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Rivals of Fortune / The Impetuous Heiress
Two classic Regency romances from beloved bestselling author Jane Ashford
When London society debarks to their country estates, the courtships are no less heated...
RIVALS OF FORTUNE - Joanna Rowntree thought she would die of a broken heart when her one true love married another-until not one but two fascinating newcomers appear on neighboring estates. As the roughhewn Jonathan Erland and the polished Sir Rollin Denby engage in a heated competition for her hand, Joanna realizes her heart is alive and well-but to whom will she give it?
THE IMPETUOUS HEIRESS - When spoiled Lady Alicia Alston, privileged daughter of a duke, is accidentally tossed into a ravine after a wild gallop with Ian MacClain, Earl of Cairnyllan, she expects a proposal as soon as is convenient. The stubborn Scot has other ideas. It takes a headlong journey to prevent an elopement to give Alicia and Ian a chance to clear up misunderstandings and figure out what they find so damnably passion-inducing about one another...
"Deft writing...an engaging cast of characters...a charming plot and a just the right amount of sensuality." -RT Book Reviews, 4 stars for The Bride Insists
"Marvelous...the perfect blend of interesting, emotionally complex, and openhearted protagonists." -Publishers Weekly Starred Review, for Married to a Perfect Stranger
When London society debarks to their country estates, the courtships are no less heated...
RIVALS OF FORTUNE - Joanna Rowntree thought she would die of a broken heart when her one true love married another-until not one but two fascinating newcomers appear on neighboring estates. As the roughhewn Jonathan Erland and the polished Sir Rollin Denby engage in a heated competition for her hand, Joanna realizes her heart is alive and well-but to whom will she give it?
THE IMPETUOUS HEIRESS - When spoiled Lady Alicia Alston, privileged daughter of a duke, is accidentally tossed into a ravine after a wild gallop with Ian MacClain, Earl of Cairnyllan, she expects a proposal as soon as is convenient. The stubborn Scot has other ideas. It takes a headlong journey to prevent an elopement to give Alicia and Ian a chance to clear up misunderstandings and figure out what they find so damnably passion-inducing about one another...
"Deft writing...an engaging cast of characters...a charming plot and a just the right amount of sensuality." -RT Book Reviews, 4 stars for The Bride Insists
"Marvelous...the perfect blend of interesting, emotionally complex, and openhearted protagonists." -Publishers Weekly Starred Review, for Married to a Perfect Stranger
480 pages, ebook
Published May 3, 2016
38 people are currently reading
116 people want to read
About the author
Jane Ashford
52 books401 followersJane Ashford has written historical and contemporary romances. Her books have been published in England, Spain, France, Italy, Sweden, Slovakia, Denmark, Russia, and Latvia, Croatia and Slovenia as well as the U.S. She was nominated for a Career Achievement Award by RT Book Reviews. Her latest book, Lost Time, is romantic suspense with a touch of magic.
Her website is https://www.janeashford.com/ and her Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/JaneAshfordW... If you'd like to subscribe to Jane's monthly newsletter go to www.eepurl.com/cd-O7r and sign up.
Her website is https://www.janeashford.com/ and her Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/JaneAshfordW... If you'd like to subscribe to Jane's monthly newsletter go to www.eepurl.com/cd-O7r and sign up.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 12, 2016
... dashed hopes and daunting gossip!
A pair of stories that both start of with what seems like very shallow minded ladies as the heroines who fortunately develop into more than thought at first glance. Gossip at both the village level and within tonnish circles certainly comes to fore in some way in both novels.
Rivals of Fortune.
The story of a young woman whose marriage hopes are dashed in no uncertain terms when her childhood sweetheart goes to London Town and very quickly marries another. A quite superior and sure of herself wealthy woman. Broken hearted and convinced that this is the end of the world Joanna Rowntree is positive that she will never recover. Can she survive the village gossip surrounding her dashed hopes? As time goes on she eventually does, particularly with the advent of an attractive new neighbour, but perhaps not so compelling as the man of style and tonnish manners, Sir Rollin Denby, the brother of her true love's wife.
Add a delightfully recalcitrant younger brother and rumours of treasure to be found on Rowntree's inherited Abbey property--a ramshackle ruin, and the story gets better further along--once all the wailing has stopped!
The Impetuous Heiress.
Lady Alicia Alston is mean sprinted and misunderstood. High in the instep and yet incapable of feelings beyond her own satisfaction. Spurned by Ian MacClain, Earl of Cairnyllan, she determines to make him suffer and leads his younger sister into a devastating situation. Not well done Alicia! It was at that moment that I did not like you and wondered how on earth your behaviour was going to be redeemed?
Fortunately Jane Ashford is able to just that. I ended up quite liking Alicia once I'd seen past her unthinking and reprehensible behaviour towards a young woman she really had no grudge against. And yes old stories can provide new flesh for gossips! Certainly the resolution to the challenges we are presented with are convincing.
A NetGalley ARC
A pair of stories that both start of with what seems like very shallow minded ladies as the heroines who fortunately develop into more than thought at first glance. Gossip at both the village level and within tonnish circles certainly comes to fore in some way in both novels.
Rivals of Fortune.
The story of a young woman whose marriage hopes are dashed in no uncertain terms when her childhood sweetheart goes to London Town and very quickly marries another. A quite superior and sure of herself wealthy woman. Broken hearted and convinced that this is the end of the world Joanna Rowntree is positive that she will never recover. Can she survive the village gossip surrounding her dashed hopes? As time goes on she eventually does, particularly with the advent of an attractive new neighbour, but perhaps not so compelling as the man of style and tonnish manners, Sir Rollin Denby, the brother of her true love's wife.
Add a delightfully recalcitrant younger brother and rumours of treasure to be found on Rowntree's inherited Abbey property--a ramshackle ruin, and the story gets better further along--once all the wailing has stopped!
The Impetuous Heiress.
Lady Alicia Alston is mean sprinted and misunderstood. High in the instep and yet incapable of feelings beyond her own satisfaction. Spurned by Ian MacClain, Earl of Cairnyllan, she determines to make him suffer and leads his younger sister into a devastating situation. Not well done Alicia! It was at that moment that I did not like you and wondered how on earth your behaviour was going to be redeemed?
Fortunately Jane Ashford is able to just that. I ended up quite liking Alicia once I'd seen past her unthinking and reprehensible behaviour towards a young woman she really had no grudge against. And yes old stories can provide new flesh for gossips! Certainly the resolution to the challenges we are presented with are convincing.
A NetGalley ARC
September 26, 2016
I received an eARC, from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
This is actually two books in one making it about 480 pages. With that said this is by Jane Ashford who is a classic Romance Writer that you can never go wrong with her books.
The tow books are:
RIVALS OF FORTUNE: Which is about a girl who thought she had a broken heart when her love married another but now she finds two other men in a headed competition for her.
THE IMPETUOUS HEIRESS : This one is about a spoiled Lady and a stubborn Scot.
This is actually two books in one making it about 480 pages. With that said this is by Jane Ashford who is a classic Romance Writer that you can never go wrong with her books.
The tow books are:
RIVALS OF FORTUNE: Which is about a girl who thought she had a broken heart when her love married another but now she finds two other men in a headed competition for her.
THE IMPETUOUS HEIRESS : This one is about a spoiled Lady and a stubborn Scot.
May 20, 2017
I received this from Netgalley/ Publisher in exchange for an honest review. I had a hard time finishing this.
Book 1: Rivals of Fortune:
This was just ridiculous. The story was okay I guess but I absolutely hated the characters. Joanna was just an annoying whiny child. She just got on my last nerve. I almost put the book down repeatedly but knew that I needed to finish it but I just did not like it.
Book 2: The impetuous heiress
The story was good I guess it definitely was better than the first but then again I hated one of the characters in this as well. Ian was a jerk and I couldn't stand him. I just couldn't get over how much of a jerk he was.
Just I did not like the characters but a good story.
Book 1: Rivals of Fortune:
This was just ridiculous. The story was okay I guess but I absolutely hated the characters. Joanna was just an annoying whiny child. She just got on my last nerve. I almost put the book down repeatedly but knew that I needed to finish it but I just did not like it.
Book 2: The impetuous heiress
The story was good I guess it definitely was better than the first but then again I hated one of the characters in this as well. Ian was a jerk and I couldn't stand him. I just couldn't get over how much of a jerk he was.
Just I did not like the characters but a good story.
January 3, 2019
RIVALS OF FORTUNE is very much an old-school Regency, plus an archaeological dig. The heroine is very young, and acts like it. It doesn't have the depth of character development or relationship development you tend to get nowadays, but it's fun. Be warned, though: a dog dies. I DNF'd THE IMPETUOUS HEIRESS; it was taking too long to get anywhere.
December 22, 2019
Couldn't finish either book. Rather awful characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2016
“Rivals of Fortune”
Miss Joanna Rowntree, age 18, lives with her father at their small home in Oxford. Joanna’s heart is breaking because Peter Finley has just married Adrienne. Joanna is deeply hurt because she understood that she and Peter would marry. When Joanna learns that Peter and his new wife will be coming to town soon, she doesn’t know how she will react. Hearing that Peter’s wife is older than he is and a bit of a shrew to boot, is shocking When she actually meets Adrienne, she finds the woman to be haughty. When Joanna sees how arrogant the woman is, she feels sorry for Peter. while realizing that she never truly cared for him that much. Adrienne’s brother, Sir Rollin Denby, is staying with is sister and Peter. He catches Joanna’s attention with his good looks, but he acts superior to everyone else as well..
When Joanna’s younger brother, Frederick, is brought home by a neighbor after injuring his ankle, Joanna meets Jonathan Erland. He has moved into the nearby Abbey that his uncle left him. It is rumored that the uncle had been quite wealthy and some think he has hidden treasure on the grounds. Jonathan has moved from Canada where he had spent 10 years.
Joanna’s father is a scholar and enlists the help of a few other men to assist Jonathan in searching for the treasure that is supposed to be hidden on the man’s property. In addition, they are hoping to find an ancient crypt buried underground.
As the digging ensues, it appears that there is an unknown person who is also trying to find the treasure by searching at night. Joanna becomes involved with the group by drawing sketches of different stages of the digging. Soon, the search becomes dangerous because someone is desperate to find the treasure and will stop at nothing to get it.
This book had a good plot, but there is way too much dialogue in the story. It really could have used a good editor to crop it down. However, I do like the author and her newer books are a great improvement over this one.
Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley
“The Impetuous Heiress”
Lady Alicia Alston, age 25, is the daughter of the Duke of Morland. She is beautiful, smart, easily bored, and somewhat spoiled. She remains unmarried simply because no one she has met has yet to win her heart. Her mother has passed away and her father is a busy diplomat.
The Honorable Roderick (Roddy) Massingham, age 26, is the second son of the Earl of Murne. He and Alicia are guests at a house party hosted by their friend, Viscount Perdon (Perdy) of Perdon Abbey.
Alicia has become bored at the house party but is intrigued when she finds that Perdy’s Aunt Sophia has insisted that Perdy invite his cousins, Ian, the Earl of Cairnyllan, and his sister Lady Marianne MacClain, along with their widowed mother. Ian’s father was a very famous rake which makes Ian very protective of his mother and sister almost to the point of smothering them. Ian comes across in an arrogant manner, whereas Marianne is quite sweet and amenable. She is also preparing for her come out. Ian’s supercilious manner irritates Alicia who is determined to not let him best her. He has become quite a challenge. She soon finds that they are both horse experts. After spending some time together riding and just chatting, she realizes that she has met her match. But, as much as Alicia tries to get along with Ian, his constant snubbing her results in her being even more moody and she begins to wonder if she has fallen in love with him.
Once again, we have a good plot. However, the constant angst between Ian and Alicia became grating. Ian is a total jerk and I never could find myself liking him. But again, I know that the author has since written some very good books.
Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley
Miss Joanna Rowntree, age 18, lives with her father at their small home in Oxford. Joanna’s heart is breaking because Peter Finley has just married Adrienne. Joanna is deeply hurt because she understood that she and Peter would marry. When Joanna learns that Peter and his new wife will be coming to town soon, she doesn’t know how she will react. Hearing that Peter’s wife is older than he is and a bit of a shrew to boot, is shocking When she actually meets Adrienne, she finds the woman to be haughty. When Joanna sees how arrogant the woman is, she feels sorry for Peter. while realizing that she never truly cared for him that much. Adrienne’s brother, Sir Rollin Denby, is staying with is sister and Peter. He catches Joanna’s attention with his good looks, but he acts superior to everyone else as well..
When Joanna’s younger brother, Frederick, is brought home by a neighbor after injuring his ankle, Joanna meets Jonathan Erland. He has moved into the nearby Abbey that his uncle left him. It is rumored that the uncle had been quite wealthy and some think he has hidden treasure on the grounds. Jonathan has moved from Canada where he had spent 10 years.
Joanna’s father is a scholar and enlists the help of a few other men to assist Jonathan in searching for the treasure that is supposed to be hidden on the man’s property. In addition, they are hoping to find an ancient crypt buried underground.
As the digging ensues, it appears that there is an unknown person who is also trying to find the treasure by searching at night. Joanna becomes involved with the group by drawing sketches of different stages of the digging. Soon, the search becomes dangerous because someone is desperate to find the treasure and will stop at nothing to get it.
This book had a good plot, but there is way too much dialogue in the story. It really could have used a good editor to crop it down. However, I do like the author and her newer books are a great improvement over this one.
Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley
“The Impetuous Heiress”
Lady Alicia Alston, age 25, is the daughter of the Duke of Morland. She is beautiful, smart, easily bored, and somewhat spoiled. She remains unmarried simply because no one she has met has yet to win her heart. Her mother has passed away and her father is a busy diplomat.
The Honorable Roderick (Roddy) Massingham, age 26, is the second son of the Earl of Murne. He and Alicia are guests at a house party hosted by their friend, Viscount Perdon (Perdy) of Perdon Abbey.
Alicia has become bored at the house party but is intrigued when she finds that Perdy’s Aunt Sophia has insisted that Perdy invite his cousins, Ian, the Earl of Cairnyllan, and his sister Lady Marianne MacClain, along with their widowed mother. Ian’s father was a very famous rake which makes Ian very protective of his mother and sister almost to the point of smothering them. Ian comes across in an arrogant manner, whereas Marianne is quite sweet and amenable. She is also preparing for her come out. Ian’s supercilious manner irritates Alicia who is determined to not let him best her. He has become quite a challenge. She soon finds that they are both horse experts. After spending some time together riding and just chatting, she realizes that she has met her match. But, as much as Alicia tries to get along with Ian, his constant snubbing her results in her being even more moody and she begins to wonder if she has fallen in love with him.
Once again, we have a good plot. However, the constant angst between Ian and Alicia became grating. Ian is a total jerk and I never could find myself liking him. But again, I know that the author has since written some very good books.
Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley
April 27, 2016
Book Info
Paperback, 480 pages
Expected publication: May 3rd 2016 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
ISBN 1492631515 (ISBN13: 9781492631514)
Other Editions None found
Source:Netgalley EARC
Book Buy Links
Amazon
B&N
Two classic Regency romances from beloved bestselling author Jane Ashford
When London society debarks to their country estates, the courtships are no less heated...
RIVALS OF FORTUNE - Joanna Rowntree thought she would die of a broken heart when her one true love married another-until not one but two fascinating newcomers appear on neighboring estates. As the roughhewn Jonathan Erland and the polished Sir Rollin Denby engage in a heated competition for her hand, Joanna realizes her heart is alive and well-but to whom will she give it?
THE IMPETUOUS HEIRESS - When spoiled Lady Alicia Alston, privileged daughter of a duke, is accidentally tossed into a ravine after a wild gallop with Ian MacClain, Earl of Cairnyllan, she expects a proposal as soon as is convenient. The stubborn Scot has other ideas. It takes a headlong journey to prevent an elopement to give Alicia and Ian a chance to clear up misunderstandings and figure out what they find so damnably passion-inducing about one another...
"Deft writing...an engaging cast of characters...a charming plot and a just the right amount of sensuality." -RT Book Reviews, 4 stars for The Bride Insists
"Marvelous...the perfect blend of interesting, emotionally complex, and openhearted protagonists." -Publishers Weekly Starred Review, for Married to a Perfect Stranger (less)
Both books apparently were previous separate releases and have been bundled together to target a fresh audience of Historical Regency Romance readers. In book 1, Rivals Of Fortune, Miss Joanna Rowntree never really endeared herself to me and that did not change throughout the entire book.
As the story ended in the expected HEA for Joanna have to admit she did not manage to capture my sympathy or my empathy for her ongoing silliness, despite her youth one would think that the warnings she was given about the nee'r-do-well villain would have caused her to exercise a bit more circumspection but they did not. However all ended as it should and the better man won the fair maiden as he should have.
In book 2, The Impetuous Heiress, we meet another fairly typical of the genre leading lady that is not as hard to warm up to. As a matter of fact Lady Alicia proves to be quite spirited and outgoing so she is someone that readers can honestly enjoy getting to know, even those times one might want to shake some sense into her.
I thought as a whole the books were pretty typical plot wise but each one had their own twists to allow one to find something to savor about each story and it’s characters.
Paperback, 480 pages
Expected publication: May 3rd 2016 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
ISBN 1492631515 (ISBN13: 9781492631514)
Other Editions None found
Source:Netgalley EARC
Book Buy Links
Amazon
B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS
Two classic Regency romances from beloved bestselling author Jane Ashford
When London society debarks to their country estates, the courtships are no less heated...
RIVALS OF FORTUNE - Joanna Rowntree thought she would die of a broken heart when her one true love married another-until not one but two fascinating newcomers appear on neighboring estates. As the roughhewn Jonathan Erland and the polished Sir Rollin Denby engage in a heated competition for her hand, Joanna realizes her heart is alive and well-but to whom will she give it?
THE IMPETUOUS HEIRESS - When spoiled Lady Alicia Alston, privileged daughter of a duke, is accidentally tossed into a ravine after a wild gallop with Ian MacClain, Earl of Cairnyllan, she expects a proposal as soon as is convenient. The stubborn Scot has other ideas. It takes a headlong journey to prevent an elopement to give Alicia and Ian a chance to clear up misunderstandings and figure out what they find so damnably passion-inducing about one another...
"Deft writing...an engaging cast of characters...a charming plot and a just the right amount of sensuality." -RT Book Reviews, 4 stars for The Bride Insists
"Marvelous...the perfect blend of interesting, emotionally complex, and openhearted protagonists." -Publishers Weekly Starred Review, for Married to a Perfect Stranger (less)
My Thoughts
Both books apparently were previous separate releases and have been bundled together to target a fresh audience of Historical Regency Romance readers. In book 1, Rivals Of Fortune, Miss Joanna Rowntree never really endeared herself to me and that did not change throughout the entire book.
As the story ended in the expected HEA for Joanna have to admit she did not manage to capture my sympathy or my empathy for her ongoing silliness, despite her youth one would think that the warnings she was given about the nee'r-do-well villain would have caused her to exercise a bit more circumspection but they did not. However all ended as it should and the better man won the fair maiden as he should have.
In book 2, The Impetuous Heiress, we meet another fairly typical of the genre leading lady that is not as hard to warm up to. As a matter of fact Lady Alicia proves to be quite spirited and outgoing so she is someone that readers can honestly enjoy getting to know, even those times one might want to shake some sense into her.
I thought as a whole the books were pretty typical plot wise but each one had their own twists to allow one to find something to savor about each story and it’s characters.
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
March 26, 2016
These are two books in one edition.
The first, Rivals of Fortune gives us Joanna. She is a young woman who believes her heart is broken because the man she “Loves”, Peter, has married another woman.
Life is full of surprises. Within a short time Joanna meets two young men – Jonathan and Sir Rollin. Jonathan is an easy going young man who has inherited the property next door. He has spent many years in Canada and has had adventures too numerous to imagine. Sir Rollin is the brother of Peter's new wife. He is sophisticated and an obvious fashionable London gentleman.
As the story progresses much of what Joanna knows to be true, apparently is not quite so true. She learns that people are not just what appears on the surface. She also begins to realize that not everyone is straight forward and honest.
There is a mystery in the story. There may or may not be hidden treasure. Someone may or may not be willing to do nearly anything to find that treasure.
Joanna is annoying at first, but eventually she grew to be someone who is likable. The secondary characters are well placed in the story and each of them add much to the fabric of the plot. Joanna's family are wonderful characters. Her father is a scholar who lives in his own historic world. Her younger brother is a boy who is very goal oriented. At times his goals could get him harmed.
The family and friends are people who could populate nearly any small village. Some of them are amusing and some of them are not very likable. Just like real life.
The Impetuous Heiress is the second book.
Lady Alicia is a spoiled brat. She was not appealing to me. When she does not get the exact response she desires, she goes so far as to try to ruin a young woman who is not even involved in the situation.
The Earl of Cairnyllin, Ian, is a Scottish nobleman who does not think much of the “ton”. Because of his family's history his opinion is that none of them are honest or sincere or admirable. He believes his purpose in life is to protect family at any cost.
Alicia is attracted to Ian and when he apparently does not return that attraction, she enacts a plan to harm his sister's reputation. She is quite beautiful but during the story, there are many references to the fact that her friends know to never disagree or cross her in any way. She will get her revenge and everyone knows it.
That to me does not make her a heroine to admire.
Eventually, Alicia becomes kinder to people. But, most of the time, she is still acting in a way that serves her own purposes. The fact she could live with someone for several years and never pay enough attention to know anything about the person's life is an example of the true Alicia.
This is a well written book. The plot is filled with misunderstandings and comedy of errors moments. The main characters as well as the secondary characters are well written. Everyone is interesting and entertaining.
Ms Ashford is a talented author who knows how to write about people and events. Generally her characters are well rounded and complete human beings. These two books are no exception. These are early books in Ms Ashford's career. No matter how early, her writing ability shines through.
I received this book from the Publisher through NetGalley in the hope that I would write a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
The first, Rivals of Fortune gives us Joanna. She is a young woman who believes her heart is broken because the man she “Loves”, Peter, has married another woman.
Life is full of surprises. Within a short time Joanna meets two young men – Jonathan and Sir Rollin. Jonathan is an easy going young man who has inherited the property next door. He has spent many years in Canada and has had adventures too numerous to imagine. Sir Rollin is the brother of Peter's new wife. He is sophisticated and an obvious fashionable London gentleman.
As the story progresses much of what Joanna knows to be true, apparently is not quite so true. She learns that people are not just what appears on the surface. She also begins to realize that not everyone is straight forward and honest.
There is a mystery in the story. There may or may not be hidden treasure. Someone may or may not be willing to do nearly anything to find that treasure.
Joanna is annoying at first, but eventually she grew to be someone who is likable. The secondary characters are well placed in the story and each of them add much to the fabric of the plot. Joanna's family are wonderful characters. Her father is a scholar who lives in his own historic world. Her younger brother is a boy who is very goal oriented. At times his goals could get him harmed.
The family and friends are people who could populate nearly any small village. Some of them are amusing and some of them are not very likable. Just like real life.
The Impetuous Heiress is the second book.
Lady Alicia is a spoiled brat. She was not appealing to me. When she does not get the exact response she desires, she goes so far as to try to ruin a young woman who is not even involved in the situation.
The Earl of Cairnyllin, Ian, is a Scottish nobleman who does not think much of the “ton”. Because of his family's history his opinion is that none of them are honest or sincere or admirable. He believes his purpose in life is to protect family at any cost.
Alicia is attracted to Ian and when he apparently does not return that attraction, she enacts a plan to harm his sister's reputation. She is quite beautiful but during the story, there are many references to the fact that her friends know to never disagree or cross her in any way. She will get her revenge and everyone knows it.
That to me does not make her a heroine to admire.
Eventually, Alicia becomes kinder to people. But, most of the time, she is still acting in a way that serves her own purposes. The fact she could live with someone for several years and never pay enough attention to know anything about the person's life is an example of the true Alicia.
This is a well written book. The plot is filled with misunderstandings and comedy of errors moments. The main characters as well as the secondary characters are well written. Everyone is interesting and entertaining.
Ms Ashford is a talented author who knows how to write about people and events. Generally her characters are well rounded and complete human beings. These two books are no exception. These are early books in Ms Ashford's career. No matter how early, her writing ability shines through.
I received this book from the Publisher through NetGalley in the hope that I would write a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 14, 2016
Rivals of Fortune/ The Impetuous Heiress by Jane Ashford are a 2016 Soucebooks Casablanca publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Two for the price of one! How can you beat that? This book as two stories in it, the first one being, “Rivals of Fortune.”
This story begins with Joanna Rowntree in tears, watching the clock, knowing that at that very moment the man she thought she would marry someday, is getting married to someone else. To add insult to injury, the newlyweds are returning to the country to live, which means Joanna will have to face them. However, Joanna soon finds her hurt feelings and broken heart has healed with amazing speed, when she makes new friends and is sought after by not one, but two men!
This classic regency romance, originally published in the early 1980’s, is the very definition of fluff, the plot is as transparent as glass, but it is also simply delightful. Joanna’s character is annoying at first, but slowly begins to mature and realize what really matters in life. But, she must endure some humiliation, and will make some monumental mistakes along the way.
While normally, the silly, petulant characters, like Joanna, would find my last nerve and sit on it, I couldn’t help but smile while reading this one. Mainly, it is because I know this is a classic romance, and that is why it’s so charming. This is a nice, clean, sweet romance, with a little adventure and intrigue tossed in to keep things interesting.
Overall, a fun, entertaining and easy read. 4 stars
The second book featured is:
The Impetuous Heiress
This story centers around bored, spoiled, Lady Alicia Alston, the daughter of a Duke. She is intrigued by the arrival to London of the Scottish Earl of Cairnyllan, Ian MacClain. Alicia is accustomed to having men fawn over her, so when Ian is decidedly unimpressed she becomes flustered, and finds herself actually having to work at garnering his respect.
Ian, hates the Haute Ton with a passion, and Alicia represents all that he resents about it. He immediately makes judgments about her, and the two end up at odds for one reason or another almost to the bitter end.
In this story, Alicia’s character proves more substantial than what appears on the surface and Ian, a product of his past, proves to be one stubborn, difficult nut to crack. Can Alicia melt his heart and show him the error of his ways?
This story was originally published in 1984, and is another typical Regency romance of that era. For such a short book, there is a rather large cast of characters, with a few side stories and romances, that disrupted the flow of the story, making it just a little too ‘busy’.
However, this is a lot of fun to read, especially knowing it is a classic Regency, written in a traditional style, that despite its flaws, is charming. Once again, this story is clean and sweet, an easy read, and terrific vintage fun!
3.5 stars
So overall, I think it is very important that everyone is aware these stories are classic, or retro romance reads, and if that is made clear, I believe the approach to these vintage regencies will prevent the modern reader from misjudging it.
For those who are familiar with this author, and love the old style Regency stories, this new digital release is a real treasure and is so much fun to re-read. I’m so happy to see these stories restored and available for everyone to enjoy anytime, anyplace.
4 combined stars.
Two for the price of one! How can you beat that? This book as two stories in it, the first one being, “Rivals of Fortune.”
This story begins with Joanna Rowntree in tears, watching the clock, knowing that at that very moment the man she thought she would marry someday, is getting married to someone else. To add insult to injury, the newlyweds are returning to the country to live, which means Joanna will have to face them. However, Joanna soon finds her hurt feelings and broken heart has healed with amazing speed, when she makes new friends and is sought after by not one, but two men!
This classic regency romance, originally published in the early 1980’s, is the very definition of fluff, the plot is as transparent as glass, but it is also simply delightful. Joanna’s character is annoying at first, but slowly begins to mature and realize what really matters in life. But, she must endure some humiliation, and will make some monumental mistakes along the way.
While normally, the silly, petulant characters, like Joanna, would find my last nerve and sit on it, I couldn’t help but smile while reading this one. Mainly, it is because I know this is a classic romance, and that is why it’s so charming. This is a nice, clean, sweet romance, with a little adventure and intrigue tossed in to keep things interesting.
Overall, a fun, entertaining and easy read. 4 stars
The second book featured is:
The Impetuous Heiress
This story centers around bored, spoiled, Lady Alicia Alston, the daughter of a Duke. She is intrigued by the arrival to London of the Scottish Earl of Cairnyllan, Ian MacClain. Alicia is accustomed to having men fawn over her, so when Ian is decidedly unimpressed she becomes flustered, and finds herself actually having to work at garnering his respect.
Ian, hates the Haute Ton with a passion, and Alicia represents all that he resents about it. He immediately makes judgments about her, and the two end up at odds for one reason or another almost to the bitter end.
In this story, Alicia’s character proves more substantial than what appears on the surface and Ian, a product of his past, proves to be one stubborn, difficult nut to crack. Can Alicia melt his heart and show him the error of his ways?
This story was originally published in 1984, and is another typical Regency romance of that era. For such a short book, there is a rather large cast of characters, with a few side stories and romances, that disrupted the flow of the story, making it just a little too ‘busy’.
However, this is a lot of fun to read, especially knowing it is a classic Regency, written in a traditional style, that despite its flaws, is charming. Once again, this story is clean and sweet, an easy read, and terrific vintage fun!
3.5 stars
So overall, I think it is very important that everyone is aware these stories are classic, or retro romance reads, and if that is made clear, I believe the approach to these vintage regencies will prevent the modern reader from misjudging it.
For those who are familiar with this author, and love the old style Regency stories, this new digital release is a real treasure and is so much fun to re-read. I’m so happy to see these stories restored and available for everyone to enjoy anytime, anyplace.
4 combined stars.
May 8, 2016
I thought this to be a charming read of two book that were written back in the 1980’s when writing was more controlled with love more or less done behind closed doors never to be really talked about just implied about leaving the reader to image what was going on. These are classic stories one should look back on with fond memories and hold close to one heart. Yes we have come far and sometimes I wonder in 30 years from now what people will think of the stories written today. I thought this was a lovely set of books taking us back to a time when things were simpler letting the reader see a classic author and her style. Some of my favorite books are written years ago.
Rivals of Fortune
Joanna is a young woman her heart is broken the man she loves has married another woman when it was thought he would marry her. When Peter and his wife moves back she finds her feelings for him was not love. Once meeting his wife she feels sorry for him for being married to suck a snob of a woman. With Peter’s return his wife’s brother comes with them he catches Joann’s attention but he is just like his sister acting superior to everyone. Then she meets Jonathan he is easy going and a pleasure to be around.
Joann finds that what she believes to be true is not as she learns people are just not what they appear to be. Looking deep than the surfaces she finds people are not very honest with leaves her wondering who to believe and give her trust to.
With the mystery of a possible hidden treasure her father helps to try to find it. It isn’t long before they find that someone else is looking for it at night. It isn’t long before the dig becomes dangerous when the unknown person becomes desperate to find the treasure and will stop at nothing to get it.
The Impetuous Heiress
Lady Alicia is the daughter of the Duke of Morland. She is beautiful, smart, who gets bored easily, and spoiled. She is unmarried she hasn’t found a man who can hold her attention for long. As with most women who are use to getting their way they can be trying and unkind. The Earl of Cairnyllin is a Scottish nobleman he doesn’t think much of the ton and feels that they are not honest and lacking in sincerity and just not someone he wants to be around.
Alicia is attracted to Ian when he does not return her attraction she does her best to pay him back by going after his sister and tearing how her reputation. No one best her and revenge is so sweet. It is very hard to like this character that is out only for herself. As the story goes on she become more likable as she changes and becomes kinder. This is a story full of misunderstandings which will take some time to work out. Both Alicia and Ian are the easiest people to get to know or even like. But with time all things can be worked out and they might just find their true love.
I thought both stories were well written and very entertaining for the time period they were written in. This is a very talented author that gives you a wonderful story. It is nice to read her work from 30 years ago and compare it to how she writes today. She has always given us wonderful characters that were quite entertaining with a wonderful plot and nothing has changed from back than to her writing today. There is just a little more of the passion that authors are allow to write today that they were not allowed to write back then. I really enjoyed both stories that I had read before when I was younger.
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Rivals of Fortune
Joanna is a young woman her heart is broken the man she loves has married another woman when it was thought he would marry her. When Peter and his wife moves back she finds her feelings for him was not love. Once meeting his wife she feels sorry for him for being married to suck a snob of a woman. With Peter’s return his wife’s brother comes with them he catches Joann’s attention but he is just like his sister acting superior to everyone. Then she meets Jonathan he is easy going and a pleasure to be around.
Joann finds that what she believes to be true is not as she learns people are just not what they appear to be. Looking deep than the surfaces she finds people are not very honest with leaves her wondering who to believe and give her trust to.
With the mystery of a possible hidden treasure her father helps to try to find it. It isn’t long before they find that someone else is looking for it at night. It isn’t long before the dig becomes dangerous when the unknown person becomes desperate to find the treasure and will stop at nothing to get it.
The Impetuous Heiress
Lady Alicia is the daughter of the Duke of Morland. She is beautiful, smart, who gets bored easily, and spoiled. She is unmarried she hasn’t found a man who can hold her attention for long. As with most women who are use to getting their way they can be trying and unkind. The Earl of Cairnyllin is a Scottish nobleman he doesn’t think much of the ton and feels that they are not honest and lacking in sincerity and just not someone he wants to be around.
Alicia is attracted to Ian when he does not return her attraction she does her best to pay him back by going after his sister and tearing how her reputation. No one best her and revenge is so sweet. It is very hard to like this character that is out only for herself. As the story goes on she become more likable as she changes and becomes kinder. This is a story full of misunderstandings which will take some time to work out. Both Alicia and Ian are the easiest people to get to know or even like. But with time all things can be worked out and they might just find their true love.
I thought both stories were well written and very entertaining for the time period they were written in. This is a very talented author that gives you a wonderful story. It is nice to read her work from 30 years ago and compare it to how she writes today. She has always given us wonderful characters that were quite entertaining with a wonderful plot and nothing has changed from back than to her writing today. There is just a little more of the passion that authors are allow to write today that they were not allowed to write back then. I really enjoyed both stories that I had read before when I was younger.
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May 8, 2016
Unfortunately this book didn't meet my expectations at all.
The stories were nice, well spun and on the whole well written but the heroines of both books and the hero of the second book made me scream of frustration more than once - literally.
Many heroines in historical romance books are somewhat immature so I don't have a problem with that in genereal but those young women were amazingly naive - or rather achingly naive and the hero was naive and self-righteous to such a degree that I would have loved to kick him over and over again even though I'm not a very violent person. And then, just like that, all is well because it was just a problem of infatuation and negated love clouding their senses - or something along those lines. Well.........
A young woman of 25 who has been circulating the ton for years on her own thinks that an accidental kiss (not her first, just saying!) means an immediate proposal of marriage, a young man takes every action, everything that happens, even decent proposals of marriage, as another proof of the sinful and decadent ways of the ton while completely ignoring that other people have a mind of their own and are able to use it.
At least the heroine in the first book has her young age and her inexperience as an excuse for her actions. Having never left the country yet, Joanne is not used to the ways of the ton, which makes it easy for unscrupulous people to take advantage of her and at least she did mature in the course of the book and chose the right guy even though I never felt her emotions neither for the one nor for the other of the gentlemen. Oh, speaking of Joanne - I was also upset with her former fiancé and couldn't understand the way he behaved. Actually I was always waiting for some explanation why he didn't marry her and I was absolutely shocked by the way he accepted everything his wife did. She may be a formidable woman but that - nope. Inexcusable and absolutely not understandable.
So, somehow this book and I didn't get along and I can't really recommend it.
The stories were nice, well spun and on the whole well written but the heroines of both books and the hero of the second book made me scream of frustration more than once - literally.
Many heroines in historical romance books are somewhat immature so I don't have a problem with that in genereal but those young women were amazingly naive - or rather achingly naive and the hero was naive and self-righteous to such a degree that I would have loved to kick him over and over again even though I'm not a very violent person. And then, just like that, all is well because it was just a problem of infatuation and negated love clouding their senses - or something along those lines. Well.........
A young woman of 25 who has been circulating the ton for years on her own thinks that an accidental kiss (not her first, just saying!) means an immediate proposal of marriage, a young man takes every action, everything that happens, even decent proposals of marriage, as another proof of the sinful and decadent ways of the ton while completely ignoring that other people have a mind of their own and are able to use it.
At least the heroine in the first book has her young age and her inexperience as an excuse for her actions. Having never left the country yet, Joanne is not used to the ways of the ton, which makes it easy for unscrupulous people to take advantage of her and at least she did mature in the course of the book and chose the right guy even though I never felt her emotions neither for the one nor for the other of the gentlemen. Oh, speaking of Joanne - I was also upset with her former fiancé and couldn't understand the way he behaved. Actually I was always waiting for some explanation why he didn't marry her and I was absolutely shocked by the way he accepted everything his wife did. She may be a formidable woman but that - nope. Inexcusable and absolutely not understandable.
So, somehow this book and I didn't get along and I can't really recommend it.
August 9, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
There are two books in this edition, which was a surprise to me when I started because I’d totally forgotten this fact.
Rivals of Fortune : This starts off with 18 year old Joanna Rowntree who is heartbroken because her first and only love has married another woman. Of course she doesn’t have to fret too long as she meets two very eligible bachelors, Jonathan, a neighbor and Sir Rollin, brother of the woman that married her betrothed. What follows is a hunt for treasure, a shift in Joanna’s perception between the fine sophisticated fashionable gentleman and the rough unfashionable colonizer and what her heart wants.
I like period romances quite a bit. Throw in two good looking men and a little adventure and I’m all in. Unfortunately this book was a disappointment to me. Joanna’s character is annoying, she’s childish, vapid, shallow and not particularly smart. I couldn’t fathom what Jonathan saw in her, she was never particularly nice to him or really nice to much of anyone. Not a fun read for me at all. But then I prefer books with strong female leads and Joanna was the antithesis of that.
The Impetuous Heiress : I did prefer this second story to the first but only marginally. Te story follows Lady Alicia, the toast of the ton. She’s beautiful, quick witted, refuses to get married and well, she’s sort of a b*tch. The Earl of Cairnyllin, Ian, a Scottish nobleman who despises the ton for what it did to his family is forced to debut his only sister. When Alicia and Ian’s paths cross there are instant fireworks and not all of the good kind.
Alicia wasn’t really a likeable character and though she does become much nicer as person as the story progresses I’m not sure I’d want to root for the ‘mean girl’ to be honest. Ian got on my nerves far more than Alicia did with all his high handed preaching about morals and how any woman who is attracted to him must be one with loose morals.
Both stories have interesting plot ideas, however I found this a rather disappointing read.
There are two books in this edition, which was a surprise to me when I started because I’d totally forgotten this fact.
Rivals of Fortune : This starts off with 18 year old Joanna Rowntree who is heartbroken because her first and only love has married another woman. Of course she doesn’t have to fret too long as she meets two very eligible bachelors, Jonathan, a neighbor and Sir Rollin, brother of the woman that married her betrothed. What follows is a hunt for treasure, a shift in Joanna’s perception between the fine sophisticated fashionable gentleman and the rough unfashionable colonizer and what her heart wants.
I like period romances quite a bit. Throw in two good looking men and a little adventure and I’m all in. Unfortunately this book was a disappointment to me. Joanna’s character is annoying, she’s childish, vapid, shallow and not particularly smart. I couldn’t fathom what Jonathan saw in her, she was never particularly nice to him or really nice to much of anyone. Not a fun read for me at all. But then I prefer books with strong female leads and Joanna was the antithesis of that.
The Impetuous Heiress : I did prefer this second story to the first but only marginally. Te story follows Lady Alicia, the toast of the ton. She’s beautiful, quick witted, refuses to get married and well, she’s sort of a b*tch. The Earl of Cairnyllin, Ian, a Scottish nobleman who despises the ton for what it did to his family is forced to debut his only sister. When Alicia and Ian’s paths cross there are instant fireworks and not all of the good kind.
Alicia wasn’t really a likeable character and though she does become much nicer as person as the story progresses I’m not sure I’d want to root for the ‘mean girl’ to be honest. Ian got on my nerves far more than Alicia did with all his high handed preaching about morals and how any woman who is attracted to him must be one with loose morals.
Both stories have interesting plot ideas, however I found this a rather disappointing read.
May 15, 2016
A two fold review. This will be a little different for me.
These are a buy book. Why your screaming? I am delighted to explain. Both of these stories are written in a time of innocence of writing. They are light and funny and immature. The characters grow within the story on both of them. I enjoyed reading and longed for the yesterday when regencies were so innocent and sweet. Does not mean I do not enjoy many of the reads today but........
Now for the rest...
Rivals of Fortune. A completely immature heroine that matures as she goes through the different trials of growing up while falling in love and being tricked. I admit to alternating between wanting to spank her and hug her when she finally gets it right. The years of innocence shows in this book. I loved the trials as she grew. I admit to being irritated at one of the male characters for being such a whooooosshhh... But.... another side of the story. If you keep in mind the years these were originally written and you liked the historical regencies of that time you will enjoy a visit to yesteryear.
The Impetuous Heiress......This was a little more updated however, I enjoyed it as much as I did Rivals of Fortune. I like strong characters and stories with plots. This author has a good way of telling a story that makes you want to read more even if they are innocent and perhaps not as revealing as this eras historicals are. Her historical writing is smooth and transitions wonderfully. She has a style of writing that has a little suspense, a little love and humor and then comes the passion and strength. You will definitely enjoy both of these books.
I was given this edition of these books in return for an honest review.. My review is 5 stars for the time and 4 stars for this era. They are both buy books!
My thanks for the ARC copies. Regards, Anna Swedenmom
These are a buy book. Why your screaming? I am delighted to explain. Both of these stories are written in a time of innocence of writing. They are light and funny and immature. The characters grow within the story on both of them. I enjoyed reading and longed for the yesterday when regencies were so innocent and sweet. Does not mean I do not enjoy many of the reads today but........
Now for the rest...
Rivals of Fortune. A completely immature heroine that matures as she goes through the different trials of growing up while falling in love and being tricked. I admit to alternating between wanting to spank her and hug her when she finally gets it right. The years of innocence shows in this book. I loved the trials as she grew. I admit to being irritated at one of the male characters for being such a whooooosshhh... But.... another side of the story. If you keep in mind the years these were originally written and you liked the historical regencies of that time you will enjoy a visit to yesteryear.
The Impetuous Heiress......This was a little more updated however, I enjoyed it as much as I did Rivals of Fortune. I like strong characters and stories with plots. This author has a good way of telling a story that makes you want to read more even if they are innocent and perhaps not as revealing as this eras historicals are. Her historical writing is smooth and transitions wonderfully. She has a style of writing that has a little suspense, a little love and humor and then comes the passion and strength. You will definitely enjoy both of these books.
I was given this edition of these books in return for an honest review.. My review is 5 stars for the time and 4 stars for this era. They are both buy books!
My thanks for the ARC copies. Regards, Anna Swedenmom
October 17, 2020
so enjoyed this pair of novellas
April 19, 2016
To start with, I did not realize when I requested to read these novels that they are considered "vintage regencies" having first been published back in the early 1980's. Its easy when reading these stories to see how far the genre has progressed as these novels were not what I was expecting at all.
The characters are under-developed (to the point of annoying), the plots are transparent, and I was most annoyed with the way the writing jumped. For instance, one paragraph in Rivals of Fortune goes like this "Frederick, whatever are you doing here?" cried the girl. Unfortunately there were numerous instances of the author switching back and forth between calling the main character by their given names, and then reverting back to calling them "the girl" or in some cases "the other". It made parts of this story hard to follow when trying to determine who was speaking what.
Overall, these are clean romances, and those who enjoy an older style regency will certainly enjoy these two tales, they just were not for me.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
The characters are under-developed (to the point of annoying), the plots are transparent, and I was most annoyed with the way the writing jumped. For instance, one paragraph in Rivals of Fortune goes like this "Frederick, whatever are you doing here?" cried the girl. Unfortunately there were numerous instances of the author switching back and forth between calling the main character by their given names, and then reverting back to calling them "the girl" or in some cases "the other". It made parts of this story hard to follow when trying to determine who was speaking what.
Overall, these are clean romances, and those who enjoy an older style regency will certainly enjoy these two tales, they just were not for me.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
March 29, 2016
I received this eARC copy from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest review.
Two books in one , for the first one we have Johanne Rowntree who suffers from a so called broken heart when her sweetheart married another, she didn't have long to nurse her broken heart because she has two new suitors to deal with her American slightly rough but down to earth neighbor or her old sweethearts wife's brother the dashing rogue Rollin Denby how's a girl to choose! For the second one, Lady Alicia Alston is the spoiled brat of a duke who usually has a fit when things don't go her way as it happened with Ian the Earl of Cairnyllin , he doesn't give a fig about the "ton" and their ways he believes in honor and family. Alicia is attracted to Ian but when her feelings are not returned she will try anything to change his mind even if that means ruining his sister! All in all this story was pretty entertaining I give it a four star review !
Two books in one , for the first one we have Johanne Rowntree who suffers from a so called broken heart when her sweetheart married another, she didn't have long to nurse her broken heart because she has two new suitors to deal with her American slightly rough but down to earth neighbor or her old sweethearts wife's brother the dashing rogue Rollin Denby how's a girl to choose! For the second one, Lady Alicia Alston is the spoiled brat of a duke who usually has a fit when things don't go her way as it happened with Ian the Earl of Cairnyllin , he doesn't give a fig about the "ton" and their ways he believes in honor and family. Alicia is attracted to Ian but when her feelings are not returned she will try anything to change his mind even if that means ruining his sister! All in all this story was pretty entertaining I give it a four star review !
May 3, 2016
I enjoy reading Jane's stories. I try to get every book that I can. She wrote this as a real Recency. I found a lot of the olden words used back then. This is a pair of stories. This really makes you fall into this Recency era. I liked this duo and recommend this to everyone to read it. I like the strong women and the Know-It-All men. Every once and awhile you will want to bang their heads together. I couldn't put this read down. I hope you choose to read both of these stories. Don't let it get away. I hope you enjoy reading these stories. You won't regret it!
I have this book for an honest review for NetGalley.
I have this book for an honest review for NetGalley.
May 26, 2016
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rivals is a very interesting story. There are characters of every type, some likable, some not so much. Personally I think Frederick should be locked in the cellar he likes so much until he learns some manners and adjusts his attitude. Jonathan is an easy to love hero, Joanna is a bit of a ditz, Sir Rollin and his sister are a pair of arrogant ignorant jerks.
The Impetuous Heiress is pretty funny. Ian and Alicia are explosive together and Marianne is spunky. This is an exciting tale about how the pompous fall. In love and from their high places.
Rivals is a very interesting story. There are characters of every type, some likable, some not so much. Personally I think Frederick should be locked in the cellar he likes so much until he learns some manners and adjusts his attitude. Jonathan is an easy to love hero, Joanna is a bit of a ditz, Sir Rollin and his sister are a pair of arrogant ignorant jerks.
The Impetuous Heiress is pretty funny. Ian and Alicia are explosive together and Marianne is spunky. This is an exciting tale about how the pompous fall. In love and from their high places.
October 20, 2016
This book really surprised me. At the beginning, I wasn't sure if I'd really enjoy it because the main characters weren't really that likable. But over the course of the story, the author shows us just through the interactions between Alicia and Ian that first perceptions can be wrong, and it's never too late to grow as a person. The story definitely had a Pride and Prejudice feel to it, but did not copy it. Towards the end of the story, I was happily anticipating the HEA that the characters kept trying to deny themselves. Definitely an enjoyable read.
May 4, 2016
Joanna Rowntree feels her life is over when her true love marries someone else. When two newcomers move into nearby estates and both show an interest in her, she finds that she’s still very much alive.
I tried getting into this book but couldn’t. I didn’t really care for Joanna’s character right from the beginning. Plus it seemed to jump characters too quickly for me to really be able to keep track.
**I received a copy of this story from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I tried getting into this book but couldn’t. I didn’t really care for Joanna’s character right from the beginning. Plus it seemed to jump characters too quickly for me to really be able to keep track.
**I received a copy of this story from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
December 31, 2020
Loved both stories for different reasons. Reviewed them separately under their own titles.
Both are clean and well written.
The first is a slow paced romance with some mystery where the female main character does some growing before reaching a happy ending.
The second story is more quickly paced and revolves around two obnoxious characters that I quickly loved to hate. The two are forced to evolve and eventually deserve their happy ending.
Lots of great side characters in both stories.
Both are clean and well written.
The first is a slow paced romance with some mystery where the female main character does some growing before reaching a happy ending.
The second story is more quickly paced and revolves around two obnoxious characters that I quickly loved to hate. The two are forced to evolve and eventually deserve their happy ending.
Lots of great side characters in both stories.
March 25, 2016
I received a free copy from NetGalley for an honest review. This book contains 2 stories. Overall, I found both stories to be uninspiring and boring. Rival of fortune just demonstrated an immature girl who was clueless to her feelings. Overall, all the characters seemed lacking any depth. I didn't enjoy either story.
May 8, 2016
There are 2 books in this offering. I found myself chuckling ,shaking my head at the actions of the heroines and wondering as to the mystery presented. Writing is delightful and love the secondary characters. Will be reading more from this author.
Ebook from netgalley thanks to the publishers
Ebook from netgalley thanks to the publishers
October 19, 2016
Free read. When a Scottish Lord decides Lady Alicia is too London for him, it opens heart ache for both of them. She tries to soften his character but he thinks she is just permissive. Takes a while for everyone to be on the same page. Good story and I enjoyed reading it.
June 19, 2016
Ashford is quickly becoming one of my favourite regency romance authors
did-not-finish
December 2, 2020DNF. Boring and silly. Not like more recent books.
April 28, 2017
The first story in the book started off quite difficult to read. The heroine was excessively stupid and I almost put it down more than half way because I could barely read how annoying and stupid she was - no perception of society or motives and very childish, maybe appropriate for her age but still hard to read through. She improves by the end of the book but I wish the ending was expanded on and drawn out more to actually enjoy her finally seeing the light.
Luckily the second book was wayyyyy better than the first - which is where most of the marks of the review comes from. It was so good but so short, I finished it in two hours or so. The heroine is the complete opposite in the second book and the story was very interesting. Again my only criticism is that the ending would be fleshed out more to be enjoyed instead of abruptly ending.
Luckily the second book was wayyyyy better than the first - which is where most of the marks of the review comes from. It was so good but so short, I finished it in two hours or so. The heroine is the complete opposite in the second book and the story was very interesting. Again my only criticism is that the ending would be fleshed out more to be enjoyed instead of abruptly ending.
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