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Midnight Quill #0.5
The Countess's Groom
A desperate young countess ... and the man who risks everything to save her.
Rose, the Countess Malmstoke, is trapped in a violent marriage. Escape seems impossible—until her horse groom Will Fenmore offers to help her.
As they plan Rose’s escape, the boundary between mistress and servant blurs. Is the future they both dream of possible?
The prequel to The Spinster’s Secret.
Rose, the Countess Malmstoke, is trapped in a violent marriage. Escape seems impossible—until her horse groom Will Fenmore offers to help her.
As they plan Rose’s escape, the boundary between mistress and servant blurs. Is the future they both dream of possible?
The prequel to The Spinster’s Secret.
108 pages, ebook
First published August 26, 2013
91 people are currently reading
152 people want to read
About the author
Emily Larkin
38 books369 followersEmily Larkin is the USA Today bestselling author of the Baleful Godmother historical romance series, a series that readers are calling “sexy, unusual and vastly entertaining,” and "ridiculously wonderful."
When not reading or writing, Emily can be found hiking—preferably somewhere off the beaten track. She loves to travel, and has lived in Sweden, backpacked in Europe and North America, and traveled overland in the Middle East, China, and North Africa. Her varied career includes stints as a field assistant in Antarctica and a waitress on the Isle of Skye.
Emily writes fantasy novels as Emily Gee, and historical romance novels as Emily Larkin. She has been a finalist in the Romance Writers of America RITA award, as well as the National Readers Choice, Booksellers Best, Australian Romantic Book of the Year, Sir Julius Vogel, and Koru awards. Her websites are www.emilylarkin.com and www.emilygee.com.
** Join Emily’s Readers’ Group to get an email whenever she has a new release or discounts a book—plus get some FREE ebooks as well!**
When not reading or writing, Emily can be found hiking—preferably somewhere off the beaten track. She loves to travel, and has lived in Sweden, backpacked in Europe and North America, and traveled overland in the Middle East, China, and North Africa. Her varied career includes stints as a field assistant in Antarctica and a waitress on the Isle of Skye.
Emily writes fantasy novels as Emily Gee, and historical romance novels as Emily Larkin. She has been a finalist in the Romance Writers of America RITA award, as well as the National Readers Choice, Booksellers Best, Australian Romantic Book of the Year, Sir Julius Vogel, and Koru awards. Her websites are www.emilylarkin.com and www.emilygee.com.
** Join Emily’s Readers’ Group to get an email whenever she has a new release or discounts a book—plus get some FREE ebooks as well!**
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 22, 2014
The Countess’ Groom is a companion novella to Ms Larkin’s novel, The Spinster’s Secret, which I reviewed here and awarded 4 stars.
The basic premise of the novel is that the heroine, Matilda Chapple is living miserably at her cousin’s colourless and dour residence, Creed Hall, and longs to escape. She has no money of her own, and in order to earn some, is writing erotic stories for publication. Being a respectable virgin, she of course, has no real idea about what happens between a man and a woman in bed, so is drawing her inspiration from a contraband copy of John Cleland’s Fanny Hill, and the diary of a former inhabitant of Creed, Rose, the fifth Countess of Malmstoke. The unhappy countess committed suicide, but not before she had written of her love for a young servant on the estate in a diary which Mattie discovers hidden in a concealed panel in her bedchamber.
The Countess’ Groom is the story of the romance between the countess and her groom, Will Fenmore. Married to a much older man, Rose Quayle lives in fear of the earl who shows her no consideration in bed and beats her regularly. When her husband travels to the West Indies for a period of several months, Rose can heave a sigh of relief to be free of his unwanted attentions and blows, but she is still little more than a prisoner at the hall.
Her daily rides are the only freedom she is allowed, and gradually, she begins to open up to her groom, and they become friends. Will and the other servants are well aware that their mistress is not treated well, but are helpless to do anything to help her – until one day, when Rose, in a fit of despair, contemplates drowning herself in the lake. Realising the extent of her misery, Will proposes that Rose leaves her husband and they hatch a plan.
The events in the novella take place over around six months, although the reader is only privy to the meetings between Rose and Will and one or two scenes which feature a minor character. Once Will and Rose have decided on their plan of escape, it leaves time for Ms Larkin to develop the relationship between them, which consists mostly of Rose overcoming her fear of being touched and of the sexual act. The writing is very good and the love scenes are tender and romantic, even though the limited word-count means that things feel somewhat rushed.
The Countess’ Groom is a quick and enjoyable read, which is well-paced and in which the characterisation is more than decent. I don’t think one needs to have read The Spinster’s Secret in order to enjoy this, but I would definitely hope that anyone picking up this novella will want to read the novel, which is engaging, entertaining and well-worth a few hours of anyone’s time.
The basic premise of the novel is that the heroine, Matilda Chapple is living miserably at her cousin’s colourless and dour residence, Creed Hall, and longs to escape. She has no money of her own, and in order to earn some, is writing erotic stories for publication. Being a respectable virgin, she of course, has no real idea about what happens between a man and a woman in bed, so is drawing her inspiration from a contraband copy of John Cleland’s Fanny Hill, and the diary of a former inhabitant of Creed, Rose, the fifth Countess of Malmstoke. The unhappy countess committed suicide, but not before she had written of her love for a young servant on the estate in a diary which Mattie discovers hidden in a concealed panel in her bedchamber.
The Countess’ Groom is the story of the romance between the countess and her groom, Will Fenmore. Married to a much older man, Rose Quayle lives in fear of the earl who shows her no consideration in bed and beats her regularly. When her husband travels to the West Indies for a period of several months, Rose can heave a sigh of relief to be free of his unwanted attentions and blows, but she is still little more than a prisoner at the hall.
Her daily rides are the only freedom she is allowed, and gradually, she begins to open up to her groom, and they become friends. Will and the other servants are well aware that their mistress is not treated well, but are helpless to do anything to help her – until one day, when Rose, in a fit of despair, contemplates drowning herself in the lake. Realising the extent of her misery, Will proposes that Rose leaves her husband and they hatch a plan.
The events in the novella take place over around six months, although the reader is only privy to the meetings between Rose and Will and one or two scenes which feature a minor character. Once Will and Rose have decided on their plan of escape, it leaves time for Ms Larkin to develop the relationship between them, which consists mostly of Rose overcoming her fear of being touched and of the sexual act. The writing is very good and the love scenes are tender and romantic, even though the limited word-count means that things feel somewhat rushed.
The Countess’ Groom is a quick and enjoyable read, which is well-paced and in which the characterisation is more than decent. I don’t think one needs to have read The Spinster’s Secret in order to enjoy this, but I would definitely hope that anyone picking up this novella will want to read the novel, which is engaging, entertaining and well-worth a few hours of anyone’s time.
September 17, 2013
Posted on my blog: http://www.buriedunderromance.blogspo...
Will Fenmore is in love with Rose Quayle, the Countess of Malmstoke. Being but a groom, Will can only watch Rose from afar and conceal his anger at seeing another injury on the Countess’s body. In the ten month that the Earl of Malmstoke goes away for business, an affinity grows between Will and Rose, connected by their love of animals and desire for something beyond their reach.
Rose was married to settle her father’s debts, to a man who physically abuses her. She longs to escape, but find herself without the means to do so. Upon reaching a breaking point, she attempted suicide, only to be rescued by her groom who wishes to help her start a new life elsewhere. Being wary of men after her husband’s constant abuse, Rose slowly learns to trust Will’s gentle soul and deep concern for her being, to eventually give her own body and soul for his keeping.
This is a tender, heartwarming story of a mended heart and a love that transcends class differences. Through ingenious plotting, Rose and Will finally obtain their own happiness in a new place of hope and leaves the darkened halls behind. What is also satisfying is the just ending rewarded to the horrendous Earl for all of his deeds, giving spiritual victory to our hero and heroine. Rose’s entire journey of her friendship and love with Will was recorded in her journal, which eventually got passed down to another person, the heroine of The Spinster’s Secret. Don’t miss this wonderful prequel novella to Emily Larkin’s The Spinster's Secret, itself a lovely and healing story!
*ARC courtesy of the publisher via Netgalley
Will Fenmore is in love with Rose Quayle, the Countess of Malmstoke. Being but a groom, Will can only watch Rose from afar and conceal his anger at seeing another injury on the Countess’s body. In the ten month that the Earl of Malmstoke goes away for business, an affinity grows between Will and Rose, connected by their love of animals and desire for something beyond their reach.
Rose was married to settle her father’s debts, to a man who physically abuses her. She longs to escape, but find herself without the means to do so. Upon reaching a breaking point, she attempted suicide, only to be rescued by her groom who wishes to help her start a new life elsewhere. Being wary of men after her husband’s constant abuse, Rose slowly learns to trust Will’s gentle soul and deep concern for her being, to eventually give her own body and soul for his keeping.
This is a tender, heartwarming story of a mended heart and a love that transcends class differences. Through ingenious plotting, Rose and Will finally obtain their own happiness in a new place of hope and leaves the darkened halls behind. What is also satisfying is the just ending rewarded to the horrendous Earl for all of his deeds, giving spiritual victory to our hero and heroine. Rose’s entire journey of her friendship and love with Will was recorded in her journal, which eventually got passed down to another person, the heroine of The Spinster’s Secret. Don’t miss this wonderful prequel novella to Emily Larkin’s The Spinster's Secret, itself a lovely and healing story!
*ARC courtesy of the publisher via Netgalley
May 22, 2020
short story about a noblewoman who runs away to America with her groom. Fairly suspenseful.
January 4, 2015
So THAT'S the origin of the infamous, secret diary discovered to profitable effect in The Spinster's Secret. This is a very endearing short story from the terrific author of, among others, The Earl's Dilemma and Beauty and the Scarred Hero. All are terrific Regency reads, well researched, gracefully written and charming in a quiet, witty way you will love if you love G. Heyer.
September 4, 2013
Super sweet! The Countess's Groom was an absolutely wonderful, super adorable, brilliant historical romance novella. Loved it!
Rose was an excellent heroine. She has not had an easy time. Her husband is cruel, malicious, abusive, and basically a spawn of Satan. So, when he leaves for an extended trip, she relishes the freedom. But, when he writes that he will be returning early, she know that she can't handle living with him again. And, so starts the escape plan. She was a strong character to deal with what her husband did to her. And, to even consider running because, if she had been caught, there was no doubt that her husband would kill her. She was likable and a truly lovely heroine.
Will was so sweet! He's basically everything that Rose's husband isn't. Kind, gentle, noble, loving, sweet, honorable. He was so amazing and adorable. It was easy to fall for him. I thought he was brilliant and I adored him.
The romance was so sweet. Will has been in love with Rose for a while. And Rose, seeing that Will is the everything her husband isn't, slowly trusts and falls for him. It was so sweet to see. And, the attraction was there from the beginning. Though, in this case, love came before lust. Especially because Rose had to trust Will before she could go that far, after what her husband did. But, when it happened, it was steamy. I loved these two together. They were a brilliant couple.
The plot was fast paced and I was absorbed in the story the entire way through. It was so sweet and lovely. And the ending was perfect, a happy ending for Rose and Will along with a lead into The Spinster's Secret.
The Countess's Groom was a wonderful, sweet, adorable romance. I loved this novella! It was brilliant. Lovers of the genre, you have to read this.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Rose was an excellent heroine. She has not had an easy time. Her husband is cruel, malicious, abusive, and basically a spawn of Satan. So, when he leaves for an extended trip, she relishes the freedom. But, when he writes that he will be returning early, she know that she can't handle living with him again. And, so starts the escape plan. She was a strong character to deal with what her husband did to her. And, to even consider running because, if she had been caught, there was no doubt that her husband would kill her. She was likable and a truly lovely heroine.
Will was so sweet! He's basically everything that Rose's husband isn't. Kind, gentle, noble, loving, sweet, honorable. He was so amazing and adorable. It was easy to fall for him. I thought he was brilliant and I adored him.
The romance was so sweet. Will has been in love with Rose for a while. And Rose, seeing that Will is the everything her husband isn't, slowly trusts and falls for him. It was so sweet to see. And, the attraction was there from the beginning. Though, in this case, love came before lust. Especially because Rose had to trust Will before she could go that far, after what her husband did. But, when it happened, it was steamy. I loved these two together. They were a brilliant couple.
The plot was fast paced and I was absorbed in the story the entire way through. It was so sweet and lovely. And the ending was perfect, a happy ending for Rose and Will along with a lead into The Spinster's Secret.
The Countess's Groom was a wonderful, sweet, adorable romance. I loved this novella! It was brilliant. Lovers of the genre, you have to read this.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
January 19, 2017
A quick, pleasant read, though one in which there was no real conflict, just the anticipation of its possibility. At every turn, I figured surely this was the moment when one of the many things that could go wrong would go wrong, but nope. Everything worked out fine and dandy for our two sweet lovers. In terms of story conflict, it was all tease and no follow-through.
Obviously this was not meant to be a big in-depth story of its own, but is just a trifle that fits in somehow with the book it is a prequel for. But I wish there was more to it, because the premise -- a young countess, abused by her aristocratic husband, falling in love with her gentle, kind groom and hatching a plan to run away with him -- has lots of possibility. And the hero and heroine were pretty well-drawn and interesting characters, given how short the story was. Oh well.
Obviously this was not meant to be a big in-depth story of its own, but is just a trifle that fits in somehow with the book it is a prequel for. But I wish there was more to it, because the premise -- a young countess, abused by her aristocratic husband, falling in love with her gentle, kind groom and hatching a plan to run away with him -- has lots of possibility. And the hero and heroine were pretty well-drawn and interesting characters, given how short the story was. Oh well.
July 13, 2022
Damsel in Distress
Sometimes you just want to read a sweet damsel in distress novel with a gentle hero and this book checked all the boxes for that. I know it’s only a novella, but I found myself wishing it was longer. I would have loved to have a few chapters that build up to Jake loving Rose from afar instead of it just starting with him already loving her. All in all a solid 4 star comfort read.
Sometimes you just want to read a sweet damsel in distress novel with a gentle hero and this book checked all the boxes for that. I know it’s only a novella, but I found myself wishing it was longer. I would have loved to have a few chapters that build up to Jake loving Rose from afar instead of it just starting with him already loving her. All in all a solid 4 star comfort read.
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September 7, 2013
My review contains spoilers and they're mostly my thoughts as I went with the book...
My initial reaction right after I finished: Aw, why is this so short? :( I was just getting into the warm fuzzy-ness of the story... *sniffs*
I’ve been a fan of Emily Larkin ever since I read The Spinster's Secret. It was SO GOOD and I adored the heroine Maddie so much (hell, if she was real and I was a lesbian, I’d marry her!) that I’ve been eagerly waiting for another installment from Ms. Larkin.
Even though The Countess's Groom can be read as a standalone, you can find Rose being mentioned in The Spinster's Secret. Maddie found Rose’s diary which was still hidden inside he cubbyhole, which plays quite the role in her becoming a writer. I didn’t expect that Rose and her groom, Fenmore will have own their story told. And even though I wasn’t sure about what to think of them in the beginning, as more of Rose’s writing was shared through Maddie, the more it was clear that she was in love with Fenmore. He was her escape from a horrible marriage. Just how horrible, a glimpse of that we see in this novella.
Rose was nothing sort of sold to Henry Quayle, the Earl of Malmstoke, by her father as a payment for his gambling debts. She had no say in this marriage and after 8 months, she’s suffocating in it. Henry is a nasty, abusive little man who takes out his rage on his young wife. Rose wants to escape but she’s too scared and cowed in this prison of a marriage... and life. Thankfully, Henry doesn’t stay with her but sails to West Indies for long periods of time.
The only person who has been secretly shares Rose’s misery is her personal groom, Fenmore or Will. Rose doesn’t know that he has been in love with her ever since she arrived into the bleak looking Creed Hall as a bride. Will knows it’s foolish but he can’t help it. From the servant gossips, he’s already aware of the Earl’s treatment of his wife. It makes Will angrier that he can’t do anything to stop it.
After the Earl left though, Will becomes determined to help Rose in any way to escape this prison. It took several short jaunts into the woods and picnicking, when Will and Rose finally were able to overcome the awkwardness of their unequal social status. Not that it ever really mattered. When she really saw Will and talked to him, Rose knew instinctively that he’s a good man. And after experiencing Henry’s cruelty firsthand, it didn’t take her much time to appreciate Will for who he is and fall in love with him. A man she would’ve married if fate didn’t play its part. Soon, Rose begins to write down her thoughts and times spend with Will in a diary, which she secreted away in a cubbyhole.
It was superb to read about Will. He was so good and SO eager to do anything in his ability to help Rose get away. And to show her that making love doesn’t have to be humiliating and miserable. He was young himself, only 24 to Rose’s 19 yet his views of life were positive and quite mature.
As Will and Rose finally make a plan for escape; a plan that was riddle with danger, mostly of Henry finding out about it through his minions at the house, I begin to appreciate their new-found feeling for each-other more and more. They knew that the revelation of their plan might lead them even to their deaths! Even then, they trusted each-other enough to take chances, or at the least, to try.
Rose gives Will her precious rubies, inherited from her mother’s family, to sell them so that they can buy a passage to America and then, a small farm there. Rose had no big dream and no regret about becoming Will’s wife as soon as they reach there. But the story ends just when they make their escape from Creed Hall. I didn’t want the story to finish so early! I wanted a couple of more chapters about their life together in America, to see how they were doing. It would’ve tied things up rather nicely IMO. 4 stars.
PS: Henry gets his comeuppance soon after. For me it was more in the lines of ‘Good Riddance!’.
This ARC was provided to me by Entangle Publishing LLC/Entangle Flirt via netgalley which didn’t influence my review and rating in any way.
My initial reaction right after I finished: Aw, why is this so short? :( I was just getting into the warm fuzzy-ness of the story... *sniffs*
I’ve been a fan of Emily Larkin ever since I read The Spinster's Secret. It was SO GOOD and I adored the heroine Maddie so much (hell, if she was real and I was a lesbian, I’d marry her!) that I’ve been eagerly waiting for another installment from Ms. Larkin.
Even though The Countess's Groom can be read as a standalone, you can find Rose being mentioned in The Spinster's Secret. Maddie found Rose’s diary which was still hidden inside he cubbyhole, which plays quite the role in her becoming a writer. I didn’t expect that Rose and her groom, Fenmore will have own their story told. And even though I wasn’t sure about what to think of them in the beginning, as more of Rose’s writing was shared through Maddie, the more it was clear that she was in love with Fenmore. He was her escape from a horrible marriage. Just how horrible, a glimpse of that we see in this novella.
Rose was nothing sort of sold to Henry Quayle, the Earl of Malmstoke, by her father as a payment for his gambling debts. She had no say in this marriage and after 8 months, she’s suffocating in it. Henry is a nasty, abusive little man who takes out his rage on his young wife. Rose wants to escape but she’s too scared and cowed in this prison of a marriage... and life. Thankfully, Henry doesn’t stay with her but sails to West Indies for long periods of time.
The only person who has been secretly shares Rose’s misery is her personal groom, Fenmore or Will. Rose doesn’t know that he has been in love with her ever since she arrived into the bleak looking Creed Hall as a bride. Will knows it’s foolish but he can’t help it. From the servant gossips, he’s already aware of the Earl’s treatment of his wife. It makes Will angrier that he can’t do anything to stop it.
After the Earl left though, Will becomes determined to help Rose in any way to escape this prison. It took several short jaunts into the woods and picnicking, when Will and Rose finally were able to overcome the awkwardness of their unequal social status. Not that it ever really mattered. When she really saw Will and talked to him, Rose knew instinctively that he’s a good man. And after experiencing Henry’s cruelty firsthand, it didn’t take her much time to appreciate Will for who he is and fall in love with him. A man she would’ve married if fate didn’t play its part. Soon, Rose begins to write down her thoughts and times spend with Will in a diary, which she secreted away in a cubbyhole.
It was superb to read about Will. He was so good and SO eager to do anything in his ability to help Rose get away. And to show her that making love doesn’t have to be humiliating and miserable. He was young himself, only 24 to Rose’s 19 yet his views of life were positive and quite mature.
As Will and Rose finally make a plan for escape; a plan that was riddle with danger, mostly of Henry finding out about it through his minions at the house, I begin to appreciate their new-found feeling for each-other more and more. They knew that the revelation of their plan might lead them even to their deaths! Even then, they trusted each-other enough to take chances, or at the least, to try.
Rose gives Will her precious rubies, inherited from her mother’s family, to sell them so that they can buy a passage to America and then, a small farm there. Rose had no big dream and no regret about becoming Will’s wife as soon as they reach there. But the story ends just when they make their escape from Creed Hall. I didn’t want the story to finish so early! I wanted a couple of more chapters about their life together in America, to see how they were doing. It would’ve tied things up rather nicely IMO. 4 stars.
PS: Henry gets his comeuppance soon after. For me it was more in the lines of ‘Good Riddance!’.
This ARC was provided to me by Entangle Publishing LLC/Entangle Flirt via netgalley which didn’t influence my review and rating in any way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 10, 2013
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes. Many thanks to Emily Larkin and Entangled Publishing for the opportunity. Yes, this is an honest review.
* * *
Will Fenmore works as a groom at Creed Hall and serves Rose Quayle, the Countess of Malmstoke. Rose is a young lady married off to the abusive Earl of Malmstoke, Henry Quayle.
The staff of Creed Hall are all silent witnesses to Rose's suffering -- all of them afraid to speak up and defend their mistress for fear of losing their jobs. As the countess's groom, Will sees Rose at her most unguarded and he wishes he could do more for his mistress than assist her in her daily rides.
Rose's family needed Henry Quayle's money and title and one would think Rose is fortunate to marry someone willing to overlook her lack of dowry, but marriage to Henry is even more hellish than poverty, and Rose has no choice. For her husband, a woman married is little more than her husband's possession and ought to stay where he puts her, and Rose almost believes this because of Henry's constant beating and abuse. But a spark of bravery awakens within Rose when Will steps in to help her and, when the opportunity arises, she and Will devise a daring escape from Creed Hall.
Will has loved Rose since her arrival at Creed Hall but believed himself to be helpless against his master. It was very brave and heroic of Will to finally speak up and offer his help to Rose. He did so at the cost of his livelihood and future -- because, what kind of future and life would it have been had he allowed his mistress to be continually abused?
So he takes a leap of faith, and answers his heart's call to save her.
After what she had endured, Rose didn't think she would be capable of trusting or loving another person: her family have abandoned her, her husband -- the man who swore before God and man to honor and protect her -- hurts her, and she lives isolated from her neighbors. When Will steps up, Rose is surprised because no one has ever cared for her enough to defend her. How could she not love a man with such courage and resolve?
Emily Larkin's novella paints a very emotional portrait of the downside of "marrying up." Her hero might not be of noble birth but possess an innate sense of honor and loyalty -- and, literally, saves the heroine from her horrible life. Rose's transformation from scared mouse to fearless heroine was very gratifying. I thought Larkin plotted out her novella very well and I was intrigued with Will and Rose's plan and kept reading to see how it would turn out. This was an engrossing novella and I'm really glad to have read it.
The Countess's Groom is the prequel to Emily Larkin's The Spinster's Secret .
* * *
Will Fenmore works as a groom at Creed Hall and serves Rose Quayle, the Countess of Malmstoke. Rose is a young lady married off to the abusive Earl of Malmstoke, Henry Quayle.
The staff of Creed Hall are all silent witnesses to Rose's suffering -- all of them afraid to speak up and defend their mistress for fear of losing their jobs. As the countess's groom, Will sees Rose at her most unguarded and he wishes he could do more for his mistress than assist her in her daily rides.
Rose's family needed Henry Quayle's money and title and one would think Rose is fortunate to marry someone willing to overlook her lack of dowry, but marriage to Henry is even more hellish than poverty, and Rose has no choice. For her husband, a woman married is little more than her husband's possession and ought to stay where he puts her, and Rose almost believes this because of Henry's constant beating and abuse. But a spark of bravery awakens within Rose when Will steps in to help her and, when the opportunity arises, she and Will devise a daring escape from Creed Hall.
Will has loved Rose since her arrival at Creed Hall but believed himself to be helpless against his master. It was very brave and heroic of Will to finally speak up and offer his help to Rose. He did so at the cost of his livelihood and future -- because, what kind of future and life would it have been had he allowed his mistress to be continually abused?
So he takes a leap of faith, and answers his heart's call to save her.
After what she had endured, Rose didn't think she would be capable of trusting or loving another person: her family have abandoned her, her husband -- the man who swore before God and man to honor and protect her -- hurts her, and she lives isolated from her neighbors. When Will steps up, Rose is surprised because no one has ever cared for her enough to defend her. How could she not love a man with such courage and resolve?
Emily Larkin's novella paints a very emotional portrait of the downside of "marrying up." Her hero might not be of noble birth but possess an innate sense of honor and loyalty -- and, literally, saves the heroine from her horrible life. Rose's transformation from scared mouse to fearless heroine was very gratifying. I thought Larkin plotted out her novella very well and I was intrigued with Will and Rose's plan and kept reading to see how it would turn out. This was an engrossing novella and I'm really glad to have read it.
The Countess's Groom is the prequel to Emily Larkin's The Spinster's Secret .
March 14, 2018
The Midnight Quill series begins with a novella set in 1763, The Countess’s Groom, in which a terribly abused young wife is falls in love with her groom, Will Fenmore, who is trying desperately to save her from her brute of a husband without ruining her. The Countess, Rose, is just as imprisoned in her vile husband’s absence by her maid Boyle.
It’s not all down to Will, however. Rose finds courage and determination, and slowly learns to trust the giant but gentle Will. She learns from him, too, that love, and making love, can be tender and joyful.
Larkin always paces her stories perfectly, with just enough detail, just enough danger, to keep the heart racing, even though you know love will win.
Throughout her trials, Rose keeps a diary of her experiences, from the abuse at the hands of the Count, to her blooming under Will’s loving touches. She keeps quite explicit details, and it’s this diary, hidden away in the walls of her room, which is found and made good use of in the novel-length story of the trio.
It’s not all down to Will, however. Rose finds courage and determination, and slowly learns to trust the giant but gentle Will. She learns from him, too, that love, and making love, can be tender and joyful.
Larkin always paces her stories perfectly, with just enough detail, just enough danger, to keep the heart racing, even though you know love will win.
Throughout her trials, Rose keeps a diary of her experiences, from the abuse at the hands of the Count, to her blooming under Will’s loving touches. She keeps quite explicit details, and it’s this diary, hidden away in the walls of her room, which is found and made good use of in the novel-length story of the trio.
September 21, 2018
I only have 3 observations:
1. It was never explained where and how Will got the fine clothes.
2. Why didn't Rose bring her love/happy journal?
3. Nobody suspected anything growing between them? Will and Rose went for a ride alone everyday. For months. I don't think the servants were stupid.
1. It was never explained where and how Will got the fine clothes.
2. Why didn't Rose bring her love/happy journal?
3. Nobody suspected anything growing between them? Will and Rose went for a ride alone everyday. For months. I don't think the servants were stupid.
January 28, 2024
Can an Abused Woman Find Hope and Love?
In places, this is a hard book to read. The heroine is married to a dreadful, abusive husband who can only gain his pleasure in the marital bed through sadism … every time each night. Thankfully, the author does not show us this, but we learn its results. We cannot help but feel for this beleaguered young heroine who dreads her husband's return from a trip to the West Indies. The entire household knows of his treatment of her, and one even acts as her jailer, as it were, when he is gone. The only time she's allowed away from the manor is to enjoy daily rides when the weather's good. One particular groom is the one who takes her out for her near-daily ride, and this novella details how they become close during their rides, her growing to trust him despite not wanting to trust a man or anyone because of what she has endured. While the husband is away in the West Indies, they develop a plan to fake her death, emigrate to America, and live as husband and wife. The scenes between them are so heartfelt and eventually steamy. Despite his much lower class rank, he is more of a gentleman than her earl husband. The reader can understand and see quite plainly why the heroine could learn to trust him after all she's been through. Their sensual scenes are all the more poignant given all she’s been through. If you have any abuse trauma in your past, especially of an intimate nature, this book may be too painful for you to read and enjoy. However, if that sort of trauma is not in your past, the author has portrayed it with a light, sensitive touch, more about the hope for a better future than wallowing in the painful past. Highly recommended.
I received a free digital copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
In places, this is a hard book to read. The heroine is married to a dreadful, abusive husband who can only gain his pleasure in the marital bed through sadism … every time each night. Thankfully, the author does not show us this, but we learn its results. We cannot help but feel for this beleaguered young heroine who dreads her husband's return from a trip to the West Indies. The entire household knows of his treatment of her, and one even acts as her jailer, as it were, when he is gone. The only time she's allowed away from the manor is to enjoy daily rides when the weather's good. One particular groom is the one who takes her out for her near-daily ride, and this novella details how they become close during their rides, her growing to trust him despite not wanting to trust a man or anyone because of what she has endured. While the husband is away in the West Indies, they develop a plan to fake her death, emigrate to America, and live as husband and wife. The scenes between them are so heartfelt and eventually steamy. Despite his much lower class rank, he is more of a gentleman than her earl husband. The reader can understand and see quite plainly why the heroine could learn to trust him after all she's been through. Their sensual scenes are all the more poignant given all she’s been through. If you have any abuse trauma in your past, especially of an intimate nature, this book may be too painful for you to read and enjoy. However, if that sort of trauma is not in your past, the author has portrayed it with a light, sensitive touch, more about the hope for a better future than wallowing in the painful past. Highly recommended.
I received a free digital copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
December 28, 2022
The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because of the physical relationship that develops between Rose and Will. In and of itself, it wouldn't bother me. But Rose is being spied upon by her maid--and probably almost all of the other servants--and they both risk being caught over and over as they fall in love. Finally, after faking her suicide and need to get as far away as possible as they begin their escape to America, Rose insists on taking the time to make love. This is after her maid locked her in her room and she had to braid sheets together to make a rope to escape from her room, thus delaying their escape by more than 2 hours. I may be somewhat risk-averse, but it infuriates me when authors repeatedly have their characters act stupidly like this.
Other than this, I really enjoyed the novella and was happy that they successfully escaped to a new life in America.
Other than this, I really enjoyed the novella and was happy that they successfully escaped to a new life in America.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2022
This is a lovely story, but one I would have preferred as a full length novel - there was so much more that could have been explored with the story and given it the depth I craved from the hints of promise it showed. For a novella, however, it was still a good one, Rose's situation, her struggle with her husband and the love that Will shows for her throughout were compelling, just short enough that it left me wanting more.
February 12, 2018
1762 England and Rose has been married off by her father to the 5th Earl of Malmstoke to pay off all his debts. Trapped in a violent marriage she sees no end to her pain. But can groom Will Fenmore offer her a way out.
A sweet, well-written romance story. It is a well-paced novella with most of the scenes just between Rose and Will.
A sweet, well-written romance story. It is a well-paced novella with most of the scenes just between Rose and Will.
March 1, 2020
Oh my, I was getting hyper at the thought that in their escape, Rose and Fenmore (her groom) were going to get caught. I read the ending so quickly....phew! A quick read, about 108 pages, but a rather lovely romantic story of Lady and her Groom. 4☆
May 2, 2020
Excellent
Excellent book, excellent author. she really does her research and I love that not all her characters are beautiful but they’re all beautiful to each other. I highly recommend this author.
Excellent book, excellent author. she really does her research and I love that not all her characters are beautiful but they’re all beautiful to each other. I highly recommend this author.
November 25, 2018
It was OK. Not particularly engaging for me. Read because I intend to read The Spinster's Secret.
March 30, 2014
Prologue has the novel beginning in October 2, 1762. Rose Quayle is the Countess of Malmstoke. She is married to a monster by the name of Henry Quayle, Fifth Earl of Malmstoke. He is physically abusive and forces Rose to be watched over like a prisoner in her own home when he departs for any length of time.
After 8 months of marriage (and abuse), Henry leaves for 6 months. After Rose heals physically from the wounds inflicted up her by Henry the day he departs, she is able to enjoy what little bit of freedom (if you can call being a prisoner, freedom). Her horse groom is Will Fenmore, who has been in love with Rose for some time. As a servant, he has no right to have these feelings but they are in his heart, nonetheless.
Shortly after Rose emerges from her room, physically, but not emotionally, healed, she resumes her daily rides across the estate property with Will in tow. A bond quickly forms between the two and plans are made to escape from Creed Hall for good. Only, Rose is unsure about the plans. She's not sure that she will be able to escape and stay hidden from Henry, even across the ocean in America. Will Rose and Will get to be together and stay safely away from Rose's abuser?
This novella is very short and deals with a pretty heavy subject: Abuse. Physical Abuse. A husband who beats his wife and has no problem with it. Back in the day this novella takes place, that may have been the norm. I've never really researched that topic so I'm not sure. We only get a small glimpse of what takes place but it's enough to set the tone for the rest of the pages. The reader will find themselves going along with Will and finding him to be the perfect savior even though we really don't get to know him. All the reader will care about is the fact that Will knows how to treat a lady and has all intentions of removing Rose from the danger to her life.
If you enjoy a man who saves a woman from the monster she was forced to marry, this novella will be perfect for you. It evokes true to life emotions and pulls the reader into its pages. You will not be able to put it down until you discover if Rose and Will are able to execute their escape plan and whether or not they are able to stay out of the clutches of Henry and his heavy hand.
I enjoyed the novella, I just wish it had been a tad longer with a bit more believable intimacy between Will and Rose on a less sexual nature. I felt that Rose clung to Will more because he promised to remove her from her bad situation and less because of her love for him.
Review Copy Courtesy of publisher, at no cost in exchange for an honest review.
After 8 months of marriage (and abuse), Henry leaves for 6 months. After Rose heals physically from the wounds inflicted up her by Henry the day he departs, she is able to enjoy what little bit of freedom (if you can call being a prisoner, freedom). Her horse groom is Will Fenmore, who has been in love with Rose for some time. As a servant, he has no right to have these feelings but they are in his heart, nonetheless.
Shortly after Rose emerges from her room, physically, but not emotionally, healed, she resumes her daily rides across the estate property with Will in tow. A bond quickly forms between the two and plans are made to escape from Creed Hall for good. Only, Rose is unsure about the plans. She's not sure that she will be able to escape and stay hidden from Henry, even across the ocean in America. Will Rose and Will get to be together and stay safely away from Rose's abuser?
This novella is very short and deals with a pretty heavy subject: Abuse. Physical Abuse. A husband who beats his wife and has no problem with it. Back in the day this novella takes place, that may have been the norm. I've never really researched that topic so I'm not sure. We only get a small glimpse of what takes place but it's enough to set the tone for the rest of the pages. The reader will find themselves going along with Will and finding him to be the perfect savior even though we really don't get to know him. All the reader will care about is the fact that Will knows how to treat a lady and has all intentions of removing Rose from the danger to her life.
If you enjoy a man who saves a woman from the monster she was forced to marry, this novella will be perfect for you. It evokes true to life emotions and pulls the reader into its pages. You will not be able to put it down until you discover if Rose and Will are able to execute their escape plan and whether or not they are able to stay out of the clutches of Henry and his heavy hand.
I enjoyed the novella, I just wish it had been a tad longer with a bit more believable intimacy between Will and Rose on a less sexual nature. I felt that Rose clung to Will more because he promised to remove her from her bad situation and less because of her love for him.
Review Copy Courtesy of publisher, at no cost in exchange for an honest review.
December 15, 2014
I received an ARC through NetGalley.
Sweet and sexy, just how I like my Historical Romance! The Countess's Groom is a short and sweet novella of Rose, a Countess, and Will, the horse's groom. Rose is being abused by her new husband, and it's no secret to anyone who works there. Her own father wouldn't even help her, since she's the price to be paid for his debt. Thankfully, Will is brave enough to propose a plan to get Rose away from her terrible husband. He suggests that she sell some of her jewelry and sail off to America. Of course, it's not safe for a woman to travel alone, so he agrees to accompany her. It's no burden, since he's been secretly in love her since she was brought there, and he had planned to leave anyway.
I know a lot of readers don't like cheating in their romances, so I feel like I must mention that Rose does indeed cheat on her husband. However, given the circumstances, I think it's acceptable. He beats her and has left scars. She doesn't love him, and the marriage wasn't her choice to begin with. Since she plans on running away with Will (after he stops her from killing herself), so I'd say their relationship is over. Whether you see it the same way, is of course, up to you. I just thought I'd mention it.
Anyway, I really enjoyed The Countess's Groom. It's very quick and to the point. Rose and Will come up with their plan, execute it, and live happily ever after. There is one obstacle to their happy ending, but it was resolved quickly given this is less than 70 pages. It certainly isn't lacking in sexy times though! Rose and Will are great together, and I loved how he introduces her to some new...uh, activities. The epilogue is also great! I had to do a little cheer, but I won't tell you why. You'll have to read it for yourself!
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
Sweet and sexy, just how I like my Historical Romance! The Countess's Groom is a short and sweet novella of Rose, a Countess, and Will, the horse's groom. Rose is being abused by her new husband, and it's no secret to anyone who works there. Her own father wouldn't even help her, since she's the price to be paid for his debt. Thankfully, Will is brave enough to propose a plan to get Rose away from her terrible husband. He suggests that she sell some of her jewelry and sail off to America. Of course, it's not safe for a woman to travel alone, so he agrees to accompany her. It's no burden, since he's been secretly in love her since she was brought there, and he had planned to leave anyway.
I know a lot of readers don't like cheating in their romances, so I feel like I must mention that Rose does indeed cheat on her husband. However, given the circumstances, I think it's acceptable. He beats her and has left scars. She doesn't love him, and the marriage wasn't her choice to begin with. Since she plans on running away with Will (after he stops her from killing herself), so I'd say their relationship is over. Whether you see it the same way, is of course, up to you. I just thought I'd mention it.
Anyway, I really enjoyed The Countess's Groom. It's very quick and to the point. Rose and Will come up with their plan, execute it, and live happily ever after. There is one obstacle to their happy ending, but it was resolved quickly given this is less than 70 pages. It certainly isn't lacking in sexy times though! Rose and Will are great together, and I loved how he introduces her to some new...uh, activities. The epilogue is also great! I had to do a little cheer, but I won't tell you why. You'll have to read it for yourself!
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
September 15, 2013
Originally published at Rookie Romance.
Rose, the Countess of Malmstoke, is married away at a young age to a controlling and cruel husband who keeps her sequestered away at Creed Hall. She's so relieved when he leaves to visit the West Indies, but all too soon his return is very imminent. Will Fenmore is a footman at Creed Hall and is in love with its beautiful mistress, although he knows he won't be anything but a servant to her.
When word reaches Creed Hall of the Earl's early return, Will and Rose's relationship changes and he promises to help her escape to America. They become friends and confidantes, but Rose has to learn to trust Will with her body and heart before they can become something more.
I loved reading Will and Rose's story. In The Spinster's Secret, the heroine uses Rose's journal as a basis for erotic writings. You can see why, because Will and Rose have a very passionate love.
Will has always loved Rose, but has never been able to tell her that, as he is so far beneath her. But that doesn't matter when they start to plan how to escape from Creed Hall together. Will is such a sweet man, he's gentle and loving, but also strong. Plus, can you imagine how gorgeous he would be, with white blond hair and blue eyes!
Rose may have been beaten and humiliated by her husband, but she's not broken. She has to learn how to trust Will with herself, but his love is exactly what she needs to heal.
This is a short and sweet story, and is filled with warmth and love. I really liked it and I'm so glad that the author wanted to write Rose and Will's story!
*I received a review copy from the publisher, for my honest opinion. Thank you!
Rose, the Countess of Malmstoke, is married away at a young age to a controlling and cruel husband who keeps her sequestered away at Creed Hall. She's so relieved when he leaves to visit the West Indies, but all too soon his return is very imminent. Will Fenmore is a footman at Creed Hall and is in love with its beautiful mistress, although he knows he won't be anything but a servant to her.
When word reaches Creed Hall of the Earl's early return, Will and Rose's relationship changes and he promises to help her escape to America. They become friends and confidantes, but Rose has to learn to trust Will with her body and heart before they can become something more.
I loved reading Will and Rose's story. In The Spinster's Secret, the heroine uses Rose's journal as a basis for erotic writings. You can see why, because Will and Rose have a very passionate love.
Will has always loved Rose, but has never been able to tell her that, as he is so far beneath her. But that doesn't matter when they start to plan how to escape from Creed Hall together. Will is such a sweet man, he's gentle and loving, but also strong. Plus, can you imagine how gorgeous he would be, with white blond hair and blue eyes!
Rose may have been beaten and humiliated by her husband, but she's not broken. She has to learn how to trust Will with herself, but his love is exactly what she needs to heal.
This is a short and sweet story, and is filled with warmth and love. I really liked it and I'm so glad that the author wanted to write Rose and Will's story!
*I received a review copy from the publisher, for my honest opinion. Thank you!
October 30, 2013
The Countess’s Groom by Emily Larkin
I want to ask why is this a short story? It was a fantastic read, but it ended to soon. It was certainly over before I was ready for it to be done. It could have been longer and at times I felt that that story lines were cut too short. Information that the reader could have benefited from appeared to have been axed, quite brutally. Yes, this kept the plot moving, there were no lengthy descriptions waxing poetic at the scenery, but it also meant there was some depth missing to important event sequences.
I would like to see this extended into a full length novel.
Emily Larkin does a fantastic job at making the reader invest in her characters, even within the limited word count. She created a tale that was, well, a little bit nerve racking... I worried the Countess’s letters would be found and her affair would be exposed. I worried her vile husband would discover her duplicity and foil her plans of escape. I worried she would suffer more beatings. I worried the groom would be accused of theft, then I worried he wouldn’t return. My autocrit report is going to pull me up on how many times I used the word “worried” in the sentences above, but I think it’s important to let you know just how anxious I was.
Is a short story really supposed to illicit such strong concern?
My Rating
❀❀❀❀-
I would happily read more from Emily Larkin, especially something of a greater word count
Disclaimer
I obtained an ARC from the publisher with a view to providing an honest review. The thoughts expressed above, are entirely my own. I don’t really like the concept of rating novels as they are subjective and subject to change. A five star book today, may be re-evaluated when compared to future novels.
I want to ask why is this a short story? It was a fantastic read, but it ended to soon. It was certainly over before I was ready for it to be done. It could have been longer and at times I felt that that story lines were cut too short. Information that the reader could have benefited from appeared to have been axed, quite brutally. Yes, this kept the plot moving, there were no lengthy descriptions waxing poetic at the scenery, but it also meant there was some depth missing to important event sequences.
I would like to see this extended into a full length novel.
Emily Larkin does a fantastic job at making the reader invest in her characters, even within the limited word count. She created a tale that was, well, a little bit nerve racking... I worried the Countess’s letters would be found and her affair would be exposed. I worried her vile husband would discover her duplicity and foil her plans of escape. I worried she would suffer more beatings. I worried the groom would be accused of theft, then I worried he wouldn’t return. My autocrit report is going to pull me up on how many times I used the word “worried” in the sentences above, but I think it’s important to let you know just how anxious I was.
Is a short story really supposed to illicit such strong concern?
My Rating
❀❀❀❀-
I would happily read more from Emily Larkin, especially something of a greater word count
Disclaimer
I obtained an ARC from the publisher with a view to providing an honest review. The thoughts expressed above, are entirely my own. I don’t really like the concept of rating novels as they are subjective and subject to change. A five star book today, may be re-evaluated when compared to future novels.
May 12, 2019
I read this book after reading the other book, so it's kind of in reverse order. I enjoyed seeing the story behind the journal that inspired Mattie's foray into being Cherie in the book "The Spinster's Secret."It is a very simple, but fast-paced story that gets to the point of what occurred with the countess--Rose; however, it leaves out a lot of the details that occurred in the journal Mattie utilized.
It was a hard story to get into, but once I read past a certain point, it became easier to stay interested in the story. I just wish that it had a lot more details of what happened between Will and Rose, and shared some of the journal entries, or had some of the events that Mattie uses from the journal entries, depicted.
Over all, it's good as a quick intro to the first book, but nothing more nor anything less.
It was a hard story to get into, but once I read past a certain point, it became easier to stay interested in the story. I just wish that it had a lot more details of what happened between Will and Rose, and shared some of the journal entries, or had some of the events that Mattie uses from the journal entries, depicted.
Over all, it's good as a quick intro to the first book, but nothing more nor anything less.
September 18, 2013
Posted on What I'm Reading
In fact I did enjoyed this quick little read. Let me first tell you that this is kind of is a prequel to the The Spinster's Secret. I think it's important to establish that. If you have read that story you would remember there was a diary of the Countess. Well, this story is the how the diary came about and her experience with the groom.
The story shows that Creed Hall has been a dark and gloomy place from the get go. I'm surprise that it didn't suck the life out of Rose. I guess it kind of helped she had Will. Basically, the story is about a woman who has been abused my her husband, so she lacks the trust of men. However, Will teaches her that all men are not created equal and that love heals everything.
As I said, this a quick read. Yes, Will and Rose do get it on. However, they have to make their big escape before the Earl comes home. There's that worry that they may get caught, before they have a chance to be free. Overall, pretty good. So, if you are looking for a quick read, you might want to give The Countess's Groom a try.
Copy provided by publisher
In fact I did enjoyed this quick little read. Let me first tell you that this is kind of is a prequel to the The Spinster's Secret. I think it's important to establish that. If you have read that story you would remember there was a diary of the Countess. Well, this story is the how the diary came about and her experience with the groom.
The story shows that Creed Hall has been a dark and gloomy place from the get go. I'm surprise that it didn't suck the life out of Rose. I guess it kind of helped she had Will. Basically, the story is about a woman who has been abused my her husband, so she lacks the trust of men. However, Will teaches her that all men are not created equal and that love heals everything.
As I said, this a quick read. Yes, Will and Rose do get it on. However, they have to make their big escape before the Earl comes home. There's that worry that they may get caught, before they have a chance to be free. Overall, pretty good. So, if you are looking for a quick read, you might want to give The Countess's Groom a try.
Copy provided by publisher
October 15, 2013
Yay for the prequel of sorts to "The Spinster's Secret"! It is a novella, but the writing is succinct and you get character development, but I wished it could of been a full length novel. We get snippets of Rose's relationship with the husband. We get a glimpse of her family. And same thing with Will, we get glimpses of who he is and what made him the made is he. Their differences in stations is touched upon. Everything is very much in the present.
The plotting moves very quickly and it's rather important to get track of the dates each chapter starts off as because there's a time frame mentioned. Again, it would be been nice to explore more of Rose and Will's relationship during these gaps. When was the moment Will fell in love with her? And we get this sense of foreboding of what's the come in their illicit affair and a sense of urgency as things need to be prepared.
All in all this is a great intro piece to her work for those unfamiliar with her other stories. But boy, there were times where I thought something really bad was going to happen and their plans were going to be foiled.
The plotting moves very quickly and it's rather important to get track of the dates each chapter starts off as because there's a time frame mentioned. Again, it would be been nice to explore more of Rose and Will's relationship during these gaps. When was the moment Will fell in love with her? And we get this sense of foreboding of what's the come in their illicit affair and a sense of urgency as things need to be prepared.
All in all this is a great intro piece to her work for those unfamiliar with her other stories. But boy, there were times where I thought something really bad was going to happen and their plans were going to be foiled.
September 21, 2013
THE COUNTESS'S GROOM by Emily Larkin is a Regency Historical Romance novella. A prequel to "The Spinster's Secret". 67 pages packed full of secrets, spousal abuse and finding true love. A very quick, fast read! Tells the story of Rose, the Countess Malmstoke and her horse groom, Will Fenmore,their flight to freedom and how they became Rose and Will Cobb. The story of mending a heart and crossing social classes in the 1800 England. A sweet,heartwarming story,that starts out with,betrayal and abuse to find love, and contentment,or so they hope. Received for an honest review from the publisher.
RATING: 4
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, Review courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
RATING: 4
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, Review courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
February 20, 2018
Rose, the Countess Malmstoke, is trapped in a violent marriage. Luckily her husband travels to the West Indies, unfortunately he cuts short his visit. She must get away but how then her horse groom, Will Fenmore, offers to help her. As they plan her escape to the American colonies, Rose learns to trust Will with her life and her heart she also starts a journal which she hides in a secret panel in her bedroom. A lovely short story that I read in a sitting & I was so routing for things to go well for Will & Rose.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
February 21, 2018
A lovely love story between two young people despite the great difference in their social standing. She keeps a diary using full names. Rose's beastly husband is absent during the story, but he's left servants behind with instructions to keep a close watch over Rose. This creates a very suspenseful atmosphere for the reader: Will Rose be caught? Will her secret diary be found? How horrid would the punishment be?
February 12, 2020
This is a lovely story, but one I would have preferred as a full length novel - there was so much more that could have been explored with the story and given it the depth I craved from the hints of promise it showed. For a novella, however, it was still a good one, Rose's situation, her struggle with her husband and the love that Will shows for her throughout were compelling, just short enough that it left me wanting more.
November 23, 2014
I feel as though this story was written more to fill in some gaps in "The Spinster's Secret" and more focus was given to answering questions from another book than to making this truly a standalone story. It was sweet but so short there semed to be a lot of holes in the action. Overall not a bad story but not one that really spoke to me, either.
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