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To Warm a Wintered Heart
A Clean, Regency Romance After an uneventful season in Bath, Miss Charlotte Rosebury returns home to Warwickshire, looking forward to a visit from her mother’s friend. Their expected guest, Mrs. Worthington, has promised that her son will be accompanying her, and as Charlotte has only ever heard stories of the gentleman who rarely leaves his Yorkshire estate, she is most pleased to meet him. But when her warm welcome is returned with a fierce frown from the handsome man, she cannot help but long to be free of him and his blue-eyed glare. Despite his mother’s protests, Mr. Gabriel Worthington had made the decision long ago to remain unmarried, but when he meets Charlotte, doubts about his decision creep into his fearful mind, and he wishes for nothing more than to flee from the woman and never return. For weeks, the two are forced to live within the same home, and though they provoke one another with teasing and stolen glances, an unlikely friendship blossoms between them, a friendship that grows stronger than either of them had expected. Will Gabriel concede to the choices binding his heart, or can Charlotte’s warmth be just the thing to strengthen their love and, at last, end their fears?
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2016
78 people are currently reading
590 people want to read
About the author
Deborah M. Hathaway
21 books507 followersDeborah M. Hathaway graduated from Utah State University with a degree in English and Creative Writing. As a young girl, she devoured Jane Austen's novels while watching and re-watching every adaptation of Pride & Prejudice she could, entirely captured by all things Regency and romance.
Throughout her life, she wrote many short stories, poems, and essays, but it was not until after her marriage that she was finally able to complete her first romance novel, attributing the completion to her courtship with, and love of, her charming, English husband.
Deborah finds her inspiration for her novels in her everyday experiences with her husband and children and during her travels to the United Kingdom, where she draws on the beauty of the country in such places as Ireland, Yorkshire, and her beloved Cornwall.
Throughout her life, she wrote many short stories, poems, and essays, but it was not until after her marriage that she was finally able to complete her first romance novel, attributing the completion to her courtship with, and love of, her charming, English husband.
Deborah finds her inspiration for her novels in her everyday experiences with her husband and children and during her travels to the United Kingdom, where she draws on the beauty of the country in such places as Ireland, Yorkshire, and her beloved Cornwall.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
March 21, 2017
I've enjoyed Ms. Hathaway's other books and was excited when she wrote another regency. And isn't that cover pretty?!?!?!
Our heroine Charlotte is kind and spunky and was a likable lead. Gabriel has his issues, but was likable in his own way. He spends a good chunk of the story avoiding his feelings for Charlotte, which can be entertaining at times. Charlotte and Gabriel get off to a rocky start, he's broody and standoffish and she is friendly and kind. A kindness he misinterprets as her wanting to catch a husband. Throughout the book they kind of bounce around from friendship to frenemies and have some fun back-and-forth. Of course, stories like this can make you want to shake the characters at times.
Overall, this is a sweet romance, with charming settings and likable characters. It has all the elements that I enjoy in a regency woven into a sweet story of two people having to overcome personal and outside obstacles to be together. Recommend to fans of sweet regency romances.
Content: Clean romance, no language, and mild violence
Our heroine Charlotte is kind and spunky and was a likable lead. Gabriel has his issues, but was likable in his own way. He spends a good chunk of the story avoiding his feelings for Charlotte, which can be entertaining at times. Charlotte and Gabriel get off to a rocky start, he's broody and standoffish and she is friendly and kind. A kindness he misinterprets as her wanting to catch a husband. Throughout the book they kind of bounce around from friendship to frenemies and have some fun back-and-forth. Of course, stories like this can make you want to shake the characters at times.
Overall, this is a sweet romance, with charming settings and likable characters. It has all the elements that I enjoy in a regency woven into a sweet story of two people having to overcome personal and outside obstacles to be together. Recommend to fans of sweet regency romances.
Content: Clean romance, no language, and mild violence
January 6, 2017
I've found a new author to follow! I'm a fan of Regency romances so I loved the setting and the details of the time period which enhanced but didn't overshadow the story. It actually had tones of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice with the negative first encounter of the main characters, and the somewhat formal language transported me to the era but couldn't hide the story's foundation of heart and emotion and a light dash of humor.
Charlotte and Gabriel had a rough start with the assumptions he made of her and misunderstandings that ensued, but once they became more friendly it was fun seeing their attraction grow even thought they tried to fight their feelings. There are several great scenes with high romantic tension and swoon-worthy kissing :)
The rude insinuations from various socialites to Charlotte's face was a bit overkill and made them seem like caricatures, but it did showcase her wit in gracefully handling the cattiness.
The theme of overcoming fear of loss and allowing love and happiness in Gabriel's life brought depth to the story as he struggles with his growing attachment to Charlotte. She was extremely kind for giving him chance after chance, but she also didn't let him get away with his unsociable attitude which was refreshing. They had an interesting dynamic that shifted throughout the book and kept me glued to the pages. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from Deborah M. Hathaway!
(I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher; all opinions in this review are my own)
Charlotte and Gabriel had a rough start with the assumptions he made of her and misunderstandings that ensued, but once they became more friendly it was fun seeing their attraction grow even thought they tried to fight their feelings. There are several great scenes with high romantic tension and swoon-worthy kissing :)
The rude insinuations from various socialites to Charlotte's face was a bit overkill and made them seem like caricatures, but it did showcase her wit in gracefully handling the cattiness.
The theme of overcoming fear of loss and allowing love and happiness in Gabriel's life brought depth to the story as he struggles with his growing attachment to Charlotte. She was extremely kind for giving him chance after chance, but she also didn't let him get away with his unsociable attitude which was refreshing. They had an interesting dynamic that shifted throughout the book and kept me glued to the pages. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from Deborah M. Hathaway!
(I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher; all opinions in this review are my own)
December 19, 2016
There are many reasons why a heart turns cold. Gabriel is determined to never marry, but his choice was made long before he met Charlotte, the daughter of his mother's good friend. I love the first encounter between these two--full of assumptions, sass, and pride. The stage is set right away for some entertaining friction between two opposites.
Charlotte is so kind and cheerful in all that she does. She seems to entrance Gabriel and he can't resist forging a friendship with her, against his better judgment. Gabriel is the epitome of brooding. As he battles his heart, his true personality shines through the cloudy moments of his sulking. Their interactions made my happy heart giddy. I found myself with a silly smile on my face, laughing at the situations that arose and the words that were exchanged, as I eagerly devoured the story.
The writing style is almost whimsical and engaged me from the first page. I adored the characters and loved the relationships. I love books like this--the setting, characters, and circumstances are so well done that I feel a part of the story and I didn't want it to end. This is a great read for those who love fun, Regency romance!
Content: mild romance.
*I received a copy from the author. I voluntarily reviewed this book and all thoughts and opinions are my own.*
Charlotte is so kind and cheerful in all that she does. She seems to entrance Gabriel and he can't resist forging a friendship with her, against his better judgment. Gabriel is the epitome of brooding. As he battles his heart, his true personality shines through the cloudy moments of his sulking. Their interactions made my happy heart giddy. I found myself with a silly smile on my face, laughing at the situations that arose and the words that were exchanged, as I eagerly devoured the story.
The writing style is almost whimsical and engaged me from the first page. I adored the characters and loved the relationships. I love books like this--the setting, characters, and circumstances are so well done that I feel a part of the story and I didn't want it to end. This is a great read for those who love fun, Regency romance!
Content: mild romance.
*I received a copy from the author. I voluntarily reviewed this book and all thoughts and opinions are my own.*
November 12, 2016
Charlotte is happy to be home from their season in Bath. She is even happier when she discovers that her mother's long time friend, Mrs. Worthington, is coming for a visit. But what's even better? Mrs. Worthington has somehow convinced her son, Gabriel, to accompany her. Charlotte has only ever heard stories of Gabriel and is definitely looking forward to meeting him. But when they finally arrive and Gabriel is far from agreeable, Charlotte finds herself trying to work extra hard to be his friend. How could someone as sweet as Mrs. Worthington have such a horrible son?!
Gabriel had only agreed to accompany his mother to Brightwood when he thought that the Roseburys had no daughters out in society yet. But when he discovers the truth he is beyond frustrated. He can't believe his mother is at it again. How many times does he have to tell her that he has sworn off marriage? He thought she understood his reasons for never getting married. Surely the Roseburys have something to do with his mother's latest scheme. Why else would they be so insistent on him coming for a visit. Well, he will set them all straight. He has no intentions of marrying anyone, especially Charlotte.
Charlotte and Gabriel definitely did not get off to a good start. While Charlotte does her best to befriend Gabriel, Gabriel does his best to discourage any contact with Charlotte. He cannot allow his heart to soften. He must stay strong in his resolve to never be married. But there is just something about Charlotte that Gabriel can't ignore. The more time they spend together, the better they get to know one another, the softer Gabriel's heart becomes. Between all their banter, misunderstandings, chess games, time in the stables, walks in the gardens, Gabriel can't get Charlotte out of his mind or his heart. Can he remain just friends with Charlotte? Or will he finally listen to his heart, take a chance on love and reach for his happily ever after with her?
I absolutely LOVED Charlotte and Gabriel! Their story is just what I needed! I found myself laughing out loud, growling in frustration, getting teary eyed, sitting on the edge of my seat, letting out little dreamy sighs and smiling throughout the book. The feels were definitely real and I enjoyed every single moment I spent reading this book. :)
As some of you may know, I burned myself out on historical and regency era books a couple of years ago and I am slowly trying to get myself back into them. And I have to say that To Warm a Wintered Heart did NOT disappoint! You know a book has completely sucked me in when I am contemplating calling in sick to work. But alas, I chose to be an adult and go. But I did squeeze in as much reading as I could on my breaks... ;)
This is my second book by Ms. Hathaway and just like the first book, I absolutely loved it! I can't wait to see what other adventures she has in store for us!
And of course my review just wouldn't be complete without my casting! I absolutely LOVE these two and were able to picture them throughout the entire book! What do you think?!
Content: Mild Violence
*I received a copy of this book from the author to voluntarily review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
November 14, 2019
1.75 stars.
I have enjoyed other books by this author, but I didn’t really enjoy this one. Not much happened and the interactions between the MCs were repetitive. He was cold and rude. He apologized. She forgave him. Over and over again. The drama thrown in at the end also didn’t make much sense.
I liked that this was clean and that the hero wasn’t a rake, but the push and pull dragged on for way too long. The secondary characters were also caricatures of real people. Having read this author’s later works, I have to say that her writing has improved with time. I’ll just stick with the more recent books.
I have enjoyed other books by this author, but I didn’t really enjoy this one. Not much happened and the interactions between the MCs were repetitive. He was cold and rude. He apologized. She forgave him. Over and over again. The drama thrown in at the end also didn’t make much sense.
I liked that this was clean and that the hero wasn’t a rake, but the push and pull dragged on for way too long. The secondary characters were also caricatures of real people. Having read this author’s later works, I have to say that her writing has improved with time. I’ll just stick with the more recent books.
January 10, 2017
Deborah Hathaway is a new author for me. I haven't read any of her books before now and I'm so glad I got the chance! This book was so good and after finishing it, I went right to Goodreads and Amazon to see what else I could find by her. I'm excited to read the next book I picked up. I've already started it! Yay for finding new authors to follow!
Charlotte is the kind of person I would want to be around. She is kindness personified. I love how sincere and good Charlotte is and how hard she tries to give people the benefit of the doubt. She knows how to stand up for herself but in a classy way. I really loved that. Gabriel really tests Charlotte's character on every front but Charlotte is patient and forgiving if she is anything.
Gabriel is a bit deluded and self absorbed. He is one ornery man most of the time. I don't think anyone could walk away from Charlotte unchanged though, so Gabriel is doomed to be wooed to the light eventually.
I loved the gentle way this book flowed. I was so invested and wrapped up in both Charlotte and Gabriel's stories. Theirs was a dance of sorts- coming together, drawing apart, sometimes smiling, other times not. Circling around and around.
If you love regency, you really need to check out this book. It is worth it. I enjoyed every moment with this book!
Content: Clean
- I received a copy of this book from the author. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
Charlotte is the kind of person I would want to be around. She is kindness personified. I love how sincere and good Charlotte is and how hard she tries to give people the benefit of the doubt. She knows how to stand up for herself but in a classy way. I really loved that. Gabriel really tests Charlotte's character on every front but Charlotte is patient and forgiving if she is anything.
Gabriel is a bit deluded and self absorbed. He is one ornery man most of the time. I don't think anyone could walk away from Charlotte unchanged though, so Gabriel is doomed to be wooed to the light eventually.
I loved the gentle way this book flowed. I was so invested and wrapped up in both Charlotte and Gabriel's stories. Theirs was a dance of sorts- coming together, drawing apart, sometimes smiling, other times not. Circling around and around.
If you love regency, you really need to check out this book. It is worth it. I enjoyed every moment with this book!
Content: Clean
- I received a copy of this book from the author. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
December 10, 2016
There is something about the Regency time period that I love. This book is set during that time so it made it a "want to read" when the author contacted me and asked me to read her book.
Charlotte is a young woman with an independent mind. She is full of love and compassion to those around her. She smiles through her afflictions. One of the main affliction is Gabriel, the son of her mother's dear friend. They find themselves spending time together when he and his mother come to visit. Their frosty introduction thaws as they begin to see the qualities the other possesses. Soon this becomes a reluctant friendship, of course, that usually leads to love and romance.
I liked how Deborah M. Hathaway presented her characters. Both are flawed. They have circumstances in their past that hold them back from living life to the fullest. As they begin to trust each other, some of their experiences are revealed. That added depth to the characters for me and I enjoyed the story a little more.
This is a clean romance. There is kissing and a "villain" who tries to push Charlotte into more than kissing.
Charlotte is a young woman with an independent mind. She is full of love and compassion to those around her. She smiles through her afflictions. One of the main affliction is Gabriel, the son of her mother's dear friend. They find themselves spending time together when he and his mother come to visit. Their frosty introduction thaws as they begin to see the qualities the other possesses. Soon this becomes a reluctant friendship, of course, that usually leads to love and romance.
I liked how Deborah M. Hathaway presented her characters. Both are flawed. They have circumstances in their past that hold them back from living life to the fullest. As they begin to trust each other, some of their experiences are revealed. That added depth to the characters for me and I enjoyed the story a little more.
This is a clean romance. There is kissing and a "villain" who tries to push Charlotte into more than kissing.
December 3, 2016
To Warm a Wintered Heart by Deborah M. Hathaway
I am a huge regency fan so I was very excited when this book was offered to me to review!
The cover is absolutely gorgeous and I couldn't wait to dive right into the story!
Hathaway does a beautiful job setting the stage, describing the surroundings without going
overboard and helping the reader to get to know the characters. We really get to know and
follow Charlotte's story in the book with an occasional look into Gabriel's point of view.
Charlotte was super sweet, kind, yet she had a bit of a temper which I loved. I could
completely relate to her when at times she could not help but speak her mind! Her sister Julia
was a delightful character that was larger than life! Gabriel was the stubborn, prideful,
seriously I wanted to punch him in the face character! I mean would the guy ever get a clue?
I kept thinking he would get a clue and then he would screw it up again! But it made for a
great story and I read the book quickly! It was engaging, had enough drama and some
action as well to keep me reading! I loved that Hathaway included an epilogue! Most
authors just leave me hanging, wondering and wanting more. But Hathaway left me a nicely
wrapped present with the epilogue! If you love a good clean regency novel then you will
absolutely enjoy To Warm a Wintered Heart!
I am a huge regency fan so I was very excited when this book was offered to me to review!
The cover is absolutely gorgeous and I couldn't wait to dive right into the story!
Hathaway does a beautiful job setting the stage, describing the surroundings without going
overboard and helping the reader to get to know the characters. We really get to know and
follow Charlotte's story in the book with an occasional look into Gabriel's point of view.
Charlotte was super sweet, kind, yet she had a bit of a temper which I loved. I could
completely relate to her when at times she could not help but speak her mind! Her sister Julia
was a delightful character that was larger than life! Gabriel was the stubborn, prideful,
seriously I wanted to punch him in the face character! I mean would the guy ever get a clue?
I kept thinking he would get a clue and then he would screw it up again! But it made for a
great story and I read the book quickly! It was engaging, had enough drama and some
action as well to keep me reading! I loved that Hathaway included an epilogue! Most
authors just leave me hanging, wondering and wanting more. But Hathaway left me a nicely
wrapped present with the epilogue! If you love a good clean regency novel then you will
absolutely enjoy To Warm a Wintered Heart!
April 24, 2020
This book got repetitive fast. The MC Gaberiel would do something or say something, apologize, she would forgive him and they rinse and repeat. By the middle of this book it began to drag and by the end I really really wanted it to end. Please God make it end.
April 8, 2017
Thaw
Sometimes our fears can paralyze our future and the joys that could be had. Melting a frozen determination can take great patience... But be worth it.
Sometimes our fears can paralyze our future and the joys that could be had. Melting a frozen determination can take great patience... But be worth it.
December 14, 2016
A Sweet Regency Romance
I enjoyed Deborah Hathaway's two previous western books. I am very impressed with her switch to the regency era!
Mr. Gabriel Worthington has promised himself that he would never marry. When he goes with his mother to visit her dear friends, the Roseburys. He is dismayed to find that he was misled about the age of their daughters. Miss Charlotte Rosebury is not the young child he expected, but a beautiful and kind young woman.
Mr. Worthington's rudeness rivals that of Mr. Darcy with scowls, abrupt departures, and an occasionally caustic tongue. Like Mr. Darcy, when he does allow himself to love, Mr. Worthington is everything that is amiable, charming, and swoon-worthy.
While Mr. Worthington did blow hot and cold on occasion, I loved when Charlotte would call him on it. She was a very kind character, but had gumption when she needed it. I loved the banter between these two characters.
The romance was sweet. Deborah Hathaway captured the vulnerability, tension, and hope of falling in love. I was on the edge of my seat with every yearning glance and stolen kiss. There were so many great scenes in this book: moments of deepening regard, and moments that made me laugh out loud.
If you enjoy clean regency romances, look no further. Read this. Now.
Content: clean (no language, some kissing, mild violence)
I enjoyed Deborah Hathaway's two previous western books. I am very impressed with her switch to the regency era!
Mr. Gabriel Worthington has promised himself that he would never marry. When he goes with his mother to visit her dear friends, the Roseburys. He is dismayed to find that he was misled about the age of their daughters. Miss Charlotte Rosebury is not the young child he expected, but a beautiful and kind young woman.
Mr. Worthington's rudeness rivals that of Mr. Darcy with scowls, abrupt departures, and an occasionally caustic tongue. Like Mr. Darcy, when he does allow himself to love, Mr. Worthington is everything that is amiable, charming, and swoon-worthy.
While Mr. Worthington did blow hot and cold on occasion, I loved when Charlotte would call him on it. She was a very kind character, but had gumption when she needed it. I loved the banter between these two characters.
The romance was sweet. Deborah Hathaway captured the vulnerability, tension, and hope of falling in love. I was on the edge of my seat with every yearning glance and stolen kiss. There were so many great scenes in this book: moments of deepening regard, and moments that made me laugh out loud.
If you enjoy clean regency romances, look no further. Read this. Now.
Content: clean (no language, some kissing, mild violence)
October 26, 2018
This will warm you through and through
I absolutely loved this story! The budding romance was so realistic and sweet. I really liked that even though there was an almost kiss at one point (or two) things didn't jump into kissing at the very next opportunity, rather the relationship took a step back, developed deeper, and then progressed.
The parry of insults and arguments was amusing and shocking. The forgiveness unforgettable. This is a story that stays with you long after the last page!
On a steaminess level I would rate this a pleasant PG.
This read is definitely worthy of a repeat!!
I absolutely loved this story! The budding romance was so realistic and sweet. I really liked that even though there was an almost kiss at one point (or two) things didn't jump into kissing at the very next opportunity, rather the relationship took a step back, developed deeper, and then progressed.
The parry of insults and arguments was amusing and shocking. The forgiveness unforgettable. This is a story that stays with you long after the last page!
On a steaminess level I would rate this a pleasant PG.
This read is definitely worthy of a repeat!!
April 30, 2017
This book is a true find for lovers or the Regency find and fans of Pride and Prejudice, as I feel this tale has a lot of similar elements to its’ story.
Charlotte is sweet, kind young girl, eager to welcome Gabriel into her home for a visit with is mother.
Gabriel on the other hand, is not in the mood for another setup with an eligible female, and takes it upon himself to set her straight right from the start. Charlotte, who genuinely was only offering him friendship, is taken aback by his bluntness, and immediately stays away from the brooding Gabriel, leaving him to regret his harsh behaviour and rash assumptions.
As time passes, and he sees more of the real Charlotte, he is forced to admit to himself that he was an idiot to assume her friendliness was anything more than that, as he sees her kindness directed to all around her. And he starts to feel that the allurement he feels towards Charlotte is more than just a keen interest in her, but might just been true feelings he has convinced himself for years he would never feel.
This story had me immersed in the pages, rooting for the two of them, getting upset with Gabriel many, many times (wanting to slap him several times), and smiling in pride at the splendidness of Charlotte. She truly has the power to warm that man’s wintered heart, and luckily enough the right dose of patience to hang on for the long run it takes to get there.
This book had me eagerly reading, getting frustrated at times, laughing at the cleverness of Charlotte, and sometimes left me with that deep piercing pain of empathy as I experienced the loss, confusion and despair the characters went through. I enjoyed it immensely, and would recommend this book to any fans of this genre, of any readers out there looking to broaden their reading range. This is definitely a good Regency read to start with, with a good dose of the details specific to the era, without detracting from the core of the romance.
Charlotte is sweet, kind young girl, eager to welcome Gabriel into her home for a visit with is mother.
Gabriel on the other hand, is not in the mood for another setup with an eligible female, and takes it upon himself to set her straight right from the start. Charlotte, who genuinely was only offering him friendship, is taken aback by his bluntness, and immediately stays away from the brooding Gabriel, leaving him to regret his harsh behaviour and rash assumptions.
As time passes, and he sees more of the real Charlotte, he is forced to admit to himself that he was an idiot to assume her friendliness was anything more than that, as he sees her kindness directed to all around her. And he starts to feel that the allurement he feels towards Charlotte is more than just a keen interest in her, but might just been true feelings he has convinced himself for years he would never feel.
This story had me immersed in the pages, rooting for the two of them, getting upset with Gabriel many, many times (wanting to slap him several times), and smiling in pride at the splendidness of Charlotte. She truly has the power to warm that man’s wintered heart, and luckily enough the right dose of patience to hang on for the long run it takes to get there.
This book had me eagerly reading, getting frustrated at times, laughing at the cleverness of Charlotte, and sometimes left me with that deep piercing pain of empathy as I experienced the loss, confusion and despair the characters went through. I enjoyed it immensely, and would recommend this book to any fans of this genre, of any readers out there looking to broaden their reading range. This is definitely a good Regency read to start with, with a good dose of the details specific to the era, without detracting from the core of the romance.
October 10, 2021
3 stars was what I could come up with here because of Gabriel's annoying shilly~shallying but over all, this is still a good relatable and credible Romance considering where they both started. Gabriel did a Mr. Darcy~like conceit and put a deceiving colour into Charlotte's kind welcome to the unknown son of her mother's best friend. He thought he was dragged to Brightwood for a spot of match~making by his and her mother (quite True of course but Charlotte was not aware of it) and bluntly told Charlotte that he doubted her inherent kindness to him, a stranger newly arrived at her home... that it was just a ploy and asked her to stop her schemes with both mothers and that he had no plans of marrying Charlotte in particular or any other woman for that matter despite their mothers' obvious wishes... thus insulting her in her own home. And from that point on... this went from apologies... doubts about the sincerity of said apologies... acceptance of apologies then Gabriel would again run away from his developing feelings and repeat the process. There was a reason for Gabriel's blow hot, blow cold attitude but after giving in and kissing her that was tantamount to raising false hopes in their Timeline plus he was supposed to be a gentleman... Annoying.
October 25, 2019
*sigh* I really wanted to like this more than I did. But I was too annoyed with Gabriel. If I had been the heroine, I would’ve given up on him waaaay before the end of this book. Either he had to man up before the end, or the end needed to come sooner than it did. 🤷♀️
3 stars.
3 stars.
January 13, 2017
A great love story.
This was my first book from this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a great clean romance with interesting characters.
This was my first book from this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a great clean romance with interesting characters.
March 21, 2017
It was cute but frustrating!!! He was so playing her. So messed up.
January 5, 2019
2.5
Lost my patience by 60%. Hero’s wintered heart was impossible 😐
Lost my patience by 60%. Hero’s wintered heart was impossible 😐
March 23, 2020
**Actually a solid 4.5-rating**
I like this author; she is a new one to me. I like this kind of sweet, clean historical romance that doesn't get bogged down and seems simplistic but becomes complex in its simplicity - does that even make sense? Of course, the summary leads you to think one way, but then it just explodes off the page because of the manner in which the story unfolds, how the Author decides to structure certain events and just masterminds a perfectly amiable situation or several seemingly boring scenarios and then somehow manages to make intricacies and complexities out of mundane things.
By the summary it appears to be an extreme lighthearted fare - this is our singular scenario... grumpy man doesn't want marriage meets gregarious spinster who leans a little toward self-worth...Both with marriage heavily on their minds but both of them denying a certain truth. Charlotte's season has failed to spark a soulmate...and Gabriel wishes the matriarchal women in his life [mother & Aunts] would stop masterminding situations for women to flirt and push forth a marriage agenda toward him.
Even though this had no Pride & Prejudice outright retelling, there are strong Darcy & Lizzie vibes separately and then between these two. Charlotte is sunny and agreeable on most things but when she butts up against Gabriel's resistance to even simply being "friendly", she turns into this independent I-don'-need-no-man feminist. It's truly enjoyable; she doesn't NEED Gabriel to approve of her but it seems that her mother and his mother, who remained good friends, have tried and tried to match-make their offspring. So when Charlotte returns home, from being away, she learns that not only is her mother's best friend, Mrs. Worthington, coming to visit their meager home but she is bringing her son, Gabriel, who had to, literally, be drawn-n-quartered to tag along with her. He LOVES his ancestral home which he now controls since his father passed and his older brother died - he is now "man of the house" for his mother. And he begrudgingly travels with his mother to Charlotte's family's home...and he. just.doesn't. want.to.be.here. So much to the extent that upon arrival and catching sight of Charlotte and her younger sister, Julie[?], Gabriel instantly has a severe aversion to poor Charlotte because not only is she quite strikingly beautiful, but he takes all her pleasantries as "flirting" and trying to get him to like her enough to possibly flirt back and they can start a relationship toward marriage. He accuses Charlotte of masterminding with his own mother to match-make...and it starts to go down from there.
Gabriel is a wretch of a man, but it's oddly endearing because he is struggling not to succumb to Charlotte's easy charms. She such a kind & friendly woman and not like any of the flirty rich females who flounce and prance about him. He keeps trying to pigeonhole Charlotte into the same mold as all the women before her who have tried to marry him...so he becomes this terrible meanie to her. It's often outright and in front of their family members. He's quite abrasive but he does have his reasons, as Charlotte also has her reasons for not wanting marriage unless it is to a man who loves her beyond belief.
It was also sweet to see Charlotte and her sister have a bond so similar to Jane & Lizzie because they often talk about personal issues and men. Gabriel & Charlotte spend half of the first part of the book at her home, and then in the back end, Mrs. Worthington & Gabriel decide to return to their grand home [which is a freakin' mansion compared to Charlotte's]. Mrs. Worthington invites Charlotte to travel with them as her "companion" and, again, Gabriel is upset because he thinks people are finagling ways to pit him and Charlotte in close confines. He thought he'd be able to rid himself of his growing feelings by being far away, and now he learns Charlotte will be coming along with them and then staying at his family home for a few months.
It's a good ebb-and-flow from hate-to-friends-back-to-hate-back-to-friends-to-lovers. And it is cool to watch how comfortable Charlotte is in her own environment for the first part of the story and then when Gabriel thinks he is safe to exit to return home, it's interesting how comfortable he begins to feel in his own environment and becomes a different person toward Charlotte and how she changes, as well. It reminds me of the moment Lizzie sees Pemberley in Pride & Prejudice and it changes her outlook on Darcy, and Darcy changes his ways toward Lizzie as he sees her amongst his home, then gentles and becomes a man he hopes Lizzie can fall in love with. As I said, this book isn't full-on similar, but so many aspects shouted out a variety of comforting sameness, it was rather adorable and splendid to witness as I read. I will surely be reading other books by this author because this was a more than pleasant reading experience.
I like this author; she is a new one to me. I like this kind of sweet, clean historical romance that doesn't get bogged down and seems simplistic but becomes complex in its simplicity - does that even make sense? Of course, the summary leads you to think one way, but then it just explodes off the page because of the manner in which the story unfolds, how the Author decides to structure certain events and just masterminds a perfectly amiable situation or several seemingly boring scenarios and then somehow manages to make intricacies and complexities out of mundane things.
By the summary it appears to be an extreme lighthearted fare - this is our singular scenario... grumpy man doesn't want marriage meets gregarious spinster who leans a little toward self-worth...Both with marriage heavily on their minds but both of them denying a certain truth. Charlotte's season has failed to spark a soulmate...and Gabriel wishes the matriarchal women in his life [mother & Aunts] would stop masterminding situations for women to flirt and push forth a marriage agenda toward him.
Even though this had no Pride & Prejudice outright retelling, there are strong Darcy & Lizzie vibes separately and then between these two. Charlotte is sunny and agreeable on most things but when she butts up against Gabriel's resistance to even simply being "friendly", she turns into this independent I-don'-need-no-man feminist. It's truly enjoyable; she doesn't NEED Gabriel to approve of her but it seems that her mother and his mother, who remained good friends, have tried and tried to match-make their offspring. So when Charlotte returns home, from being away, she learns that not only is her mother's best friend, Mrs. Worthington, coming to visit their meager home but she is bringing her son, Gabriel, who had to, literally, be drawn-n-quartered to tag along with her. He LOVES his ancestral home which he now controls since his father passed and his older brother died - he is now "man of the house" for his mother. And he begrudgingly travels with his mother to Charlotte's family's home...and he. just.doesn't. want.to.be.here. So much to the extent that upon arrival and catching sight of Charlotte and her younger sister, Julie[?], Gabriel instantly has a severe aversion to poor Charlotte because not only is she quite strikingly beautiful, but he takes all her pleasantries as "flirting" and trying to get him to like her enough to possibly flirt back and they can start a relationship toward marriage. He accuses Charlotte of masterminding with his own mother to match-make...and it starts to go down from there.
Gabriel is a wretch of a man, but it's oddly endearing because he is struggling not to succumb to Charlotte's easy charms. She such a kind & friendly woman and not like any of the flirty rich females who flounce and prance about him. He keeps trying to pigeonhole Charlotte into the same mold as all the women before her who have tried to marry him...so he becomes this terrible meanie to her. It's often outright and in front of their family members. He's quite abrasive but he does have his reasons, as Charlotte also has her reasons for not wanting marriage unless it is to a man who loves her beyond belief.
It was also sweet to see Charlotte and her sister have a bond so similar to Jane & Lizzie because they often talk about personal issues and men. Gabriel & Charlotte spend half of the first part of the book at her home, and then in the back end, Mrs. Worthington & Gabriel decide to return to their grand home [which is a freakin' mansion compared to Charlotte's]. Mrs. Worthington invites Charlotte to travel with them as her "companion" and, again, Gabriel is upset because he thinks people are finagling ways to pit him and Charlotte in close confines. He thought he'd be able to rid himself of his growing feelings by being far away, and now he learns Charlotte will be coming along with them and then staying at his family home for a few months.
It's a good ebb-and-flow from hate-to-friends-back-to-hate-back-to-friends-to-lovers. And it is cool to watch how comfortable Charlotte is in her own environment for the first part of the story and then when Gabriel thinks he is safe to exit to return home, it's interesting how comfortable he begins to feel in his own environment and becomes a different person toward Charlotte and how she changes, as well. It reminds me of the moment Lizzie sees Pemberley in Pride & Prejudice and it changes her outlook on Darcy, and Darcy changes his ways toward Lizzie as he sees her amongst his home, then gentles and becomes a man he hopes Lizzie can fall in love with. As I said, this book isn't full-on similar, but so many aspects shouted out a variety of comforting sameness, it was rather adorable and splendid to witness as I read. I will surely be reading other books by this author because this was a more than pleasant reading experience.
March 7, 2017
This was a nice read that had me quite interested from the preview I read, so I bought the book to read the rest of it.
Someone already mentioned Gabriel’s resemblance to Darcy, and I also got that impression at the beginning, though it didn’t last. I think his behaviour had a bit more extreme bend to it, besides, the reasons for it were his own and quite different. Meanwhile, Charlotte’s kindness brought to mind Jane Bennet a lot, but unlike Bennets, we see how her family’s guidance and influence clearly helped to shape this side of her personality. I really liked her intelligence and cheerful positive attitude to life. However, her kindness didn’t prevent her from being assertive occasionally, even if she did feel guilty afterwards. But hey, this was entertaining to read and added complexity to heroine’s character.
Still, speaking of their developing relationship I wasn’t too crazy about the dynamics between Gabriel and Charlotte. Gabriel’s blowing hot and cold all the time and Charlotte’s feelings were yo-yoing accordingly since she was falling in love with him, this left her basically a little too vulnerable for my taste and a sitting duck in this relationship. Add a little too many instances of weak knees and fluttering heart whenever Charlotte found herself in Gabriel’s company and I imagine my reaction wasn’t what author had in mind when she wrote those words, though it felt more like ‘copy’ and ‘paste’. In my opinion her heart fluttered entirely too much, which I thought was ironic when I read the passage where Charlotte and Gabriel where counting how many times the vicar used his favourite word of the day in the sermon. I haven’t counted them, these two words were used very liberally throughout the book; the editor should have noticed and edited out at least ninety percent of them.
However, I have to admit that I don’t like when such sensory descriptions are used in the romances at all. So much so that reading books with heart, stomach and gut works, and wobbly knees too make me even doubt if I like romance as a genre at all. But then I remember that Gaskell’s North and South, and Jane Austin books are among my all-time top favourites, and none of them use bodily functions to describe character’s emotions, feelings and suspense of romance, and I see why their fame is so very well deserved. They don’t fall on convenient derivative means to convey romantic chemistry and to show developing relationship between a hero and a heroine. There was enough going on between Charlotte and Gabriel that I believe many such sensory reactions that were used in Hathaway’s book were quite superfluous. Unfortunately many contemporary authors who write romantic books seem to graduate from the same contemporary romance writers’ master-class where such derivative means are used a lot to infuse more romantic feeling and read at best like unnecessary addition or in worse cases they rely on them too much. This is very in vogue these days, and I believe many readers don’t have issues with this so they may be completely happy with the writing style here. Anyway, this definitely affected my rating, though not by much, because this is obviously a fashionable trend in writing and I dropped only half a star or so.
Overall it was an interesting story and I read it really quickly, especially considering that romance wasn’t for me. I was still curious how story and characters evolved.
Someone already mentioned Gabriel’s resemblance to Darcy, and I also got that impression at the beginning, though it didn’t last. I think his behaviour had a bit more extreme bend to it, besides, the reasons for it were his own and quite different. Meanwhile, Charlotte’s kindness brought to mind Jane Bennet a lot, but unlike Bennets, we see how her family’s guidance and influence clearly helped to shape this side of her personality. I really liked her intelligence and cheerful positive attitude to life. However, her kindness didn’t prevent her from being assertive occasionally, even if she did feel guilty afterwards. But hey, this was entertaining to read and added complexity to heroine’s character.
Still, speaking of their developing relationship I wasn’t too crazy about the dynamics between Gabriel and Charlotte. Gabriel’s blowing hot and cold all the time and Charlotte’s feelings were yo-yoing accordingly since she was falling in love with him, this left her basically a little too vulnerable for my taste and a sitting duck in this relationship. Add a little too many instances of weak knees and fluttering heart whenever Charlotte found herself in Gabriel’s company and I imagine my reaction wasn’t what author had in mind when she wrote those words, though it felt more like ‘copy’ and ‘paste’. In my opinion her heart fluttered entirely too much, which I thought was ironic when I read the passage where Charlotte and Gabriel where counting how many times the vicar used his favourite word of the day in the sermon. I haven’t counted them, these two words were used very liberally throughout the book; the editor should have noticed and edited out at least ninety percent of them.
However, I have to admit that I don’t like when such sensory descriptions are used in the romances at all. So much so that reading books with heart, stomach and gut works, and wobbly knees too make me even doubt if I like romance as a genre at all. But then I remember that Gaskell’s North and South, and Jane Austin books are among my all-time top favourites, and none of them use bodily functions to describe character’s emotions, feelings and suspense of romance, and I see why their fame is so very well deserved. They don’t fall on convenient derivative means to convey romantic chemistry and to show developing relationship between a hero and a heroine. There was enough going on between Charlotte and Gabriel that I believe many such sensory reactions that were used in Hathaway’s book were quite superfluous. Unfortunately many contemporary authors who write romantic books seem to graduate from the same contemporary romance writers’ master-class where such derivative means are used a lot to infuse more romantic feeling and read at best like unnecessary addition or in worse cases they rely on them too much. This is very in vogue these days, and I believe many readers don’t have issues with this so they may be completely happy with the writing style here. Anyway, this definitely affected my rating, though not by much, because this is obviously a fashionable trend in writing and I dropped only half a star or so.
Overall it was an interesting story and I read it really quickly, especially considering that romance wasn’t for me. I was still curious how story and characters evolved.
March 26, 2019
Charlotte Rosebury believes in love but she fears that she might never find it. Gabriel Worthington made himself a promise never to fall in love but will he changes his mind. The last thing that is wants is to visit with his mother but he knows that he just needs to do this for her. He has made it clear that she is not to try and marry him off. So when he gets to the Rosebury's he is disappointed as one of the girls is the very thing that he wants to avoid. Charlotte can't understand why he treats her so bad no matter what she does it seems to end in an argument. Gabriel knows that he needs to get away as he is falling for her and he can't allow this to happen. So when it is time to leave to go back home he is relieved but he knows that he is going to miss her terribly so when he finds out that she is coming back with them he has no idea what to do. Charlotte can't wait to see Gabriel's home and she hopes that they can still be friends even though she has fallen in love with him. Can they move forward or will he break her heart? Gabriel isn't too sure if she will stay if he asks so he decides that it is for the best that she does return home but can he let her go that easily? A good read.
October 15, 2021
Lovely. Another one of this author’s bests. Mrs. Worthington and Mrs. Rosebury are childhood friends and when they decide to spend time together their children Gabriel and Charlotte meet for the first time. Gabriel has sworn off marriage and is upset to find that Charlotte is as kind and strong as she is beautiful which tests his resolve. Mr. Worthington is the quintessential Mr. Darcy and although he struggles with some serious mood swings he is a fantastic character to dream about and he and Charlotte’s love story is a lovely read to enjoy on a nice wintery/Christmasy day 🎄❄️ .
June 22, 2023
This is a clean romance with interesting characters, one villain, some rude young ladies and a man who has decided to never marry after the deaths of his father and brother. That decision is put to the test after he meets Charlotte. Gabriel was so annoyingly wishy-washy-one minute being kind to Charlotte, the next being rude and condescending. He would spend a good bit of time with her, then ignore her for days at a time. If he had come to his senses, Charlotte wouldn't have left by herself and put herself in danger. Thankfully all works out in the end.
February 12, 2021
Well written clean sorry
I really appreciate the quality and flow of the writing style of this author, hence I have it 5*
However, the seesawing of the H and h drove me a bit crazy. I feel as kind as the h was, she should not have gotten so extremely opposite at times. I didn't feel it fit her personality.
Though for the H I wasnt so surprised at his seesawing as it fit his personality.
Anyway it was an enjoyable read.
I really appreciate the quality and flow of the writing style of this author, hence I have it 5*
However, the seesawing of the H and h drove me a bit crazy. I feel as kind as the h was, she should not have gotten so extremely opposite at times. I didn't feel it fit her personality.
Though for the H I wasnt so surprised at his seesawing as it fit his personality.
Anyway it was an enjoyable read.
December 5, 2018
There was a lot that I liked about this book--the writing was good overall, and I thought the characters were interesting. However, I felt that it could have been quite a bit shorter, particularly because the hero spent way too much time vacillating. I will definitely read other works by this author.
July 19, 2019
Could not put down!
I loved this book. All the things I love in a romance. 2 people who can't seem to get along at first, fight a bit, and fall in love. Just enough swoon worthy kisses but not trashy (this is a clean read). I would love to see lots more of the same from this author.
I loved this book. All the things I love in a romance. 2 people who can't seem to get along at first, fight a bit, and fall in love. Just enough swoon worthy kisses but not trashy (this is a clean read). I would love to see lots more of the same from this author.
June 1, 2017
I have just finished reading this delightful story. The characters are easy to love and you can't help but be drawn in. This authors books keep getting better and better. Would definitely recommend it.
October 25, 2018
Friendly story
I enjoyed this warm and gentle story. I only wish the parents weren't such no it alls. Made the story a bit contrived. The language was awkward in the beginning, but I am sure that will disappear as she writes. And I hope she will.
I enjoyed this warm and gentle story. I only wish the parents weren't such no it alls. Made the story a bit contrived. The language was awkward in the beginning, but I am sure that will disappear as she writes. And I hope she will.
November 3, 2018
Can’t quit smiling!
Wow! Lots of emotional ups and down. Great story. Characters with lots of depth and character. I will be following Deborah so I can read more of her work. You will enjoy reading this!
Wow! Lots of emotional ups and down. Great story. Characters with lots of depth and character. I will be following Deborah so I can read more of her work. You will enjoy reading this!
July 23, 2019
Lovely
This was my third book from this author and I truly enjoyed this story I look forwards to more books. I enjoyed this book and the Lighthouse book. My least favorite from her was the western book Embers and Fire it wasn't as authentic.
This was my third book from this author and I truly enjoyed this story I look forwards to more books. I enjoyed this book and the Lighthouse book. My least favorite from her was the western book Embers and Fire it wasn't as authentic.
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