, the love story, the suspense, the endearing relationships that developed between all of the characters...
Something that really appealed to me in this book was the dialogue between the characters. The way it was written made me feel like I was watching a movie. So much of what was said was so raw and real and was explained so well with words. The conversations were so true-to-life & completely captivating due to the 'high stakes' circumstances. I was completely engulfed. The development of the story was so intriguing and constantly kept your mind turning trying figure out how the complicated circumstance could be made better. This book kept me emotionally on the edge of my seat pretty much the whole time! I kept wondering to myself 'How on earth will things possibly work out?!!'
I am purposely being vague because I don't want to give a single thing away. It is such an emotional and completely captivating story!!! You have to read it! I cannot wait to delve into another Julie Klassen!
I had never read a Julie Klassen! I LOVED everything about this book— the setting, the characters, the love story, the suspense, the endearing relationships that developed between all of the characters...
Something that really appealed to me in this book was the dialogue between the characters. The way it was written made me feel like I was watching a movie. So much of what was said was so raw and real and was explained so well with words. The conversations were so true-to-life & completely captivating due to the 'high stakes' circumstances. I was completely engulfed. The development of the story was so intriguing and constantly kept your mind turning trying figure out how the complicated circumstance could be made better. This book kept me emotionally on the edge of my seat pretty much the whole time! I kept wondering to myself 'How on earth will things possibly work out?!!'
I am purposely being vague because I don't want to give a single thing away. It is such an emotional and completely captivating story!!! You have to read it! I cannot wait to delve into another Julie Klassen!
June 22, 2023
This is my favorite Julie Klassen book so far! 4.5-5 stars, rounding up to 5. Beautiful storytelling. Truly felt like I was in the middle of a regency tv series or movie. Jane Austen vibes. One of the best regency romances I have ever read! Plus, a marriage of convenience – my favorite! :)
In this story, set in England 1815, we follow Sophie Dupont, who fell in love with an artist, Wesley Overtree. Sophie thought she was in love with Wesley and that he would marry her. Unfortunately, things don't happy as she expected...and Wesley leaves for Italy as he jumped at the opportunity to travel and paint. Wesley leaves behind a sorry excuse for a note to Sophie leaving her and his brother, Stephen, not anticipating Wesley's return anytime soon. What Sophie didn't tell Wesley before he left – she is pregnant with his child. Wesley's brother, Captain Stephen Overtree, sees the situation for what it is that Sophie is in and as a respectable man, offers to marry her in name only to protect her and her child's future. With Stephen set to go off to war, they get married, and the story goes from here as they start getting to know one another, their families, interests, etc.....
I just loved this story. Julie truly told us a full, captivating story from the details of the families, side characters, setting, romance – she transported us right there with the characters! I loved how honorable Stephen was – the perfect hero. I had such compassion for Sophie – she was overlooked by her family and the first man that comes along and shows her love – she has a horrible experience just wanting to be loved. Seeing Stephen and Sophie getting to know each other was the best. Wesley was despicable as expected.
I loved the faith and prayer elements as well in the story – no matter what you have done, God is with you and loves you – He holds the ultimate redemption for us in Jesus. I liked seeing Sophie’s growth through her faith walk too.
Highly recommend!
Note: I wouldn’t recommend this to teens, only to adults because of the subject matter of the story.
In this story, set in England 1815, we follow Sophie Dupont, who fell in love with an artist, Wesley Overtree. Sophie thought she was in love with Wesley and that he would marry her. Unfortunately, things don't happy as she expected...and Wesley leaves for Italy as he jumped at the opportunity to travel and paint. Wesley leaves behind a sorry excuse for a note to Sophie leaving her and his brother, Stephen, not anticipating Wesley's return anytime soon. What Sophie didn't tell Wesley before he left – she is pregnant with his child. Wesley's brother, Captain Stephen Overtree, sees the situation for what it is that Sophie is in and as a respectable man, offers to marry her in name only to protect her and her child's future. With Stephen set to go off to war, they get married, and the story goes from here as they start getting to know one another, their families, interests, etc.....
I just loved this story. Julie truly told us a full, captivating story from the details of the families, side characters, setting, romance – she transported us right there with the characters! I loved how honorable Stephen was – the perfect hero. I had such compassion for Sophie – she was overlooked by her family and the first man that comes along and shows her love – she has a horrible experience just wanting to be loved. Seeing Stephen and Sophie getting to know each other was the best. Wesley was despicable as expected.
I loved the faith and prayer elements as well in the story – no matter what you have done, God is with you and loves you – He holds the ultimate redemption for us in Jesus. I liked seeing Sophie’s growth through her faith walk too.
Highly recommend!
Note: I wouldn’t recommend this to teens, only to adults because of the subject matter of the story.
March 27, 2016
My New Favorite from Julie Klassen!
In her latest Inspirational Regency romance, Julie Klassen brings readers to Devonshire, England in the year 1815 where we find an artist’s daughter, Sophie Dupont, who fell in love with a visiting artist but now finds herself abandoned and in a bit of a delicate predicament. Like Marianne Dashwood, Sophie believed herself loved, and though the words were “never absolutely” spoken, she expected that her lover would declare himself and marry her. Sadly for Sophie, this didn’t happen. Instead the man who stole her heart, Wesley Overtree, jumped at a fortuitous opportunity to travel to Italy and paint. In a mad rush to be off, Wesley didn’t say good-bye in person, he just left a brief note with no declarations or promises.
On a mission to find his older brother, Captain Stephen Overtree travels to Lynmouth in hopes of convincing Wesley to come home and help their ailing father by assuming his estate responsibilities. However, he doesn’t find Wesley, he instead finds Sophie and is quick to guess her relationship with his brother and the situation she now finds herself in. As readers will soon find out, Stephen Overtree is a most honorable and responsible man. He feels it is his duty to help Sophie out. There isn’t time to travel to Italy and bring Wesley back, so Stephen does the only thing he can think of and offers marriage and the protection of his name to Sophie himself.
Oh my…this story gripped me from the very first page and many times I found myself unable to summon the willpower to put it down! I found myself completely enamored with Sophie, Stephen, and the impossibly tangled situation they found themselves in. Sophie has just bound herself to a virtual stranger to save her reputation – a man who has a brusque and militant persona and whom she suspects to be harsh and violent. Stephen is in the awkward of position of having a wife who is in love with his brother not him, yet his own heart can’t help but feel some affection for her. Add to that, this couple must play the part of happy newlyweds in front of their relations who cannot help but feel a bit suspicious about such an impetuous marriage…
Do you see what I mean? This premise and situation is delicate, risky, and fraught with complications. I think what I loved most about The Painter’s Daughter – aside from the engaging characters – was witnessing how this abruptly decided marriage “in name only” would play out . Would Sophie ever have a change of heart? How will Wesley react when he learns about his brother’s marriage? Will anyone discover the whole truth about Sophie and Wesley? The anticipation was delicious, the tension was palpable, and the emotional turbulence was rendered with beautiful poignancy. My heart went out to Sophie, our plain and modest heroine, who like Jane Eyre, was often overlooked, unused to being admired, and often not treated as an equal. I can understand her falling in love with the first person to notice her. And poor Stephen claimed my heart as well. He lives in the shadow of his favored older brother, feels ashamed of his unsightly scar, and believes in a prediction that he may not live to see his thirtieth birthday.
Aside from a compelling plot and admirable characters, Julie Klassen infuses her story with lovely touches of romance, intrigue, history, and faith. And as always, the balance she strikes between all these components feels just right. In addition, I greatly enjoyed the attention paid to secondary characters in this tale and I was so happy to spot some Jane Austen quotes cleverly woven in various parts of the text. It may surprise no one to hear me say that I deeply loved this arrestingly beautiful new Inspirational Regency romance from Julie Klassen and it has definitely become my new favorite!
Austenesque Reviews
In her latest Inspirational Regency romance, Julie Klassen brings readers to Devonshire, England in the year 1815 where we find an artist’s daughter, Sophie Dupont, who fell in love with a visiting artist but now finds herself abandoned and in a bit of a delicate predicament. Like Marianne Dashwood, Sophie believed herself loved, and though the words were “never absolutely” spoken, she expected that her lover would declare himself and marry her. Sadly for Sophie, this didn’t happen. Instead the man who stole her heart, Wesley Overtree, jumped at a fortuitous opportunity to travel to Italy and paint. In a mad rush to be off, Wesley didn’t say good-bye in person, he just left a brief note with no declarations or promises.
On a mission to find his older brother, Captain Stephen Overtree travels to Lynmouth in hopes of convincing Wesley to come home and help their ailing father by assuming his estate responsibilities. However, he doesn’t find Wesley, he instead finds Sophie and is quick to guess her relationship with his brother and the situation she now finds herself in. As readers will soon find out, Stephen Overtree is a most honorable and responsible man. He feels it is his duty to help Sophie out. There isn’t time to travel to Italy and bring Wesley back, so Stephen does the only thing he can think of and offers marriage and the protection of his name to Sophie himself.
Oh my…this story gripped me from the very first page and many times I found myself unable to summon the willpower to put it down! I found myself completely enamored with Sophie, Stephen, and the impossibly tangled situation they found themselves in. Sophie has just bound herself to a virtual stranger to save her reputation – a man who has a brusque and militant persona and whom she suspects to be harsh and violent. Stephen is in the awkward of position of having a wife who is in love with his brother not him, yet his own heart can’t help but feel some affection for her. Add to that, this couple must play the part of happy newlyweds in front of their relations who cannot help but feel a bit suspicious about such an impetuous marriage…
Do you see what I mean? This premise and situation is delicate, risky, and fraught with complications. I think what I loved most about The Painter’s Daughter – aside from the engaging characters – was witnessing how this abruptly decided marriage “in name only” would play out . Would Sophie ever have a change of heart? How will Wesley react when he learns about his brother’s marriage? Will anyone discover the whole truth about Sophie and Wesley? The anticipation was delicious, the tension was palpable, and the emotional turbulence was rendered with beautiful poignancy. My heart went out to Sophie, our plain and modest heroine, who like Jane Eyre, was often overlooked, unused to being admired, and often not treated as an equal. I can understand her falling in love with the first person to notice her. And poor Stephen claimed my heart as well. He lives in the shadow of his favored older brother, feels ashamed of his unsightly scar, and believes in a prediction that he may not live to see his thirtieth birthday.
Aside from a compelling plot and admirable characters, Julie Klassen infuses her story with lovely touches of romance, intrigue, history, and faith. And as always, the balance she strikes between all these components feels just right. In addition, I greatly enjoyed the attention paid to secondary characters in this tale and I was so happy to spot some Jane Austen quotes cleverly woven in various parts of the text. It may surprise no one to hear me say that I deeply loved this arrestingly beautiful new Inspirational Regency romance from Julie Klassen and it has definitely become my new favorite!
Austenesque Reviews
December 14, 2015
Julie Klassen weaves an enthralling tale of love, loss, and redemption in her newest novel, The Painter's Daughter. The setting in Devonshire comes alive as Julie paints the setting so clearly. Each character is unique and adds dimension to the story. The contrast in the two brothers was very well done. Overall a very enjoyable story that I highly recommend!
November 28, 2015
A delightful Regency era novel from Julie Klassen.
Sophie is The Painter's Daughter and she finds herself in a precarious situation. Although she doesn't know or love Stephen, he offers a solution for her. Sophie was both fallible and likable. Stephen was pure Prince Charming.
Secondary characters added to the novel. I especially enjoyed Stephen's grandfather and his sister Kate. The history backdrop of Napoleon was an added plus.
There were layers of pain that were dealt with in the novel. My favorite part of the novel was the ending.
Happy sigh...
Sophie is The Painter's Daughter and she finds herself in a precarious situation. Although she doesn't know or love Stephen, he offers a solution for her. Sophie was both fallible and likable. Stephen was pure Prince Charming.
Secondary characters added to the novel. I especially enjoyed Stephen's grandfather and his sister Kate. The history backdrop of Napoleon was an added plus.
There were layers of pain that were dealt with in the novel. My favorite part of the novel was the ending.
Happy sigh...
to-read-next
March 1, 2017She has ANOTHER book coming out so soon?? How am I supposed to keep up!?!
At the same time though, this is REALLY exciting!!
At the same time though, this is REALLY exciting!!
January 29, 2021
Reread 2021: I LOVE this book!! Simply one of the best books I’ve read with one of the best heroes ever.❤️
This book was deliciously AMAZING! I could not put it down. The romance was everything I look for when reading. I LOVE marriage of convenience stories, but there are a lot out there that are not well executed. This is the perfect example of an amazing tale with that plot at the forefront!
I normally have a hard time liking regency heroes for the majority because I don’t like the typical rich pansy type that most are written to be😬. The hero in The Painter’s Daughter was noble, sweet, manly, etc. Seriously, I loved Stephen! There were plenty of swoony sweet moments which I enjoyed.😉This book is also filled with great mystery & secrets that were very intriguing.
If this book was a movie, it would be my favorite movie. This is one of my favorite regencies I have read; this novel has a locked in spot on my bookshelf forever more. I can’t wait to read it again!
This book was deliciously AMAZING! I could not put it down. The romance was everything I look for when reading. I LOVE marriage of convenience stories, but there are a lot out there that are not well executed. This is the perfect example of an amazing tale with that plot at the forefront!
I normally have a hard time liking regency heroes for the majority because I don’t like the typical rich pansy type that most are written to be😬. The hero in The Painter’s Daughter was noble, sweet, manly, etc. Seriously, I loved Stephen! There were plenty of swoony sweet moments which I enjoyed.😉This book is also filled with great mystery & secrets that were very intriguing.
If this book was a movie, it would be my favorite movie. This is one of my favorite regencies I have read; this novel has a locked in spot on my bookshelf forever more. I can’t wait to read it again!
January 30, 2021
The Painter's Daughter, (published by Bethany House in 2015), is a Christian Regency romance by Julie Klassen. Set in Devonshire, England in 1815, I enjoyed this book very much.
5 stars
The heroine: Sophia Dupont, or Sophie, is the daughter of the well-renowned artist Claude Dupont and assists him in his studio. Wesley Overtree, a young artist, came about a year ago to study under Sophie's father. He was very drawn to Sophie and ended up painting her multiple times . . and doing other things with her. Sophie and Wes fell in love, and Sophie hoped to marry him. She became pregnant, but did not inform him because she was hoping he'd ask her to marry him of his own accord. Unfortunately, Wes hitched a ride to Italy with some new friends, in order to find a new muse. He left without informing her in person, and now she's "in trouble" without a respectable way out.
The hero: Captain Stephen Overtree is a strong Christian. As a young man, he wanted to become a clergyman, but circumstances led him to the army. However, "in some ways, the military had brought Stephen closer to God than a career as a clergyman ever could have." At the same time, he is a rather stern man and can be intimidating to those around him, which is exacerbated by a rather large scar on his face. When his father's health is suffering, he sends Stephen to round up Wesley and bring him home to help manage the estate, as Stephen needs to get back to the war and the estate manager is retiring.
While searching for Wesley, Stephen finds Sophia and eventually learns of her relationship to Wesley, as well as her pregnancy. He offers her his hand in marriage (in name only) to give her the cloak of respectability, and to provide for the offspring of his brother. There's plenty of tension to be had in this set-up, and Klassen does it so very well!
What I liked:
*I love Stephen. He is a wonderful hero. I liked Sophie very much for who she is, and the reader will feel for her predicament and how it came about.
*I found a few Austen or Austen-like quotes, which is always fun. "I cannot say I approve of your way of getting a husband."
What I didn't like:
*I ended up being okay with it in the end, but there is a character who "always had a way of knowing things," which I found very odd in a Christian novel. It works, though.
*This story was a tad soap opera-ish. Be warned. Granted, I believe that Julie Klassen makes it very believable, even plausible. And it was acceptable to me, even though I detest both soap operas and love triangles. The book certainly kept me on the edge of my seat, and I finished this story much faster than I normally go through a book.
I'd recommend this to those who like Regency romance and/or Christian romance. However, the issue of sex is an underlying theme, largely because of the pregnancy. I'd not give this to a very young reader of romance. However, the book is clean. I will definitely continue to keep up with Julie Klassen.
5 stars
The heroine: Sophia Dupont, or Sophie, is the daughter of the well-renowned artist Claude Dupont and assists him in his studio. Wesley Overtree, a young artist, came about a year ago to study under Sophie's father. He was very drawn to Sophie and ended up painting her multiple times . . and doing other things with her. Sophie and Wes fell in love, and Sophie hoped to marry him. She became pregnant, but did not inform him because she was hoping he'd ask her to marry him of his own accord. Unfortunately, Wes hitched a ride to Italy with some new friends, in order to find a new muse. He left without informing her in person, and now she's "in trouble" without a respectable way out.
The hero: Captain Stephen Overtree is a strong Christian. As a young man, he wanted to become a clergyman, but circumstances led him to the army. However, "in some ways, the military had brought Stephen closer to God than a career as a clergyman ever could have." At the same time, he is a rather stern man and can be intimidating to those around him, which is exacerbated by a rather large scar on his face. When his father's health is suffering, he sends Stephen to round up Wesley and bring him home to help manage the estate, as Stephen needs to get back to the war and the estate manager is retiring.
While searching for Wesley, Stephen finds Sophia and eventually learns of her relationship to Wesley, as well as her pregnancy. He offers her his hand in marriage (in name only) to give her the cloak of respectability, and to provide for the offspring of his brother. There's plenty of tension to be had in this set-up, and Klassen does it so very well!
What I liked:
*I love Stephen. He is a wonderful hero. I liked Sophie very much for who she is, and the reader will feel for her predicament and how it came about.
*I found a few Austen or Austen-like quotes, which is always fun. "I cannot say I approve of your way of getting a husband."
What I didn't like:
*I ended up being okay with it in the end, but there is a character who "always had a way of knowing things," which I found very odd in a Christian novel. It works, though.
*This story was a tad soap opera-ish. Be warned. Granted, I believe that Julie Klassen makes it very believable, even plausible. And it was acceptable to me, even though I detest both soap operas and love triangles. The book certainly kept me on the edge of my seat, and I finished this story much faster than I normally go through a book.
I'd recommend this to those who like Regency romance and/or Christian romance. However, the issue of sex is an underlying theme, largely because of the pregnancy. I'd not give this to a very young reader of romance. However, the book is clean. I will definitely continue to keep up with Julie Klassen.
February 8, 2022
4.5/5
Aw this turned into a really sweet story that I couldn’t put down! I was engrossed from the first meeting.
Sophie finds herself in a scandal by one brother, which is remedied by the other brother. Her time with their family was interesting and tense. I loved the inclusion of faith and prayer. I loved the ending! It was a wonderful read!
Aw this turned into a really sweet story that I couldn’t put down! I was engrossed from the first meeting.
Sophie finds herself in a scandal by one brother, which is remedied by the other brother. Her time with their family was interesting and tense. I loved the inclusion of faith and prayer. I loved the ending! It was a wonderful read!
February 25, 2025
"I know this is difficult for you. But please believe me when I tell you that I like what I see when I look at you. Your scar is much bigger in your eyes than in mine or propably in anyone else's. It's a small part of a big man."
I love "Regency ERA" especially from an author who is skilled in narrating it in the musical cadences of the past. In spite of the length of the novel I surprisingly found myself lost in the story and not at all bored from the slow pace of the plot.
Also I often avoid the "Christian" genre because it tends to get tirring the constant mention of GOD and how everything is about Him. In the "Painter's Daughter" God is always on the premise but the author concentrates on the effect believing in God (God's love, sacrifice, forgiving) is having on the characters and their actions.
An enjoyable read nonetheless.
I love "Regency ERA" especially from an author who is skilled in narrating it in the musical cadences of the past. In spite of the length of the novel I surprisingly found myself lost in the story and not at all bored from the slow pace of the plot.
Also I often avoid the "Christian" genre because it tends to get tirring the constant mention of GOD and how everything is about Him. In the "Painter's Daughter" God is always on the premise but the author concentrates on the effect believing in God (God's love, sacrifice, forgiving) is having on the characters and their actions.
An enjoyable read nonetheless.
October 18, 2017
4.5 stars
While The Painter's Daughter is not my favorite of Julie KLassen's novels, it was still a really good story and I loved reading it. The story was interesting from the beginning pages and, except for a tiny portion of the book in which I thought the story was dragging, I enjoyed it throughout.
I loved how protective Stephen was and watching the romance bloom between Sophie and him was so sweet. There were definitely a few difficult moments in the book and some surprising reveals - which made it a quick read because I just wanted to keep reading.
All in all, a great historical romance. Because of some of the content, I only recommend this to readers 18+ that enjoy this genre.
*I received a complimentary eBook copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
While The Painter's Daughter is not my favorite of Julie KLassen's novels, it was still a really good story and I loved reading it. The story was interesting from the beginning pages and, except for a tiny portion of the book in which I thought the story was dragging, I enjoyed it throughout.
I loved how protective Stephen was and watching the romance bloom between Sophie and him was so sweet. There were definitely a few difficult moments in the book and some surprising reveals - which made it a quick read because I just wanted to keep reading.
All in all, a great historical romance. Because of some of the content, I only recommend this to readers 18+ that enjoy this genre.
*I received a complimentary eBook copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
May 13, 2024
4.5⭐️
What a fast paced historical romance! I really enjoyed it!! At first when I saw that it was a male narrator for a romance story, I was unsure…but y’all-I loved it! James Gillies is awesome narrator! 👏🏻👏🏻
So, the story…..so much happens that it’s hard to say much without spoilers….um….
Our main character is the daughter of a well-known painter, and she has not only dabbled in painting, herself, but also in posing as the subject matter for other painters….
Let’s say….scandalous pregnancy, marriage of convenience, brothers in love with the same woman, and an old woman who thinks she can predict the future.
This was a great time, the only hesitation I have is that in some more private/intimate scenes, it felt like the author went a bit too far….
What a fast paced historical romance! I really enjoyed it!! At first when I saw that it was a male narrator for a romance story, I was unsure…but y’all-I loved it! James Gillies is awesome narrator! 👏🏻👏🏻
So, the story…..so much happens that it’s hard to say much without spoilers….um….
Our main character is the daughter of a well-known painter, and she has not only dabbled in painting, herself, but also in posing as the subject matter for other painters….
Let’s say….scandalous pregnancy, marriage of convenience, brothers in love with the same woman, and an old woman who thinks she can predict the future.
This was a great time, the only hesitation I have is that in some more private/intimate scenes, it felt like the author went a bit too far….
Read
April 25, 2025I'm marking this as finished but it's really a DNF at page 286 (not sure how else to label it here).
I know this is SHOCKING since Klassen is currently my favorite Christian Historical writer. I adore her writing.
But this storyline. 😤 I can't.
I love our hero, a scarred (inside and out) Naval Captain that is kind and loving on the inside but hides it well because some call him Captain Black for his harsh countenance.
He makes this book!
However, the female lead is on my last nerve. 🤣
But even worse is the cringy, Icky-Icky oldest brother of the Captain, who just happens to be the ex-boyfriend of our main female character. The things she allows and says yes to with him, make me so uncomfortable and so frustrated.
That sounds really scandalous.
It's not that bad, but the story does go on and on about their past indiscretions.
At the point that I DNFed, this icky brother is still blatantly pursuing this female lead who is now with his brother. She allows herself to be put in situations and proximities with him that she could have said no to.
I just have not enjoyed this plot overall. Except for our Naval man, his lovely sister, and a few creepy things about the estate.
Oh well. I'm shocked right along with you. *sad face*
Y'all know I adore Klassen, but this book is not for me.
💙
I know this is SHOCKING since Klassen is currently my favorite Christian Historical writer. I adore her writing.
But this storyline. 😤 I can't.
I love our hero, a scarred (inside and out) Naval Captain that is kind and loving on the inside but hides it well because some call him Captain Black for his harsh countenance.
He makes this book!
However, the female lead is on my last nerve. 🤣
But even worse is the cringy, Icky-Icky oldest brother of the Captain, who just happens to be the ex-boyfriend of our main female character. The things she allows and says yes to with him, make me so uncomfortable and so frustrated.
That sounds really scandalous.
It's not that bad, but the story does go on and on about their past indiscretions.
At the point that I DNFed, this icky brother is still blatantly pursuing this female lead who is now with his brother. She allows herself to be put in situations and proximities with him that she could have said no to.
I just have not enjoyed this plot overall. Except for our Naval man, his lovely sister, and a few creepy things about the estate.
Oh well. I'm shocked right along with you. *sad face*
Y'all know I adore Klassen, but this book is not for me.
💙
March 12, 2017
Wow, I mean honestly, wow. Where to even begin with this novel; extraordinary, excellent, and breath taking all come to mind. I stay up until 3:48 in the morning this morning just to finish this novel, I absolutely could not put it down for anything. I will say that this novel begin a little slow, for maybe two chapters; however, then you are pulled in and you cannot break free for anything. Now there are some major plot twists that leave you on the edge of your seat, and I will not lie I read ahead in a couple of places just to go back and catch up. I just had to know that everything would be okay in the end. Isn't that how all good books are supposed to end? Well, if you want to know I suggest you read it for yourself!
February 21, 2016
I read my first book by this author just last year and definitely wanted to read more so I was pleased to snag this one. While this book had different elements and went a different direction, I found it easy to engage with the story. I liked how the book began with a young woman's mistake and followed along as events took their course to her again faced with a choice and seeing how she faced it this time.
The story begins with Sophie Dupont, daughter to a successful portrait painter, caught in a bad situation. The man she loves and thought was going to propose marriage has left her behind to pursue his art. Her mistake has consequences and she is pregnant. And there offering her rescue is her lover artist's younger brother. Where Wesley is fair, pleasing, and handsome in his ways, this tall, stern-expressioned dark stranger is his opposite. He is a soldier and his volatile nature unsettles her, but it is either take Captain Stephen Overtree's offer of marriage of convenience or lose her reputation and destroy any chance of a respectable reputation of her unborn child. By taking the Captain, she will be forced to give up on Wesley. But as she spends time in Captain Stephen Overtree's company and care, she begins to compare the two brothers and which one has stood steadily beside her and did his best to place her first even if he is reserved and quiet and never promised her love.
Stephen has come searching out his older brother to bring him back to the family estate to take up his neglected responsibility as heir and help their ailing father since Stephen has to return to his regiment and can no longer shoulder Wesley's responsibility. Except when he tracks Wesley to beautiful Devon, he finds that once again he is left to clean up one of Wesley's messes and shoulder responsibility. Stephen makes the offer that his brother should have made to the woman who fell for his fickle brother's charms and he must hide from her that while she pines for Wesley that Stephen has held her miniature portrait close to him for over a year and dreamed about the woman his brother used as a model. He is a soldier and believes that he is fated to die so he is at peace with his maker and content to have rescued Sophie. He tries to not wish for more than she can ever give him.
This was a story that I struggled with in the beginning. I wasn't really fond of Sophie. She messed up and really has no choice, but she chose to act like Stephen was the bad guy when he was really her hero. Eventually, she gets a clue about how selfish and self-absorbed she is being and that helped me enjoy the story more. There is a strong religious thematic element running through it so this might not be everyone's cup of tea, but I found it a sweet, heartwarming story. There is internal and external conflict. Even a love triangle which I usually detest, but didn't mind in this one. It is a slow build and slow burn that has some good foreshadowing and hints to keep it from dragging as it sets up for the more intense and faster-paced ending.
The characters are interesting. Stephen is very religious, but not in a sanctimonious way. He lives what he believes even if he isn't as easy on the eye or as silver-tongued as his brother. No, he isn't perfect, but he does try to do the right thing. He has the struggle of duty and honor before what he would prefer and being attracted to a woman who prefers his brother. His parents even favor his brother falling for his charms though his old nurse and grandfather do not because they see through Wesley. His brother disappoints him often, but he also loves him. There is a bit of Cain and Abel thing going on mostly on Wesley's end.
Sophie isn't religious, but she was naive and had romantic notions in the beginning. She saw the glamour of Wesley and heard his beautiful words with no real substance. Felt the connection of their mutual love of art. She hasn't had an easy life after losing her mother, having her artistic work under-appreciated and downplayed, and being stuck with a mean step-mother and a sneaky, greedy man who is her father's apprentice. It was easy to see how she fell for Wesley. I enjoyed following along as she slowly learned to appreciate her husband, Stephen. The author didn't make it quick and easy which I appreciated. Sophie's feelings had to change as she learned the difference between flash and substance.
The story also included some mild suspense with a mystery in the Overtree family home and there was the nail-biting situation when Stephen was called back to war and fought in the final defeat of Napoleon that resulted in a large loss of life leaving the family wondering if Stephen was one of these even while Wesley has returned and left Sophie with the angst-wrought dilemma of choosing between the brothers.
On a side note, the attention to historic detail and the fun nods toward Jane Austen were added enjoyment. A woman artist and the time period of England at war were strong and engaging elements.
In summary, it started shaky, but then grabbed my attention. Loved the flawed characters and the well-developed romance and story. I said it before, but I like the author's writing style and plan to hit her backlist and continue with her new releases. I would recommend this one for those who enjoy inspirational sweet historical romance.
My thanks to Bethany House Publishing for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story begins with Sophie Dupont, daughter to a successful portrait painter, caught in a bad situation. The man she loves and thought was going to propose marriage has left her behind to pursue his art. Her mistake has consequences and she is pregnant. And there offering her rescue is her lover artist's younger brother. Where Wesley is fair, pleasing, and handsome in his ways, this tall, stern-expressioned dark stranger is his opposite. He is a soldier and his volatile nature unsettles her, but it is either take Captain Stephen Overtree's offer of marriage of convenience or lose her reputation and destroy any chance of a respectable reputation of her unborn child. By taking the Captain, she will be forced to give up on Wesley. But as she spends time in Captain Stephen Overtree's company and care, she begins to compare the two brothers and which one has stood steadily beside her and did his best to place her first even if he is reserved and quiet and never promised her love.
Stephen has come searching out his older brother to bring him back to the family estate to take up his neglected responsibility as heir and help their ailing father since Stephen has to return to his regiment and can no longer shoulder Wesley's responsibility. Except when he tracks Wesley to beautiful Devon, he finds that once again he is left to clean up one of Wesley's messes and shoulder responsibility. Stephen makes the offer that his brother should have made to the woman who fell for his fickle brother's charms and he must hide from her that while she pines for Wesley that Stephen has held her miniature portrait close to him for over a year and dreamed about the woman his brother used as a model. He is a soldier and believes that he is fated to die so he is at peace with his maker and content to have rescued Sophie. He tries to not wish for more than she can ever give him.
This was a story that I struggled with in the beginning. I wasn't really fond of Sophie. She messed up and really has no choice, but she chose to act like Stephen was the bad guy when he was really her hero. Eventually, she gets a clue about how selfish and self-absorbed she is being and that helped me enjoy the story more. There is a strong religious thematic element running through it so this might not be everyone's cup of tea, but I found it a sweet, heartwarming story. There is internal and external conflict. Even a love triangle which I usually detest, but didn't mind in this one. It is a slow build and slow burn that has some good foreshadowing and hints to keep it from dragging as it sets up for the more intense and faster-paced ending.
The characters are interesting. Stephen is very religious, but not in a sanctimonious way. He lives what he believes even if he isn't as easy on the eye or as silver-tongued as his brother. No, he isn't perfect, but he does try to do the right thing. He has the struggle of duty and honor before what he would prefer and being attracted to a woman who prefers his brother. His parents even favor his brother falling for his charms though his old nurse and grandfather do not because they see through Wesley. His brother disappoints him often, but he also loves him. There is a bit of Cain and Abel thing going on mostly on Wesley's end.
Sophie isn't religious, but she was naive and had romantic notions in the beginning. She saw the glamour of Wesley and heard his beautiful words with no real substance. Felt the connection of their mutual love of art. She hasn't had an easy life after losing her mother, having her artistic work under-appreciated and downplayed, and being stuck with a mean step-mother and a sneaky, greedy man who is her father's apprentice. It was easy to see how she fell for Wesley. I enjoyed following along as she slowly learned to appreciate her husband, Stephen. The author didn't make it quick and easy which I appreciated. Sophie's feelings had to change as she learned the difference between flash and substance.
The story also included some mild suspense with a mystery in the Overtree family home and there was the nail-biting situation when Stephen was called back to war and fought in the final defeat of Napoleon that resulted in a large loss of life leaving the family wondering if Stephen was one of these even while Wesley has returned and left Sophie with the angst-wrought dilemma of choosing between the brothers.
On a side note, the attention to historic detail and the fun nods toward Jane Austen were added enjoyment. A woman artist and the time period of England at war were strong and engaging elements.
In summary, it started shaky, but then grabbed my attention. Loved the flawed characters and the well-developed romance and story. I said it before, but I like the author's writing style and plan to hit her backlist and continue with her new releases. I would recommend this one for those who enjoy inspirational sweet historical romance.
My thanks to Bethany House Publishing for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2016
I enjoy marriage of convenience stories in particular, and this one had the added twist of Sophie being in love with her new husband's brother. While I felt compassion for Sophie and her difficult circumstances, I didn't admire her weakness for Wesley and the choices she initially made. She reveals herself as a strong character however as she makes the best of her situation and works to become loyal to Stephen. He was definitely my favorite character in the story, a Mr. Darcy type that has vulnerabilities and a gentle nature behind his gruff exterior, and a secret longing for his wife. In fact, there are a few Austenesque phrases that jumped out at me as I read, which was fun :) The plot really revolves around Sophie and her feelings for the brothers, so it was like waiting for the hammer to drop until Wesley returned and created more conflict. There are several family members and friends who are distinct in their personalities and create a wonderful cast for Sophie to interact with, some holding secrets of their own... A wonderful book with themes of accountability, sacrifice, and forgiveness.
(Thank you to the author and Bethany House Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
(Thank you to the author and Bethany House Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
March 23, 2019
I started this book right after The Tutor’s Daughter by the same author, which I loved. Unfortunately, this one was much more… meh. I thought Captain Overtree was a likable enough character. Sophie was timid in the beginning and stronger near the and. But this didn’t seem to be through any growth. She just sort of became a different character. The plot plodded along simply to give Sophie and the Captain time to get to know each other. The second half actually got worse though. It became like a painful soap opera watching Wesley pursue Sophie while she supposedly struggled to remain faithful. He was so selfish that the reader was left to wonder how she fell for him in the first place. There was a long battle scene stuffed near the end that seemed to have been inserted only to introduce a new character to whom Stephen could explain Christianity 101. His hand wringing over whether Sophie might prefer Wesley got tiresome as well.
December 19, 2015
While I really enjoy Julie Klassen's writing, I find myself getting a little tired of her plots. They are starting to run together as so many of them are about a girl who gets pregnant out of wedlock and all the ensuing drama she must suffer before getting a relatively happy ending. This one fits the bill perfectly, and the added drama of the rivalling suitors being brothers was (almost) too much.
While I don't regret reading it, I honestly can't really recommend this book unless you're a huge Klassen fan and can't get enough of her writing. If you've never read her books, go with one of her first two or three and give this one a pass. In my opinion, they aren't getting better.
While I don't regret reading it, I honestly can't really recommend this book unless you're a huge Klassen fan and can't get enough of her writing. If you've never read her books, go with one of her first two or three and give this one a pass. In my opinion, they aren't getting better.
September 28, 2017
I loved this book! I knew the research would be spot-on, and it was, but the storytelling and characters were excellent, too. It took me a while to get into it ONLY because I was listening to the audible edition, and I couldn't get over the male narrator doing the heroine's voice. But once I got used to that, I devoured the story. Can't wait to read more by Julie Klassen.
November 30, 2015
I enjoyed this novel, but wasn't sure I wanted to read it based on the blurb. The plot sounded fairly predictable, and I'm not crazy about love triangles which involve a girl and two brothers. But since Julie Klassen has written some of my favourite novels, I went for it anyway, and I'm glad I did. She brings the Regency Era to life, and I kept thinking about the Overtree family long after I finished.
For other fans of hers, at first the two main men seem like a repeat performance of the brothers in an earlier novel, 'The Maid of Fairbourne Hall', yet I quickly developed stronger feelings for these two.
Stephen is noble and trustworthy, like Nathaniel, but with the added distinction of being a war hero. There's an edge-of-your-seat combat scene or two, something I've never seen from Julie Klassen before (or Jane Austen, for that matter). It really brings home what these British soldiers who fought Napoleon's troops were up against. Stephen comes across as gruff at times, but it's a lovable, awkward sort of gruffness. He's thoughtful and courteous along with it, and there's always a sense that his softer, romantic side might be just about to bloom.
As for Wesley, he was more than just another shallow and despicable Lewis. He is an 'if it feels good, do it' sort of guy, but is shown to have some scruples. A fair chunk of the story is told from his point of view, making it easier to understand how things appeared from his angle.
Wesley's role left me pondering about a father's rights, then and now. Sophie was the one we were meant to have most sympathy for, but I felt regret for him too. If a similar situation occurred in the twenty-first century, would she get away with dictating what was going to happen to their baby without leaving him any options? There are plenty of stories about men who desert girls after getting them pregnant, so it's interesting to come across this one, where a young dad eventually seems willing to step up and accept the responsibility, but his hands are tied by social convention, making it too late.
In a way, he might be getting his just desserts. Men like Wesley are often typecast as getting girls in positions where they are powerless to speak up and defend their parental rights, so in this book, the tables are turned. Anyway, if this story had a villain it would have to be him, so the fact that I found him quite likeable made it all the richer for me.
I love the secondary characters and sub-plots too. The little mysteries kept my pages turning. How did Stephen get his facial scar? Who was Jenny? What grudge does the mysterious Miss Angela Blake from next door carry? And how about the old, retired nurse, Winnie, who lives on the top floor. Does she really possess second sight? What lies in store for the boys' younger sister, Kate, who is a real sweetie?
I guess if it happened in our time, the train of events might have been completely different. Sophie's reputation and place in society wouldn't be on the line as acutely, so Stephen wouldn't necessarily feel such an urgent need to act on her behalf immediately. He might not even bother at all. Wesley would go around quoting YOLO (you only live once), but Sophie would probably be able to easily contact him by mobile phone or social media for something so important. As it is, the time period helps the course of events feel more inevitable, making it a great choice for anyone who enjoys stories about a heroine gradually warming up to a hero who proves to be the more suitable man than her first choice.
Thanks to Bethany House and Net Galley for my review copy.
For other fans of hers, at first the two main men seem like a repeat performance of the brothers in an earlier novel, 'The Maid of Fairbourne Hall', yet I quickly developed stronger feelings for these two.
Stephen is noble and trustworthy, like Nathaniel, but with the added distinction of being a war hero. There's an edge-of-your-seat combat scene or two, something I've never seen from Julie Klassen before (or Jane Austen, for that matter). It really brings home what these British soldiers who fought Napoleon's troops were up against. Stephen comes across as gruff at times, but it's a lovable, awkward sort of gruffness. He's thoughtful and courteous along with it, and there's always a sense that his softer, romantic side might be just about to bloom.
As for Wesley, he was more than just another shallow and despicable Lewis. He is an 'if it feels good, do it' sort of guy, but is shown to have some scruples. A fair chunk of the story is told from his point of view, making it easier to understand how things appeared from his angle.
Wesley's role left me pondering about a father's rights, then and now. Sophie was the one we were meant to have most sympathy for, but I felt regret for him too. If a similar situation occurred in the twenty-first century, would she get away with dictating what was going to happen to their baby without leaving him any options? There are plenty of stories about men who desert girls after getting them pregnant, so it's interesting to come across this one, where a young dad eventually seems willing to step up and accept the responsibility, but his hands are tied by social convention, making it too late.
In a way, he might be getting his just desserts. Men like Wesley are often typecast as getting girls in positions where they are powerless to speak up and defend their parental rights, so in this book, the tables are turned. Anyway, if this story had a villain it would have to be him, so the fact that I found him quite likeable made it all the richer for me.
I love the secondary characters and sub-plots too. The little mysteries kept my pages turning. How did Stephen get his facial scar? Who was Jenny? What grudge does the mysterious Miss Angela Blake from next door carry? And how about the old, retired nurse, Winnie, who lives on the top floor. Does she really possess second sight? What lies in store for the boys' younger sister, Kate, who is a real sweetie?
I guess if it happened in our time, the train of events might have been completely different. Sophie's reputation and place in society wouldn't be on the line as acutely, so Stephen wouldn't necessarily feel such an urgent need to act on her behalf immediately. He might not even bother at all. Wesley would go around quoting YOLO (you only live once), but Sophie would probably be able to easily contact him by mobile phone or social media for something so important. As it is, the time period helps the course of events feel more inevitable, making it a great choice for anyone who enjoys stories about a heroine gradually warming up to a hero who proves to be the more suitable man than her first choice.
Thanks to Bethany House and Net Galley for my review copy.
October 15, 2015
Julie Klassen is an author whose work I always like to read – not that I love all her books, but it’s certainly worth exploring her newest writing to discover if it will be one of my favorites or not. The Painter’s Daughter certainly is!
Soon I fell in love with Captain Stephen Overtree and Miss Sophie Dupont, especially with Stephen’s good and gentle heart; willing to save unmarried and pregnant Sophie by marrying her and giving her and the child she carries a name—the child that his brother fathered. Sophie, as the painter’s daughter, is not the woman Stephen’s parents had wished him to marry. Neither did they (nor Sophie) know that their eldest son and heir of the Overtree Estate had wished to marry Sophie himself.
When Sophie agrees to marry Stephen, she doesn’t know him, but since the father of her child has left her, he seems to be her only hope to give her child a name and family and save her from scandal. A few short weeks are spent together at Overtree Hall before Stephen must return to his regiment to fight against the French. There’s a big chance that he will not return and leave Sophie a widow, but he knows his family will look after her and the child. But then his brother comes home . . . the father of Sophie’s child. How will he react to the news that Sophie married his brother and is pregnant? Will he guess that the child is his? What will he do?
Lots of tension and twists and turns makes this book an I-can’t-put-it-down story! Besides the drama of Sophie and the Overtree brothers there are also great secondary characters and an old big mansion with secret passages.
A lovely read that I couldn’t put down, I highly recommend The Painter’s Daughter!
Soon I fell in love with Captain Stephen Overtree and Miss Sophie Dupont, especially with Stephen’s good and gentle heart; willing to save unmarried and pregnant Sophie by marrying her and giving her and the child she carries a name—the child that his brother fathered. Sophie, as the painter’s daughter, is not the woman Stephen’s parents had wished him to marry. Neither did they (nor Sophie) know that their eldest son and heir of the Overtree Estate had wished to marry Sophie himself.
When Sophie agrees to marry Stephen, she doesn’t know him, but since the father of her child has left her, he seems to be her only hope to give her child a name and family and save her from scandal. A few short weeks are spent together at Overtree Hall before Stephen must return to his regiment to fight against the French. There’s a big chance that he will not return and leave Sophie a widow, but he knows his family will look after her and the child. But then his brother comes home . . . the father of Sophie’s child. How will he react to the news that Sophie married his brother and is pregnant? Will he guess that the child is his? What will he do?
Lots of tension and twists and turns makes this book an I-can’t-put-it-down story! Besides the drama of Sophie and the Overtree brothers there are also great secondary characters and an old big mansion with secret passages.
A lovely read that I couldn’t put down, I highly recommend The Painter’s Daughter!
April 12, 2024
If you like soap opera family drama about two brothers after the same woman, then this book is for you. I actually hate that sort of thing, but somehow still really enjoyed this book. I think I owe most of the reason to Captain Stephen Overtree. Love that guy.
September 13, 2019
Updated 9/12/2019 with the new link!
Another wonderful, plot-twist full book by Julie Klassen.
Read my full review here: https://kellynroth.blog/2016/02/17/re...
Another wonderful, plot-twist full book by Julie Klassen.
Read my full review here: https://kellynroth.blog/2016/02/17/re...
August 31, 2020
What a sweet, albeit intense, read from Julie Klassen! I guess I will start by saying that because of some mature themes in the book, I would not recommend it to young readers. That being said, I believe Julie Klassen did an excellent job keeping things modest considering the nature of the plot.
In true Klassen fashion, The Painter's Daughter contains plenty of mystery, romance, secrets, and restoration. There is so much happening in this book that it is hard to put feelings into words! Throughout the course of reading this book, I laughed, I sighed, I sat on the edge of my seat, I wanted to rip some characters out of the book! I was even tempted to cry at some points!
Sophie Dupont does not have an easy course in life, but she remains true to her Christian faith. Yes, she makes mistakes and yes, she has regrets and doubts. But she trusts that the Lord has His hand in the lives of His children and she rests in that, even when life is hard. She is such a sweet, lovable young woman to whom I was instantly pleased to know! She may possibly be my favorite Klassen heroine yet!
In true Klassen fashion, The Painter's Daughter contains plenty of mystery, romance, secrets, and restoration. There is so much happening in this book that it is hard to put feelings into words! Throughout the course of reading this book, I laughed, I sighed, I sat on the edge of my seat, I wanted to rip some characters out of the book! I was even tempted to cry at some points!
Sophie Dupont does not have an easy course in life, but she remains true to her Christian faith. Yes, she makes mistakes and yes, she has regrets and doubts. But she trusts that the Lord has His hand in the lives of His children and she rests in that, even when life is hard. She is such a sweet, lovable young woman to whom I was instantly pleased to know! She may possibly be my favorite Klassen heroine yet!
January 22, 2016
3.5
Generally, with historical romance, you know the ending before you begin, so I like marriage of convenience stories because we’ve officially gotten that out of the way; the author doesn’t have to waste time trying to build suspense that, let’s face it, I almost never buy into. I also like the fact that the story doesn’t revolve around a courtship, but rather, challenges within a marriage, all the while dealing with getting to know each other, which if you have a healthy marriage, shouldn’t ever really stop, in my humble opinion.
If you don’t mind the clichés (i.e. cads who try to force themselves on innocent women and the knights in shining armor who come to their rescue, etc. Really, I have to wonder if this was as prevalent as it seems, based on how often it’s a plot line in these books), and fake marriage of convenience (see below) plot lines it’s not bad. I know many of us don’t read these books for the unique story, but for the warm and fuzzy feeling, and if that’s you, you will enjoy this book.
As for me, I did enjoy it; it didn’t promise to be more than it was. You just read so many of these kind of stories that are so similar and you are impacted by missed opportunities as much as what you’re reading. I was a little frustrated that Wesley’s behavior didn’t sicken Sophie more, especially after receiving the first letter about Stephen. That should have been enough to disillusion her about him, if nothing else did the trick. I was disappointed in her there. I really liked Stephen’s character and the way he spoke his mind. The details about painting and some of the characters’ side stories were a little too involved for me and broke up the flow, so that I found myself skimming here and there.
It seems to me that all the unique struggles and elements are kind of lost if it’s immediately proclaimed a “marriage in name only.” I’m not saying I want details, but let’s be real. If you had a marriage of convenience at that time, I feel pretty confident in asserting that it would almost never be in name only. I would like to read about the challenges that women at that time faced- the emotional aspect and how the relationship developed as a result. I think this can be done tastefully, yet it’s so rarely attempted. Instead we get a regular courtship of the time with a bit of modern challenge- they live in the same house. It’s a little worn. It’s like the authors think that sex within marriage shouldn’t be in a Christian book, or that it is the ultimate culmination of the relationship, so either way, it doesn’t happen until the end. Every woman knows that’s just one aspect of a great relationship.
Given that I spend so much time hovering in Christian historical fiction, I have to say that I’m tired of reading about love stories that revolve around modern (and faulty, I believe) ideas of love and marriage, such as marrying only for love and that love/your feelings are something you have no control over. Those ideas are just not Biblical. Take me back to a time when people married for any number of reasons and relied on God to grow love and friendship there. When marriages lasted because people had to work through things rather than chase their own elusive happiness.
Fans of this author and genre will happily gobble this up. And I will keep hoping that an author will read my review and accept my challenge: give me a character who enters into a realistic relationship from that time period. None of this “in name only” nonsense. Let me see how she struggles with giving herself to her husband while having not fully given her heart. How does that work? How does she deal with the limitations and expectations of women’s roles back then? And how does love come into play? What is the dynamic of having children with someone she maybe respects but isn’t sure she loves yet. Does that change things? I’d imagine so. When does she grow to love him? Why ? How? That’s the story I want to read.
Generally, with historical romance, you know the ending before you begin, so I like marriage of convenience stories because we’ve officially gotten that out of the way; the author doesn’t have to waste time trying to build suspense that, let’s face it, I almost never buy into. I also like the fact that the story doesn’t revolve around a courtship, but rather, challenges within a marriage, all the while dealing with getting to know each other, which if you have a healthy marriage, shouldn’t ever really stop, in my humble opinion.
If you don’t mind the clichés (i.e. cads who try to force themselves on innocent women and the knights in shining armor who come to their rescue, etc. Really, I have to wonder if this was as prevalent as it seems, based on how often it’s a plot line in these books), and fake marriage of convenience (see below) plot lines it’s not bad. I know many of us don’t read these books for the unique story, but for the warm and fuzzy feeling, and if that’s you, you will enjoy this book.
As for me, I did enjoy it; it didn’t promise to be more than it was. You just read so many of these kind of stories that are so similar and you are impacted by missed opportunities as much as what you’re reading. I was a little frustrated that Wesley’s behavior didn’t sicken Sophie more, especially after receiving the first letter about Stephen. That should have been enough to disillusion her about him, if nothing else did the trick. I was disappointed in her there. I really liked Stephen’s character and the way he spoke his mind. The details about painting and some of the characters’ side stories were a little too involved for me and broke up the flow, so that I found myself skimming here and there.
It seems to me that all the unique struggles and elements are kind of lost if it’s immediately proclaimed a “marriage in name only.” I’m not saying I want details, but let’s be real. If you had a marriage of convenience at that time, I feel pretty confident in asserting that it would almost never be in name only. I would like to read about the challenges that women at that time faced- the emotional aspect and how the relationship developed as a result. I think this can be done tastefully, yet it’s so rarely attempted. Instead we get a regular courtship of the time with a bit of modern challenge- they live in the same house. It’s a little worn. It’s like the authors think that sex within marriage shouldn’t be in a Christian book, or that it is the ultimate culmination of the relationship, so either way, it doesn’t happen until the end. Every woman knows that’s just one aspect of a great relationship.
Given that I spend so much time hovering in Christian historical fiction, I have to say that I’m tired of reading about love stories that revolve around modern (and faulty, I believe) ideas of love and marriage, such as marrying only for love and that love/your feelings are something you have no control over. Those ideas are just not Biblical. Take me back to a time when people married for any number of reasons and relied on God to grow love and friendship there. When marriages lasted because people had to work through things rather than chase their own elusive happiness.
Fans of this author and genre will happily gobble this up. And I will keep hoping that an author will read my review and accept my challenge: give me a character who enters into a realistic relationship from that time period. None of this “in name only” nonsense. Let me see how she struggles with giving herself to her husband while having not fully given her heart. How does that work? How does she deal with the limitations and expectations of women’s roles back then? And how does love come into play? What is the dynamic of having children with someone she maybe respects but isn’t sure she loves yet. Does that change things? I’d imagine so. When does she grow to love him? Why ? How? That’s the story I want to read.
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