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True Gentlemen #3
Will's True Wish
It's a dog's life...
Will Dorning, as an earl's spare, has accepted the thankless duty of managing his rambunctious younger siblings, though Will's only true companions are the dogs he's treasured since boyhood. When aristocratic London is plagued with a series of dognappings, Will's brothers are convinced that he's the only person who can save the stolen canines from an awful fate.
But the lady's choice...
Shy, bookish Lady Susannah Haddonfield has no patience with loud, smelly beasts of any species, but must appear to like dogs so as not to offend her sister's only marital prospect. Susannah turns to Will, an acquaintance from her most awkward adolescent years, to teach her how to impersonate a dog fancier. Will has long admired Susannah, though he lacks the means to offer for her, and yet as they work together to rescue the purloined pets, it's loyal, dashing Will who steals Susannah's heart.
Will Dorning, as an earl's spare, has accepted the thankless duty of managing his rambunctious younger siblings, though Will's only true companions are the dogs he's treasured since boyhood. When aristocratic London is plagued with a series of dognappings, Will's brothers are convinced that he's the only person who can save the stolen canines from an awful fate.
But the lady's choice...
Shy, bookish Lady Susannah Haddonfield has no patience with loud, smelly beasts of any species, but must appear to like dogs so as not to offend her sister's only marital prospect. Susannah turns to Will, an acquaintance from her most awkward adolescent years, to teach her how to impersonate a dog fancier. Will has long admired Susannah, though he lacks the means to offer for her, and yet as they work together to rescue the purloined pets, it's loyal, dashing Will who steals Susannah's heart.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 2, 2016
474 people are currently reading
1294 people want to read
About the author
Grace Burrowes
190 books2,917 followersGrace Burrowes started writing as an antidote to empty nest and soon found it an antidote to life in general. She is the sixth out of seven children, raised in the rural surrounds of central Pennsylvania. Early in life she spent a lot of time reading romance novels and practicing the piano. Her first career was as a technical writer and editor in the Washington, DC, area, a busy job that nonetheless left enough time to read a lot of romance novels.
It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.
While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")
Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)
To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.
It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.
While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")
Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)
To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
June 13, 2024
The canine cast stole the show. If not for them and a slightly crisper tone than Burrowes’ current books, the story was typical Burrowes. To be fair, the usual doggie mannerisms—tail thumping and adoring eyes weren’t new either, but who could ever get tired of that?
There were so many dogs—mastiffs, alsatians, and pugs, oh my! Georgette, Caesar, Comus,
Alexander, and alas poor Yorick, stuck with that awful name—they all shined. 🦴🦴🦴🦴
As for the third act drama, it was doggone good! Possibly my all-time favorite. Kudos to Georgette and her two legged friend, Susannah. It was girl power at its best.
💙 My thanks to Gloria for her recommendation. 💙
Slight spoiler:
〰️
〰️
〰️
It’s sad that as bad as the villain was, he didn’t hold a candle to a certain South Dakota governor.
There were so many dogs—mastiffs, alsatians, and pugs, oh my! Georgette, Caesar, Comus,
Alexander, and alas poor Yorick, stuck with that awful name—they all shined. 🦴🦴🦴🦴
As for the third act drama, it was doggone good! Possibly my all-time favorite. Kudos to Georgette and her two legged friend, Susannah. It was girl power at its best.
💙 My thanks to Gloria for her recommendation. 💙
Slight spoiler:
〰️
〰️
〰️
It’s sad that as bad as the villain was, he didn’t hold a candle to a certain South Dakota governor.
February 15, 2021
A charming story a man's love for his dog by Grace Burrowes. Oh, and there's a heroine too.
I love Grace Burrowes’ historical romances and have read almost all of them. Over the years I have noticed that her heroes – besides being handsome, charming, and lovable – are decidedly devoted to their horses. The author obviously loves horses and it shows. She clearly loves and understands dogs as well, and her affection for them is evident throughout Will’s True Wish. Several dogs play featured roles in the story, and each of their personalities comes through as clearly as those of the human characters.
Our heroine is Lady Susannah Haddonfield, one of the sisters of Nicholas, the Earl of Bellfonte. Susannah is in London for the season to chaperone her younger sister, Della. Seven years ago, during Susannah’s début season, she was the victim of unfounded rumors and nasty tricks perpetrated by two mean sisters who pretended to be her friends. Our hero, Will Dorning, was kind to Susanna then, and ever since, she has secretly felt a tendre for him. Although Will was attracted to Susannah, he was the second son of a purse-pinched earl and not looking for a wife, so their friendship never blossomed into anything serious. Susannah is now resigned to being on the shelf, but is determined that her sister will not be the subject of gossip. There is some reason for her concern, given that Della, who is small and dark, looks nothing like her tall, blond Haddonfield siblings.
Will is dedicated to taking care of his family – older brother Grey, the Earl of Casriel, and their rowdy younger brothers Cam and Ash. (As you will see – and for reasons not explained – the brothers are named for trees – Grey Birch, Willow, Sycamore, and Ash. Their sister is Jacaranda, after the fragrant, blooming sub-tropical tree. Brothers Valerian and Hawthorne are mentioned but do not appear in the narrative.) Will has forged the beginnings of a career training herding and working dogs; he is a sort of dog whisperer to the ton and is particularly devoted to his own dog, a gentle giant of a mastiff named Georgette.
One day as Cam is walking Georgette in the park, the usually well-behaved dog becomes over-excited and relieves herself on Lady Susannah’s parasol. Actually, Georgette may have been aiming at the knee of Viscount Effington, who raised the unfurled parasol to strike at the dog. This is just the first instance of a dog knowing people better than other people do. Effington is a nasty piece of work, but he is courting Della and Susannah is encouraging the match. He constantly carries around a spoiled little pug named Yorrick, which doesn’t bother Della, but Susannah really doesn’t like dogs at all. When Will comes to call on the Haddonfield sisters with a replacement parasol, Susannah asks him to help her overcome her aversion to dogs. Her motivation is a bit of a stretch for this reader: she is worried that Effington will be offended and hold it against Della if he realizes that her sister is not a dog lover.
So begins Will and Susannah’s reintroduction to one another, and Grace Burrowes has written a lovely story of two mature people falling in love and having to face the very real obstacles that confront them.
Please visit Romantic Historical Reviews to read the rest of this review.
I love Grace Burrowes’ historical romances and have read almost all of them. Over the years I have noticed that her heroes – besides being handsome, charming, and lovable – are decidedly devoted to their horses. The author obviously loves horses and it shows. She clearly loves and understands dogs as well, and her affection for them is evident throughout Will’s True Wish. Several dogs play featured roles in the story, and each of their personalities comes through as clearly as those of the human characters.
Our heroine is Lady Susannah Haddonfield, one of the sisters of Nicholas, the Earl of Bellfonte. Susannah is in London for the season to chaperone her younger sister, Della. Seven years ago, during Susannah’s début season, she was the victim of unfounded rumors and nasty tricks perpetrated by two mean sisters who pretended to be her friends. Our hero, Will Dorning, was kind to Susanna then, and ever since, she has secretly felt a tendre for him. Although Will was attracted to Susannah, he was the second son of a purse-pinched earl and not looking for a wife, so their friendship never blossomed into anything serious. Susannah is now resigned to being on the shelf, but is determined that her sister will not be the subject of gossip. There is some reason for her concern, given that Della, who is small and dark, looks nothing like her tall, blond Haddonfield siblings.
Will is dedicated to taking care of his family – older brother Grey, the Earl of Casriel, and their rowdy younger brothers Cam and Ash. (As you will see – and for reasons not explained – the brothers are named for trees – Grey Birch, Willow, Sycamore, and Ash. Their sister is Jacaranda, after the fragrant, blooming sub-tropical tree. Brothers Valerian and Hawthorne are mentioned but do not appear in the narrative.) Will has forged the beginnings of a career training herding and working dogs; he is a sort of dog whisperer to the ton and is particularly devoted to his own dog, a gentle giant of a mastiff named Georgette.
One day as Cam is walking Georgette in the park, the usually well-behaved dog becomes over-excited and relieves herself on Lady Susannah’s parasol. Actually, Georgette may have been aiming at the knee of Viscount Effington, who raised the unfurled parasol to strike at the dog. This is just the first instance of a dog knowing people better than other people do. Effington is a nasty piece of work, but he is courting Della and Susannah is encouraging the match. He constantly carries around a spoiled little pug named Yorrick, which doesn’t bother Della, but Susannah really doesn’t like dogs at all. When Will comes to call on the Haddonfield sisters with a replacement parasol, Susannah asks him to help her overcome her aversion to dogs. Her motivation is a bit of a stretch for this reader: she is worried that Effington will be offended and hold it against Della if he realizes that her sister is not a dog lover.
So begins Will and Susannah’s reintroduction to one another, and Grace Burrowes has written a lovely story of two mature people falling in love and having to face the very real obstacles that confront them.
Please visit Romantic Historical Reviews to read the rest of this review.
October 5, 2022
⭐️⭐️
2 stars.
➕ What I liked:
The dogs.
The originality of the story and characters.
➖ What I disliked:
Too much focus on the dogs.
Annoying side characters.
Verbose (too much descriptions and details.)
Lacking chemistry.
Lacking romance.
Main characters are kind of flat with no real growth or personality.
Hero is over the top and too self-sacrificing.
Slow paced and jumbled.
Naive heroine.
February 24, 2016
Somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars. Only Grace Burrowes could possibly get away with a hero called Willow. But here we have one, and his brothers, also named after various types of tree.
And dogs. A lot of dogs. A lot of dog chat and dog intrigue. And a somewhat confusing mystery plot centered around: dog napping.
Only GB can get away with this stuff. As I read I'm mystified at my own enjoyment. But I did really enjoy it. As romances go, it's not all that strong. There are too many characters and way too much going on, which put the central couple and the development of their romance at a significant detriment. I'm still not sure how or why they fell for one another, really. They sort of liked each other back in the day and now they've been reunited. He's handsome and sensible, she's pretty and sensible. He shows her how to handle a dog [not a euphemism]. It's all fine. Nothing at all special about this.
But I ate it up, unashamed Burrowes fangurl that I am.
Whilst I sort of love the massive world of interlinked characters GB has created I do wish she'd return to more character focused romances, in which the central couple are the main focus (think: The Captive, Lady Louisa, Trent).
That said, I whiled away several good hours reading Will's story. I enjoyed it, but I don't think that means it'll be universally appreciated, particularly by those new to GB's sprawling world and her unique style.
And dogs. A lot of dogs. A lot of dog chat and dog intrigue. And a somewhat confusing mystery plot centered around: dog napping.
Only GB can get away with this stuff. As I read I'm mystified at my own enjoyment. But I did really enjoy it. As romances go, it's not all that strong. There are too many characters and way too much going on, which put the central couple and the development of their romance at a significant detriment. I'm still not sure how or why they fell for one another, really. They sort of liked each other back in the day and now they've been reunited. He's handsome and sensible, she's pretty and sensible. He shows her how to handle a dog [not a euphemism]. It's all fine. Nothing at all special about this.
But I ate it up, unashamed Burrowes fangurl that I am.
Whilst I sort of love the massive world of interlinked characters GB has created I do wish she'd return to more character focused romances, in which the central couple are the main focus (think: The Captive, Lady Louisa, Trent).
That said, I whiled away several good hours reading Will's story. I enjoyed it, but I don't think that means it'll be universally appreciated, particularly by those new to GB's sprawling world and her unique style.
June 22, 2018
I'm always so strangely ambivalent about Grace Burrowes' books. The prose is so elegant, there's a lot of emotional depth and insight, the majority of the dialogue is very well written and subtly witty, and her heroes are such decent, animal-loving, kind and honorable souls who offer a refreshing break from the usual overly "alpha" (is anyone else sick of that word?!) jerks found in most romances.
So why am I not giving this five or even four stars?! Because her pacing is SO glacially slow and the plot ranges from uneven to barely there at all. Those of us who are romance lovers have probably learned not to expect too much from the actual plots. Most of us---including me!---seem far more invested in the characters, prose, themes and whether these stories lift our spirits and evoke a range of emotion along the way. But the plotting and pacing of Burrowes' books are turgid even by the standards of this genre :) There's just such an excess of internal monologue that doesn't even necessarily reveal anything about the characters, conversations that feel circular and ultimately pointless, laborious repetition of things we already know, etc. And even as a HUGE dog lover, I found the nonstop focus on dogs and the canine-related metaphors to be a bit much. I laughed out loud when I saw a review about how the hero, Will, honestly seemed far more enamored with animals than with our heroine Susanna :)
I had such high hopes for this one because it contains so much of what I love: eloquent writing, a bookish and introverted heroine who I can relate to, a hero who loves dogs and his family, and even a minor (REALLY minor!) element of mystery. And I really did love individual parts of this book; it's just that I was ultimately disappointed with it as a whole. It's painfully slow to the point of sometimes seeming flat and lifeless and felt at least 150-200 pages longer than it has any conceivable reason to be.
3.5 stars, rounded down because I was left with the strong sense that such strong writing and likable characters should and could have resulted in a far better book than what we actually got!
So why am I not giving this five or even four stars?! Because her pacing is SO glacially slow and the plot ranges from uneven to barely there at all. Those of us who are romance lovers have probably learned not to expect too much from the actual plots. Most of us---including me!---seem far more invested in the characters, prose, themes and whether these stories lift our spirits and evoke a range of emotion along the way. But the plotting and pacing of Burrowes' books are turgid even by the standards of this genre :) There's just such an excess of internal monologue that doesn't even necessarily reveal anything about the characters, conversations that feel circular and ultimately pointless, laborious repetition of things we already know, etc. And even as a HUGE dog lover, I found the nonstop focus on dogs and the canine-related metaphors to be a bit much. I laughed out loud when I saw a review about how the hero, Will, honestly seemed far more enamored with animals than with our heroine Susanna :)
I had such high hopes for this one because it contains so much of what I love: eloquent writing, a bookish and introverted heroine who I can relate to, a hero who loves dogs and his family, and even a minor (REALLY minor!) element of mystery. And I really did love individual parts of this book; it's just that I was ultimately disappointed with it as a whole. It's painfully slow to the point of sometimes seeming flat and lifeless and felt at least 150-200 pages longer than it has any conceivable reason to be.
3.5 stars, rounded down because I was left with the strong sense that such strong writing and likable characters should and could have resulted in a far better book than what we actually got!
June 11, 2019
ADDED 6/10/19: Well, I feel stupid. I'm mostly through a reread of this book and it just now hit me the dog nappers are named Jasper and Horace. As in 101 Dalmations. *insert eyeroll* I can't believe I missed that the first time.
Original review:
I didn't enjoy this one as much as Daniel's True Desire, but it was still a solid read. My main problem was that it felt like the main romance got overshadowed by too many other characters and plots happening. The storyline could have been tightened a bit and more solidly focused, but the H and h and the dogs were fun.
Also, I don't think any other author could make a woman's bare toes as tantalizing and scintillating as Burrowes did in this book. That scene was adorable!
Original review:
I didn't enjoy this one as much as Daniel's True Desire, but it was still a solid read. My main problem was that it felt like the main romance got overshadowed by too many other characters and plots happening. The storyline could have been tightened a bit and more solidly focused, but the H and h and the dogs were fun.
Also, I don't think any other author could make a woman's bare toes as tantalizing and scintillating as Burrowes did in this book. That scene was adorable!
February 1, 2016
4.5 Stars Review as posted at Roses Are Blue: http://wp.me/p3QRh4-kb
Years ago, when Lady Susannah Haddonfield made her debut, she was the victim of some malicious stunts by a pair of nasty sisters pretending to be her friends. At first she was too naive to see what was really happening, but Will Dorning noticed, and he came to her rescue. Susannah and will felt an instant rapport and attraction, but Will was a second son with no prospects, so their relationship never progressed any further. Susannah eventually gave up all hope of marriage, and now just wants to see her younger sister, Della, make a good match, at which point she'll just live a quiet life, enjoying her books and her nieces and nephews. Meanwhile, Will, (which is quirkily short for Willow, not William) has taken on the task of the upbringing of his younger brothers, as well as assisting his older brother with the duties of the earldom. In addition to all this, Will has an affinity for dogs, and is much in demand as a trainer. While all this keeps Will's life full to overflowing, it does not have the same effect on his pockets. He does not have the funds needed to support a wife and children.
Though Will and Susannah haven't seen each other for a long time, fate brings them together in a strange way. Della, Susannah's younger sister, has a suitor, and he claims to love dogs, and states that anyone who does not is unacceptable. Susannah has no liking for dogs, but she doesn't want to take a chance on damaging Della's courtship. So when she encounters Will, she asks if he will teach her to at least appear to like dogs. Will agrees, and right off the bat, both of them still realize that they feel the same rapport they felt years ago. Although Will is trying his best to be honorable, since he can't offer marriage, Susannah has different plans. If they can't marry, she wants to enjoy all of Will that she can, for as long as she can. Aside from their burgeoning love, and the lessons in how to love dogs, Susannah and Will become involved in solving a rash of dognapping crimes that have been taking place.
I adore both Susannah and Will. She is so strong and determined, despite her quiet and bookish appearance. If she can't have forever, she wants at least a taste of genuine love. Her dislike of dogs is such a farce, too, as she can't seem to stop stroking Georgette, Will's pet, who also has taken a great liking to her. Will is an awesome hero, though I would have liked him to be a little less self sacrificing in regard to his older brother, Casriel, the earl. So much of what he carried on his shoulders should have been the responsibility of the earl, not the second son. There was a little bit of mystery about Casriel, and I think he may have a history that makes for his own interesting story.
WILL'S TRUE WISH has all the signature elements that I've come to expect from Grace Burrowes. The story has warmth, heart, passion, a bit of mystery, and a satisfying resolution. Delving into a book by Grace Burrowes is as comforting to me as my favorite jammies in my favorite comfy chair. (Though sometimes it may get a little warm.) I'm very happy to give WILL'S TRUE WISH my heartiest recommendation.
(P.S. If you do read books by Grace Burrowes, check out her dedications, as they are always interesting and relevant to the story. This book is dedicated : To Those Who Have Been Bullied.)
Years ago, when Lady Susannah Haddonfield made her debut, she was the victim of some malicious stunts by a pair of nasty sisters pretending to be her friends. At first she was too naive to see what was really happening, but Will Dorning noticed, and he came to her rescue. Susannah and will felt an instant rapport and attraction, but Will was a second son with no prospects, so their relationship never progressed any further. Susannah eventually gave up all hope of marriage, and now just wants to see her younger sister, Della, make a good match, at which point she'll just live a quiet life, enjoying her books and her nieces and nephews. Meanwhile, Will, (which is quirkily short for Willow, not William) has taken on the task of the upbringing of his younger brothers, as well as assisting his older brother with the duties of the earldom. In addition to all this, Will has an affinity for dogs, and is much in demand as a trainer. While all this keeps Will's life full to overflowing, it does not have the same effect on his pockets. He does not have the funds needed to support a wife and children.
Though Will and Susannah haven't seen each other for a long time, fate brings them together in a strange way. Della, Susannah's younger sister, has a suitor, and he claims to love dogs, and states that anyone who does not is unacceptable. Susannah has no liking for dogs, but she doesn't want to take a chance on damaging Della's courtship. So when she encounters Will, she asks if he will teach her to at least appear to like dogs. Will agrees, and right off the bat, both of them still realize that they feel the same rapport they felt years ago. Although Will is trying his best to be honorable, since he can't offer marriage, Susannah has different plans. If they can't marry, she wants to enjoy all of Will that she can, for as long as she can. Aside from their burgeoning love, and the lessons in how to love dogs, Susannah and Will become involved in solving a rash of dognapping crimes that have been taking place.
I adore both Susannah and Will. She is so strong and determined, despite her quiet and bookish appearance. If she can't have forever, she wants at least a taste of genuine love. Her dislike of dogs is such a farce, too, as she can't seem to stop stroking Georgette, Will's pet, who also has taken a great liking to her. Will is an awesome hero, though I would have liked him to be a little less self sacrificing in regard to his older brother, Casriel, the earl. So much of what he carried on his shoulders should have been the responsibility of the earl, not the second son. There was a little bit of mystery about Casriel, and I think he may have a history that makes for his own interesting story.
WILL'S TRUE WISH has all the signature elements that I've come to expect from Grace Burrowes. The story has warmth, heart, passion, a bit of mystery, and a satisfying resolution. Delving into a book by Grace Burrowes is as comforting to me as my favorite jammies in my favorite comfy chair. (Though sometimes it may get a little warm.) I'm very happy to give WILL'S TRUE WISH my heartiest recommendation.
(P.S. If you do read books by Grace Burrowes, check out her dedications, as they are always interesting and relevant to the story. This book is dedicated : To Those Who Have Been Bullied.)
February 11, 2016
I think it’s fair to say that this series is not for me. I was seriously underwhelmed with the last installment, and I walked away from this one feeling much the same way. I liked the idea of the story so much more than the execution. I struggled to keep myself from skimming through parts. I struggled, and honestly, sometimes failed. Because I was bored. Because I kept waiting for things to pick up… to heat up… but they just never did.
This is a second chance at love story, sort of. Lady Susannah and Will Dorning have nurtured a mutual respect and quiet longing for each other since he helped protect her from the ton during her coming out years ago. Now, they just watch each other from afar. Or at least they did, until Will’s dog peed all over Susannah’s parasol, giving him entrance to her life once again.
Will is a big dog lover. He trains and champions the animals. But he doesn’t make much money. He is the spare to his brother’s earldom and he devotes all of his energies to helping the Earl find a wife and taking care of their motley crew of younger brothers. He has no prospects for marriage, which he makes clear to Susannah from the beginning. But their gentle yearning won’t be denied. Meanwhile, they become embroiled in a dognapping mystery and in managing the season of Susannah’s younger sister, Della.
I got so tired of reading about the dogs. And I never really got what kept Will and Susannah apart all of these years, beyond his lack of money. I felt like they could have made it work if they really wanted to. But everything is so… tepid. Even their desire lacked oomph. And it was hard to get really worked up about dog training or missing pets. I kept thinking we were building to something, either with the relationship or the story arc, but it all just kept meandering along.
For a second, I though there might be something interesting happening with the younger sister Dell, but it kind of developed off page and fizzled out too. Maybe she’ll be the heroine of the next book. But I can’t imagine that I’ll read it. These books just move too slow and don’t inspire any passion –at least not for me. If you like a slow, relaxed pace in your romance, it might work better for you.
Rating: C
*ARC provided by publisher
This is a second chance at love story, sort of. Lady Susannah and Will Dorning have nurtured a mutual respect and quiet longing for each other since he helped protect her from the ton during her coming out years ago. Now, they just watch each other from afar. Or at least they did, until Will’s dog peed all over Susannah’s parasol, giving him entrance to her life once again.
Will is a big dog lover. He trains and champions the animals. But he doesn’t make much money. He is the spare to his brother’s earldom and he devotes all of his energies to helping the Earl find a wife and taking care of their motley crew of younger brothers. He has no prospects for marriage, which he makes clear to Susannah from the beginning. But their gentle yearning won’t be denied. Meanwhile, they become embroiled in a dognapping mystery and in managing the season of Susannah’s younger sister, Della.
I got so tired of reading about the dogs. And I never really got what kept Will and Susannah apart all of these years, beyond his lack of money. I felt like they could have made it work if they really wanted to. But everything is so… tepid. Even their desire lacked oomph. And it was hard to get really worked up about dog training or missing pets. I kept thinking we were building to something, either with the relationship or the story arc, but it all just kept meandering along.
For a second, I though there might be something interesting happening with the younger sister Dell, but it kind of developed off page and fizzled out too. Maybe she’ll be the heroine of the next book. But I can’t imagine that I’ll read it. These books just move too slow and don’t inspire any passion –at least not for me. If you like a slow, relaxed pace in your romance, it might work better for you.
Rating: C
*ARC provided by publisher
February 23, 2023
This book is effing(ton) delightful! Yes, it features a great make-your-skin crawl-but-stupid villain. More importantly, Willow Dorning is everything a leading man should be, except for the whole too-poverty-stricken-to-marry thing, but by George if he didn’t find a way around that too. Susannah is a very, very lucky spinster-in-training.
I seriously love this book. There were no torturously contrived reasons Will and Susannah could never be together, no uncharacteristic lapses in judgment or logic, no false drama. There may be a couple too many dog training references but they were just so slyly and wittily inserted that I enjoyed them all. And the interactions between the Brothers Dorning were absolutely priceless. I always, always love Grace Burrowes writing style, but not always the story arc. This novel melds story, characters, and writing style in a perfectly lovely way that made me happy to have been a part of it.
P.S. How could anyone design a cover for this book without including Georgette?
I seriously love this book. There were no torturously contrived reasons Will and Susannah could never be together, no uncharacteristic lapses in judgment or logic, no false drama. There may be a couple too many dog training references but they were just so slyly and wittily inserted that I enjoyed them all. And the interactions between the Brothers Dorning were absolutely priceless. I always, always love Grace Burrowes writing style, but not always the story arc. This novel melds story, characters, and writing style in a perfectly lovely way that made me happy to have been a part of it.
P.S. How could anyone design a cover for this book without including Georgette?
September 3, 2017
I was so glad I had a good book to read during our recent hurricane. And I was at my son's house with electricity since my own went out early on. Will raises and trains dogs. I'm a dog lover and got a big kick out of the way all the dog training tips were incorporated into the story. As he renews acquaintances with Lady Susannah, he realizes he loves her but doesn't feel like he can afford to marry her. She loves him too but has to fire off her younger sister in the Marriage Mart. Both of these characters have a tremendous sense of responsibility. Maybe it was all the dog references, but I loved this book. As usual, Ms. Burrowes gives us a hot read, great characters and a complex plot. Thoroughly enjoyable.
September 6, 2021
July 2016: Grace Burrowes is my comfort read. Her heroes are so endearing. No arse magically becoming a good guy. That means the angst is not due to personality transitions like Jekyll and Hyde. And that goes for her heroines also who so often are written by others as bold and clever only to lose their nerve when a man pays them attention. Thank you Grace!
She also is the best I've ever read at involving children and animals in her stories and this one is full of dogs. I'm a cat person who likes all animals but I sure appreciated getting to know the dogs in this story. I loved all the ways she paralleled people behavior and dog behavior. LOL
When I need a hero, I need to read Grace. Five stars as I know I will re-read this.
October 2016: I'm glad this time I've read it in line chronologically instead of in order of publishing date. That means Suzanna was fresh in my mind. I'm usually skeptical of second-chance stories because the reason for the first-chance fall-out is usually due to a miscommunication error which I find lame. But Will and Suzanna liked each other in the past and were friendly. They didn't take it any farther than that and hadn't even expressed their mutual attraction to each other. He had come to her social rescue. Even now, with their emotions expressed, Will is reluctant because as a second son of an impoverished family, he has no means of supporting a wife. Will is the quintessential beta-male who becomes a leader when no other leader is available. He is the one taking care of the family though it is not clear why his brother, the earl, is not. I'm rambling.
What follows is a sweet romance without any angst between the two. All the excitement is provided by dogs, dog-napping, bullying and reputation ruining rumors, mostly involving Suzanna's younger sister who is experiencing her social come-out.
I really liked both Will and Suzanna and the dogs. I'm a cat person but after this story I wish I were a dog person also.
July 2017: Read again to preface the new book in the series. This one has become a favorite as I like Will and his dog training philosophy so much. When his hormones start to get out of control, he tells himself to "sit". Too funny.
October 2017: Read my review and had to re-read this again.
February 2018: I needed a comfort read after starting several duds and my instinct was spot on. The dedication is to those who have been bullied and my ex has recently started in again so I could relate strongly to Suzanna. I want a Will Dorning of my very own. Please.
April 2018: What is it about this book? Now I want it in audio.
Jun 2018: Yet again I needed this book. I'm reading through my TBR pile and there is a lot of dung in that heap. So I've taken a break to remind myself what true heroes are like and how easily a good story flows. This is not a perfect novel, I don't like the anti-hero, but the dogs make this work so well for me on days like this. And I'm a cat person.
October 2018: Because I read Casriel's story, and Jonathan's, I needed to reacquaint myself with Will's younger brothers who were an important ingredient in this story.
February 2019: Reading through my reviews I can see that I repeat myself about being a cat person. Sorry. Reread again for a comfort read. It's cold, it's snowing and I needed a book hug.
August 2020: As much as I love the hero, the heroine is a bit weak.
September 2021: It was time to enjoy this ode to love and dogs.
She also is the best I've ever read at involving children and animals in her stories and this one is full of dogs. I'm a cat person who likes all animals but I sure appreciated getting to know the dogs in this story. I loved all the ways she paralleled people behavior and dog behavior. LOL
When I need a hero, I need to read Grace. Five stars as I know I will re-read this.
October 2016: I'm glad this time I've read it in line chronologically instead of in order of publishing date. That means Suzanna was fresh in my mind. I'm usually skeptical of second-chance stories because the reason for the first-chance fall-out is usually due to a miscommunication error which I find lame. But Will and Suzanna liked each other in the past and were friendly. They didn't take it any farther than that and hadn't even expressed their mutual attraction to each other. He had come to her social rescue. Even now, with their emotions expressed, Will is reluctant because as a second son of an impoverished family, he has no means of supporting a wife. Will is the quintessential beta-male who becomes a leader when no other leader is available. He is the one taking care of the family though it is not clear why his brother, the earl, is not. I'm rambling.
What follows is a sweet romance without any angst between the two. All the excitement is provided by dogs, dog-napping, bullying and reputation ruining rumors, mostly involving Suzanna's younger sister who is experiencing her social come-out.
I really liked both Will and Suzanna and the dogs. I'm a cat person but after this story I wish I were a dog person also.
July 2017: Read again to preface the new book in the series. This one has become a favorite as I like Will and his dog training philosophy so much. When his hormones start to get out of control, he tells himself to "sit". Too funny.
October 2017: Read my review and had to re-read this again.
February 2018: I needed a comfort read after starting several duds and my instinct was spot on. The dedication is to those who have been bullied and my ex has recently started in again so I could relate strongly to Suzanna. I want a Will Dorning of my very own. Please.
April 2018: What is it about this book? Now I want it in audio.
Jun 2018: Yet again I needed this book. I'm reading through my TBR pile and there is a lot of dung in that heap. So I've taken a break to remind myself what true heroes are like and how easily a good story flows. This is not a perfect novel, I don't like the anti-hero, but the dogs make this work so well for me on days like this. And I'm a cat person.
October 2018: Because I read Casriel's story, and Jonathan's, I needed to reacquaint myself with Will's younger brothers who were an important ingredient in this story.
February 2019: Reading through my reviews I can see that I repeat myself about being a cat person. Sorry. Reread again for a comfort read. It's cold, it's snowing and I needed a book hug.
August 2020: As much as I love the hero, the heroine is a bit weak.
September 2021: It was time to enjoy this ode to love and dogs.
January 16, 2016
Will's True Wish the third book in the True Gentlemen Series features a regency version of a dog whisperer and a very bookish young lady who loves her Shakespeare. Readers of the series will remember Lady Susannah Haddonfield, sister to the female leads of the previous books, who loves to read and is quite satisfied with life in the country. But her youngest sister Della has her coming out this season and so as a responsible sister she must ensure that this is successful. Will Dorning, also known as the spare to an earldom is the resident animal whisperer in Dorset. He is the best in training dogs both as companions to the ton and working sheep dogs. When these two meet, surprisingly they hold a bittersweet affection for one another. For Will once rescued Susannah from the viciousness of some of the ladies of the town during her own coming out and she has never forgotten what he did in kindness and his unique eyes. But he had nothing to offer and she grew weary of the ton and so they parted with a lot of what ifs. But now they meet and the beginning of a romance sparks once again but this time around its dognappers, vicious gossip and younger brothers and sister that seems to keep them apart. What ifs are not an option and these two start to solve all the mysteries involve in order to be together at last.
This was an utterly adorable and charming read, with dogs and pets and secondary characters that keep the story engaging and entertaining. Will's True Wish will have readers wishing for a happy ending until the last page.
*ARC provided thru NetGalley*
This was an utterly adorable and charming read, with dogs and pets and secondary characters that keep the story engaging and entertaining. Will's True Wish will have readers wishing for a happy ending until the last page.
*ARC provided thru NetGalley*
September 23, 2017
I like her books because they are just so sweet. And the characters talk to each other, there are no misunderstandings, they talk, they get to know each other. And in audio that works really well, you know, them talking and all.
Susannah is on her way to spinsterhood and fine with it. Instead she is trying to launch her sister and find her a match. Susannah would rather be home reading.
Will trains dogs, or humans if you look at it like that, he does not have a lot to offer and wont.
And someone is stealing dogs! Evil is afoot.
So they meet, they talk, they flirt. We meet her sister, his brother. Everyone is fun and lovely. Well except the guy who wants to marry her sister, he is a fool.
Sweet and I want heas for everyone in this book.
Narrator: Jame Langton
I have listened to quite a few by him now and he does Burrowes books so well. His proper voice is so excellent and my face betrays me every time something happens in this book. I do wonder how I look to those meeting me ;)
The only weird thing would be the very deep voices he has for some men to show they are all different, but at least it makes them all sound different then, so it works.
I do enjoy his narration.
Susannah is on her way to spinsterhood and fine with it. Instead she is trying to launch her sister and find her a match. Susannah would rather be home reading.
Will trains dogs, or humans if you look at it like that, he does not have a lot to offer and wont.
And someone is stealing dogs! Evil is afoot.
So they meet, they talk, they flirt. We meet her sister, his brother. Everyone is fun and lovely. Well except the guy who wants to marry her sister, he is a fool.
Sweet and I want heas for everyone in this book.
Narrator: Jame Langton
I have listened to quite a few by him now and he does Burrowes books so well. His proper voice is so excellent and my face betrays me every time something happens in this book. I do wonder how I look to those meeting me ;)
The only weird thing would be the very deep voices he has for some men to show they are all different, but at least it makes them all sound different then, so it works.
I do enjoy his narration.
October 14, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Though it dragged a little bit in a few places, the rest more than made up for it. Will and Susannah have a little bit of a history before the start of this book. Seven years earlier, Susannah was in her first Season and the victim of a pair of particularly nasty fellow debutantes. Will, being the truly nice guy that he is, stepped in to give Susannah a bit of confidence. They parted ways not long after, but Susannah never forgot Will's kindness.
Fast forward to the present, and Susannah is back in London, this time as a chaperone for her younger sister, Della. Susannah would rather spend her time reading her beloved Shakespeare than spend time in Society, but she is determined to help Della land a husband. Then she can go back to her books and be content as the maiden aunt. Unfortunately, her sister's one beau is a self-avowed dog lover, and Susannah most definitely is not. So she went to Will to ask him to teach her how to look like a dog lover.
Will is the second son of the cash-strapped Dorning family. He has taken on the responsibility of watching out for his younger brothers, a headache of major proportions. His preferred activity is the training and breeding of dogs, and he prefers their company to that of humans. He has also never forgotten Susannah, and over the years has found himself watching her from a safe distance.
I really liked both Will and Susannah. Will is a nice guy. He is honorable, kind, and loves his family, even though they frequently exasperate him. I loved watching him with the various dogs, his patience and understanding of their varied temperaments were obvious. He was equally patient with the various owners, who were much harder to train. Susannah is strong and determined. She no longer worries too much about what people say about her. She's comfortable with her old maid status. She also loves her family and is determined to do her best to make Della's season a successful one. I did get a little frustrated with her focus on shoving Della and Effington together, especially since it is so clear that he isn't a good man.
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Will and Susannah. There are sparks between them from the beginning, as well as an undeniable connection. Will tried very hard to resist the attraction, making it very clear to Susannah that he is in no position to make an offer for her. While Susannah would like to have forever, she will try to be content with having him for as long as she can. I enjoyed their interactions, especially when Susannah put her mind to distracting Will from his honorable position. I did get a little frustrated with Will at times because he was so convinced of his unsuitability when he actually had a lot going for him. I also thoroughly enjoyed her "dog lover" sessions and the clear evidence that she wasn't as "anti-dog" as she thought she was. I liked the way that Will brought Susannah out of her shell and the time spent with Susannah helps Will let go of some of his control issues with his brothers. I loved the ending and seeing Will realize that a future with Susannah is possible after all. His discussion with his brother-in-law, Worth, about his finances and his plans was pretty funny, but quintessentially Will. His big moment with Susannah was sweet, with an additional twist for him.
The secondary story with Susannah's sister, Della, and her suitor was interesting. Susannah's determination to get Della married off quickly seemed a little extreme to me, and a bit selfish. It was especially annoying as more of Effington's personality was revealed. I had a great deal of fun watching Will's brother, Ash, stir that pot whenever he could. It was no surprise to see him show such protectiveness toward Della the more time he spent with her. I thought Della was a little naïve about her relationship with Effington, especially once her true feelings and intentions were revealed. I thought that Effington was creepy from the beginning and those feelings grew stronger as the book went on.
The mystery of the missing dogs was a good addition to the story. I was a little disappointed in Will's reluctance to get involved at first, though his reasons were logical. His brothers, Cam and Ash, had no such qualms and I loved watching the two of them and their attempts. Even Susannah got into the act of trying to convince Will to take action. The final confrontation was fantastic, with an intensity that kept me on the edge of my seat until it was over. I loved seeing how it all came together, with Susannah playing a significant part. I laughed out loud at her actions once the dognapper was captured.
Out of all the secondary characters, my favorites were the dogs. I loved Will's Georgette and her obvious affection for both him and Susannah. Each of the other dogs had their own personalities and unique relationships with their owners. I loved watching the various interactions between owners and pups, and between owners and Will as he tried to train the owners along with the dogs.
Fast forward to the present, and Susannah is back in London, this time as a chaperone for her younger sister, Della. Susannah would rather spend her time reading her beloved Shakespeare than spend time in Society, but she is determined to help Della land a husband. Then she can go back to her books and be content as the maiden aunt. Unfortunately, her sister's one beau is a self-avowed dog lover, and Susannah most definitely is not. So she went to Will to ask him to teach her how to look like a dog lover.
Will is the second son of the cash-strapped Dorning family. He has taken on the responsibility of watching out for his younger brothers, a headache of major proportions. His preferred activity is the training and breeding of dogs, and he prefers their company to that of humans. He has also never forgotten Susannah, and over the years has found himself watching her from a safe distance.
I really liked both Will and Susannah. Will is a nice guy. He is honorable, kind, and loves his family, even though they frequently exasperate him. I loved watching him with the various dogs, his patience and understanding of their varied temperaments were obvious. He was equally patient with the various owners, who were much harder to train. Susannah is strong and determined. She no longer worries too much about what people say about her. She's comfortable with her old maid status. She also loves her family and is determined to do her best to make Della's season a successful one. I did get a little frustrated with her focus on shoving Della and Effington together, especially since it is so clear that he isn't a good man.
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Will and Susannah. There are sparks between them from the beginning, as well as an undeniable connection. Will tried very hard to resist the attraction, making it very clear to Susannah that he is in no position to make an offer for her. While Susannah would like to have forever, she will try to be content with having him for as long as she can. I enjoyed their interactions, especially when Susannah put her mind to distracting Will from his honorable position. I did get a little frustrated with Will at times because he was so convinced of his unsuitability when he actually had a lot going for him. I also thoroughly enjoyed her "dog lover" sessions and the clear evidence that she wasn't as "anti-dog" as she thought she was. I liked the way that Will brought Susannah out of her shell and the time spent with Susannah helps Will let go of some of his control issues with his brothers. I loved the ending and seeing Will realize that a future with Susannah is possible after all. His discussion with his brother-in-law, Worth, about his finances and his plans was pretty funny, but quintessentially Will. His big moment with Susannah was sweet, with an additional twist for him.
The secondary story with Susannah's sister, Della, and her suitor was interesting. Susannah's determination to get Della married off quickly seemed a little extreme to me, and a bit selfish. It was especially annoying as more of Effington's personality was revealed. I had a great deal of fun watching Will's brother, Ash, stir that pot whenever he could. It was no surprise to see him show such protectiveness toward Della the more time he spent with her. I thought Della was a little naïve about her relationship with Effington, especially once her true feelings and intentions were revealed. I thought that Effington was creepy from the beginning and those feelings grew stronger as the book went on.
The mystery of the missing dogs was a good addition to the story. I was a little disappointed in Will's reluctance to get involved at first, though his reasons were logical. His brothers, Cam and Ash, had no such qualms and I loved watching the two of them and their attempts. Even Susannah got into the act of trying to convince Will to take action. The final confrontation was fantastic, with an intensity that kept me on the edge of my seat until it was over. I loved seeing how it all came together, with Susannah playing a significant part. I laughed out loud at her actions once the dognapper was captured.
Out of all the secondary characters, my favorites were the dogs. I loved Will's Georgette and her obvious affection for both him and Susannah. Each of the other dogs had their own personalities and unique relationships with their owners. I loved watching the various interactions between owners and pups, and between owners and Will as he tried to train the owners along with the dogs.
February 3, 2016
To be brutally honest I had a huge level of difficulty just pushing past the opening chapter of this book. Normally I do not like to label such stories as “bad,” and yet this story fits that bolder description and it was just terrible. Sadly I have never in all of the years I have been reading discovered a story nor a romance that I did not want to finish, until now.
From the beginning to the end the story was literally all over the place. The romance was absent throughout the entire story. The attraction exchanged between the characters was flat lined and the plot reminded me more of a contemporary read rather than that of a historical fiction. I so extremely disappointed by the lack of both romance and chemistry I find it hard to believe that the book was listed as a 'romance.'
To continue with the flaws Susannah, the heroine was linked too much in her own state of snobbery. Her lady-like antics were a bit too much and did not compare well to Will's, the heroes own personality.
As for Will he was the only positive influence that this book contained for me. He was a gentle-like soul.
-Copyrights of this review belong to Night Owl Reviews. To read more of my review please click on the link that has been provided.
https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
From the beginning to the end the story was literally all over the place. The romance was absent throughout the entire story. The attraction exchanged between the characters was flat lined and the plot reminded me more of a contemporary read rather than that of a historical fiction. I so extremely disappointed by the lack of both romance and chemistry I find it hard to believe that the book was listed as a 'romance.'
To continue with the flaws Susannah, the heroine was linked too much in her own state of snobbery. Her lady-like antics were a bit too much and did not compare well to Will's, the heroes own personality.
As for Will he was the only positive influence that this book contained for me. He was a gentle-like soul.
-Copyrights of this review belong to Night Owl Reviews. To read more of my review please click on the link that has been provided.
https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
March 15, 2016
I was disappointed in this installment of the series, especially considering how much I enjoyed both Nita and Kristin's books. For as involved in each others' lives as the Haddonfields are, I find it unbelievable that Della's debut season gets as ignored by her brothers as it is in this novel. There is no way that they would have left her alone on a dance floor without making sure that her dance card was filled by men they approved of for every dance, and that Effington had been thoroughly vetted. And Susanna and Will's story felt like it should have been a novella rather than a novel. I was thoroughly irritated by Susanna's blind ignorance - both to Will's financial status and to Effington's nature. This was the sister that barely escaped a bad marriage to an abusive idiot, and here she is foisting Della off into the same kind of marriage? What about the lovely support she had gotten from her sisters when they realized what she had done in her own marriage quest? Why couldn't she have extended that same compassion to Della? And Will is the one to figure out who Della's father is? None of her siblings do?
I know that Burrowes has an entire meshed world of characters that pop in and out of each others' books, but this book felt like she was setting up new characters for future books at the expense of the characters who were supposed to be the protagonists for this one.
I know that Burrowes has an entire meshed world of characters that pop in and out of each others' books, but this book felt like she was setting up new characters for future books at the expense of the characters who were supposed to be the protagonists for this one.
January 31, 2016
Whatever stories I read, I like to find a character I can relate to. It could be the smallest trait that will resonate with me and from that point they are the character I read the book for. In Grace Burrowes’ latest Will’s True Wish I very quickly found common ground with Lady Susannah Haddonfield. “Why,” you ask? Because just like me she is not a dog person. Dogs are a major component of the storyline, so as Lady Susannah does throughout the book, I had to become comfortable with canines and the idea of their being characters in their own right. No, there wasn’t the fanciful notion of the animals talking; however each dog introduced does have its own personality and their presence or lack thereof is what drives the story.
Please read the full review at All About Romance
Please read the full review at All About Romance
February 7, 2016
This book is part of Grace's "True Gentlemen" series which features wonderful heroes. Willow Dorning is my favorite, probably for his love of dogs. As well as his constant love and caring for bookish Susannah Haddonfield.
They have known each other for several years and reconnect as she comes to London for her younger sister's debut. Her sister, Della, has some issues of her own and both Susannah and Will look out for her. Will and his brothers are also looking into the thefts of some dogs.
I don't read or write plot spoilers. I hope you'll read this very good book! I highly recommend it.
They have known each other for several years and reconnect as she comes to London for her younger sister's debut. Her sister, Della, has some issues of her own and both Susannah and Will look out for her. Will and his brothers are also looking into the thefts of some dogs.
I don't read or write plot spoilers. I hope you'll read this very good book! I highly recommend it.
May 3, 2016
Honestly, I am really disappointed in this story. I love the characters and their story. However, it was hidden somewhere in the 'doggy' world. I was okay with learning about sheep in the the first book, 'Tremaine's True Love'. I was okay with learning about ponies in the second book, 'Daniel's True Desire'. I draw the line with learning so much about dogs that the story of the H/H was given second place. The H/H were so likable. I would have rather caught the villain earlier and spent the rest of the book in the Epilogue. BTW there is no Epilogue.
May 4, 2017
I could not get into this story at all. Way to much talk about dogs. I love dogs, but they overtook the story line. Sometimes it seemed like a dog training guide. I also found Susannah and Will boring and predictable. I plodded along because it had a good score on Good Reads but finally gave up about halfway through the book.
August 17, 2016
... another enjoyable Grace Burrowes novel. I never tire of her writing and have just reread some early novels for the sheer pleasure.
February 7, 2016
Though I enjoyed this, it didn't grab me nearly as much as the other books in this series. I wanted more of our H and h and less of the dogs.
January 28, 2020
Loved this story. What a wonderful plot! Will was such a likable hero and an all around great guy. A fantastic "dog person"! His happy ending was well deserved💖
This was my first book by Grace Burrowes. Her writing style really thew me off. Couldn't pinpoint what it was that bothered me so much. I felt like watching a rock garden that filled with boulders. It didn't work for me because I'm a flower garden lover. But I would try a couple more of her books. Hope to fall in love with her writing then.
Sharing one of the scenes why we all should fall in love with Willow Grove Dorning:
This was my first book by Grace Burrowes. Her writing style really thew me off. Couldn't pinpoint what it was that bothered me so much. I felt like watching a rock garden that filled with boulders. It didn't work for me because I'm a flower garden lover. But I would try a couple more of her books. Hope to fall in love with her writing then.
Sharing one of the scenes why we all should fall in love with Willow Grove Dorning:
"If I had means . . . if I had fewer responsibilities, if I had more time, if I had resources sufficient to support an earl's daughter . . . I might tempt you into considering a husband for yourself. But I do not. I have only my friendship to offer you, my lady, and the hope that you will forgive a friend the limitations of his circumstances."
A beautiful speech, a speech to break a woman's heart, if she let it.
April 26, 2021
Low-key romance driven by subplot.
Burrowes' books all have a few characteristics in common: smart and slightly aloof heroine, sweet and almost painfully noble hero, and some kind of subplot about which all the tension in the story revolves. There is never any angst, no misunderstandings, and no tearful misapprehensions of unrequited love. the hero and heroine share excellent communication and an awareness of their mutual attraction that is thwarted only briefly by some evil external force (usually some villain who gets exactly what they deserve in the climactic scene). Now, on the one hand I love that the stories are sweet and low stress, but on the other hand WHERE IS MY SWEET, SWEET ANGST??
Burrowes' books all have a few characteristics in common: smart and slightly aloof heroine, sweet and almost painfully noble hero, and some kind of subplot about which all the tension in the story revolves. There is never any angst, no misunderstandings, and no tearful misapprehensions of unrequited love. the hero and heroine share excellent communication and an awareness of their mutual attraction that is thwarted only briefly by some evil external force (usually some villain who gets exactly what they deserve in the climactic scene). Now, on the one hand I love that the stories are sweet and low stress, but on the other hand WHERE IS MY SWEET, SWEET ANGST??
June 27, 2018
Sit! Stay! Read!
We are probably all familiar with the heroine who rescues a dog and palms it off onto the unsuspecting hero. This book, just to be different, has the hero rescuing, and breeding and training dogs.
Will is the spare of the large and impecunious Dorning family and has been in love with Lady Susanna Haddonfield for years. Of course breeding and training dogs is trade, and only moderately lucrative. Add in villains and dognappers and you have a rather different sort of Regency romance.
We are probably all familiar with the heroine who rescues a dog and palms it off onto the unsuspecting hero. This book, just to be different, has the hero rescuing, and breeding and training dogs.
Will is the spare of the large and impecunious Dorning family and has been in love with Lady Susanna Haddonfield for years. Of course breeding and training dogs is trade, and only moderately lucrative. Add in villains and dognappers and you have a rather different sort of Regency romance.
May 2, 2022
The pace is slow, the friends to lovers romance is mild, and the plot seems convoluted at times, but a pleasant read, enlivened with good period details and humour, including the names of the dognappers being a reference to 101 Dalmatians.
June 7, 2019
Lovely Read 💙💙💙💙💙
Every book of hers I read is a wonderful journey, leaving me smiling and satisfied. This one was so different and I totally enjoyed the storyline and characters. Another 5 Stars!
Every book of hers I read is a wonderful journey, leaving me smiling and satisfied. This one was so different and I totally enjoyed the storyline and characters. Another 5 Stars!
August 31, 2020
This was hard in places for me to read. Being an animal lover I got worried where the story was going in parts. I would put it down, and come back later to keep reading.
I am very glad I did for the best line in the whole book is "Yorick lifted a stabby back leg and relieved himself right on the Viscount's gold waistcoat, then trotted away, tail held high."
I am very glad I did for the best line in the whole book is "Yorick lifted a stabby back leg and relieved himself right on the Viscount's gold waistcoat, then trotted away, tail held high."
June 17, 2024
A soothing blend of romance and dogs.
April 1, 2025
Will e Susanna avevano potenziale , avevano .
La storia è ripetitiva e mette troppa carne al fuoco . Mischiamo un po' troppo a mio avviso . Georgette carina l idea ma funziona troppo a carica dei 101 . Famo che era meglio che si salta
La storia è ripetitiva e mette troppa carne al fuoco . Mischiamo un po' troppo a mio avviso . Georgette carina l idea ma funziona troppo a carica dei 101 . Famo che era meglio che si salta
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