Marrying Christopher

Hearthfire Romance #3

by Michele Paige Holmes

Having seen both his sisters Grace and Helen happily married, Christopher Thatcher is free to pursue his dream of life in America. With adventure in his heart and mind, he boards one of the first steamships set to cross the Atlantic in the record breaking time of only twenty-five days. Within the first two of those, his resolve-to avoid women and the complications they often bring to a man's life-falters when he meets Marsali Abbott, a young woman with a past even more troubling than his own. Whether from years of habit protecting his sisters, or simply because he feels drawn to Marsali, Christopher chooses to help her and becomes her friend. As the truth about what awaits Marsali in America becomes evident, he is faced with a more difficult choice, one that will impact their lives far beyond four weeks together at sea.

Genres: Romance, Historical Fiction, Regency, Historical, Clean Romance, Marriage Of Convenience, Historical Romance

400 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2015

About the author

Michele Paige Holmes is the author of eighteen published romance novels and five novellas in the Timeless Romance Anthologies.

She loves history and all things romantic, though the reality of her life is often less so, with piles of laundry to be folded, meals to be cooked, and dishes to be washed. She finds those things blessings too, or evidence of the blessings in her life—her husband, five, mostly grown children, and five charming grandchildren (four of whom reside in her home).

She is married to her high school sweetheart, a true Ironman who considers doing ultramarathons and triathlons fun. The only time Michele logs serious miles is at Disney theme parks, but she and her super-fit husband have been happily married for thirty-five years, in spite of her lack of coordination and lagging fitness levels.

While her husband is out running, biking, or swimming, Michele’s furry companion Sherlock Holmes—a Cavapoo strongly resembling a teddy bear—keeps her company and keeps her feet warm during the cold winter months in Utah.

In recent years Michele has enjoyed traveling to some of the locations she writes about. This summer she will be returning to Scotland to do research for upcoming Hearthfire Historical novels.

You can find Michele on the web at michelepaigeholmes.com and on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Reviews

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was a little slow starting out for me. It was a quick recap with Christopher and his siblings. They were figuring out what to do about the pirate Crayton who had caused the grief in the previous books. Then it was Christopher saying goodbye and finally starting his adventure that he had been preparing for since right before his sisters were settled in good marriages. We also start the story of our heroine of the story, Marsali. Her beginning was a great way to provide lots of angst for the readers and wonder how the first adventure would conclude.

Once on board the new fangled steamship heading to America, we have only a handful of passengers and characters to keep track of. First we have Captian Gower, the gruff exterior is only for show. Then we have of course Christopher and Marsali. Last but not least Lady and Miss Cosgrove, who are on their way to meet Miss Cosgrove's fiance, a Mr Vancer. Plus there are a few scattered crew men that we meet and some are more substantial to the story than others.

This is a marriage of convenience story, if you didn't know I love them! Marsali has finally escaped her wretched past living with her aunt and uncle only to be heading to Virginia to become an indentured servant for her passage to America. But while there in Virginia she will be reunited with her sister and after four years free to do as she chooses. Yet, her aunt has been deceitful and cruel to the last possible moment and not shared an important letter from her sister with her. Marsali doesn't read the letter until she has already set sail. Her sister Charolette warns her not to come because the man she is to work for is known to be cruel and some of his lady's maids or other servants end up dead.

Step in Christopher to save the damsel in distress again. He felt relief leaving behind the stress always trying to protect his sisters, yet he has walked right in on another damsel who is in need of rescuing. Can he figure out a way to save her yet still get what he wants? Ok this review is already mega long because of each individual book so this book is only going to get a little bit more time...

Christopher and Marsali marry and have a few hours together talking when a horrible storm hits and tragedy strikes their ship. They were close to the harbor but not close enough. Marsali and Lady Cosgrove are thought to be the only survivors and in Marsali's delirium, Lady Cosgrove claims she is Miss Cosgrove. Of course this is all cleared up due to Marsali's sweet and honest personality. Mr. Vancer finds he could care for her and they can be good for each other. He asks for the same amount of time that Christopher was given aboard ship to get to know her and see if Marsali could go forward with a marriage with him.

Deceit and close calls reign for a while near the end of the book. Sorrow reigns yet love will conquer all as two hearts meant for each other don't lose hope of reuniting and being allowed to become one forever.

I really got hooked a little more than halfway through this book and fell in love with the characters. I honestly had several different theories going through my mind while reading and slowly checked each one off the list realizing that my guessing wasn't right. But eventually I caught on right before it all tied up nicely.

Christopher was every bit as good and gentlemanly as I had hoped he would be from reading the little snippets about him in the first couple books. I loved his story and Marsali was a heroine I could cheer for and be sorrowful with.

Content: Another clean read with some sweet, tender moments and a few very chaste kisses.

My own personal copy

Happy Reading!!!

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice end to this series. Christopher and Marsali were likable characters but spent much of the book apart surrounded by not so likable people. A nice ending. A few timeline issues but otherwise a good historical romance. Don't read this until you have read the other two in the series.
Content: Clean

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've loved this trilogy about this family of two sisters and a brother. Christopher's story is different than his sisters', but still every bit as engaging. I have read the other stories, but felt that this one can stand alone. This cover captures the story perfectly!

Christopher has longed to set out for America and find his dream life in the adventures that await him there. He wants to be a farmer and he doesn't need the trouble a woman can bring to accomplish that. Something prompts him to help a young woman on his steamship--Marsali--and he can't help but make choices that lead to an ultimate, major decision. He is very level headed, humble, and likable, as is evident in the way he treats others. Marsali comes from a very troubled past, yet is so selfless and always finds the good in a situation. I enjoyed the friendship she forged with Lydia, another passenger.

This story definitely isn't short on either adventure or emotion. Ms. Holmes does an amazing job of capturing the feelings of the characters and their situations and putting them on paper (or on a screen, in my case). I really love a story that draws me in and allows me to feel so much. I felt like I was there with these characters, feeling their triumphs and disappointments. I felt so resigned and frustrated at times, but then I would feel joy and hope at other times. I loved the way this trilogy wrapped up, although it wasn't in an expected way. I really can't stop thinking about this family and their perseverance through life.

Content: mild romance (a shady situation at the beginning and clean kissing); no language or religion; mild violence (an abusive beating situation). Nothing graphic. Clean!

*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the first two books in this series and was excited for Christopher's story!! At the beginning, we get to catch up with Christopher's sisters, Grace and Helen, and learn what's currently going on with them and that was a lot of fun.

Christopher is ready to take off for America and has secured passage on a steamship. In the meantime, we meet Marsali Abbott, who is also traveling to America but has some difficulty making it to the ship. Life is hard for her but she doesn't let on to that at all. They become friends right away and as they spend time together, it turns into more. Towards the end of their journey, Christopher presents her with a plan which will impact both of their lives, but they are both to be tested in a way they could never even imagine.

Christopher and Marsali were easy to root for from the beginning. I loved their interactions and how their relationship grew. I had their story all mapped out in my mind and was then thrown a curve ball which I didn't see coming. At that point, I couldn't turn the pages fast enough since I wanted to know how it would all be resolved in the end.

There are some great side characters that each had a hand in what happened to them and added to their story: Captain Gower, Lady Cosgrove and her daughter, Lydia, and Mr. Vancer. This is a fantastic series!! I enjoyed getting to know the Thatcher's and am looking forward to reading what Ms. Holmes comes up with next!!

I received a copy of this book to review. My opinion is 100% my own.

Mel's Shelves

[Olivia-Savannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so eager to read this book because it was the third in a historical romance series I have been following by the wonderful Michele Paige Holmes. I have enjoyed each and every one of the previous books, but was even more excited for this one seeing as it was from Christopher’s point of view. We had yet to have a male voice as the center of the story and knowing Christopher’s reluctance to fall in love from previous books hooked me.

I loved that at the beginning of this novel we were able to see how the two women are doing with themselves after we have finished their novels. It was so lovely to see Helen from Loving Helen doing well and her confidence blossoming as well as seeing Grace from Saving Grace thriving in her own relationship.

This book is set during the historical time where inventions are taking flight. In fact, the majority of this novel is spent on one of the first steamboats which is attempting to cross from England to America. The is also mention of quite a few other inventions, especially the photo camera. I loved having those little details in the story.

I wanted to see the majority of this one in Christopher’s point of view, so we could truly see the male point of view. But I will say that this was mostly told from Marsali’s perspective – the love interest. I can’t begrudge the author from writing in the gender voice she is most comfortable with. Occasionally we do flicker to the point of view of Grace when convenient, but it doesn’t happen off. It was a shame about not seeing as much of Christopher as I wanted to, but the dual point of view was done well.

If I am honest I would say that I enjoyed the second half of the book more than the first. In the beginning we spend the majority of time on the ship with a limited cast of characters and things the characters can do. Even though that was fairly slow paced, the romance felt a bit rushed. Of course, it had to be for reasons the novel mention, but it went from playful banter to a full-fledged romance too fast for my liking.

BUT, when we got over the second half line, things blossomed! Michele Holmes managed to create more suspense in this romance than I have seen her do with the previous two. I didn’t see the plot twist coming in the slightest so it took me by complete surprise. The events that follow the plot twist made me feel so wonderfully frustrated. I wanted certain things to happen, and there were plenty of close saves that kept me glued to reading and wanting to know how things would end! Michele Holmes definitely tugs on your heart strings and feelings for this one.

In general the romance is one I wouldn’t say had the intensity of Grace’s, or the sweetness of Helen’s but is a more passionate one. I liked all the characters. I loved getting into the mind of Christopher, especially as he had been the mastermind behind the previous romances and yet found himself entangled in his own. I loved Marsali and her independence, even for a woman of that time. She was so strong-willed, till the very end. Captain Gower grew on me, as did Lydia as well. All the secondary characters had detailed backstories which were able to see into.

This was the perfect summary to this particular line of family’s romantic stories. I am looking forward to more novels from this author in the future!

This review and more can be found on Olivia's Catastrophe: http://olivia-savannah.blogspot.nl/20...

[Kathy * Bookworm Nation · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been looking forward to reading this one for awhile now. I really enjoyed the first two books, and loved the character of Christopher and was looking forward to his story. If you’re not aware, this series follows a family of two sisters and their brother. They’re best if read in order, in my opinion, although they can stand well on their own as well.

Christopher was a very likable character, I love how loyal and protective he is of his sisters. I love stories with strong sibling relationships. As much as he loves his sisters, he wants to make a life for his own, in America. The other books were set in England and thought Christophers journey was a nice change of pace. On his journey to America he meets Marsali. Marsali has had a rough life, something Christopher can relate to with his own untraditional upbringing.

Overall, this was an emotional read and it was great to be along for the ride as Christopher follows his dreams and gets his happily ever after. If you enjoy Regency or Historical Fiction, I highly recommend this series.

Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild
Religious: None

[Tori (Book Chick) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the stories about Helen and Grace. Christopher is such an awesome, protective brother! So getting to read HIS story was fabulous. I'll admit, I felt like it started off a little slow, but at some point I got pulled into the story and didn't want to put it down. Unfortunately I had things, like LIFE, going on around me, so it took me longer to finish this book than I wanted it too. Christopher and Marsali are wonderful characters that had me cheering for them the entire book. Michele Paige Holmes weaves a wonderful story that kept me guessing and hoping until the end. She definitely DID NOT disappoint.

*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 STARS ACTUALLY :)

I really enjoyed this book. Of course it was so frustrating at times. I wanted to scream, throw my book, and slam things around at times....hehe. I cannot tell you how much I love it when a book brings that much emotion out of me.

Christopher - I have read about some really swoon worthy men lately and, Christopher is definitely swoon worthy. Besides being handsome and wonderful, he treats his sisters like queens. A man who treats a woman as well as Christopher does is more of a catch than some super male model!!!!

Marsali - is what I would call Cinderella. Her life super sucked, until she finds the right man. She's beautiful, kind, caring, and compassionate. She's just such a wonderful young woman. Love her. The two MC's are so fantastic.

After Christopher sees that his sisters are married and taken care of he decided to board a boat to America. He thinks that there will be more opportunity for him in America and he is looking forward to having time to himself and had no plan to get all giddy about a girl like his brothers-in-laws did.

Christopher boards the ship early. He has dinner with the Captain and the other few crew man that are on the ship. The ship was taking it's maiden voyage to America and the Captain wasn't able to get many people to buy the tickets. It's a ship all it's own. A steam ship that goes faster than any ship on the ocean. Or so he says...

When the Dr. comes to clear the ship for it's voyage they realize they are still waiting on one passenger. The Dr. tells him he will give them until the next day if the passenger isn't there they either leave without her, or stay in port.

The Captain get anxious as they wait for the passenger. The only reason the ship is even able to take this maiden voyage is because of this woman and the man she has to work for in America.

Soon an old woman starts to shuffle up the walk to the ship. They tell her she cannot board the ship. When they realize it's their missing passenger Marsali they are both surprised and excited that they will be able to make their way across the Atlantic.

The story just blooms and blooms from that point on. Marsali has had a rough life. She is so happy to be away from her horrible Aunt and her family. She thinks that her life is going to be so much better in America. Upon arriving on the ship she gets a letter from her Sister in America telling her to not make the voyage. The man she is indentured to is suppose to be a horrible man.

The trip that was suppose to be care free and wonderful for Christopher and Marsali turns out very differently.

There are so many great characters in this book. The MC's are fantastic, but all the secondary characters are fabulous as well. I loved reading this book.

This love story is so fantastic. There is so much that happens on their journey to America. It made me want to cry, scream, and throw my book. Thank heaven's I was reading on my Kindle! If it would have been a real book it would have been across the room several times. :).

So many things happened that threw me for a loop, that it made the story that much more fantastic. Yes. With all the screaming, and gnashing of teeth going on this was a, grab a cup of cocoa (okay let's be real it's like a BILLION degrees in AZ so more like a cup of diet dr. pepper), stress ball reliever, tissue grabbing, love story.

[megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have not read any other books from Holmes and had no idea what to expect with this. I didn't know when I started this that it was the third in a series but Holmes does an amazing job of being able to keep the reader informed and not lost when referring to characters from the first two. Although it is the third in a series, this is definitely a strong standalone on its own, although I'm sure I would've enjoyed it more had I read the first two and had been able to see the wrap-up to the series in a different light. Regardless, this book was very enjoyable for me.

Although it's written in third person point of view (which is not my favorite), the writing is very well-written and I like Holmes's descriptive writing style. I loved the characters and felt them to be very realistic and endearing. I also enjoyed the minor characters that popped up such as Mr. Vancer and Miss Thomas. I felt that they were all developed well within their roles. The settings were interesting and described well enough that I was able to picture everything without feeling overwhelmed. I love historical fiction and felt that Holmes did a very good job with keeping everything from the characters' interactions to the settings of the story and more true to the time period in which this takes place.

The plot went much different than what I expected. The entire time I thought I would just be reading of a young couple who find love in unlikely circumstances. And that is true, but there were some twists that I wasn't expecting in the least which drew me in and kept me reading until the very end of the story. Although I kind of knew and hoped how the ending would go, Holmes really kept me on the edge of my seat, wondering how anything was possibly going to work out with the twists that developed in the storyline.

Overall, this is an endearing, realistic historical read that brought much more to its storyline than I had expected. I definitely want to check out the previous two in this series and I'm sure that if I had read them before, I would have been satisfied with how these characters wrapped up.

Likes: Realistic. Endearing characters. Kept me engrossed in the plotline with the twists. Quick, easy, light read.

Dislikes: Some grammar and spelling errors. Twice I caught some of the characters' names being mixed up such as saying "Captain Cosgrove" instead of "Captain Gower," and once when Christopher's name of "Thatcher" was mixed up with Mr. Thomas's.

Overall:
Recommend? Yes!

*I received this e-book for free in exchange for an honest review*

[Tressa (Wishful Endings) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marrying Christopher was a romantic adventure that began from historical England, continued upon a sea voyage, and then to the new America. These two main characters, Marsali and Christopher, had both experienced so many hardships in their lives before they began their journey. Then they were faced with more difficulties on the voyage and when they reached America. Their struggles made the happy moments even sweeter and made for a beautiful ending.

I really liked Christopher and Marsali. It cracked me up a little when they both tried to resist their building attraction. I also loved the captain of the ship and his role in the story. There were several other characters that also added to the story and brought some frustration, entertainment, and friendship. Christopher's family, who were the focus of the first two books, have cameos as well, but weren't involved enough in the story that it required the other two books to be read to read this one.

I got into this book from the beginning with the cruel aunt and uncle of Marsali's and her plight. I was also curious about Christopher and what he would find once he reached America. Things slowed for me a bit during the first part of the sea voyage and then picked up again at almost the half-way point. This was also where things began to heat up a little romantically. Then the rest of the book all the way to the end flew by. There was romance, heartbreak, deception, danger, family, and friendship. I especially loved the ending.

I'd recommend Marrying Christopher to those who enjoy historical romance, especially sweet and clean stories.

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the tour host for the purposes of review, which did not affect my review in any way.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excerpt from full review on http://smilingbookreviews.blogspot.co...

I enjoyed the third book the most. (This one can be read as a stand alone.) The story of Christopher leaving to make his own way after seeing his sisters happily married is fun, adventurous, and romantic. He's determined to avoid women but ends up befriending Marsali almost from the start. I liked Marsali's character a lot. She's had a hard life and is headed for more hardship but she tries to keep a positive attitude and is always kind and helpful. I was pleasantly surprised with the secondary character of the other young lady on board the ship. I liked that she wasn't a spoiled brat and that she becomes friends with Marsali. This story takes some unexpected twists and turns that have you wondering if you are going to get a happy ending but all's well that ends well! :)

*I received a complimentary copy of all three of these books for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I would like to begin by saying that this is not the type of book I typically read. When I started into the book, my initial thoughts were that the writing seemed forced and contrived. Additionally, the run-on sentences in the beginning of the book were very distracting to me.

As I continued reading and settled into the book however, I enjoyed the lighthearted pace of the novel. I stopped trying to compare it to the heavier reading I typically do and took it at face value. The main characters, Christopher and Marsali are well developed and easy to like. It was easy to want them to find happiness together. The 2nd half of the book was exciting and included some unexpected twists that had me wanting to read more. Several good villains in the story as well.

I enjoyed the innocence and sweetness of the romance and found it to be a refreshing change. It was fun to root for Christopher and Marsali hoping they would find their happily ever after.

[Chesney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Why did it take so long to finish this book? Oh yeah. Life. This is the third instalment of the hearthfire series. It's about Christopher, the brother of Grace and Helen. He has seen both of his sisters taken care of and adventures to America where he is to begin his new life. I don't think he planned on meeting Marsali another passenger heading to America as well. Marsali's life has been nothing but tragedy after tragedy. Finally away from her mean aunt!
The attraction between Christopher and Marsali seems instant although each try their hardest to deny it. Needing help out of a future situation Christopher is the knight in shining armour!! But wait, before they even make it to America tragedy strikes again. And they fight trying to find their way back to one another. Overall, a great ending to the series. Fantastic read for those who enjoy a love conquers all.
* I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

[Lydia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marrying Christopher, by Michele Paige Holmes offered a good conclusion to her trilogy, A Hearthfire Romance. It’s important to know that the books need to be read in order and close together. They wind around each other, intricately. Christopher’s story started out a bit rocky, but developed into a great book. As a romantic novel, it lacked on a romantic development or the element of tug and play between the two characters, but made up for that with a great storyline—full of huge twists and turns, some that caused frustrations and other that created an interesting new plot direction. Michele also gave us a great historical background into steam engine ocean boats. Overall, I’d recommend all three books, each with great characters and a wonderful historical background.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh I loved this book. It was my favorite of the series. I completely loved the two leading roles and the way the story unfolded. It was unique and so well done. You could read this independent of the others but I wouldn't I would read his sisters stories first. Christopher gets his own love story and wow what a story. It was so fun and exciting to read and so hard to put down. Lots of good angst and tension. I cheered at the end and will keep this one to read again. This was a clean romance with some kissing and a bit of violence and no religion.

[Vonne · Rating 3 out of 5]

ooo, somehow I kind of already knew this one would be an all-out great read 4.5/5-stars or just maybe miss the mark completely and not give me what I needed. You see it became the latter, especially after such a nice duet of Grace & Helen's books.

And it had everything to do with Christopher's involvement, or what we come to see him do and hear him say in Bk2. I didn't appreciate him and his "non-helpful" pursuit of shoving Helen & Samuel into a faked relationship all to make Nicholas take back Grace when he sends her away.

It isn't clear until halfway through Bk2 that he has had this undefinable, hardcore deathbed commitment to "seeing his sisters happily married off", so he gets a type of--hmm, I want to say he thinks he knows better than his sisters which men they love and will make them happy, so finagles certain scenarios to make these relationships forced into happening instead of allowing them to flourish organically.

I truly judged him harshly for what he did to Helen, who seemed to have a severely traumatic past she never confessed to anyone about and Christopher blindly shoves her toward Samuel who was struggling with remorse of a dead wife, his own child's upbringing and his wavering emotions between Grace and Helen. I still had a little faith that Samuel would've seen Helene eventually, on his own merit, but making Helene "fake" a liaison with Samuel merely to "help out" Grace and Nicholas, so Nicholas could SEE Grace loved none but him was way-too far for me to comprehend.

Well, hmm, maybe I shouldn't say it was an undefinable deathbed wish said from his grandfather's lips to Christopher's ears that his main concern in his young 21-22yr old life was to seek out good and decent husbands for his two sisters and make sure they were loved and loved in return before he did anything toward pursuing his own future prospects...but my gawd was it drilled home to readers in every conversation Christopher was involved with, which turned out to be mainly Samuel. I mean, Samuel even confessed love of Helen to Christopher, forgetting to tell Helen to her face.

And well, you only have to see my aggravations in my review of Bk2 of Samuel's penchant for having the emotional conversations he needs to have with Helen with her very own brother instead. Christopher butted in way-too often in Grace and Helen's feelings and relationships, thinking HE knew better and wished they'd get their silly female minds out of lock and pursue the men they KNOW they loved.

Christopher went from thinking his shit didn't stink to often, uhm, maybe poking fun at how the men his sisters loved were curtailed and tamed, who when they got around their wives become these lovesick fools. And he made so many remarks how THAT would never be him or that he would never become THAT lovesick for a woman. So, yeah, these were serious "red flags" to me that in Christopher's book he was going to fall hard and fast, possibly be in love first and only for awhile. And, yeah, when it happened I was quite shocked and a little underwhelmed, if that's even possible.

Plus, Christopher spent much of his time in his dialogue by dueling his words, "I am trying to find my sisters' LOVE & HAPPINESS" vs. "I AM GOING TO BOARD A SHIP AND SAIL TO AMERICA! Nanny-nanny-boo-boo!". He never denied to Samuel or Nicholas his desperate need to leave England to pursue land prospects in America, but he almost allowed it to swallow up the time he had left with his own family, squandering it away by thinking aiding and abetting for his sisters' marriages was him handing out quality time. Because he never told his sisters he was, literally, jumping ship to sail to America, until it was mere days before his departure.

Like, oh, okay...can't wait to get YOUR LIFE started and ease into pursuits, but let's spend serious amounts of crunch time before you sail away to force feed two couples into love and marriage? It's a little hardhearted for a young man we were never truly able to know...and I don't truly feel we even got to know or understand him much more in his own book, sadly. We nearly forget in Grace's book, Christopher is mentioned as being only 21...and since Helen's book takes place in the same time period, not many years have passed before he sees both sisters into love and a wedding each before he leaves, so he can't have aged immensely. Maybe only a single year-ish to a few months, so possibly 22yrs old?? when he finally sails off?

In Bk1 [Grace's book], we never get a POV/perspective of what Christopher does except we are very aware he and Helen moved into Samuel's home, and then Christopher is off to London, speaking with a lawyer's office to investigate the "new heir" who will replace their dead-beat Father and he is also attempting to suss out what Grace & Helen's other intendeds are doing, if they will keep pursuing his sisters for marriage. This is all leaning on the fact they believe their cruel and evil father is still alive and folks are seeking some kind of retribution or debt-owed, since their father coldly put up his daughters on auction to skeevy aristocrats who seemed intent on wedded bliss with disagreeable young woman. Grace was a bit more headstrong and willful, but Helen came across as a little fragile and PTSD-oriented because of her past sexual assaults/abuse.

I think I would have appreciated it more if we had simply started with Christopher boarding the steam-ship for America, and then had him reflect upon the days leading up to his departure. It was cruel to start us off right when Christopher is gung-ho excited about leaving and doesn't seem to be disturbed or saddened that he is leaving his sisters--sisters he has been through Hell and back with, mind you. And there is no time given to Grace or Helen being able to react since they are stunned and dumbfounded by the fact their little brother is wishing to escape their clutches so easily.

I couldn't even get a vibe if Christopher was emotionally or mentally prepared for what kind of isolation he was forcing himself into. He isn't meeting distant family. He is not taking over property he already owns through family prospects. He doesn't even ask his BILs to give him money as they are both rich aristocracy. He is sailing blindly to nowhere with nothing but the money he earned or inherited. No prospects just goals and a stupid-ton of "Plans In The Making", no surefire business to helm. He is flying blindly into empty space, but he appears ready for anything.

And I understand we also need a brief extended time to meet Marsali Abbot, Christopher's love interest, but man...I felt for this heroine. It didn't take long for me to pity this poor soul right from the first moment we meet her, which is not a great outlook on what are HER future prospects.

Everyone she comes into contact with, even complete strangers, are downright evil and cruel to her--could she never catch a break in this story? Used and abused until the very end. She is escaping a suffering Aunt/Uncle scenario by taking passage set up by her older sister who lives in America, and it isn't even a decent intent. From one form of slavery into another. She is about to head to America to take up an indentured servant position inside a well-know slave owner's Virginian plantation, I think?

And even in the first few minutes of her joining the people on the dock who are passengers, too, on the steam-ship...she is treated like shit by the man who was supposed to drive her; he does take her into town but she is so far from the docks and the ship...it takes her hours to walk...and makes the Captain, Christopher and the other passengers wait until mere hours prior to their departure the next day for her to reach them. So, yeah, everyone looks upon her as a consummate "party-pooper" ruiner...jesus, and that is simply the tip of the iceberg.

Probably the only thing I enjoyed was the time they spent sailing towards America, while at sea, and how it felt like early days of a long-ass cruise ship. Of course, the Author does mention she fibbed the timeline of history, giving steam-ships a 10yr time jump forward...but I could allow that murkiness to run down my back as long as it gave good "forced proximity" and then allowed for forced interactions between every major and minor character. This is where Marsali and Christopher become a little more closer in feeling affections or falling in love but my gawd did it border on oh-so-boring for a majority of their sailing adventure.

We even get to know the Captain, who has let readers in on the fact he is slightly in competition with another ship-line, so there are some dastardly mysteries that plague this venture at sea. And then there is an English Mother and her young daughter--same age as Marsali. The daughter has pretty much been auctioned off as a "wife" to an American rich businessman [New York, I think] in his pursuit of a young wife. And this will come into play in the later parts of the book...

There is nothing deeply exciting or passionate about Marsali and Christopher except...when Marsali confesses what she is about to face in America... Christopher immediately steps into Hero-mode, just like he had done for his sisters. And it is so freakin' obvious that he is doing this because he truly does miss them, Grace & Helen. Christopher tried to stay back and never get involved, but, hmm...well before The English mother & daughter boarded the ship they bought a "cure-all" drinking potion that would help with sea-sickness...and well, at first it makes the mother deathly ill, close to death and then it hits the young daughter. It is soon discovered that before this Captain's ship left dock some "spies" were spotted, investigating his ship's departure, making some attempts to do certain tiny tragedies to muck the First Sail...and so this concoction the mother and daughter drank to help with sea sickness was actually laced with poison...arsenic to be exact...and it is learned of this from Marsali's own life experience. Her mother, apparently, had used arsenic directly to commit suicide and Marsali smelled that same smell on the two ladies in their shared cabin.

That was all fine and good, but man...did Marsali get the shit-end of this "stick", too. She becomes the nursemaid to not just the mother but then the daughter, who had become a very good friend...and then, mergh, The Mother, when she is all better from Marsali's nursing...she treats Marsali no better than a servant/low-grade shaming her for nothing and no reason.

Christopher is eventually so worried and concerned for Marsali that he asks the Captain if he knows or knows of this plantation owner that she is about to be made an indentured servant to...and wow, The Captain does know and this is when we all find out he is a slave owner and will often abuse and assault his slaves, beating them to death. She is supposed to be a Lady's Maid to the plantation owner's daughter, but in the last few years, the daughter has "lost" several Lady's maids to her father's cruelty/abuse, so, yeah... Christopher is close to livid and he becomes dogged that he wants to find another way to help Marsali because as he gets to know and like her...he cannot bear to watch her walk off the dock into the clutches of a cruel slave owner.

When Christopher and the Captain put their heads together, they come up with the simple plan of "marriage" and then Christopher can waylay his future plans, since they weren't set in stone. But he will BE with Marsali at the plantation and he can guard & protect her as he -as her husband- can get a job on the man's plantation, too. Christopher assumes he can start gathering money, the better his job and pay, the sooner they can leave the plantation and they don't have to stay married.

I assume at this point, Marsali and Christopher have battled mentally and emotionally, seeing as their marriage is no other means of escape--certainly since Marsali is basically on her way to certain death if she takes this Lady's maid job. They do get married, by the Captain...but it isn't long before the steam-ship attempts to sail through a bad storm...but doesn't make it. Recall that the Captain already warned us there were some dastardly nefarious men and spies trying to sabotage his first sail on this vessel...and they helped out a lot in causing serious harm to many passengers.

Oddly, this is what occurs...Christopher is lost at sea, possibly dead...and the English mother and daughter get split apart, but I think we are certain the daughter is dead, drowned at sea...but when the Mother and Marsali are saved...the Mother falsely claims Marsali is actually her dead daughter...so now...we have to null and void Christopher and Marsali's marriage to give over to Marsali now becoming the prospective wife of that New York business man...who isn't a bad, god-awful man, but he...god, once he knows Marsali isn't his intended, he still wants to pursue her--for 3months before wedding her??? and he expects to be so super-duper special that Marsali will fall for him instantly. She doesn't and never will...because she realizes she still loves Christopher and believes he is alive.

Now, it is true, Christopher is alive, but he is not well. He may have gotten the brunt of one of those nefarious crew spies onboard as he was beaten over the head and had concussed for...many, many months. He now knows he loves and wants to be with Marsali...and he begs that she be alive and well.

Except in each of Marsali & Christopher's pursuits of attempting to find each other...the people they most trust in their lives lie, keeping them apart.

We even get to meet Marsali's older sister-now widowed and has a young son. She even becomes the one who forces Marsali to keep this false identity and marry the New York business man. Christopher is sent back and forth through New York to Virginia, looking for proof of Marsali's death. He even takes a job on the slave-owned plantation...so, ugh, we have a bit of an Overseer moment, because that is the job Christopher is given...where he has to whip a young black girl...but he can't and won't. Instead, he whips the plantation owner, possibly killing him.

Oh, man, the last few parts of this story were just bonkers crazy-pants. I simply wanted folks to STOP THE LIES. Let Marsali & Christopher find one another...ugh...

Eventually they do find one another, and then this weird..."exchange" happens where the New York business man simply switches sisters, in order to release Marsali to be with Christopher??? I mean, talk about a guy not truly caring who is next to him at his own wedding. He never cared for the English daughter-never genuinely cared if it was Marsali or not and then Marsali's own sister just...coldly offers to take her place, as if SHE didn't care either.

And this is the book right after this one, so, yay...looking forward to that lovely tale unfolding. Not! Maybe it is a blessing it is a short one.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marrying Christopher is the third regency era novel in the Hearthfire Romance Series. The first two are Saving Grace and Loving Helen which are about the sisters of the hero Christopher in this novel. Christopher was a supporting character in the first two novels that secretly behind the scenes engineered and pulled the strings of his sisters and future brothers-in law to bring them together in romantic happily ever after.

Marrying Christopher can be totally stand-alone though as this novel occurs 99.9% away from the location and characters of the prior novels in the series. You get to experience the same era of the prior novels instead on the other side of the Atlantic in America and on the Atlantic itself in between on a steamship. This novel also has an additional different genre expanded feeling beyond just the well-researched clean traditional regency that had me in regency era fan girl swoon in the first novel Saving Grace. It seemed like Michele Paige Holmes had a historical thriller and women’s fiction muse/mentor during this novel. Wow! The M. Knight Shyamalan like character and plot twists! I truly enjoyed the ride the author took me on astray. I enjoyed that the author explored the vulnerability of women during this time without the protection of a male (father, husband, etc.,) regardless of the British social stratum born into. Marsali the heroine, Kimberly, Miss Lydia Cosgrove, and Lady Cosgrove are all victims of this lack of protection. Many of the events in the novel had me filled with righteous indignation of the problematic aspects of the British regency era culture and that of the southern states in America of the same time period across the Atlantic.

Christopher and Marsali the heroine are very likeable characters. Despite their very adverse backgrounds, they are both very kind and filled with charity in their hearts towards others. They are very faithful to and honorable to their values even when not doing so would improve their comfort, security, or station in life. Their resilience and perseverance through all the author threw at them endeared me. The chemistry between these two was amazing. What I call the washing laundry scene on the ship was sensually squeaky clean, no pun intended, but had me squealing inside like an adolescent girl at a boy bad concert.

Sensuality Content: Kisses only.

Source: Review copy in exchange for my 100% honest opinion.

[Mary Jung · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Marrying Christopher”
by: Michele Paige Holmes

I’d give this book 4 ½ stars


I just finished reading "Marrying Christopher" and enjoyed it very much.

From the beginning of the story where two young people meet on the maiden voyage of one of the first steam ships to cross the Atlantic, to the very last page, this book held my interest.

Prior to reading this book, I had read "Loving Helen" which I also enjoyed.

This book was given to me free of charge in exchange for an honest opinion of the book following my reading it.

Christopher Thatcher is an easy character to like; he’s young, he’s handsome and he’s off to start his new life in America. He’s leaving his two sisters behind (Subjects of the two prior books in this series) with their new husbands and each other. His fellow passenger, Marsali, is also going to America to re-start her life. Marsali is escaping the overbearing aunt and uncle with whom she has lived since the dead of her parents. When Marsali arrives in this new country she will be obligated to work for four years to payback her passage.

Most of the book is spent on the ship and goes into details regarding both of them, the ship’s crew and the other two passengers with whom their lives become a part of.

These two main characters find that they have much in common and a friendship develops which then turns into so much more. Christopher has decided that he wants to spend the rest of his life with Marsali.

The story unfolds and before the end, they become separated once they reach New York. The last part of the book tells of Christopher’s searching for Marsali and the bumps in the road he encounters before the story finds a predictable conclusion.

There could easily be more book written in this series, either exploring the two sisters that are the subjects of the first two book or, of course, Christopher and Marsali and what happens after New York.

I plan on reading more by this author. Her books are well written, clean, keep your interest, have enough twists and turns to keep the reader unable to put the book down for very long.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this latest book and I look forward to reading more of Ms. Holmes’ books in the very near future.

Mary K Jung

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've really enjoyed the other two books in this series and this one wraps it up nicely.

Little brother Christopher has spent his life trying to protect his older sisters. Now that they are both happily married and settled, he's going to strike out on his own and hopefully bring some pride to the Thatcher name. He books passage on a ship to America and stubbornly refuses to take any money from his sisters. He's going to make his own way, hopefully be able to work and maybe even own some land he can farm. He finally has some of the freedom he's dreamed of.

Until he meets Marsali Abbott. Marsali is fleeing an abusive situation and gets on the same ship as Christopher. Unfortunately, she's not sailing toward freedom, but toward a four year indenture, and with that in mind, she decides to enjoy the few weeks to herself on the ship. Things get even more complicated, though, when Marsali gets to know Christopher. His kindness draws her to him, but her own growing feelings keeps her wanting to be near. But she's an indentured servant and would never want him to sacrifice his dreams for her, even when she finally realizes exactly what awaits her when they dock in America.

This historical romance totally swept me away. The shipboard scenes were especially well done and I thought the author did a great job with her research because the little details she included really made it feel real. I loved Marsali's strength and how she was still vulnerable when it came to her life decisions. Christopher, though, was a swoon-worthy hero and I loved his character. Their love story was even better because there were a lot of unexpected twists and turns on the journey which kept me turning pages long after I should have gone to bed. The ending was totally worth the sleep sacrifice, though!

Originally reviewed on http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com

[Loralee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

*Warning: There is a tiny spoiler in the middle. Not much. I set it off with *asterisks*.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Marrying Christopher. Marsali and Christopher are both endearing protagonists, and I became engrossed in their stories very quickly. Each had an intriguing history that came before the story actually began, which made them real to me. Holmes did a fantastic job bringing in suspenseful, dangerous situations where, because I was already rooting for the characters, I was able to feel their pain and fear and worry. (*Spoiler: For example, the fire on the boat, neither Marsali nor Christopher knowing what had happened to the other, etc. Spoiler over*) The pacing is right where it needs to be for each scene, and the ending is a very satisfying payoff after what the characters have been through.
I particularly liked Christopher. He was a very honorable, sincere man. Marsali was also a very courageous, noble person, and they were both very suited for each other. I can’t abide or believe in stories where one or the other is dishonorable or disrespectful in some way, and the behavior is excuse, and we’re expected to laugh it off. Holme’s characters aren’t like that, and if they are, (Luke, for example) she calls a spade a spade. She shows good characters to be good, and not so good characters to be, well, not so good. For that reason, and many others, I am a fan of Michele Paige Holmes and her work.

[Marybeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marrying Christopher by Michele Paige Holmes was the third book in a series about 3 siblings, however they are definitely stand-alone books. Christopher wants to leave behind England and make a name for himself in America. Leaving behind his two sisters is harder than he thought it was going to be. Marsali can’t wait to be reunited with her sister, who is in America. She has been in the clutches of her extremely mean and tyrannical aunt and uncle, being treated like a slave. Her sister has finally found her a job, an indentured servant on a plantation, four years and then she is free. Both Christopher and Marsali board the same revolutionary steam engine boat that will get them to their futures faster than a regular sail ship, but will their journey be as they planned?
I read the second book in this series Loving Helen and these two books were very different from each other. There were certain aspects of this book that I enjoyed reading. I liked the interaction with Christopher and Marsali. I did not like, however, I bunch of the side characters and aspects of this story. I didn’t feel that there needed to be a bunch of the conflict that was in the story. Some of the secondary characters were just a little bit too much for me. Over all I did enjoy this story though, even though at times I did shake my head and say ‘really?’
I would recommend this book to people who are looking for a clean read.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Aimee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to finally be able to settle in and read Christopher's story. He is the last sibling in this series and I've watched him help his sisters find love and care. I was anxiously awaiting this book so I could watch Christopher find his love because he deserved it.

This has been a fantastic historical romance series. I've loved each book but I think Christopher may just be my favorite. This one jerked my emotions all over the place and the last third of the book I seriously felt so desperate- like pulling my hair and yelling AAAHHHHRRRGGGHHHH!

Christopher is leaving his homeland of England to begin a new life in America. He has dreams of owning his own land and being his own man. Now that his sister's are both settled with men who adore them, Christopher feels this is his time. Christopher knows how to take care of people. His sister's have taught him how to work hard, how to be a gentleman and how to love well.

If you don't fall in love with Marsali in this book, you are crazy. She is gentle kindness itself. But don't think that means she doesn't have a backbone- because she does. Christopher and Marsali are perfect for each other. I loved them both. Together and apart.

I could easily picture the scenes from this book playing out in my head like a movie. The characters were strong and each one had personality and definition. This was a fantastic book for me and I really loved it.

[Nashellej · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read and reviewed Michele Paige Holmes's 'Saving Grace' a while back and fell in love with the characters and the story and the writing, so when the opportunity came for me to read & review 'Marrying Christopher' I jumped at the chance.

Christopher is Grace's little brother and now that his sisters are both comfortably settled and safe from the evil associates his father made, Christopher is off to America to make a difference and change his life. He is excited for the new opportunities it will bring but is surprised when he meets Marsali Abbott and has to wonder if every woman is a damsel in distress. Christopher determines to help her in any way that he can to save her from a terrible fate and gets more than he bargained for when he begins to realize that he has fallen in love with her.

This book was stupendous. I laughed out loud so many times. Although this book has connections to other books ('Saving Grace' and 'Loving Helen'), it can definitely be read as a stand alone book. Holmes has created a beautiful world that is the perfect blend of history and romance. She does justice to each without taking away from the other. Fabulous. I know I say this a lot, but you should really read this book. I am so grateful for great authors who write great books that are clean and fun to read. They are the books that I enjoy the most.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this 3rd book in the series, Christopher has his two older sisters happily married and is finally free to go to America to buy a farm and live his lifelong dream. Crayton has finally been dealt with and is in France, far away from causing any danger to Grace and Helen. Christopher uses most of his resources to book passage on the Amanda May, a combination Steam ship and sailing ship. This ship is of new design and many are superstitious so there are only 4 passengers for the journey. One passenger is very late arriving for the sailing and delays the departure, along with bad weather. When Marsali arrives at the boat, she is in disguise and very hungry. Christopher can’t help but feeling protective of her and sneaks her some of his food. They develop an instant chemistry. During the journey, Marsali reads a letter from her sister that arrived just as she was escaping the misery of living with her Aunt and Uncle. In the letter, she finds out that the man she is indentured to in America (for the next 4 years) is not a good man. In fact, the three previous people that have held her position might have been murdered. Once Christopher hears her story, his feelings of needing to protect Marsali only grow—not something he wants to feel. The characters in this book are well developed. I found myself cheering them on. A wonderful regency novel!

[Tammie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marrying Christopher was a cute historical romance. I liked both Christopher and Marsali a lot and enjoyed reading about their romance. I did kind of feel like one thing was unneeded for the plot and another didn't feel very plausible, and everything was wrapped up too neatly for everyone, even the minor characters of Mr. Vancer and Charlotte. I'll elaborate behind a spoiler. The part with Mr. Luke suddenly being a murderer who was working for the pirate kind of felt like it came out if nowhere. And what was up with him killing Lydia? Why did he do it? That was never explained. I just felt like the book could have gotten where it went without this part added in. The storm and the shipwreck could have been enough to separate Christopher and Marsali. The part where Christopher actually leaves the ball and says nothing to Marsali after all he went through to find her? Not realistic at all. And the part where Mr. Vancer and Charlotte marry after Marsali finds out Christopher is still alive was just too convenient.

I think I enjoyed this book slightly more than I enjoyed the first two in the series, mainly because I adored both Christopher and Marsali. It felt slightly different in tone than the other two. The sea voyage and America as the two main backdrops probably contributed, and I liked that.

[Millie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful Sweet Romance!

I enjoyed reading Marrying Christopher. I was drawn to the book by the lovely cover depicting the hero and heroine, Christopher and Marsali Thatcher on their wedding day! I like it so much, that I have it as a screen saver on my smart phone. I found that the title also grabbed my attention, it just seemed romantic to me. I was not disappointed, as the story is well written and the characters are compelling. Christopher was such a caring, good guy. It's so refreshing to read about a young man of good character who is a gentleman through and through. He went out of his way to help Marsali, even when he had no obligation to do so. All the while, he fell in love with our heroine Marsali. Marsali herself was such a well written character. Her years of struggle and hardship, made her a young woman of strength and resilience. Marsali was strong but she also was sweet, kind and wise. The love relationship between the two was sweet and believable. The novel gives you two very likable main characters, a plot that keeps you involved, and the happy ending. Although the resolution at the end seems a bit rushed, it was a very good sweet romance read. I recommend this novel to all who enjoy a well written, sweet and clean romance.

[Gayle · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. I enjoyed this historical romance that focuses on Christopher, the brother we met in the two earlier stories (although I don’t think it’s necessary to have read those first). Christopher wants to begin a new adventure in America, so he takes passage on one of the first steamships where he meets the interesting captain and a handful of passengers, including, of course, our lovely heroine who has also had a very difficult life. I loved all the characters, especially Christopher and Marsali, and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. I loved both of their personalities and the way they overcame the hardships in their lives and didn’t let those experiences make them bitter.
I wondered early on what direction the author would take the story once the ship arrived in America, and it turned out to be not at all what I was expecting! There was tragedy and betrayal and miscommunication and a character or two I wanted to yell at. But the ending was very sweet and satisfying - a great conclusion to this series!
I received a free e-book copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Anita · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the conclusion of the Thatcher trilogy. They each are stand alone books. This is Christopher's story. I love Christopher. He is a stand up kind of guy. Definitely the 'chivalry isn't dead' kind of hero (oh wait, this is a historical book so chivalry was alive and well then). He boards a ship seeking a grand adventure and to escape the titles and inequality of Europe. He also meets Marsali.
Marsali has had a life of sadness and trials. She is going to America hoping to pay her debt and start a new life. She is strong, kind, and lovely. She really is a perfect heroine.
This was a well written novel with some nice historical information thrown in. Unfortunately I started to skim a bit toward then end. Without spoiling the twist in the story, I'll just say it was too much misunderstanding for me.
Overall, I'm glad I read the book for the closure to the family. I good series with Loving Helen as my favorite.

4 Stars
Content: mild violence, talk of abuse, kissing
Source: ebooksforreview

[Monica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marrying Christopher is a captivating historical fiction novel. Christopher has secured the happiness of his sisters, seeing them well wed and affectionately happy. Ready to move on he has decided to immigrate to America to make a name for himself. Booking passage on a new ship powered by steam and propelled by a large paddle promises to be the perfect start to a new chapter of life. Enter Marsali Abbott, a resilient young women set on escaping England and the bondage and servitude it represents. Having obtained a position as an indentured servant in exchange for passage, she is heading for a new life and a fresh start. Finding compassion and understanding from one another Christopher and Marsali become fast friends. As the crossing commences however information regarding Marsali's new position come to light placing her in the same danger she was escaping.

A captivating story peppered with 19th century inventions, Marrying Christopher is sure to capture your heart and sense of adventure.

[Sam B · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this ebook through ebooksforreview in exchange for an honest review.

I absolutely loved Christopher’s story, just as I loved both his sister’s stories. Once again, the author did a great job!

This book was a great conclusion to the series, bringing in a lot of suspense and new characters as Christopher leaves England to start a new life in America. I loved the fact that we still saw a little bit of Grace and Helen and their husbands. That’s one of the reason I live this series so much, because we always get updates from the other books characters.

This third book helps us get to know Christopher’s character a little bit more. Now that his sisters are married, he doesn’t have to look after them as much and his personality is a lot more developed in this third book.

I highly recommend this book to anyone, but these books are best read in order. Anyway, once you read Grace’s story, you’ll want to read her siblings’ stories too!