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British Isles Collection
Amazon #1 Bestselling series in *New Release* for Clean Romance
**Amazon Top 50 in Victorian Romance**
**Amazon Top 100 in Regency Romance**
The SARAH M. EDEN BRITISH ISLES COLLECTION contains two brand new historical romance novellas A FRIEND INDEED and A HAPPY BEGINNING, as well as four hand-picked readers’ and reviewers’ favorites of Sarah’s popular Timeless Romance Anthology novellas. Readers will love this selection of six historical romance novellas set in the British Isles.
**Amazon Top 50 in Victorian Romance**
**Amazon Top 100 in Regency Romance**
The SARAH M. EDEN BRITISH ISLES COLLECTION contains two brand new historical romance novellas A FRIEND INDEED and A HAPPY BEGINNING, as well as four hand-picked readers’ and reviewers’ favorites of Sarah’s popular Timeless Romance Anthology novellas. Readers will love this selection of six historical romance novellas set in the British Isles.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2015
223 people are currently reading
1190 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
November 17, 2015
This has been nominated for a 2015 Swoony Award, you can vote for it here.
A Friend Indeed
Sweet and swoony! I really enjoyed the story of George and Caroline. They have known each other since childhood and recently became engaged. Caroline is worried he is only doing it out of friendship and obligation, and George is determined to show her his real reason for wanting to get married. George really had some swoony moments; he just seems like such a nice guy. While it is a short story, it takes place over a few weeks and felt well developed and I was satisfied with the pace and how things wrapped up. Great read.
A Happy Beginning
Loved it! This was a great story with great characters. I probably will sound like a broken record when I review each story and end up saying the same thing, “I really enjoyed it!” Sophia works as a governess for a horrible family in Scotland. She feels alone since her position limits her interactions with the rest of the staff and family. She has grown fond of the head groom, Dermot, who is quiet and confident. This was just another nice escape, well written and engaging. Had all the great elements of a full-length novel wrapped up in a short story. Highly enjoyable.
Road to Cavan Town
I loved this! I was immediately drawn into this charming story. Alice is just lovely, just a really good person and easy to like. She is so patient and understanding of Issac, even though he has his mind set on courting another woman. Isaac was also likable, I was glad we got to hear his POV as well, it was fun to watch his eyes open and see what really mattered in his life. It really is a sweet story and even though it was short, it was full of fun characters, lovely romantic tension and a charming Irish town.
A Christmas Promise
This is such a charming story. I loved everything about it, the setting and characters and humor. Sean and Maeve have a sweet courtship, I loved her overprotective brothers and of course Rufus! Just a charming story.
Dream of a Glorious Season
Beth and Julian have been friends since childhood, she’s had a crush on him for as long as she can remember, he still views her as a friend. He also happens to be “betrothed” to her older sister, or at least there is an expectation that they will make a match of it. Beth’s family does not treat her very well, but Julian is always there for her. I thought they had a great story, I liked seeing Julian realize his feelings run deeper than friendship. I also loved how he always stood up for her. Another fun story!
A Lesson in Love,
I originally read this when it was part of the European collection. It had been awhile though so it was fun to read it again. Lucy and Reed are a sweet, newlywed couple. You can tell they are in love from the beginning of the story, they just have different ideas of what their social life would be like once they’re married. Reed is excited to spend time at home, not having to attend the Season. Lucy on the other hand, is excited to finally have a husband to enjoy all the Season has to offer. Their well-meaning, but meddlesome family decides to “help” the couple out, but only end up causing more problems. This was a cute read, I like reading about couples that are already married, and it was fun to see them figure things out. Sweet read.
I adored this collection of stories, Ms. Eden is an expert storyteller. She always pulls me into her stories, makes me fall in love with the characters and makes you want to step back in time. I love how each story is unique, good plots and characters you can’t help but root for. Swoony romance and just a fun escape. Highly recommend to fans of historical fiction.
Content: Clean
Source: Review copy, also bought my own copy
A Friend Indeed
Sweet and swoony! I really enjoyed the story of George and Caroline. They have known each other since childhood and recently became engaged. Caroline is worried he is only doing it out of friendship and obligation, and George is determined to show her his real reason for wanting to get married. George really had some swoony moments; he just seems like such a nice guy. While it is a short story, it takes place over a few weeks and felt well developed and I was satisfied with the pace and how things wrapped up. Great read.
A Happy Beginning
Loved it! This was a great story with great characters. I probably will sound like a broken record when I review each story and end up saying the same thing, “I really enjoyed it!” Sophia works as a governess for a horrible family in Scotland. She feels alone since her position limits her interactions with the rest of the staff and family. She has grown fond of the head groom, Dermot, who is quiet and confident. This was just another nice escape, well written and engaging. Had all the great elements of a full-length novel wrapped up in a short story. Highly enjoyable.
Road to Cavan Town
I loved this! I was immediately drawn into this charming story. Alice is just lovely, just a really good person and easy to like. She is so patient and understanding of Issac, even though he has his mind set on courting another woman. Isaac was also likable, I was glad we got to hear his POV as well, it was fun to watch his eyes open and see what really mattered in his life. It really is a sweet story and even though it was short, it was full of fun characters, lovely romantic tension and a charming Irish town.
A Christmas Promise
This is such a charming story. I loved everything about it, the setting and characters and humor. Sean and Maeve have a sweet courtship, I loved her overprotective brothers and of course Rufus! Just a charming story.
Dream of a Glorious Season
Beth and Julian have been friends since childhood, she’s had a crush on him for as long as she can remember, he still views her as a friend. He also happens to be “betrothed” to her older sister, or at least there is an expectation that they will make a match of it. Beth’s family does not treat her very well, but Julian is always there for her. I thought they had a great story, I liked seeing Julian realize his feelings run deeper than friendship. I also loved how he always stood up for her. Another fun story!
A Lesson in Love,
I originally read this when it was part of the European collection. It had been awhile though so it was fun to read it again. Lucy and Reed are a sweet, newlywed couple. You can tell they are in love from the beginning of the story, they just have different ideas of what their social life would be like once they’re married. Reed is excited to spend time at home, not having to attend the Season. Lucy on the other hand, is excited to finally have a husband to enjoy all the Season has to offer. Their well-meaning, but meddlesome family decides to “help” the couple out, but only end up causing more problems. This was a cute read, I like reading about couples that are already married, and it was fun to see them figure things out. Sweet read.
I adored this collection of stories, Ms. Eden is an expert storyteller. She always pulls me into her stories, makes me fall in love with the characters and makes you want to step back in time. I love how each story is unique, good plots and characters you can’t help but root for. Swoony romance and just a fun escape. Highly recommend to fans of historical fiction.
Content: Clean
Source: Review copy, also bought my own copy
December 30, 2021
Sarah Eden is one of my favorite authors! I especially love her novellas from the Timeless Romance Collections, so I was thrilled to read this book. The two new stories are absolutely lovely, with vibrant characters and settings that are so easy to visualize as I read. I especially enjoyed the male's perspective in each story as they interact with the female lead. The rest of the stories are ones I had read from previous collections but since I loved them all it was a pleasure to read them again. This is a wonderful collection that I plan to read several times over in the future on days when I just need a relaxing time reading some sweet romance. Highly recommend!
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
October 6, 2019
I'm a brand spanking new Sarah M. Eden fan so all of these novellas were new to me but if you've been following her for a while please note that four out of the six stories are from previous anthologies -- Winter Collection, Silver Bells Collection, Regency Collection and European Collection.
I'm still tizzy-giddy over these stories! So many happily ever afters! All that wicked banter! And the toe-curling swoons!!!! My fainting couch got quite the workout. Eden is a talented storyteller who delivers every single time. I mean, stupendously delivers everything I adore in a historical romance. And, even though they are set in the Victorian era there is a very distinctive Regency-esque flavour to them. And, if that doesn't knock your avid-reader socks off -- two of the stories take place in Ireland!!!! Plus there's a wee bit o' Christmas in these pages as well. It really doesn't get any better than this!
I listened to the audible version which was divinely narrated. I especially enjoyed Mary Jane Wells but all the narrations were brilliant!
Sidenote: While not a Christian Fiction selection, this is a clean read.
I'm still tizzy-giddy over these stories! So many happily ever afters! All that wicked banter! And the toe-curling swoons!!!! My fainting couch got quite the workout. Eden is a talented storyteller who delivers every single time. I mean, stupendously delivers everything I adore in a historical romance. And, even though they are set in the Victorian era there is a very distinctive Regency-esque flavour to them. And, if that doesn't knock your avid-reader socks off -- two of the stories take place in Ireland!!!! Plus there's a wee bit o' Christmas in these pages as well. It really doesn't get any better than this!
I listened to the audible version which was divinely narrated. I especially enjoyed Mary Jane Wells but all the narrations were brilliant!
Sidenote: While not a Christian Fiction selection, this is a clean read.
October 21, 2017
I have read some of her Timeless Romance stories so it's great to have them together and also getting new ones. Her stories are always sweet and full of heart wether they're set in Recengy England or Ireland.
Really hope more people will read her books, they're worth it!
Really hope more people will read her books, they're worth it!
December 9, 2024
Very sweet and sometimes funny too. I do think there’s a formatting issue with the Kindle book… the occasional dips into first-person internal monologue should be italicized. That differentiation would smooth the reading experience considerably.
December 3, 2015
I love Sarah Eden, or more appropriately, I love her writing. I especially love her regency novels, and look forward to her contribution to each Timeless Romance Anthology. As with the Anntte Lyon collection, it's nice to have the author's works bundled together. I am glad that I got two new novellas to read instead of just one this time. I would love it even more if all six of them were new, but I do understand that that is a lot of work!
The two new novellas, A Friend Indeed and A Happy Beginning were great new reads. I loved the friendships that blossomed into love, instead of instantly skipping there. As I've comes to expect from Sarah Eden, I also enjoyed the wit of her stories.
I also got caught up in the stories I'd already read. Sharp-witted Irish lasses with dogs the size of horses, a newlywed couple's battle of the sexes, and the sweet story of a girl who's loved a boy forever who is supposed to marry her vain and cruel sister (don't worry, it all works out!).
A great collection for fans of Sarah Eden. And for those of you who are not fans of her yet, you will be!
Content: clean (some kissing, no language, no violence)
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
The two new novellas, A Friend Indeed and A Happy Beginning were great new reads. I loved the friendships that blossomed into love, instead of instantly skipping there. As I've comes to expect from Sarah Eden, I also enjoyed the wit of her stories.
I also got caught up in the stories I'd already read. Sharp-witted Irish lasses with dogs the size of horses, a newlywed couple's battle of the sexes, and the sweet story of a girl who's loved a boy forever who is supposed to marry her vain and cruel sister (don't worry, it all works out!).
A great collection for fans of Sarah Eden. And for those of you who are not fans of her yet, you will be!
Content: clean (some kissing, no language, no violence)
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
November 10, 2015
Sarah Eden is one of my favorite authors so it's happier than happy that there is a whole collection dedicated to her stories. The bonus for me was the two brand new novellas included in this collection. I was so excited to read them!
Sarah Eden has such a gift for writing. Her characters are personable and human. I so easily fall into her books, caught up in the people and places. To me, the writing feels gentle and full.
I didn't take the time to go back and read the novellas I've already read in previous collections. I've already loved them once. I did read the two new novellas in this book and they were perfect, classic Sarah Eden. I'm so glad to have all her novellas in one place. It will be perfect for the moment I want to go back and do a Sarah Eden marathon because I love her so much. :) Always love, always a bit of a struggle but always a happy ending that leaves me sighing with contentment.
Sarah Eden has such a gift for writing. Her characters are personable and human. I so easily fall into her books, caught up in the people and places. To me, the writing feels gentle and full.
I didn't take the time to go back and read the novellas I've already read in previous collections. I've already loved them once. I did read the two new novellas in this book and they were perfect, classic Sarah Eden. I'm so glad to have all her novellas in one place. It will be perfect for the moment I want to go back and do a Sarah Eden marathon because I love her so much. :) Always love, always a bit of a struggle but always a happy ending that leaves me sighing with contentment.
December 22, 2015
You can't go wrong with a Sarah Eden book. This collection contains six of her short stories, and each one were worth the time in reading. I even re-read a few, and loved them the second time!
The setting for the stories are the British Isles. Some of the characters are rich, and some of them are poor. You will find your imagination in ballrooms and wallowing in the mud. I loved the variety of characters and plot. I really do not think that I could pick a favorite. Every story was well written and had lovable characters.
The setting for the stories are the British Isles. Some of the characters are rich, and some of them are poor. You will find your imagination in ballrooms and wallowing in the mud. I loved the variety of characters and plot. I really do not think that I could pick a favorite. Every story was well written and had lovable characters.
August 13, 2022
Kindle freebie at time of download
Sarah M. Eden is the queen of swoony 19th-century romance and this anthology is no exception. I'll gladly read whatever she has to write set in that time period, at least in England.
The major theme of this collection is friendship. The heroines are (historically inaccurately) friends with a young man but secretly in love with him. Some watch helplessly as the man they love courts another woman while others try to make peace with the fact they face a marriage of convenience. Sometimes Eden's editors try to force a heartwarming story over a period correct romance but she mostly overrules the inaccuracies by explaining why something works for her characters and I appreciate that. World building. It's good.
The first story "A Friend Indeed" set in 1808 England, finds Caroline Downy facing a loveless marriage with her brother's best friend. While George Barrington enjoys hanging out with Tom Downy, he prefers to spend time with the lovely Caroline, his friend and the one woman he can't live without. Can he convince her this marriage is the real thing for him and court her in three weeks before she calls it off?
I loved this story so much. I could feel Caroline's hurt, her past trauma and worries for the future. She is downtrodden due to her family's impoverished state and resents being sold off like a parcel of land. I would be upset too. George is the MOST swoony hero in this entire collection! He, too, has childhood trauma stemming from being new money. His mother is sincerely horrid and super class conscience. All she cares about is social climbing and only sees people for their ancestors. George sees Caroline for who she is and sets about trying to prove it to her. THIS is courtship! :fans self: If Caroline doesn't marry George, I'd take him!
In "A Happy Beginning" Sophia Pemberton works as a governess in Scotland for two horrid bratty children. While she's in love with the country, she's lonely and would rather be elsewhere where she can make friends. In lieu of friends, she wants to ride on her days off and tries to befriend the stable master, Dermont Buchanan, who naturally is suspicious of the English. However, when Sophia confides in him, he becomes her friend and protector against the evil Haddingtons.
Another swoony romance. I had my doubts about a governess and a stable master but Eden has exlanations and makes it work. Sophia is a bit too weak for my personal tastes but she stands up for herself when she's in danger at least. The Haddingtons are truly horrible. The children are spoiled and bratty, not to mention animal abusers. Mrs. H is ghastly and on some ego power trip probably because her husband is a skirt chaser and having control over the servants gives the poor wife some agency or at least makes her feel better her husband sexually assaults the servant women. Dermont is a bit tough to like at first. He's taciturn, suspicious and cool towards Sophia in the beginning but he's chivalrous and can't allow her to be alone and afraid. What he does for her is very sweet and lovely. The explanation of how these two can get together stretches credulty a bit but it makes for a sweet and heartwarming story.
"The Road to Cavan Town" is one I read in another collection. Winter Collection
In 1864 the roads to Cavan Town, County Cavan, Ireland feature a number of young bachelors headed to lake country to court the belle of the county, each hoping for a single word from the beauty. Alice Whatley is no beauty but she knows she would make Isaac Dancy a better wife than Miss Sophia Kilchrest. Alice is used to the hard work of life in service and caring for her aging relatives. Traveling back and forth she's gotten to know Isaac very well. He owns a good farm that survived the Great Hunger and he hopes to proper more. Isaac is proud of his farm and doing the backbreaking labor himself. He seeks a wife who will help connect him with the community and unite everyone with smiles and good grace. Alice wonders how he can expect a fine lady like Miss Kilchrest to give up her fancy house with servants and move to a farm. How can Alice convince Isaac that she is the one for him?
This is a cute story. I liked it more the first time. The second time, knowing what happens, makes it a bit cringy to read. I liked Alice a lot both times. Alice is practical not a beauty; she's intelligent and though she's in love, she's not lovesick. She knows her limits of friendship and how much she's willing to accept. Alice won't give in to anything except true love. Isaac is a wonderful hero though completely blind to Alice as anything other than a friend. Like Edmund Bertram in Mansfield Park he sees a pretty face and elegant facade and thinks he's in love. Sophia doesn't deserve him. The introduction of Billy was a little bit too much of a plot device for me. He didn't quite fit the story but serves to show the characters of both women. The final courtship scene is so adorable. I dare you not to smile!
"A Christmas Promise" is one I read elsewhere and liked well enough. A Timeless Romance Anthology: Silver Bells Collection
"Dreams of a Glorious Season" is perfect for Jane Austen lovers. Elizabeth Gillerford can not have her season until her elder sister Mary is wed but with three seasons behind her already and no offers, Mary has become unbearble. She clings to the belief that her childhood neighbor and unofficial intended, Julian Broadwood, is still going to propose. Julian would rather be boiled in oil. At the very least, spend time with Elizabeth who has a sense of humor and makes him laugh. Julian feels sorry for Elizabeth and tries to include her in social events, something which may just backfire on him spectacularly.
Oh I loved this story! Elizabeth could have been a Fanny Price but she's more of a Lizzy Bennet. She has a sense of humor about her situation and her horrid sister. Mary is truly awful. It's no wonder no one has proposed. Even their mother pushes Mary to believe Julian is going to propose. Mrs. G holds Mary up as perfection and Elizabeth as a loser. They never miss a chance to belittle or demean Elizabeth. Mr. G isn't much better. Julian is not the most swoony hero. He's a bit pigheaded and cowardly. I think he should tell Mr. G that he has no intention of marrying Mary and WHY! Maybe someone can control the eldest daughter! If I were Elizabeth I would have told Mary what was what long ago. Caroline Bingley has nothing on Mary. At least Miss B doesn't throw tantrums. Julian's sister is charming. She's the one who sees what's happening under Julian's nose. Helene is funny and delightful. Once she intervenes, she sets her brother on the right path towards a swoonworthy courtship. The story improves from there. (Apparently I hated this one when I read it in A Timeless Romance Anthology: All Regency Collection but I have no memory of it).
"A Lesson in Love" is another one I read and disliked elsewhere. European CollectionI didn't care for it much then and I didn't like it much now either. I prefer it when the h/h TALK about stuff, especially married couples. Is this how the Duke of Kielder's parents began married life? It's clear Lucy is an extrovert who thrives on social interaction - ugh. I'm with Reed, her husband. I'd rather stay home with my books!
This collection tided me over until her next romance is due. I miss the Jonquils though. That's where her talent really shines.
Sarah M. Eden is the queen of swoony 19th-century romance and this anthology is no exception. I'll gladly read whatever she has to write set in that time period, at least in England.
The major theme of this collection is friendship. The heroines are (historically inaccurately) friends with a young man but secretly in love with him. Some watch helplessly as the man they love courts another woman while others try to make peace with the fact they face a marriage of convenience. Sometimes Eden's editors try to force a heartwarming story over a period correct romance but she mostly overrules the inaccuracies by explaining why something works for her characters and I appreciate that. World building. It's good.
The first story "A Friend Indeed" set in 1808 England, finds Caroline Downy facing a loveless marriage with her brother's best friend. While George Barrington enjoys hanging out with Tom Downy, he prefers to spend time with the lovely Caroline, his friend and the one woman he can't live without. Can he convince her this marriage is the real thing for him and court her in three weeks before she calls it off?
I loved this story so much. I could feel Caroline's hurt, her past trauma and worries for the future. She is downtrodden due to her family's impoverished state and resents being sold off like a parcel of land. I would be upset too. George is the MOST swoony hero in this entire collection! He, too, has childhood trauma stemming from being new money. His mother is sincerely horrid and super class conscience. All she cares about is social climbing and only sees people for their ancestors. George sees Caroline for who she is and sets about trying to prove it to her. THIS is courtship! :fans self: If Caroline doesn't marry George, I'd take him!
In "A Happy Beginning" Sophia Pemberton works as a governess in Scotland for two horrid bratty children. While she's in love with the country, she's lonely and would rather be elsewhere where she can make friends. In lieu of friends, she wants to ride on her days off and tries to befriend the stable master, Dermont Buchanan, who naturally is suspicious of the English. However, when Sophia confides in him, he becomes her friend and protector against the evil Haddingtons.
Another swoony romance. I had my doubts about a governess and a stable master but Eden has exlanations and makes it work. Sophia is a bit too weak for my personal tastes but she stands up for herself when she's in danger at least. The Haddingtons are truly horrible. The children are spoiled and bratty, not to mention animal abusers. Mrs. H is ghastly and on some ego power trip probably because her husband is a skirt chaser and having control over the servants gives the poor wife some agency or at least makes her feel better her husband sexually assaults the servant women. Dermont is a bit tough to like at first. He's taciturn, suspicious and cool towards Sophia in the beginning but he's chivalrous and can't allow her to be alone and afraid. What he does for her is very sweet and lovely. The explanation of how these two can get together stretches credulty a bit but it makes for a sweet and heartwarming story.
"The Road to Cavan Town" is one I read in another collection. Winter Collection
In 1864 the roads to Cavan Town, County Cavan, Ireland feature a number of young bachelors headed to lake country to court the belle of the county, each hoping for a single word from the beauty. Alice Whatley is no beauty but she knows she would make Isaac Dancy a better wife than Miss Sophia Kilchrest. Alice is used to the hard work of life in service and caring for her aging relatives. Traveling back and forth she's gotten to know Isaac very well. He owns a good farm that survived the Great Hunger and he hopes to proper more. Isaac is proud of his farm and doing the backbreaking labor himself. He seeks a wife who will help connect him with the community and unite everyone with smiles and good grace. Alice wonders how he can expect a fine lady like Miss Kilchrest to give up her fancy house with servants and move to a farm. How can Alice convince Isaac that she is the one for him?
This is a cute story. I liked it more the first time. The second time, knowing what happens, makes it a bit cringy to read. I liked Alice a lot both times. Alice is practical not a beauty; she's intelligent and though she's in love, she's not lovesick. She knows her limits of friendship and how much she's willing to accept. Alice won't give in to anything except true love. Isaac is a wonderful hero though completely blind to Alice as anything other than a friend. Like Edmund Bertram in Mansfield Park he sees a pretty face and elegant facade and thinks he's in love. Sophia doesn't deserve him. The introduction of Billy was a little bit too much of a plot device for me. He didn't quite fit the story but serves to show the characters of both women. The final courtship scene is so adorable. I dare you not to smile!
"A Christmas Promise" is one I read elsewhere and liked well enough. A Timeless Romance Anthology: Silver Bells Collection
"Dreams of a Glorious Season" is perfect for Jane Austen lovers. Elizabeth Gillerford can not have her season until her elder sister Mary is wed but with three seasons behind her already and no offers, Mary has become unbearble. She clings to the belief that her childhood neighbor and unofficial intended, Julian Broadwood, is still going to propose. Julian would rather be boiled in oil. At the very least, spend time with Elizabeth who has a sense of humor and makes him laugh. Julian feels sorry for Elizabeth and tries to include her in social events, something which may just backfire on him spectacularly.
Oh I loved this story! Elizabeth could have been a Fanny Price but she's more of a Lizzy Bennet. She has a sense of humor about her situation and her horrid sister. Mary is truly awful. It's no wonder no one has proposed. Even their mother pushes Mary to believe Julian is going to propose. Mrs. G holds Mary up as perfection and Elizabeth as a loser. They never miss a chance to belittle or demean Elizabeth. Mr. G isn't much better. Julian is not the most swoony hero. He's a bit pigheaded and cowardly. I think he should tell Mr. G that he has no intention of marrying Mary and WHY! Maybe someone can control the eldest daughter! If I were Elizabeth I would have told Mary what was what long ago. Caroline Bingley has nothing on Mary. At least Miss B doesn't throw tantrums. Julian's sister is charming. She's the one who sees what's happening under Julian's nose. Helene is funny and delightful. Once she intervenes, she sets her brother on the right path towards a swoonworthy courtship. The story improves from there. (Apparently I hated this one when I read it in A Timeless Romance Anthology: All Regency Collection but I have no memory of it).
"A Lesson in Love" is another one I read and disliked elsewhere. European CollectionI didn't care for it much then and I didn't like it much now either. I prefer it when the h/h TALK about stuff, especially married couples. Is this how the Duke of Kielder's parents began married life? It's clear Lucy is an extrovert who thrives on social interaction - ugh. I'm with Reed, her husband. I'd rather stay home with my books!
This collection tided me over until her next romance is due. I miss the Jonquils though. That's where her talent really shines.
January 9, 2018
I love everything Eden writes. I listened to the audiobook, which was done by three or so different narrators. Some of these stories I'd read elsewhere--probably in other Timeless Romance Anthologies since she's a regular contributor. I think my favorite was Jules.
December 14, 2015
In this collection of novellas Sarah Eden shows her talent as a writer by producing six fully formed and well rounded stories in a short space. All of them are different and Eden showcases her skill by using a variety of styles, settings and class stations. The last two in the collection were my favorites; a story of a friendship that develops into a relationship despite her family's interference and instance that he marries her older sister, and a story of a newly married couple who are struggling to understand each other despite their love. In each one the author cleverly manages to impart some kind of message about society at the time of the story and today. A great read.
November 5, 2015
British Isles Collection is a collection of six stories by Sarah M Eden. The stories include:
A Friend Indeed (new story)
A Happy Beginning (new story)
The Road to Cavan Town (from the Winter Collection)
A Christmas Promise (from the Silver Bells Collection)
Dream of a Glorious Season (from the All Regency Collection)
A Lesson in Love (from the European Collection)
I was so excited to read this collection because I have loved everything I have read by Sarah M Eden. I was definitely not disappointed.
Great collection!
Five stars
A Friend Indeed (new story)
A Happy Beginning (new story)
The Road to Cavan Town (from the Winter Collection)
A Christmas Promise (from the Silver Bells Collection)
Dream of a Glorious Season (from the All Regency Collection)
A Lesson in Love (from the European Collection)
I was so excited to read this collection because I have loved everything I have read by Sarah M Eden. I was definitely not disappointed.
Great collection!
Five stars
November 1, 2015
Sarah is one of my all time favorite authors and I was so excited when this was announced. They only thing that would have made this a perfect book is if it would have been all new stories, but the old ones were fun to reread. I LOVED the new stories, they are always so well done and heart wrenching. I love the way Sarah weaves a story:} One of my favorites of all the anthologys:}
January 22, 2020
A FRIEND INDEED
Kind of boring, with George being in love with Caroline and Caroline’s brother having to tell her she was in love with George. She was under the impression you can’t be married and be friends, too.
A HAPPY BEGINNING
Cute story. About Sophia and Dermot becoming friends and a home where she was a governess and he was a stable master. She was almost attacked by her employer and Dermot took her to his home, to his mother, and she found out he was more than a stable master.
ROAD TO CAVAN TOWN
This was about a woman and a really, really dense man.
A CHRISTMAS PROMISE
Another cute story about Sean and Maeve. They fell in love in-between his time at the stables and the 15-minute walk too her farm.
DREAM OF A GLORIOUS SEASON
This was my favorite so far. But I think that’s because of the narrator. Mary Jane Wells is just phenomenal. Her reading emotions are awesome, and all her characters have their own distinct voice. It was a very cute story, about Elizabeth who’d loved Julian since she was eight years old, and Julian who didn’t realize he loved his best friend Elizabeth. And the narrator made the sister, Mary and the parents sound as horrible as the were supposed. She put the other narrators to shame because all the did was read the book, no emotions whatsoever.
A LESSON IN LOVE
Another rather silly story. Lucy wanted to go to all the balls and musicales and soirees that London had to offer but her husband, Reed, didn’t want to go to any. Lucy leaves him and goes home to her parents’ to teach him a lesson and he decided to teach her a lesson. It was too silly to enjoy.
So, no sex and no swearing and only one really good story.
As to the narration: Only one exceptional narrator, Mary Jane Wells. The other narrators were simply MEH..
Kind of boring, with George being in love with Caroline and Caroline’s brother having to tell her she was in love with George. She was under the impression you can’t be married and be friends, too.
A HAPPY BEGINNING
Cute story. About Sophia and Dermot becoming friends and a home where she was a governess and he was a stable master. She was almost attacked by her employer and Dermot took her to his home, to his mother, and she found out he was more than a stable master.
ROAD TO CAVAN TOWN
This was about a woman and a really, really dense man.
A CHRISTMAS PROMISE
Another cute story about Sean and Maeve. They fell in love in-between his time at the stables and the 15-minute walk too her farm.
DREAM OF A GLORIOUS SEASON
This was my favorite so far. But I think that’s because of the narrator. Mary Jane Wells is just phenomenal. Her reading emotions are awesome, and all her characters have their own distinct voice. It was a very cute story, about Elizabeth who’d loved Julian since she was eight years old, and Julian who didn’t realize he loved his best friend Elizabeth. And the narrator made the sister, Mary and the parents sound as horrible as the were supposed. She put the other narrators to shame because all the did was read the book, no emotions whatsoever.
A LESSON IN LOVE
Another rather silly story. Lucy wanted to go to all the balls and musicales and soirees that London had to offer but her husband, Reed, didn’t want to go to any. Lucy leaves him and goes home to her parents’ to teach him a lesson and he decided to teach her a lesson. It was too silly to enjoy.
So, no sex and no swearing and only one really good story.
As to the narration: Only one exceptional narrator, Mary Jane Wells. The other narrators were simply MEH..
January 14, 2016
Number One: “A Friend Indeed”
Gloucestershire England - 1808
Miss Caroline Downy, age 20, does not have a dowry nor the funds for a London season. However, her family has betrothed her to a family friend, George Barrington.
George has known the Downy family for years. He went to school with Caroline’s brother and spent many holidays with them. He and Caroline played together as children and know one another very well.
Caroline is not happy at not being allowed to have a season and is also not happy about having an arranged marriage. However, George has always cared for Caroline and realizes that he truly loves her.
When he arrives to visit her and the family, he sees her unhappiness and is determined to prove to her that he loves her and that he truly wants to marry her. He asks her to give him three weeks to do this.
Thus, they begin with walks, talks, and exchange childhood memories. This brings them lots of happiness but is it enough for a lasting love and marriage?
I really loved George. What a real man he is.
Number Two: “A Happy Beginning”
Stirlingshire, Scotland - 1850
Sophia Pemberton is working as a governess for the Haddington family. While she loves Scotland and all of its beauty, her job is very difficult as she has to work with the ill-mannered Haddington children, Joseph, Jane, and Ella. Following their parents’ attitude toward servants, they speak with disdain to everyone.
When Sophia accompanies the children for riding lessons with Stable Master, Dermot Buchanan, she is pleased to see that he does not hesitate to set the children straight when they misbehave around the horses.
Sophia used to ride years ago and asks Dermot if she could be allowed to do so. He agrees but tells her she must gain approval from the Haddingtons first. Of course, they refuse her request. Not deterred, she still likes to be around the horses when she has free time. This does not sit well with the Haddingtons. But when Mr. Haddington causes difficulties for her, she flees to Dermot.
His rescues her and surprises her with his background that he has kept secret.
This is a sweet romance that I think readers will certainly enjoy.
Number Three: “The Road to Caven Town”
County Caven, Ireland - 1864
Alice Wheatley met Isaac Dancy when they both walk to Caven on the weekend. Alice, who works as a maid at a farmhouse, visits with her ailing grandparents on the weekends to care for them. Isaac, a farmer, visits Caven each weekend to hopefully court Miss Sophia Kilchrest who is no only lovely but comes with a dowry. Alice and Isaac enjoy great conversations getting to know one another.
Isaac is intent on marrying Sophia and always looks for advice from Alice. Tired of his constant sharing of how he is faring with Sophia, Alice realizes that he needs to decide on his own about Sophia and stop asking her for advice. Disgusted with him, she decides to back away from meeting and walking with him.
However, an upcoming event where they are all present, shows the real personalities up for who they really are. Who will Isaac choose?
A nice romance that I liked very much.
Number Four: “A Christmas Promise”
Ireland - 1820
Sean Kirkpatrick is seeking a position as a stable hand at Kilkenney Castle. To get hired for the job, he has to pass a test of leading horses from one point to another. But he now finds himself lost and mired in mud in the middle of a field.
Maeve Butler hears her dogs barking and discovers Sean stuck in a field on her farm. While she has a laugh at his lacking a sense of direction, her brothers all pitch in and dig him out. Afterward, they invite him to have a simple dinner and to spend the night. The next morning, he finds he is just 15 minutes away from the Castle.
Sean and Maeve are immediately attracted to one another and even though as a new employee he cannot get away often, he tries to see Maeve when he can. When he promises to be with her for Christmas dinner, he is very upset to find he is the one chosen to stay with the horses in the stable during that time.
What will Maeve do? Will she think he promised her and then forgot? Will their budding love for one another be dashed?
A sweet, clean romance.
Number Five: “Dream of a Glorious Season”
London - 1810
Miss Elizabeth Gillerford has loved her neighbor, Julian Broadwood, since she was 8-years-old. Her older sister, Mary, is determined to marry Julian. In addition, Elizabeth will not be permitted to have a season until Mary is married. Unfortunately, Mary has a sharp tongue and suitors are not lined up to court her.
Trying to appease the Gillerford family, Julian offers to take Mary on a drive and Elizabeth is asked to go along as a chaperone. When Julian sees the way Mary treats Elizabeth, he is appalled. Soon, he finds himself attracted to Elizabeth.
Will they have a chance at love if her sister and parents are trying to shove Mary at him?
This was a good story and I enjoyed it very much.
Number Six: “A Lesson in Love”
London - 1813
Lucy and Reed Stanthorpe are newlyweds and have arrived back in London for the season. They are both looking forward to all of the wonderful aspects of the city. The invitations begin to pour in for lots of soirees, but soon Reed decides to stay home because he is tired of all of the balls and such. Lucy is very disappointed because that means that she doesn’t want to attend without him. When this continues to happen, Lucy is very unhappy to learn from Reed that he feels that now that he is no longer courting Lucy, he doesn’t have to attend. This angers Lucy so she decides to leave Reed and live with her parents in town. Baffled, he soon learns that he is going to have to court her again to regain her love.
Thus begins a repeat of the time when they were courting. But soon, being apart from one another begins to get old for both of them. What will it take for them to reach a compromise and resume their marriage.
A cute romance with some added humor.
Gloucestershire England - 1808
Miss Caroline Downy, age 20, does not have a dowry nor the funds for a London season. However, her family has betrothed her to a family friend, George Barrington.
George has known the Downy family for years. He went to school with Caroline’s brother and spent many holidays with them. He and Caroline played together as children and know one another very well.
Caroline is not happy at not being allowed to have a season and is also not happy about having an arranged marriage. However, George has always cared for Caroline and realizes that he truly loves her.
When he arrives to visit her and the family, he sees her unhappiness and is determined to prove to her that he loves her and that he truly wants to marry her. He asks her to give him three weeks to do this.
Thus, they begin with walks, talks, and exchange childhood memories. This brings them lots of happiness but is it enough for a lasting love and marriage?
I really loved George. What a real man he is.
Number Two: “A Happy Beginning”
Stirlingshire, Scotland - 1850
Sophia Pemberton is working as a governess for the Haddington family. While she loves Scotland and all of its beauty, her job is very difficult as she has to work with the ill-mannered Haddington children, Joseph, Jane, and Ella. Following their parents’ attitude toward servants, they speak with disdain to everyone.
When Sophia accompanies the children for riding lessons with Stable Master, Dermot Buchanan, she is pleased to see that he does not hesitate to set the children straight when they misbehave around the horses.
Sophia used to ride years ago and asks Dermot if she could be allowed to do so. He agrees but tells her she must gain approval from the Haddingtons first. Of course, they refuse her request. Not deterred, she still likes to be around the horses when she has free time. This does not sit well with the Haddingtons. But when Mr. Haddington causes difficulties for her, she flees to Dermot.
His rescues her and surprises her with his background that he has kept secret.
This is a sweet romance that I think readers will certainly enjoy.
Number Three: “The Road to Caven Town”
County Caven, Ireland - 1864
Alice Wheatley met Isaac Dancy when they both walk to Caven on the weekend. Alice, who works as a maid at a farmhouse, visits with her ailing grandparents on the weekends to care for them. Isaac, a farmer, visits Caven each weekend to hopefully court Miss Sophia Kilchrest who is no only lovely but comes with a dowry. Alice and Isaac enjoy great conversations getting to know one another.
Isaac is intent on marrying Sophia and always looks for advice from Alice. Tired of his constant sharing of how he is faring with Sophia, Alice realizes that he needs to decide on his own about Sophia and stop asking her for advice. Disgusted with him, she decides to back away from meeting and walking with him.
However, an upcoming event where they are all present, shows the real personalities up for who they really are. Who will Isaac choose?
A nice romance that I liked very much.
Number Four: “A Christmas Promise”
Ireland - 1820
Sean Kirkpatrick is seeking a position as a stable hand at Kilkenney Castle. To get hired for the job, he has to pass a test of leading horses from one point to another. But he now finds himself lost and mired in mud in the middle of a field.
Maeve Butler hears her dogs barking and discovers Sean stuck in a field on her farm. While she has a laugh at his lacking a sense of direction, her brothers all pitch in and dig him out. Afterward, they invite him to have a simple dinner and to spend the night. The next morning, he finds he is just 15 minutes away from the Castle.
Sean and Maeve are immediately attracted to one another and even though as a new employee he cannot get away often, he tries to see Maeve when he can. When he promises to be with her for Christmas dinner, he is very upset to find he is the one chosen to stay with the horses in the stable during that time.
What will Maeve do? Will she think he promised her and then forgot? Will their budding love for one another be dashed?
A sweet, clean romance.
Number Five: “Dream of a Glorious Season”
London - 1810
Miss Elizabeth Gillerford has loved her neighbor, Julian Broadwood, since she was 8-years-old. Her older sister, Mary, is determined to marry Julian. In addition, Elizabeth will not be permitted to have a season until Mary is married. Unfortunately, Mary has a sharp tongue and suitors are not lined up to court her.
Trying to appease the Gillerford family, Julian offers to take Mary on a drive and Elizabeth is asked to go along as a chaperone. When Julian sees the way Mary treats Elizabeth, he is appalled. Soon, he finds himself attracted to Elizabeth.
Will they have a chance at love if her sister and parents are trying to shove Mary at him?
This was a good story and I enjoyed it very much.
Number Six: “A Lesson in Love”
London - 1813
Lucy and Reed Stanthorpe are newlyweds and have arrived back in London for the season. They are both looking forward to all of the wonderful aspects of the city. The invitations begin to pour in for lots of soirees, but soon Reed decides to stay home because he is tired of all of the balls and such. Lucy is very disappointed because that means that she doesn’t want to attend without him. When this continues to happen, Lucy is very unhappy to learn from Reed that he feels that now that he is no longer courting Lucy, he doesn’t have to attend. This angers Lucy so she decides to leave Reed and live with her parents in town. Baffled, he soon learns that he is going to have to court her again to regain her love.
Thus begins a repeat of the time when they were courting. But soon, being apart from one another begins to get old for both of them. What will it take for them to reach a compromise and resume their marriage.
A cute romance with some added humor.
January 1, 2016
This is a whole collection of novellas by Sarah M. Eden. Two are new stories and four have previously been published as part of the Timeless Romance Anthology series. I have read three of them, but didn’t mind rereading them at all!
A Friend Indeed -- From youth, Caroline has been told she must marry to save her destitute family. She has steeled her heart from love and prepared for a loveless marriage. Caroline isn’t sure what to think when George, her childhood friend, offers for her hand. She is sure it is out of obligation to her family he has done so and fears it will ruin their friendship. For five years, George has waited for the chance to court Caroline. Now, he must convince her that his true motivation for the marriage is love.
I could understand Caroline’s thinking in some ways, and in some ways I just couldn’t. George’s affection for her was so obvious! But never expecting to be loved, she couldn’t see it. Oh, I felt for George! How frustrated and desperate he must have been. Thank goodness for Edward! Caroline definitely needed her big brother. I loved this story!! What a great way to start the collection!
A Happy Beginning -- Sophia has left England and is now a governess in Scotland. She loves the land, but feels very alone. She admires the quiet, strong stable master, Dermot, and a friendship begins to develop between them. So when Sophia is in trouble, she turns to Dermot for help.
Again, a story I loved! I admired Sophia and her courage. Dermot was such a good man! The relationship that developed between them was so sweet. I loved the trust that Sophia had in Dermot.
The Road to Cavan Town (Originally in the Winter Collection) -- Isaac Dancy travels every weekend, along with several other bachelors, to pay court to the belle of the county in Cavan Town. Alice Wheatley travels each weekend from the farm where she works to her grandparent’s home in Cavan Town. For the last four months they have walked the road together. Alice has lost her heart to Isaac, but he continues in his determination to pursue Miss Kilchrest.
Isaac is such a good man, but he is so blind! He is trying so hard to get noticed by Miss Kilchrest that he doesn’t realize he HAS been noticed by someone much better. I liked Alice right away! She is kind and good. I ached for her. I’m so glad Isaac finally realized what he had right in front of him. I originally read this novella in the Winter Collection, and I enjoyed it even more this time!
A Christmas Promise (Originally in the Silver Bells Collection) -- To get a job as a stablehand, Sean Kirkpatrick must drive a team of horses from Dublin to Kilkenny Castle in a certain amount of time. He tries to follow his poorly made map, but ends up stuck in a muddy field. That is when he meets Maeve Butler and her three very large dogs.
This story is told in such a unique way. Maeve and Sean were well matched. I loved Maeve’s brothers. They were protective but also wanted her to be happy. Rufus was the perfect help for the first part! Another great one!
Dream of a Glorious Season (Originally in the All Regency Collection) -- Elizabeth Gillerford’s parents will not let her have a Season until Mary, her older sister, is wed. Mary has intended to marry Julian Broadwood since they were children, and Elizabeth has been in love with him for just as long. When Julian decides to help Elizabeth experience some of the Season, she is thrilled and Mary is enraged.
Elizabeth and Julian were such great characters! Julian handled Mary so well. It was so nice to see her plans frustrated! Mary was horrible! As were Elizabeth’s parents. Thank goodness for Julian! If Elizabeth had to wait for Mary to wed, she never would have had a Season. I also loved Helene! One of my favorite dialogues was between her and her husband, Robert. I loved this story! I know I’m sounding like a broken record, but it’s true!!
A Lesson in Love (Originally in the European Collection) -- Reed and Lucy Stanthorpe are returning to London for their first Season as a married couple. Lucy is excited to have a husband to attend all of the events with. Reed is grateful to be able to stay home instead of being forced to attend events in order to find a wife. When their ideas of a perfect Season clash, war is declared between the men and women in Lucy’s family.
So fun! The Harrison family is so sure they are helping, not just Reed and Lucy, but all of their gender. It was kind of a game for them, but poor Reed and Lucy! They were the ones suffering. Their love was so true and deep. That was wonderful to see! This was a great story of appreciation and compromise.
Sarah Eden is one of my favorite authors! I find myself pulled in by her stories and engaged in them very quickly. I was excited to see a collection dedicated to her stories. I always wish the stories were longer, but her novellas feel complete and realistic. I loved every one of them!!
I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
A Friend Indeed -- From youth, Caroline has been told she must marry to save her destitute family. She has steeled her heart from love and prepared for a loveless marriage. Caroline isn’t sure what to think when George, her childhood friend, offers for her hand. She is sure it is out of obligation to her family he has done so and fears it will ruin their friendship. For five years, George has waited for the chance to court Caroline. Now, he must convince her that his true motivation for the marriage is love.
I could understand Caroline’s thinking in some ways, and in some ways I just couldn’t. George’s affection for her was so obvious! But never expecting to be loved, she couldn’t see it. Oh, I felt for George! How frustrated and desperate he must have been. Thank goodness for Edward! Caroline definitely needed her big brother. I loved this story!! What a great way to start the collection!
A Happy Beginning -- Sophia has left England and is now a governess in Scotland. She loves the land, but feels very alone. She admires the quiet, strong stable master, Dermot, and a friendship begins to develop between them. So when Sophia is in trouble, she turns to Dermot for help.
Again, a story I loved! I admired Sophia and her courage. Dermot was such a good man! The relationship that developed between them was so sweet. I loved the trust that Sophia had in Dermot.
The Road to Cavan Town (Originally in the Winter Collection) -- Isaac Dancy travels every weekend, along with several other bachelors, to pay court to the belle of the county in Cavan Town. Alice Wheatley travels each weekend from the farm where she works to her grandparent’s home in Cavan Town. For the last four months they have walked the road together. Alice has lost her heart to Isaac, but he continues in his determination to pursue Miss Kilchrest.
Isaac is such a good man, but he is so blind! He is trying so hard to get noticed by Miss Kilchrest that he doesn’t realize he HAS been noticed by someone much better. I liked Alice right away! She is kind and good. I ached for her. I’m so glad Isaac finally realized what he had right in front of him. I originally read this novella in the Winter Collection, and I enjoyed it even more this time!
A Christmas Promise (Originally in the Silver Bells Collection) -- To get a job as a stablehand, Sean Kirkpatrick must drive a team of horses from Dublin to Kilkenny Castle in a certain amount of time. He tries to follow his poorly made map, but ends up stuck in a muddy field. That is when he meets Maeve Butler and her three very large dogs.
This story is told in such a unique way. Maeve and Sean were well matched. I loved Maeve’s brothers. They were protective but also wanted her to be happy. Rufus was the perfect help for the first part! Another great one!
Dream of a Glorious Season (Originally in the All Regency Collection) -- Elizabeth Gillerford’s parents will not let her have a Season until Mary, her older sister, is wed. Mary has intended to marry Julian Broadwood since they were children, and Elizabeth has been in love with him for just as long. When Julian decides to help Elizabeth experience some of the Season, she is thrilled and Mary is enraged.
Elizabeth and Julian were such great characters! Julian handled Mary so well. It was so nice to see her plans frustrated! Mary was horrible! As were Elizabeth’s parents. Thank goodness for Julian! If Elizabeth had to wait for Mary to wed, she never would have had a Season. I also loved Helene! One of my favorite dialogues was between her and her husband, Robert. I loved this story! I know I’m sounding like a broken record, but it’s true!!
A Lesson in Love (Originally in the European Collection) -- Reed and Lucy Stanthorpe are returning to London for their first Season as a married couple. Lucy is excited to have a husband to attend all of the events with. Reed is grateful to be able to stay home instead of being forced to attend events in order to find a wife. When their ideas of a perfect Season clash, war is declared between the men and women in Lucy’s family.
So fun! The Harrison family is so sure they are helping, not just Reed and Lucy, but all of their gender. It was kind of a game for them, but poor Reed and Lucy! They were the ones suffering. Their love was so true and deep. That was wonderful to see! This was a great story of appreciation and compromise.
Sarah Eden is one of my favorite authors! I find myself pulled in by her stories and engaged in them very quickly. I was excited to see a collection dedicated to her stories. I always wish the stories were longer, but her novellas feel complete and realistic. I loved every one of them!!
I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2021
A Friend Indeed - Poor Caroline has always known she’d be “auctioned off” to the highest bidder to save their family. But when it’s her dear friend George that offers for her hand, she’s heartbroken. A marriage would only ruin their friendship. And besides, he can’t really love her. Not the way she wants to be loved. Can he? (Loved this! Absolutely loved it.)
A Happy Beginning - Sophia is an Englishwoman transplanted in Scotland. She’s fallen in love with the land, but her job as a governess to two horrible children (who’s menacing father makes her fearful) taints the landscape. Her one solace is the unlikely friendship blooming between her and the stable master, Dermot. Dermot is kind and strong, but he also has a callus when it comes to the English. When Sophia’s safety is threatened, she finds protection in the arms of the stable master. But will she also find her heart? (Couldn’t love this more. The romance was subtle at first, but strong and sure by the end.)
Road to Cavan Town- Isaac is a fool. But Alice loves him all the same. If only Isaac would see that and give up his courtship to the “lovely” Miss Kilchrest. When Alice’s heart can’t take any more, she withdraws, Isaac is confused by the emotions that accompany her departure. It may take him a few months and an almost disastrous Christmas party, but he finally opens his eyes to what’s most important. (Oh Isaac. You silly man. I’m glad you came around.)
A Christmas Promise - Sean needs this job. He must get these horses to Castle Kilkenny. So when his useless map turns him in circles and he gets stuck in a muddy field, he’s ready to walk all the way back home. But fate intervenes and sends him Maeve. And her three giant hounds. Sean needs this job, which has now made it impossible for him to keep his Christmas promise to Maeve. What’s a man in love to do? (This was probably one of the funniest stories. And I LOVED the storytelling in it. SO clever!)
Dream of a Glorious Season - Elizabeth has been in love with Julian for ten long years. And all those years she’s watched her sister, Mary, lay claim to him. When Julian gets fed up with Mary’s treatment of Beth, he steps in to save her, and realizes she’s always been not only his dearest friend, but also very dear to him. (Sweet and tender.)
A Lesson in Love - Reed and Lucy had an amazing Season last year. Now that their married, this Season will be perfect! Reed can’t wait to spend his time at home with his lovely wife. Lucy can’t wait to attend all the social functions with her husband. It’s going to be perfect! Lucy mistakes Reed’s feelings, thinking he finds her a chore now that they’re married. And Reed can’t understand why he’s not enough, why Lucy insists on spending time out with friends rather than him. They both need a little lesson in love. (A little uncomfortable to read because so many feelings are hurt. But the end makes it worth it!)
I’ve always enjoyed Sarah Eden’s writing. But something about these short stories just really speaks to my heart. In every story I was entertained with wit, laughter and love. Every story is absolutely crystal clean. I love that in all cases, the love was deep rooted between two people who connect emotionally and intellectually, rather than just based on looks. The storytelling is amazing. Sarah has a gift.
I received a copy of A Timeless Romance Anthology: Sarah M. Eden British Isles Collection in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are absolutely my own.
A Happy Beginning - Sophia is an Englishwoman transplanted in Scotland. She’s fallen in love with the land, but her job as a governess to two horrible children (who’s menacing father makes her fearful) taints the landscape. Her one solace is the unlikely friendship blooming between her and the stable master, Dermot. Dermot is kind and strong, but he also has a callus when it comes to the English. When Sophia’s safety is threatened, she finds protection in the arms of the stable master. But will she also find her heart? (Couldn’t love this more. The romance was subtle at first, but strong and sure by the end.)
Road to Cavan Town- Isaac is a fool. But Alice loves him all the same. If only Isaac would see that and give up his courtship to the “lovely” Miss Kilchrest. When Alice’s heart can’t take any more, she withdraws, Isaac is confused by the emotions that accompany her departure. It may take him a few months and an almost disastrous Christmas party, but he finally opens his eyes to what’s most important. (Oh Isaac. You silly man. I’m glad you came around.)
A Christmas Promise - Sean needs this job. He must get these horses to Castle Kilkenny. So when his useless map turns him in circles and he gets stuck in a muddy field, he’s ready to walk all the way back home. But fate intervenes and sends him Maeve. And her three giant hounds. Sean needs this job, which has now made it impossible for him to keep his Christmas promise to Maeve. What’s a man in love to do? (This was probably one of the funniest stories. And I LOVED the storytelling in it. SO clever!)
Dream of a Glorious Season - Elizabeth has been in love with Julian for ten long years. And all those years she’s watched her sister, Mary, lay claim to him. When Julian gets fed up with Mary’s treatment of Beth, he steps in to save her, and realizes she’s always been not only his dearest friend, but also very dear to him. (Sweet and tender.)
A Lesson in Love - Reed and Lucy had an amazing Season last year. Now that their married, this Season will be perfect! Reed can’t wait to spend his time at home with his lovely wife. Lucy can’t wait to attend all the social functions with her husband. It’s going to be perfect! Lucy mistakes Reed’s feelings, thinking he finds her a chore now that they’re married. And Reed can’t understand why he’s not enough, why Lucy insists on spending time out with friends rather than him. They both need a little lesson in love. (A little uncomfortable to read because so many feelings are hurt. But the end makes it worth it!)
I’ve always enjoyed Sarah Eden’s writing. But something about these short stories just really speaks to my heart. In every story I was entertained with wit, laughter and love. Every story is absolutely crystal clean. I love that in all cases, the love was deep rooted between two people who connect emotionally and intellectually, rather than just based on looks. The storytelling is amazing. Sarah has a gift.
I received a copy of A Timeless Romance Anthology: Sarah M. Eden British Isles Collection in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are absolutely my own.
November 6, 2015
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review, Clean Romance.
Fair warning, although this is in the description of this Anthology, there are 2 new stories, the others have been included in other Anthologies in this collection series.
This was a pleasure to read. SE has varied settings and characters, her points of view alter from the heroine, to the hero, and we get to see a little of how they both think. I think for me, what I really enjoyed, is the couples are genuinely kind, caring people, truly 'honest' and forthright. Seeing happiness come to them in the face of misunderstandings, circumstances, and just life through everyday occurrences made for lovely reading. She creates such sympathetic, vibrant characters, some with sass, some with wit and humor, genuinely kind and caring that the reader wants to have the HEA happen.
She creates the stumble upon, the friendship, and many varied kinds of love, but foremost, she pictures kind, tender, and genuine feelings, definitely with a sense of sweetness and longing. Each story is crafted so well. My only fault is the read finished to quickly! Even though I had read some of the stories prior, the magic was definitely there for me.
Fair warning, although this is in the description of this Anthology, there are 2 new stories, the others have been included in other Anthologies in this collection series.
This was a pleasure to read. SE has varied settings and characters, her points of view alter from the heroine, to the hero, and we get to see a little of how they both think. I think for me, what I really enjoyed, is the couples are genuinely kind, caring people, truly 'honest' and forthright. Seeing happiness come to them in the face of misunderstandings, circumstances, and just life through everyday occurrences made for lovely reading. She creates such sympathetic, vibrant characters, some with sass, some with wit and humor, genuinely kind and caring that the reader wants to have the HEA happen.
She creates the stumble upon, the friendship, and many varied kinds of love, but foremost, she pictures kind, tender, and genuine feelings, definitely with a sense of sweetness and longing. Each story is crafted so well. My only fault is the read finished to quickly! Even though I had read some of the stories prior, the magic was definitely there for me.
February 4, 2016
See full review on my blog: http://smilingbookreviews.blogspot.co...
As always with the Timeless Romance Anthologies, every one of these stories were sweet and romantic and clean! You'll love them!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
As always with the Timeless Romance Anthologies, every one of these stories were sweet and romantic and clean! You'll love them!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
March 23, 2016
A delightful collection of sweet, romantic tales all with swoon-worthy heroes, likable heroines, and perfectly satisfying happily-ever-afters. I highly recommend this collection of stories to anyone who enjoys clean and wholesome historical romances.
September 22, 2022
This collections of short stories was really fun to read. 5 stars because everything Sarah writes is lovely.
July 23, 2023
A Friend Indeed - ⭐️⭐️⭐️ This was downright sweet. Although George and Caroline were childhood friends and already betrothed, I loved how he still courted her and was determined to show her that their friendship could turn into something more.
A Happy Beginning - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This is one of my new favorites. Mrs. Eden has always had a way with words. I absolutely loved Dermot and Sophia’s story. Very sweet and nicely paced.
The Road to Cavan Town - ⭐️⭐️⭐️Light and fluffy.
A Christmas Promise - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I enjoyed this just as much as I did the first time. Funny, lighthearted and very cute.
Dream of a Glorious Season - ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Still a cute story and a nice diversion. Light and fluffy.
A Lesson in Love - ⭐️⭐️ Nice story but the narration was underwhelming at best.
Content: Squeaky clean, Kissing
A Happy Beginning - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This is one of my new favorites. Mrs. Eden has always had a way with words. I absolutely loved Dermot and Sophia’s story. Very sweet and nicely paced.
The Road to Cavan Town - ⭐️⭐️⭐️Light and fluffy.
A Christmas Promise - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I enjoyed this just as much as I did the first time. Funny, lighthearted and very cute.
Dream of a Glorious Season - ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Still a cute story and a nice diversion. Light and fluffy.
A Lesson in Love - ⭐️⭐️ Nice story but the narration was underwhelming at best.
Content: Squeaky clean, Kissing
January 17, 2023
This was such a fun read of short and sweet stories.
August 30, 2024
Cute collection of novellas. I look forward to trying one of the author’s full length novels.
December 26, 2025
Romance comes in all forms in all levels of society. Enjoyable collection.
January 16, 2016
I told myself I wouldn't take any more works for review over the holiday, but this was Sarah M. Eden. I am a big fan of her work. I love her deeper full length historical literary romance dramas that exercise both the mind and heart. The ones where the heroes or heroines have physical, psychological, or sociological adversities and sometimes a tragic back story as barriers to their romantic HEA. I love how in her well researched full length novels how she deals with the problematic aspects of a culture and leaves you with a question about human nature long after you stopped reading the swoony heart squeezing romantic ending. I just love her novellas as well, though they are very different! They tend to be on the lighter side on human drama compared to her full length works. I like both deep and light humorous Sarah M. Eden equally! The Regency Era romance novellas from countries all over the British Isles in this anthology were:
A Friend Indeed, Gloucestershire, England, 1808:
This was the story of Caroline from a family rich in ton pedigree and connections, but poor on monies with no dowry. She has always has accepted she will be in a loveless marriage not of her choice of spouse, but given to the suitor whom gives her father the most money. When her childhood friend George whom is very independently wealthy (though of commoner pedigree) becomes her fiancé, she thinks it is out of friendship to her family, obligation to his own family, or pity for her, and not love. George makes a deal with Caroline that over the several weeks before their scheduled wedding date that he will be able to convince her of his love or will let her out their engagement. Her family would still be able to keep the money he gave them either way. The things he did were so creatively romantic (sigh)!
A Happy Beginning, Stirlingshire, Scotland, 1850:
This one was about Sophia, a young former British gentlewoman lady (who due to the economic vulnerability of all woman in this time period regardless of class born in to) becomes a governess to a wealthy family in Scotland. She is very lonely because she doesn’t fit in or is welcome around the other servants and is treated cruelly by her employer family. The hero in this one was Dermont Buchanan the head stable master and he truly was heroic. The speed of the relationship development was very natural and believable. I loved the plot and character twists in this one and wondering what would happen next.
The Road to Cavan Town, County Cavan, Ireland, 1864:
This one was an example of not seeing what is already in front of you is best for you, and the person you are dreaming about is not. I wanted to shake Isaac Dancy the hero so many times when he didn’t see the heroine Alice Wheatley as his perfect match. I loved Alice so much for her patience with Isaac in hoping he would progressively naturally on his own see her as more than a friend and realize the error of courting the other young woman Miss Sophia as a logical choice for his wife. I loved that Alice cared enough about herself to not be masochistic and let him go when he wasn’t getting it after a generous amount of time. I loved seeing Isaac’s POV and the experiences that led him to finally get it.
A Christmas Promise, Ireland late 1820's:
This was so refreshing as this was narrated by an traditional story teller named “Old Tom” in the format of an traditional Irish love tale. The format of an Irish tale is perfect for a short story or novella. So there was laughter, fun, saying what you really mean . The characterizations were great. I loved the hero and heroine and found them so likeable. I loved the epilogue ending twist to the tale.
Dream of a Glorious Season, London, England 1810:
This novella highlights the Regency era etiquette restriction of the younger sister not being allowed her Season to present herself to society before the older sister is betrothed/married. The older sister’s hubris and psychologically abusive behavior toward the heroine Elizabeth was cringe worthy and she was truly a villain. The parents were only barely better. It made the swoon worthy HEA with the hero Julian all the more satisfying.
A Lesson in Love, London, England, 1813:
This one was a great example that still applies today of when the groom thinks after the marriage that he still doesn’t have to do the same behaviors he did to get his bride after the marriage. The battle of the sexes between the men and women members of Lucy’s family over this principle was such an comedy of errors. I was glad when Reed the hero had his epiphany that ended the craziness so creatively and romatically.
Sensuality content: Clean. Kisses only.
Source: Review copy in exchange for my 100% honest opinion.
A Friend Indeed, Gloucestershire, England, 1808:
This was the story of Caroline from a family rich in ton pedigree and connections, but poor on monies with no dowry. She has always has accepted she will be in a loveless marriage not of her choice of spouse, but given to the suitor whom gives her father the most money. When her childhood friend George whom is very independently wealthy (though of commoner pedigree) becomes her fiancé, she thinks it is out of friendship to her family, obligation to his own family, or pity for her, and not love. George makes a deal with Caroline that over the several weeks before their scheduled wedding date that he will be able to convince her of his love or will let her out their engagement. Her family would still be able to keep the money he gave them either way. The things he did were so creatively romantic (sigh)!
A Happy Beginning, Stirlingshire, Scotland, 1850:
This one was about Sophia, a young former British gentlewoman lady (who due to the economic vulnerability of all woman in this time period regardless of class born in to) becomes a governess to a wealthy family in Scotland. She is very lonely because she doesn’t fit in or is welcome around the other servants and is treated cruelly by her employer family. The hero in this one was Dermont Buchanan the head stable master and he truly was heroic. The speed of the relationship development was very natural and believable. I loved the plot and character twists in this one and wondering what would happen next.
The Road to Cavan Town, County Cavan, Ireland, 1864:
This one was an example of not seeing what is already in front of you is best for you, and the person you are dreaming about is not. I wanted to shake Isaac Dancy the hero so many times when he didn’t see the heroine Alice Wheatley as his perfect match. I loved Alice so much for her patience with Isaac in hoping he would progressively naturally on his own see her as more than a friend and realize the error of courting the other young woman Miss Sophia as a logical choice for his wife. I loved that Alice cared enough about herself to not be masochistic and let him go when he wasn’t getting it after a generous amount of time. I loved seeing Isaac’s POV and the experiences that led him to finally get it.
A Christmas Promise, Ireland late 1820's:
This was so refreshing as this was narrated by an traditional story teller named “Old Tom” in the format of an traditional Irish love tale. The format of an Irish tale is perfect for a short story or novella. So there was laughter, fun, saying what you really mean . The characterizations were great. I loved the hero and heroine and found them so likeable. I loved the epilogue ending twist to the tale.
Dream of a Glorious Season, London, England 1810:
This novella highlights the Regency era etiquette restriction of the younger sister not being allowed her Season to present herself to society before the older sister is betrothed/married. The older sister’s hubris and psychologically abusive behavior toward the heroine Elizabeth was cringe worthy and she was truly a villain. The parents were only barely better. It made the swoon worthy HEA with the hero Julian all the more satisfying.
A Lesson in Love, London, England, 1813:
This one was a great example that still applies today of when the groom thinks after the marriage that he still doesn’t have to do the same behaviors he did to get his bride after the marriage. The battle of the sexes between the men and women members of Lucy’s family over this principle was such an comedy of errors. I was glad when Reed the hero had his epiphany that ended the craziness so creatively and romatically.
Sensuality content: Clean. Kisses only.
Source: Review copy in exchange for my 100% honest opinion.
November 23, 2015
Sarah Eden is one of my absolute favorite anthology writers so I jumped on the chance to read this one! And it did not disappoint! The first two stories were original to this anthology; the other four stories I had previously read as part of other collections, but I got caught up in them and wanted to read them again (so I did!) :)
A Friend Indeed - Caroline Dowry knows she will never be able to marry for love so she has never let herself fall in love. She is mortified when her dear friend George Barrington offers for her; she is convinced that a loveless marriage to a dear friend will destroy their friendship. George has three weeks to court her and convince her that his feelings go far beyond friendship.
A Happy Beginning - Sophia Pemberton is an English governess in Scotland. The family she works for are horrible and none of the servants are friendly to her; she feels truly alone. And so she spends a lot of time watching the stable master, Dermot Buchanan and discovers he is kind, considerate, thoughtful, intelligent and interesting... a perfect friend. When Sophie breaks out of her comfort zone and asks him for friendship, things start looking up for her... until the head of the house gets jealous of the attention she gives Dermot and makes it impossible for her to stay.
The Road to Cavan Town - Alice Wheatley meets Isaac Dancy as they walk the dozen miles to and from Cavan every weekend. She is going home from her weekday job; he is going to court the wealthy and beautiful Miss Sophia Kilchrest. As they walk this road together every weekend for 4 months they have developed a solid friendship -- they share hopes, dreams, fears, etc with each other. Alice is smitten by Isaac and keeps hoping he will notice what a great couple they make. As Isaac is becoming a favorite of Miss Sophia's, Alice can no longer be around him as her heart is breaking. It has been Isaac's plan for so long to marry Miss Sophia that he is surprised at how much he misses being with Alice.
A Christmas Promise - Sean Kirkpatrick is handsome, quick-witted, and not easily offended. He is also lost on his way to Kilkenny. Maeve Butler is lovely, quick-witted, and clever. And she happens to know the way to Kilkenny. Getting lost helped Sean find the greatest treasure.
Dream of a Glorious Season - Elizabeth Gillerford has been in love with Julian Broadwood since she was 8 and he was 11. Her parents went let her have a Season until her older sister marries. Her older sister is determined to marry Julian, who wants nothing to do with her. As Julian helps Elizabeth get out more, he discovers that he doesn't like the way his best friend is acting around Elizabeth, and he may even be jealous!
A Lesson in Love - Lucy Stanthorpe is excited for her first married season in London! She loves her husband Reed and can't wait to go dancing and to concerts, etc with him. Reed, on the other hand, is excited for his first married season so he can avoid all the balls and spend time with Lucy at home. The women in Lucy's family take her side, the men in Lucy's family take his side, and it becomes a battle of the sexes until Reed discovers that he would rather have a happy wife who knows she is cherished than to be right.
Content: Very Clean
Source: Review Copy (opinion is 100% my own)
A Friend Indeed - Caroline Dowry knows she will never be able to marry for love so she has never let herself fall in love. She is mortified when her dear friend George Barrington offers for her; she is convinced that a loveless marriage to a dear friend will destroy their friendship. George has three weeks to court her and convince her that his feelings go far beyond friendship.
A Happy Beginning - Sophia Pemberton is an English governess in Scotland. The family she works for are horrible and none of the servants are friendly to her; she feels truly alone. And so she spends a lot of time watching the stable master, Dermot Buchanan and discovers he is kind, considerate, thoughtful, intelligent and interesting... a perfect friend. When Sophie breaks out of her comfort zone and asks him for friendship, things start looking up for her... until the head of the house gets jealous of the attention she gives Dermot and makes it impossible for her to stay.
The Road to Cavan Town - Alice Wheatley meets Isaac Dancy as they walk the dozen miles to and from Cavan every weekend. She is going home from her weekday job; he is going to court the wealthy and beautiful Miss Sophia Kilchrest. As they walk this road together every weekend for 4 months they have developed a solid friendship -- they share hopes, dreams, fears, etc with each other. Alice is smitten by Isaac and keeps hoping he will notice what a great couple they make. As Isaac is becoming a favorite of Miss Sophia's, Alice can no longer be around him as her heart is breaking. It has been Isaac's plan for so long to marry Miss Sophia that he is surprised at how much he misses being with Alice.
A Christmas Promise - Sean Kirkpatrick is handsome, quick-witted, and not easily offended. He is also lost on his way to Kilkenny. Maeve Butler is lovely, quick-witted, and clever. And she happens to know the way to Kilkenny. Getting lost helped Sean find the greatest treasure.
Dream of a Glorious Season - Elizabeth Gillerford has been in love with Julian Broadwood since she was 8 and he was 11. Her parents went let her have a Season until her older sister marries. Her older sister is determined to marry Julian, who wants nothing to do with her. As Julian helps Elizabeth get out more, he discovers that he doesn't like the way his best friend is acting around Elizabeth, and he may even be jealous!
A Lesson in Love - Lucy Stanthorpe is excited for her first married season in London! She loves her husband Reed and can't wait to go dancing and to concerts, etc with him. Reed, on the other hand, is excited for his first married season so he can avoid all the balls and spend time with Lucy at home. The women in Lucy's family take her side, the men in Lucy's family take his side, and it becomes a battle of the sexes until Reed discovers that he would rather have a happy wife who knows she is cherished than to be right.
Content: Very Clean
Source: Review Copy (opinion is 100% my own)
October 30, 2015
I loved this collection of novellas! There are 2 new stories in it and 4 from other collections. The first one is A Friend Indeed. It is about Caroline Downy and George Barrington. They have known each other for years. Carolyn must marry to help out her family finances. She has been promised to George a friend of her brother. Caroline thinks George is marrying her only because he is nice and trying to help the family out. George has always loved Caroline and must find a way to prove to her that he wants to marry her because he loves her. This is a heartwarming romance. A Happy Beginning is about Sophia Pemberton and Dermot Buchanan. The story in set in Scotland. Sophia is the unfornanate governess to spoiled and mean children. She is all alone and is desperate for a friend. She has noticed Dermot from her window and her time spent in the stable. She has learned that he is fair and kind and someone she would like to be friends with. Sophia asks Dermot if they can be friends and at first he refuses because the English do not associate with the Scottish. He later changes his mind and the two become good friends. When Sophia needs to be rescued from a bad situation Dermot helps her out and the two become more than friends. I loved the dialogue between the two main characters. The Road to Cavan was one of my favorites from the Winter Collection. It is about being blinded by ambition and not seeing that what you really want and need was right before you all along. A Christmas Promise is set in Ireland. Sean and Meave are the main characters in this story. I loved these characters personalities and the interaction between the two. This story is told with so much character that you can't help getting lost in it and feel diappointed to return to the real world when the story is over. A Dream of A Glorious Season is about Elizabeth and Julian. Elizabeth has not been allowed a Season because her older sister has not yet wed. Julian has known Elizabeth since she was a child. He thinks of her fondly as a friend until circumstances help him see that she is so much more to him than that. This is a sweet romance. A Lesson in Love is a fun story about newly weds who take others bad advice and end up in a feud which causes a separation from each other. Can they get over the misunderstandings to get back together? I loved everyone of these stories and would highly recommend this book!
November 6, 2015
Sarah Eden is one of my favorite historical romance authors. She delivers character of wit and depth that never fail to pull me in. Since I've already reviewed many of the novellas in this collection, I'll limit my review to the two I haven't.
A Friend Indeed introduces poverty stricken Caroline Downy. She's always accepted that she will marry to help her destitute family, if she ever married, and not for love. But when childhood friend, George Barrington, offers for her hand, she isn't sure how to feel. Humiliated that her friend felt obliged to help her, she can't accept he may see something in her beyond their friendship and a sense of duty. Caroline has little experience with love, a luxury she could never afford to indulge. Now she has to find a way to open her heart or lose her future happiness.
I enjoyed how sensible Caroline was as a character. She faced her situation with practical fortitude, and never felt sorry for herself. I liked her humor and strength as she dealt with her families well-meaning attempts to offer her poor comfort for her future. George's love for Caroline shown through his every action, but her cluelessness at first left him a bit discourages. I liked how he gave her space to get to know her own heart. A beautiful romance that felt real and lasting.
A Happy Beginning is a bit different than other Eden novellas. This one takes place in the mid-1800's in Scotland. The very British Sophia Pemberton, once counted among the noble families, now serves as a governess to a snooty family. Her only comfort comes from the developing friendship with the handsome stable master, Dermot. But when her employer attacks her, she needs Dermot help to get away. Dermot takes her to his family home where she learns he is more than what he seems.
I love how this was set in Scotland! The rich landscape and history came alive around the characters. Caroline and Dermot made the perfect pair, despite their clashing cultural backgrounds. I liked how they were both determined to not let family define them, but were driven to be useful and find their own place. A rare quality in the elite. The only problem I had with this novella was the length. The story felt a bit rushed in some places and I would have liked to see the romance fleshed out a little more. Other than that, a great read!
Enjoy!
A Friend Indeed introduces poverty stricken Caroline Downy. She's always accepted that she will marry to help her destitute family, if she ever married, and not for love. But when childhood friend, George Barrington, offers for her hand, she isn't sure how to feel. Humiliated that her friend felt obliged to help her, she can't accept he may see something in her beyond their friendship and a sense of duty. Caroline has little experience with love, a luxury she could never afford to indulge. Now she has to find a way to open her heart or lose her future happiness.
I enjoyed how sensible Caroline was as a character. She faced her situation with practical fortitude, and never felt sorry for herself. I liked her humor and strength as she dealt with her families well-meaning attempts to offer her poor comfort for her future. George's love for Caroline shown through his every action, but her cluelessness at first left him a bit discourages. I liked how he gave her space to get to know her own heart. A beautiful romance that felt real and lasting.
A Happy Beginning is a bit different than other Eden novellas. This one takes place in the mid-1800's in Scotland. The very British Sophia Pemberton, once counted among the noble families, now serves as a governess to a snooty family. Her only comfort comes from the developing friendship with the handsome stable master, Dermot. But when her employer attacks her, she needs Dermot help to get away. Dermot takes her to his family home where she learns he is more than what he seems.
I love how this was set in Scotland! The rich landscape and history came alive around the characters. Caroline and Dermot made the perfect pair, despite their clashing cultural backgrounds. I liked how they were both determined to not let family define them, but were driven to be useful and find their own place. A rare quality in the elite. The only problem I had with this novella was the length. The story felt a bit rushed in some places and I would have liked to see the romance fleshed out a little more. Other than that, a great read!
Enjoy!
November 30, 2015
Sarah M Eden is a master of writing British Isles romances! I loved every one of these novellas. I had planned to just read the two new ones, because I had already read the others. But once I got started reading them I didn't want to stop, so I read all of them again and enjoyed the experience just as much as I did the first time I read them, and maybe even a bit more! I'm going to just talk about the two newest novellas because I've previously talked about the others.
In A Friend Indeed, Caroline Downy feels as though she has been sold to the highest bidder because her family is poor and her father has been trying to marry her to a wealthy man. She has been betrothed to George Barrington, and old and dear family friend and she believes that his only motivation is to help her family's situation. She's never even imagined marrying for love and it hurts her heart to think the one man she's ever loved could have married her for money.
A Happy Beginning has us meeting Sophia Pemberton, she's a governess for a family in Scotland. The whole family is unkind and she doesn't have a friend in Scotland, until she meets Dermot Buchanan. He's the stable master with a secret life that no one knows anything about. At first he refuses to even be friends, but soon Sophia is able to break down his defenses.
I loved both of these romances, the only wish I had was that they be longer! Sarah Eden has such a way with writing characters, you almost feel as though you knew them and I almost felt as though I was in the same place as them. If you love clean, amazing romance, these books are for you!
In A Friend Indeed, Caroline Downy feels as though she has been sold to the highest bidder because her family is poor and her father has been trying to marry her to a wealthy man. She has been betrothed to George Barrington, and old and dear family friend and she believes that his only motivation is to help her family's situation. She's never even imagined marrying for love and it hurts her heart to think the one man she's ever loved could have married her for money.
A Happy Beginning has us meeting Sophia Pemberton, she's a governess for a family in Scotland. The whole family is unkind and she doesn't have a friend in Scotland, until she meets Dermot Buchanan. He's the stable master with a secret life that no one knows anything about. At first he refuses to even be friends, but soon Sophia is able to break down his defenses.
I loved both of these romances, the only wish I had was that they be longer! Sarah Eden has such a way with writing characters, you almost feel as though you knew them and I almost felt as though I was in the same place as them. If you love clean, amazing romance, these books are for you!
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