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Hawthorne House #3
An Uncommon Courtship
Life for Lady Adelaide Bell was easier if she hid in her older sister's shadow-which worked until her sister got married. Even with the pressure of her socially ambitious mother, the last thing she expected was a marriage of convenience to save her previously spotless reputation. Lord Trent Hawthorne couldn't be happier that he is not the duke in the family. He's free to manage his small estate and take his time discovering the life he wants to lead, which includes grand plans of wooing and falling in love with the woman of his choice. When he finds himself honor bound to marry a woman he doesn't know, his dream of a marriage like his parents' seems lost forever. Already starting their marriage on shaky ground, can Adelaide and Trent's relationship survive the pressures of London society?
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First published January 3, 2017
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About the author
Kristi Ann Hunter
24 books1,648 followersKristi Ann Hunter graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in Computer Science but always knew she wanted to write. Kristi is an RWA Golden Heart contest winner, an ACFW Genesis contest winner, and a Georgia Romance Writers Maggie Award for Excellence winner. She lives with her husband and three children in Georgia. Find her online at www.kristiannhunter.com.
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March 3, 2025Updated Review, September 2021:
So I'm married now, and having seen this book as I moved boxes of books back and forth between my house and my parents' last month, and remembering all my sad teenage drama surrounding it, I thought, "Eh, what could be the harm in glancing through it and seeing if I still hate it?"
And then because I'm obsessive, ranting to my husband and friends about it. BECAUSE TRENT YOU ARE STILL AN IDIOT! But now I kind of like him. But I never, ever want to be in a relationship with him. Or friends with him. I just want to watch, from a safe distance.
Actually, I'd thought about doing this for a while now - it wasn't just marriage that triggered this desire as I had an idea my perspective on the book would have shifted. However, I figured that even if I was 100% in the right about my review of this book, being married would surely keep me from being scarred. So regardless of my reread thoughts, I was safe.
I no longer think this book is evil and smutty or anything like that. I mean, it's kind of realistic? But also kind of not? I mean, this is a realistic portrayal of dysfunction, and it's a realistic portrayal of an unprepared couple going into their wedding night. It's honestly the non-sexual side that hits me as a little less realistic now, but I digress.
There were some parts that I now find kind of funny. Trent going to his friends is actually a riot now for me - but also sweet and touching. Literally the only thing he did right throughout the book. I condemned him once for going to his friends seeking help for his relationship with his wife, but now I'm like, "Yes, dude. Do it. Find someone who knows more about this than you ... AND TALK."
Because let's be honest. The sexual aspect of marriage is so important, and so many couples have no guidance. (For an awkward-conversation-safe life, I recommend Sexual Intimacy in Marriage, an excellent book for the engaged couple. You can also talk to your parents or married friends. 10/10 recommend not going in completely blind.)
Basically, what I'm saying is that Trent didn't have that book, so going to his Christian guy friends, who pointed him to Scripture as well as (off page) gave him some practical advice, for guidance was the right choice.
My personal perspective now is that I was perhaps a bit too harsh in my original review on the sexual content, such as it is. Granted, it's still awkward. There are a couple sentences where I went, "Oh, we're going there?" I still do not think I have read another Christian fiction novel that described tongues or teeth. I'm not really interested in reading that kind of thing.
Now my biggest issue with the book would simply be the plotting and the characters. It just didn't work for me even though there's certainly a lot of reality to the first bit of marriage being ... well, tough.
That said, Trent and Adelaide are adorable in other books as a couple. And as a family, the Hawthornes are awesome. I could never condemn an epic series for one bad episode. That said, I wouldn't recommend this book necessarily to younger folks or say that the sexual content didn't cross a few boundaries for me, because it did. But I guess I can see how some might feel it didn't cross any lines.
The other reason I'm posting this update is because, regardless of the objective merit of the book (which I feel like I'm now just confused about more than anything - but granted, I was entertained), I have long felt guilty about the way I handled this review and the resulting conversations surrounding it.
At this time I read this book, I was deeply in denial about my own guilt and sins, deeply frightened of revealing to anyone that I, a young Christian girl, was anything but this pure model of good behavior, and willing to strike out at anything or anyone that questioned my beliefs.
My beliefs are the same, thank God. I still want to have biblical standards. But the way I live my beliefs out is different. I'm not saying I believe it's wrong to review a book negatively, to refuse to read sexual or other negative content, etc. Actually, I'm pretty sure I will still do that because sex scenes sort of detract from my reading experience, and because I am strongly convicted to avoid anything spicy.
What I'm saying here is that now I don't need to be excessively harsh to prove my own innocence (Christ has proven Himself, and He lives in me!). And these days, that looks like not condemning this book completely for a few passionate kisses and some characters who were overthinking everything and some perhaps overly frank conversations that felt weird as someone (namely, a reader like me!). I'm sure this book is written more for an adult audience, so reading it as a young teen was probably not the bestest idea.
This is not an attack on other reviewers or on the author or on anyone, but rather a personal confession - I failed here, and I felt very strongly that I ought to come clean and admit that my heart was not in the right place. If I'd had a different heart about it, I'd say my review still stands. As it is, I don't feel comfortable leaving what I originally said up.
Essentially, though, I took issue with the sexual content portrayed in a big way, even though it was closed door. That said, some people are definitely going to feel it peeked a little too far around the edges of that closed door, which I also respect! I just feel that, these days, even though there were some awkward moments, it wasn't terribly graphic.
So I'm married now, and having seen this book as I moved boxes of books back and forth between my house and my parents' last month, and remembering all my sad teenage drama surrounding it, I thought, "Eh, what could be the harm in glancing through it and seeing if I still hate it?"
And then because I'm obsessive, ranting to my husband and friends about it. BECAUSE TRENT YOU ARE STILL AN IDIOT! But now I kind of like him. But I never, ever want to be in a relationship with him. Or friends with him. I just want to watch, from a safe distance.
Actually, I'd thought about doing this for a while now - it wasn't just marriage that triggered this desire as I had an idea my perspective on the book would have shifted. However, I figured that even if I was 100% in the right about my review of this book, being married would surely keep me from being scarred. So regardless of my reread thoughts, I was safe.
I no longer think this book is evil and smutty or anything like that. I mean, it's kind of realistic? But also kind of not? I mean, this is a realistic portrayal of dysfunction, and it's a realistic portrayal of an unprepared couple going into their wedding night. It's honestly the non-sexual side that hits me as a little less realistic now, but I digress.
There were some parts that I now find kind of funny. Trent going to his friends is actually a riot now for me - but also sweet and touching. Literally the only thing he did right throughout the book. I condemned him once for going to his friends seeking help for his relationship with his wife, but now I'm like, "Yes, dude. Do it. Find someone who knows more about this than you ... AND TALK."
Because let's be honest. The sexual aspect of marriage is so important, and so many couples have no guidance. (For an awkward-conversation-safe life, I recommend Sexual Intimacy in Marriage, an excellent book for the engaged couple. You can also talk to your parents or married friends. 10/10 recommend not going in completely blind.)
Basically, what I'm saying is that Trent didn't have that book, so going to his Christian guy friends, who pointed him to Scripture as well as (off page) gave him some practical advice, for guidance was the right choice.
My personal perspective now is that I was perhaps a bit too harsh in my original review on the sexual content, such as it is. Granted, it's still awkward. There are a couple sentences where I went, "Oh, we're going there?" I still do not think I have read another Christian fiction novel that described tongues or teeth. I'm not really interested in reading that kind of thing.
Now my biggest issue with the book would simply be the plotting and the characters. It just didn't work for me even though there's certainly a lot of reality to the first bit of marriage being ... well, tough.
That said, Trent and Adelaide are adorable in other books as a couple. And as a family, the Hawthornes are awesome. I could never condemn an epic series for one bad episode. That said, I wouldn't recommend this book necessarily to younger folks or say that the sexual content didn't cross a few boundaries for me, because it did. But I guess I can see how some might feel it didn't cross any lines.
The other reason I'm posting this update is because, regardless of the objective merit of the book (which I feel like I'm now just confused about more than anything - but granted, I was entertained), I have long felt guilty about the way I handled this review and the resulting conversations surrounding it.
At this time I read this book, I was deeply in denial about my own guilt and sins, deeply frightened of revealing to anyone that I, a young Christian girl, was anything but this pure model of good behavior, and willing to strike out at anything or anyone that questioned my beliefs.
My beliefs are the same, thank God. I still want to have biblical standards. But the way I live my beliefs out is different. I'm not saying I believe it's wrong to review a book negatively, to refuse to read sexual or other negative content, etc. Actually, I'm pretty sure I will still do that because sex scenes sort of detract from my reading experience, and because I am strongly convicted to avoid anything spicy.
What I'm saying here is that now I don't need to be excessively harsh to prove my own innocence (Christ has proven Himself, and He lives in me!). And these days, that looks like not condemning this book completely for a few passionate kisses and some characters who were overthinking everything and some perhaps overly frank conversations that felt weird as someone (namely, a reader like me!). I'm sure this book is written more for an adult audience, so reading it as a young teen was probably not the bestest idea.
This is not an attack on other reviewers or on the author or on anyone, but rather a personal confession - I failed here, and I felt very strongly that I ought to come clean and admit that my heart was not in the right place. If I'd had a different heart about it, I'd say my review still stands. As it is, I don't feel comfortable leaving what I originally said up.
Essentially, though, I took issue with the sexual content portrayed in a big way, even though it was closed door. That said, some people are definitely going to feel it peeked a little too far around the edges of that closed door, which I also respect! I just feel that, these days, even though there were some awkward moments, it wasn't terribly graphic.
February 16, 2017
I haven’t known another author recently that has me raising my brow at a character, only to be completely and fully taken by them by the end of the story. Adelaide is just such a character. She’s not your typical lady because her mother didn’t focus much time and efforts on Adelaide, like she did her older sister. Although it’s not evident at first, I came to notice that she’s a bit quirky. Perhaps even a bit odd. She wears spectacles. She carries a book in her reticule, just in case. She doesn’t like tea (gasp!). In fact, she prefers coffee – whoa, whoa, whoa. A bespectacled lady, who’s a bit awkward that adores coffee over tea? Um, excuse me, Mrs. Hunter, but did bits of my personality get written into this story without my knowledge? ;)
What I mean to say is, while I didn’t immediately warm up to Adelaide, much like Georgina in the previous book, by the time the story got rolling, I was her biggest fan. I found her to be such an endearing, unique character. Her character development is truly superb – once the Hawthorne family decide she’s one of them, they embrace her fully, and so did I.
Trent Hawthorne had some mighty big shoes to fill – I adored Colin in book two, so I was already a bit skeptical of Trent to begin with. And a little secret here – I was right to be. He totally and utterly tanks in every way in the beginning of the story. He has a wife that he doesn’t know what to do with, so falling back on his signature charm, he just kind of floats through the narrative doing a lot of things, but accomplishing very little. However, once he gets his head on straight, the endearing, more-than-just-charming Trent shows up, and it’s like, ah, there he is! I knew he would arrive. Seriously, y’all – this dude was so clueless. So, even though I was frustrated with some of his choices in the beginning, the journey that he and Adelaide take together is totally worth it.
In terms of the plot, because of the setting, there are is a lot of party and ball attending, and because of Trent’s plans, also a lot of courtship that really goes nowhere. Since, I love stories that feature a lot of balls and having tea and the like, I liked the slower pace of those moments. That’s also where some of the best bits of dialogue come in – there’s a certain tea scene that seriously has me cheering for Adelaide and Trent. It’s also pretty awesome that the whole Hawthorne family shows up. I was particularly excited to see more of Trent’s mother, Lady Blackstone, as well as Griffith, whose own story is coming up next. I enjoyed seeing Adelaide’s reaction to how the family interacted and her realization that this family was now her family.
There is a lot of humor as well as several serious moments, and the way things culminate in their relationship is worth all of the angst in the beginning. And although honestly I didn’t think I would mention this in my review, I’ve seen it enough in other reviews that I feel it has to be mentioned. They are a married couple, so there are married couple discussions – this isn’t a young adult novel, after all – but there is never anything that crosses the line or pushes things too far, in my opinion. I found it all to be realistic and tastefully done. Everyone has different opinions on that, but I’ve found much more description and detail in other, extremely popular Christian fiction novels. Kristi Ann Hunter doesn’t just write a clean, cutesy novel, throwing in a prayer or two – these characters realistically discuss faith and struggles as you’d expect family and friends to do, and I so appreciate that about her novels.
This probably ties with book two for my favorite - I loved book two because of Colin, and Adelaide wins the day in An Uncommon Courtship. Now for the long wait (hey, September feels far away, right?) for Griffith’s story – he has been most enigmatic up until An Uncommon Courtship, and the glimpses I got of his character here just makes me more eager for book four!
What I mean to say is, while I didn’t immediately warm up to Adelaide, much like Georgina in the previous book, by the time the story got rolling, I was her biggest fan. I found her to be such an endearing, unique character. Her character development is truly superb – once the Hawthorne family decide she’s one of them, they embrace her fully, and so did I.
Trent Hawthorne had some mighty big shoes to fill – I adored Colin in book two, so I was already a bit skeptical of Trent to begin with. And a little secret here – I was right to be. He totally and utterly tanks in every way in the beginning of the story. He has a wife that he doesn’t know what to do with, so falling back on his signature charm, he just kind of floats through the narrative doing a lot of things, but accomplishing very little. However, once he gets his head on straight, the endearing, more-than-just-charming Trent shows up, and it’s like, ah, there he is! I knew he would arrive. Seriously, y’all – this dude was so clueless. So, even though I was frustrated with some of his choices in the beginning, the journey that he and Adelaide take together is totally worth it.
In terms of the plot, because of the setting, there are is a lot of party and ball attending, and because of Trent’s plans, also a lot of courtship that really goes nowhere. Since, I love stories that feature a lot of balls and having tea and the like, I liked the slower pace of those moments. That’s also where some of the best bits of dialogue come in – there’s a certain tea scene that seriously has me cheering for Adelaide and Trent. It’s also pretty awesome that the whole Hawthorne family shows up. I was particularly excited to see more of Trent’s mother, Lady Blackstone, as well as Griffith, whose own story is coming up next. I enjoyed seeing Adelaide’s reaction to how the family interacted and her realization that this family was now her family.
There is a lot of humor as well as several serious moments, and the way things culminate in their relationship is worth all of the angst in the beginning. And although honestly I didn’t think I would mention this in my review, I’ve seen it enough in other reviews that I feel it has to be mentioned. They are a married couple, so there are married couple discussions – this isn’t a young adult novel, after all – but there is never anything that crosses the line or pushes things too far, in my opinion. I found it all to be realistic and tastefully done. Everyone has different opinions on that, but I’ve found much more description and detail in other, extremely popular Christian fiction novels. Kristi Ann Hunter doesn’t just write a clean, cutesy novel, throwing in a prayer or two – these characters realistically discuss faith and struggles as you’d expect family and friends to do, and I so appreciate that about her novels.
This probably ties with book two for my favorite - I loved book two because of Colin, and Adelaide wins the day in An Uncommon Courtship. Now for the long wait (hey, September feels far away, right?) for Griffith’s story – he has been most enigmatic up until An Uncommon Courtship, and the glimpses I got of his character here just makes me more eager for book four!
August 8, 2023
I so enjoyed reading Trent’s love story!
Not as funny as the first two but still good!
If you like clean Christian romance, read it!
If you like marriage of convenience, read it!
If you like historical romance, read it!
Not as funny as the first two but still good!
If you like clean Christian romance, read it!
If you like marriage of convenience, read it!
If you like historical romance, read it!
March 5, 2017
This book in a word: awkward.
Such a pity, since I was really looking forward to Trent's story, and I have a soft spot for marriage-of-convenience stories done right. The entire story begins with the marriage, and Trent's eager wish to get away. He tries to include Adelaide to some extent, but the more he messes up, the more he withdraws. He begins to be attracted to her, so then he runs faster in the opposite direction. For the first hundred pages, it's frustrating but also humorous. But Adelaide is totally at sea with how to conduct herself, totally alone with no friends in London, and being completely ignored by her new husband. I felt more and more sorry for her as the story progressed.
So, now we have a man who has supposedly married a country lass to save her name from being smirched because of having been in an abandoned castle overnight with her. When he gets to London, he immediately begins to open her up to societal ridicule. First, he doesn't tell his mother about the marriage; she is a lion in society who should have introduced a new daughter-in-law at the first opportunity. Second, he feels awkward and decides to move out of his house into his brother's and to court her by seeing her once or twice a day. Does he not realize that in those two actions he has not only totally undone what he did by marrying her, but also brought her to the attention of a society that previously had no thoughts of her? Wow, totally not the actions of a hero here.
Though, we also get treated to a hot kiss with tongues and teeth involved...what?
Each plot point built on the other with an added bit of unrealism. We even have the nasty lecher that wants to have an affair with the heroine, even though he's apparently already had an affair with her mother. In the end, there are a few verses and a Bible study that is thrown in, where Trent is hoping to learn the meaning of love. It was too little too late, and even then it felt awkward, coming as it did the morning after the Big Fail.
Content: steamy
Age range: Not recommended. Period.
If you are under 18, do NOT click on the spoiler. If you intend to read the book, don't click. This is a MAJOR spoiler.
Such a pity, since I was really looking forward to Trent's story, and I have a soft spot for marriage-of-convenience stories done right. The entire story begins with the marriage, and Trent's eager wish to get away. He tries to include Adelaide to some extent, but the more he messes up, the more he withdraws. He begins to be attracted to her, so then he runs faster in the opposite direction. For the first hundred pages, it's frustrating but also humorous. But Adelaide is totally at sea with how to conduct herself, totally alone with no friends in London, and being completely ignored by her new husband. I felt more and more sorry for her as the story progressed.
So, now we have a man who has supposedly married a country lass to save her name from being smirched because of having been in an abandoned castle overnight with her. When he gets to London, he immediately begins to open her up to societal ridicule. First, he doesn't tell his mother about the marriage; she is a lion in society who should have introduced a new daughter-in-law at the first opportunity. Second, he feels awkward and decides to move out of his house into his brother's and to court her by seeing her once or twice a day. Does he not realize that in those two actions he has not only totally undone what he did by marrying her, but also brought her to the attention of a society that previously had no thoughts of her? Wow, totally not the actions of a hero here.
Though, we also get treated to a hot kiss with tongues and teeth involved...what?
Each plot point built on the other with an added bit of unrealism. We even have the nasty lecher that wants to have an affair with the heroine, even though he's apparently already had an affair with her mother. In the end, there are a few verses and a Bible study that is thrown in, where Trent is hoping to learn the meaning of love. It was too little too late, and even then it felt awkward, coming as it did the morning after the Big Fail.
Content: steamy
Age range: Not recommended. Period.
If you are under 18, do NOT click on the spoiler. If you intend to read the book, don't click. This is a MAJOR spoiler.
July 4, 2017
Dinners. Balls. Gorgeous gowns and dapper gentlemen. If you love a classic Regency, then you'll want to pick up a copy of An Uncommon Courtship.
This is the 3rd book in a series -- and I admit that I hadn't read the first two. That being said, I don't feel like I missed out on any information and it all made sense to read. The author did a good job of making sure everything flowed in a logical fashion and didn't leave any gaps or glitches in the plot.
So, the big question is why did I give this 3 stars instead of only 4? This is personal preference only, so please take this with a grain of salt, but I didn't like the hero. To put it mildly, the fella was wishy-washy, not a rough-and-tumble take charge kind of guy. To be fair, he was at the very end, but it took too long for his character arc to get there for my tastes.
This is the 3rd book in a series -- and I admit that I hadn't read the first two. That being said, I don't feel like I missed out on any information and it all made sense to read. The author did a good job of making sure everything flowed in a logical fashion and didn't leave any gaps or glitches in the plot.
So, the big question is why did I give this 3 stars instead of only 4? This is personal preference only, so please take this with a grain of salt, but I didn't like the hero. To put it mildly, the fella was wishy-washy, not a rough-and-tumble take charge kind of guy. To be fair, he was at the very end, but it took too long for his character arc to get there for my tastes.
February 7, 2017
When I first read A Noble Masquerade (book one of the series), I knew that Kristi Ann Hunter was unique. Little did I know that her books would be able to twist and pull on my heart and emotions in such a strong way. An Uncommon Courtship is a story filled with sweetness that will make you sigh, rogues that will make you shudder, scheming women that will make your blood boil, and passion that will make you swoon.
Trent and Adelaide make such an adorable pair. They complement each other beautifully. Watching their "courtship" progress, witnessing their hearts opening, and learning what it means to love and be loved is a precious thing. This is a Christian novel and the passion and discussions are clean and appropriate by my standards. However, there are conversations that you may or may not feel are suitable for younger readers. One of the messages that continued to speak to me throughout the story is that, "God doesn't make mistakes." I have been reminded of this several times over the last couple of months, and it is so very true. No matter what we go through we must trust that He knows what He is doing. Even through the pain of shattered dreams, He does not make mistakes. Whatever He gives us, He gives us for a reason. The other thread that really stuck with me through this book is, love. True love, the love of the Father, the love He created between husband and wife. Kristi broaches this subject in a pure and Biblical way. It breaks my heart to see our society searching for and demonstrating love in all the wrong ways. His love is perfect and loving each other the way God intended is such a beautiful thing.
If you haven't read the rest of the books in the series I would recommend you do so before you jump into this one. The novella, Lady of Esteem, is available as a free ebook. I highly recommend this book and the series.
I received a complimentary copy of An Uncommon Courtship from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Trent and Adelaide make such an adorable pair. They complement each other beautifully. Watching their "courtship" progress, witnessing their hearts opening, and learning what it means to love and be loved is a precious thing. This is a Christian novel and the passion and discussions are clean and appropriate by my standards. However, there are conversations that you may or may not feel are suitable for younger readers. One of the messages that continued to speak to me throughout the story is that, "God doesn't make mistakes." I have been reminded of this several times over the last couple of months, and it is so very true. No matter what we go through we must trust that He knows what He is doing. Even through the pain of shattered dreams, He does not make mistakes. Whatever He gives us, He gives us for a reason. The other thread that really stuck with me through this book is, love. True love, the love of the Father, the love He created between husband and wife. Kristi broaches this subject in a pure and Biblical way. It breaks my heart to see our society searching for and demonstrating love in all the wrong ways. His love is perfect and loving each other the way God intended is such a beautiful thing.
If you haven't read the rest of the books in the series I would recommend you do so before you jump into this one. The novella, Lady of Esteem, is available as a free ebook. I highly recommend this book and the series.
I received a complimentary copy of An Uncommon Courtship from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
February 25, 2021
An Uncommon Courtship is a delightful Regency novel with a twist. Lord Trent is the second son, who is quite contenting letting the rest of the world think he will never grow up and that he will not be responsible. Lady Adelaide has lived in her sister's shadow until she finds herself engaged and married to the second son. It's not the match either of them had hoped for, but Trent decides to court her anyway. The story tells how that courtship flows, after all what could go wrong when he decides to court his wife? As you would expect, a lot does. Kristi Ann Hunter has quickly become one of my go-to regency authors. Her books are filled with great characters, fun plots, and enough depth to keep me reading. An Uncommon Courtship is perfect for those who love Jane Austen England or a richly layered historical.
** Just as delightful and sweet the second time.
** Just as delightful and sweet the second time.
April 12, 2017
While I did enjoy this one, it wasn't my favorite of the series. I liked the overall idea for the story, but didn't really connect well with the main characters. Adelaide was a nice enough heroine, at times I really wish she would have spoken more. Same with Trent, lots of inner dialogue. And I got a little tired of him comparing his marriage to everyone else and just not knowing what to do. Lacks a lot of confidence.
It's a nice story and has some sweet moments. I actually enjoyed the scenes where past characters made appearances the most. It's a good addition to the series, but again not my favorite of the Hawthorne House collection. I am looking forward to reading Griffith's story when it comes out.
Content
Romance: Pretty clean, fade to black
Language: None
Violence: Mild
Religious: Mild - skipped those parts actually. Not preachy, but to me felt a little forced.
Series: Hawthorne House, Book Three (or four if you count the first novella)
Source: Netgally review copy
It's a nice story and has some sweet moments. I actually enjoyed the scenes where past characters made appearances the most. It's a good addition to the series, but again not my favorite of the Hawthorne House collection. I am looking forward to reading Griffith's story when it comes out.
Content
Romance: Pretty clean, fade to black
Language: None
Violence: Mild
Religious: Mild - skipped those parts actually. Not preachy, but to me felt a little forced.
Series: Hawthorne House, Book Three (or four if you count the first novella)
Source: Netgally review copy
April 22, 2017
I'm sure I'm not the only person who has been really, really looking forward to reading Trent's story. He's been one of my favorite characters almost since the moment I "met" him and I couldn't wait to see how things would turn out for him!
And I'm happy with the way things turned out-- in the end. I'm just not quite so happy about the entire process of getting to that "end". I'll do my best to not include any real spoilers, but I also want to give my honest opinion so... bear with me, will you?
This story starts off a bit slow and really confusing. But I don't mind a slower book, as long as it's still a good book and I'm enjoying it; and I actually often enjoy confusing beginnings because it makes things more interesting as I put the pieces together to understand the beginning of the story. So yeah. That didn't really bother me. I was reading along at a kinda slow, but steady pace and enjoying the story.
I still love Trent. And I grew to love Adelaide too. Their relationship starts off very rocky and seems to be headed for disaster. Their struggles as they attempt to muddle and fake their way through this new life are some times funny and other times painful. They really didn't know each other at all so seeing them discover new things about each other-- Trent discovering all of Adelaide's little quirks and Adelaide even going so far as to make a list of everything she knew about Trent (it was short). The author really makes you want things to work out for these two! She pulled me into the story and had me thinking about these characters at random times throughout the day, wondering how everything would work out for them.
Trent's family members don't play a huge roll in most of the story, but you do get to see them. I always enjoy seeing characters from previous books make an appearance, though I wouldn't have minded seeing more of the Hawthorne family. ;)
The disappointing part of this book came about two-thirds of the way through. While it wasn't as bad as I had feared after reading a couple of reviews... I still don't really appreciate the way the-- shall we say "marital relationship"? --was handled. I don't want to specifically include this as part of the review, but I still feel it should be mentioned for those who want to know so--
Really, there was nothing explicit or super detailed... but I did feel that there was more included than what was appropriate or needed. It has been mentioned that there was nothing more in this book than what other Christian authors have included in theirs, but that doesn't make it a good idea.
I still think this story is enjoyable, but I would say it's definitely for more mature readers who don't mind books that teeter on the edge of being inappropriate for Christian fiction.
I received a free copy of this book through the Bethany House Blogger Review Program in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
And I'm happy with the way things turned out-- in the end. I'm just not quite so happy about the entire process of getting to that "end". I'll do my best to not include any real spoilers, but I also want to give my honest opinion so... bear with me, will you?
This story starts off a bit slow and really confusing. But I don't mind a slower book, as long as it's still a good book and I'm enjoying it; and I actually often enjoy confusing beginnings because it makes things more interesting as I put the pieces together to understand the beginning of the story. So yeah. That didn't really bother me. I was reading along at a kinda slow, but steady pace and enjoying the story.
I still love Trent. And I grew to love Adelaide too. Their relationship starts off very rocky and seems to be headed for disaster. Their struggles as they attempt to muddle and fake their way through this new life are some times funny and other times painful. They really didn't know each other at all so seeing them discover new things about each other-- Trent discovering all of Adelaide's little quirks and Adelaide even going so far as to make a list of everything she knew about Trent (it was short). The author really makes you want things to work out for these two! She pulled me into the story and had me thinking about these characters at random times throughout the day, wondering how everything would work out for them.
Trent's family members don't play a huge roll in most of the story, but you do get to see them. I always enjoy seeing characters from previous books make an appearance, though I wouldn't have minded seeing more of the Hawthorne family. ;)
The disappointing part of this book came about two-thirds of the way through. While it wasn't as bad as I had feared after reading a couple of reviews... I still don't really appreciate the way the-- shall we say "marital relationship"? --was handled. I don't want to specifically include this as part of the review, but I still feel it should be mentioned for those who want to know so--
Really, there was nothing explicit or super detailed... but I did feel that there was more included than what was appropriate or needed. It has been mentioned that there was nothing more in this book than what other Christian authors have included in theirs, but that doesn't make it a good idea.
I still think this story is enjoyable, but I would say it's definitely for more mature readers who don't mind books that teeter on the edge of being inappropriate for Christian fiction.
I received a free copy of this book through the Bethany House Blogger Review Program in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 22, 2018
Hmm. I liked it and couldn't stop reading it, but in comparison to books 1 and 2 (which set the bar REALLY high) it was just okay.
Adelaide and Trent marry to protect Adelaide’s reputation, barely knowing each other and certainly not in love, but they try to work on their marriage. They bumble their way through, often taking two steps backwards for every step forward. There are a few bumps and bruises along the way -literally- and some rather awkward moments; however, they don't give up and the results are worth it! I loved the ending and I loved how Trent ran to Adelaide’s rescue time and time again after a rocky start.
The plot wasn't as exciting as the first two books and I didn't connect with Trent and Adelaide as much as the others. That's why it was just okay. Still, it was a Hawthorne House book and I liked seeing the other characters again.
Adelaide and Trent marry to protect Adelaide’s reputation, barely knowing each other and certainly not in love, but they try to work on their marriage. They bumble their way through, often taking two steps backwards for every step forward. There are a few bumps and bruises along the way -literally- and some rather awkward moments; however, they don't give up and the results are worth it! I loved the ending and I loved how Trent ran to Adelaide’s rescue time and time again after a rocky start.
The plot wasn't as exciting as the first two books and I didn't connect with Trent and Adelaide as much as the others. That's why it was just okay. Still, it was a Hawthorne House book and I liked seeing the other characters again.
December 14, 2021
So, I have read some reviews that felt this book went too far into certain details that are part of marriage, and I definitely respect and value the opinions of those that were concerned with this. I, however, loved this story and it is, so far, my favorite book of the series.
What really captivated me about this book was the awkwardness of these two people. Nothing went smoothly for them. Even though Trent was valiant and offered marriage to Adelaide, he didn't really know how to proceed from there. He had built up an ideal of what marriage should be and anything other than a love match became a severe disappointment. He definitely did not handle things well when he and his bride first arrived in London.
What became clear to me as I read on, was that both Adelaide and Trent desired a loving marriage, but didn't really know how to interact with each other. And Adelaide was also very new to society, having been ignored by her family all of her life, while they pampered her sister.
Even when Trent and Adelaide began to embrace the physical side of their marriage, things didn't go well. It almost seemed that for every step they would take forward in their relationship, something would happen to set them back. I, personally, loved seeing them work through all of these things and felt that they had built a very strong foundation for their lives together by the time all was wrapped up at the end of the book. I so loved the moments when Trent came to Adelaide's "rescue" toward the latter portion of the story. They were swoon-worthy moments, indeed. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series and then moving on to other books by this author.
What really captivated me about this book was the awkwardness of these two people. Nothing went smoothly for them. Even though Trent was valiant and offered marriage to Adelaide, he didn't really know how to proceed from there. He had built up an ideal of what marriage should be and anything other than a love match became a severe disappointment. He definitely did not handle things well when he and his bride first arrived in London.
What became clear to me as I read on, was that both Adelaide and Trent desired a loving marriage, but didn't really know how to interact with each other. And Adelaide was also very new to society, having been ignored by her family all of her life, while they pampered her sister.
Even when Trent and Adelaide began to embrace the physical side of their marriage, things didn't go well. It almost seemed that for every step they would take forward in their relationship, something would happen to set them back. I, personally, loved seeing them work through all of these things and felt that they had built a very strong foundation for their lives together by the time all was wrapped up at the end of the book. I so loved the moments when Trent came to Adelaide's "rescue" toward the latter portion of the story. They were swoon-worthy moments, indeed. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series and then moving on to other books by this author.
October 19, 2022
I really enjoyed this one. Trent was great though slightly exasperating at times. I wanted to shake some sense into his head which eventually his friends and then his mom did do. Anyway, really enjoyed this book three of the series.
After skimming through some of my friends' reviews on this book and being reminded of some certain scenes that I had forgotten about, I thought I would add that it's probably not the best book for the younger audience. There are definitely some awkward scenes and a couple passionate kisses though I didn't think they were any more detailed than some other Christian romance I've read.
And as for the awkward discussions while awkward in some ways, I am a married woman and did not find it as awkward as some readers apparently found it, especially because I thought it was handled well. I was almost glad she put these discussions in this book in the way that she did because she did it tactfully and it seems to be things that are not always touched on in marriage and maybe a Christian romance novel isn't the place to address it, but I don't know. Why can't we discuss rather uncomfortable topics in a God-honoring way about tough or awkward subjects? Now once again I would advise it to be read only by the mature audience, and maybe the reader would like to be more prepared for it then some were, but I do think there should be a place for these kinds of discussions to be had. And now I feel like I have been very vague, but that's all I'm gonna say.
After skimming through some of my friends' reviews on this book and being reminded of some certain scenes that I had forgotten about, I thought I would add that it's probably not the best book for the younger audience. There are definitely some awkward scenes and a couple passionate kisses though I didn't think they were any more detailed than some other Christian romance I've read.
And as for the awkward discussions while awkward in some ways, I am a married woman and did not find it as awkward as some readers apparently found it, especially because I thought it was handled well. I was almost glad she put these discussions in this book in the way that she did because she did it tactfully and it seems to be things that are not always touched on in marriage and maybe a Christian romance novel isn't the place to address it, but I don't know. Why can't we discuss rather uncomfortable topics in a God-honoring way about tough or awkward subjects? Now once again I would advise it to be read only by the mature audience, and maybe the reader would like to be more prepared for it then some were, but I do think there should be a place for these kinds of discussions to be had. And now I feel like I have been very vague, but that's all I'm gonna say.
March 26, 2020
Since I went about reading this series a little unconventional, this completes the Hawthorne House series for me.
I’m not prepared for all the emotion. I’ve LOVED this series from the start. It will always hold a secure place in my heart.
This book was sweet! It truly was. There was a lot of awkward happenings, but they were all done in the pursuit of love. It took them awhile to get where they needed to be, but it was a very real struggle.
I had a harder time connecting with this characters like in the other books, but in the end I enjoyed it! (As was expected)
I adore Kristi. And I’ll DEFINITELY be rereading this series again!
I rated it a 4/5 stars!
I’m not prepared for all the emotion. I’ve LOVED this series from the start. It will always hold a secure place in my heart.
This book was sweet! It truly was. There was a lot of awkward happenings, but they were all done in the pursuit of love. It took them awhile to get where they needed to be, but it was a very real struggle.
I had a harder time connecting with this characters like in the other books, but in the end I enjoyed it! (As was expected)
I adore Kristi. And I’ll DEFINITELY be rereading this series again!
I rated it a 4/5 stars!
June 7, 2017
Although I loved the novella and the first two books in the series, I was very disappointed in this book. Trent was too unrealistic, being more like a prepubescent boy than a man. The story was rather boring, and the intimate details were not appropriate in Christian fiction. If I wanted to read that type of stuff, I could find plenty to read from secular publishers. I agree with most of what Hannah wrote in her review at https://www.goodreads.com/review/show....
February 23, 2025
Updated review after the 5th or so time reading it:
I really appreciate this book. I still think it’s one of the most awkward romances on the planet, but as an introvert who married another introvert, figuring out married life together was often awkward, and I am actually encouraged by this bit of realism in a genre that can set overly high expectations. This book takes the approach that marriage isn’t just passion and attraction and true love–it’s figuring out how to share space and communicate and do life together while you’re still getting to know each other. No matter how well you know each other before getting married, you’ll still be learning about each other after, and there will be awkward moments that you have to figure out together. Just hopefully not quite as bad as for this couple!
Original review:
Wow, that was awkward. Amusing, frustrating, moving, surprisingly honest, and yep, definitely awkward. But what can one expect out of an (essentially) shotgun wedding when the bride and groom don't know each other?
In some respects, this is one of the most realistic marriage of convenience books I've read. Even people who know each other well prior to marriage experience their fair share of awkwardness after speaking the vows, so going into a marriage blind like this, I can see how it could be so supremely awkward trying to gauge how to act, what to do, how to get to know one's spouse without any of the normal courtship buffers. For the record, the physical side of marriage is addressed--it only makes sense that it would be--but it is done tastefully, in a way that you get a pretty good idea what happens without having the details spelled out. I wouldn't call it risque; it's both too vague and realistic (yes, weird combination to pair together, but accurate) to qualify. I thought the author handled it very well.
How do you know when you love someone? Can you love and be angry with them at the same time? The author explores beyond romance into what love looks like in a marriage relationship, and how it's not just a feeling, but choices. I really liked how the GUYS get together to teach Trent what Godly love is--it isn't up to the women to do it. It's refreshing to see men really step forward as spiritual leaders, even if only in fiction.
I do love how well Hunter portrays the Hawthorne family; no matter what foolish choices individuals make, the family sticks together and protects it own. And they willing make room for new members like Adelaide, who, given her family's machinations and the circumstances behind the wedding, in any other family might have been given the cold shoulder. I enjoy getting more opportunities to spend time with Miranda and Georgina. And I am greatly looking forward to meeting the woman who can shake up oh-so-orderly Griffith's world!
I received a free book from the publisher. No review, positive or otherwise, was required; all opinions are my own.
I really appreciate this book. I still think it’s one of the most awkward romances on the planet, but as an introvert who married another introvert, figuring out married life together was often awkward, and I am actually encouraged by this bit of realism in a genre that can set overly high expectations. This book takes the approach that marriage isn’t just passion and attraction and true love–it’s figuring out how to share space and communicate and do life together while you’re still getting to know each other. No matter how well you know each other before getting married, you’ll still be learning about each other after, and there will be awkward moments that you have to figure out together. Just hopefully not quite as bad as for this couple!
Original review:
Wow, that was awkward. Amusing, frustrating, moving, surprisingly honest, and yep, definitely awkward. But what can one expect out of an (essentially) shotgun wedding when the bride and groom don't know each other?
In some respects, this is one of the most realistic marriage of convenience books I've read. Even people who know each other well prior to marriage experience their fair share of awkwardness after speaking the vows, so going into a marriage blind like this, I can see how it could be so supremely awkward trying to gauge how to act, what to do, how to get to know one's spouse without any of the normal courtship buffers. For the record, the physical side of marriage is addressed--it only makes sense that it would be--but it is done tastefully, in a way that you get a pretty good idea what happens without having the details spelled out. I wouldn't call it risque; it's both too vague and realistic (yes, weird combination to pair together, but accurate) to qualify. I thought the author handled it very well.
How do you know when you love someone? Can you love and be angry with them at the same time? The author explores beyond romance into what love looks like in a marriage relationship, and how it's not just a feeling, but choices. I really liked how the GUYS get together to teach Trent what Godly love is--it isn't up to the women to do it. It's refreshing to see men really step forward as spiritual leaders, even if only in fiction.
I do love how well Hunter portrays the Hawthorne family; no matter what foolish choices individuals make, the family sticks together and protects it own. And they willing make room for new members like Adelaide, who, given her family's machinations and the circumstances behind the wedding, in any other family might have been given the cold shoulder. I enjoy getting more opportunities to spend time with Miranda and Georgina. And I am greatly looking forward to meeting the woman who can shake up oh-so-orderly Griffith's world!
I received a free book from the publisher. No review, positive or otherwise, was required; all opinions are my own.
February 25, 2025
" Bravado can only carry a woman so far before reality intrudes with crushing abruptness."
Lady Adelaide Bell is certainly not known for bravado, her quiet, unassuming beauty has kept her nearly invisible from society, primarily as a result of her mother's determination to display Adelaide's older and more accomplished sister, desperate to improve her own standing by marrying her daughters to rich, titled husbands. Her mother's scheming seems to pay off when Adelaide's uncommon affection for gathering mushrooms in obscure locations, produces the desired nuptials; Adelaide finds herself married to the young lord next door; Trent Hawthorne, a handsome, carefree younger brother of the Duke, who has no idea what to do with a wife, should he even want one.
Lord Trent Hawthorne always dreamed that he would marry the love of his life, but along the way God intervened and gifted him with someone totally unexpected; the quite lovely, but very lonely Lady Adelaide. Clumsily attempting to navigate a marital relationship with a virtual stranger, he improvises a plan which surprises everyone, especially Adelaide, when he decides to "court" his wife. Obviously, Trent has a lot to learn about love.
This sometimes endearingly awkward story is more than entertaining, since who could have imagined that a love affair and pineapples would have anything in common? Kristi Ann Hunter has once again proven herself to be a writer who can take Regency romance to an entirely new level.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Lady Adelaide Bell is certainly not known for bravado, her quiet, unassuming beauty has kept her nearly invisible from society, primarily as a result of her mother's determination to display Adelaide's older and more accomplished sister, desperate to improve her own standing by marrying her daughters to rich, titled husbands. Her mother's scheming seems to pay off when Adelaide's uncommon affection for gathering mushrooms in obscure locations, produces the desired nuptials; Adelaide finds herself married to the young lord next door; Trent Hawthorne, a handsome, carefree younger brother of the Duke, who has no idea what to do with a wife, should he even want one.
Lord Trent Hawthorne always dreamed that he would marry the love of his life, but along the way God intervened and gifted him with someone totally unexpected; the quite lovely, but very lonely Lady Adelaide. Clumsily attempting to navigate a marital relationship with a virtual stranger, he improvises a plan which surprises everyone, especially Adelaide, when he decides to "court" his wife. Obviously, Trent has a lot to learn about love.
This sometimes endearingly awkward story is more than entertaining, since who could have imagined that a love affair and pineapples would have anything in common? Kristi Ann Hunter has once again proven herself to be a writer who can take Regency romance to an entirely new level.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.
February 7, 2017
I was so excited to see this book. I'd been looking forward to this book for a while. I'll admit that I was a little sad not to see as much of either of Trent's sisters in this book, but I still enjoyed the story.
Trent was a character I wanted to know more about. He'd been a minor character in the other two books, so getting to know him was delightful. I positively adored his unusual group of servants. They were fascinating, and I could tell that they wanted their master and mistress to find happiness. I really liked it when Trent started courting his wife. I loved how he was determined to give her what she didn't have.
I cannot wait for the 4th book in this series - the one about Griffith.
I received this book from the publisher in order to share my honest opinion. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Karen Witemeyer, Kristi Ann Hunter, Jody Hedlund, Julie Klassen
Rating - 4 stars
Trent was a character I wanted to know more about. He'd been a minor character in the other two books, so getting to know him was delightful. I positively adored his unusual group of servants. They were fascinating, and I could tell that they wanted their master and mistress to find happiness. I really liked it when Trent started courting his wife. I loved how he was determined to give her what she didn't have.
I cannot wait for the 4th book in this series - the one about Griffith.
I received this book from the publisher in order to share my honest opinion. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Karen Witemeyer, Kristi Ann Hunter, Jody Hedlund, Julie Klassen
Rating - 4 stars
December 16, 2017
After enjoying immensely books one and two Trent's story in An Uncommon Courtship was a disappointment. There wasn't much of a plot and the plot that was there got incredibly repetitive. The humor found in books one and two was missing. I hope book four is better.
April 3, 2017
I enjoyed this marriage or ruination story. I also enjoyed catching up with characters from the previous stories in this series. This book is the third, but can be read as a stand alone.
Trent makes the decision to marry Adelaide when they spend the evening together after an accident. He is a man of honor and abandons his plans to marry for love.
This romance has some humorous moments. Trent decides to court his wife. Their marriage at the beginning is shaky. They do not know how to communicate with the stranger they are currently living with.
This book had moments when I wanted to hit them with my tablet. Trent knows how to completely bungle things. He overthinks and overreacts. Adelaide has spent her life living in the shadows of her older sister and is wonderful at retreating into her books.
The book shows the progression of their relationship. The extended family added many wonderful moments. I loved it when the family ganged up on Trent, he deserved it.
This book has a strong Christian element. It is clean with kissing and fade to black intimacy.
Source: Netgalley
Trent makes the decision to marry Adelaide when they spend the evening together after an accident. He is a man of honor and abandons his plans to marry for love.
This romance has some humorous moments. Trent decides to court his wife. Their marriage at the beginning is shaky. They do not know how to communicate with the stranger they are currently living with.
This book had moments when I wanted to hit them with my tablet. Trent knows how to completely bungle things. He overthinks and overreacts. Adelaide has spent her life living in the shadows of her older sister and is wonderful at retreating into her books.
The book shows the progression of their relationship. The extended family added many wonderful moments. I loved it when the family ganged up on Trent, he deserved it.
This book has a strong Christian element. It is clean with kissing and fade to black intimacy.
Source: Netgalley
June 16, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
This one became my favorite of the series ☺️
This one became my favorite of the series ☺️
November 27, 2016
3.5 stars to 'The Uncommon Courtship'. I have pondered, as I've read, how I feel about this book. It's the 4th one in (because I include the novella) - and I've long anticipated Trent's story, since 'A Noble Masquerade' - which is still my favourite. Trent was by far the best minor character, and I enjoyed his personality, and what he brought to the scene when he was present. This, is his turn, and I felt like his character developed well, and he continued consistently as expected. I also liked Adelaide. I found it a very different way to get two characters together, from what we've seen before in the Hawthorne series, however, it's been done before (forced marriage to save a reputation) in many regency novels, and lacks originality. I quite expect for there to be an incredible amount of awkwardness, and did appreciate the fumbling manor at which he attempted to move forward, in a well intended yet disastrous attempt to court his new found wife. Relying on the sole advice of his unmarried brother, you can't blame him for acting as he does.
Despite the wonderful addition of the ever calculating and spiteful mother in law, the story felt dragged out and tedious in many areas. So many receptions in the drawing room, serving tea! Very little change of scene. I always love when they high tail it out of London for a spell. Get out to their country estates. I think I would have loved an earlier scene in Suffolk. To check out the horses, have Trent take Adelaide to place more familiar, have her come into her own and shine, as is what happens to someone once returned to familiar territory. I'm constantly wondering why, they seem to finally connect, and 5 minutes later, Trent or Adelaide is over analyzing and we are right back to square one. Of course, I appreciate that this humanizes the characters for us. Reality likely would make this a long drawn out scenario.
On top of that we are dealing with Adelaide's, understandably, lack of self assurance & confidence. She is lacking every aspect of knowing the high social society of London, though she is credited with some abilities having grown up in a titled home, that would have given her at least some insight into the proper way to behave, dress & speak. Though if she were excluded from social situations that would be a real hurdle for her. It was wonderful to see a continuance of the kindness and respect the highly titled Hawthorne family and spouses, in the way they interacted. There was no doubt they would accept and take care of Adelaide, which did leave me wondering the reason for Trent's hesitation to share his news. His mother seems like such a delight, and of course for Adelaide - desperately needed to show her the alternate way a family relationship was intended by God.
As always grateful for the inclusion of a Christian message. I especially enjoyed the final review by Trent of the verses in Corinthians, and the thought process he went through as he put them into perspective with marriage.
I do agree with another reviewer here, that this book steps out a little from the boundaries most Christian novels set, for how much detail to write of intimate things. This is definitely more descriptive than her previous books, and caught me a little off guard. How much it will bother you will depend on your own personal expectations. Of course this is far from an explicit novel, but a little edgier than we have seen so far. Some may say that the intimate relationship needed to be included in some way, and it was dealt with in an interesting fashion. It handled the expectations of Trent & Adelaide, as well as giving you the feel of their development and growth as a married couple. I would add, as Trent often reminds us, quickie engagements were not unheard of, and plenty of marriages of convenance or arranged to keep the aristocratic blood pure. So likely, everything they were experiencing together was probably quite common amongst marriages of the ton.
Many, many enjoyable scenes in the book, as always I can't put Kristi Hunter's book down - although I had to as life also goes on!!! But I was anxious to get back to it. I'm content with the way the book concludes, it's sweet & seems perfect for these two unique personalities.
I'm really looking forward to Griffiths story, and as the Duke, and oldest brother, hope we get some element of risk and pressure under which he lives. I also hope we get to see a good chunk of Riverton. I would love to see him governing his great estate!
Thank you to Netgalley & Bethany House for the opportunity to read and review a complimentary copy. This is my honest review.
Despite the wonderful addition of the ever calculating and spiteful mother in law, the story felt dragged out and tedious in many areas. So many receptions in the drawing room, serving tea! Very little change of scene. I always love when they high tail it out of London for a spell. Get out to their country estates. I think I would have loved an earlier scene in Suffolk. To check out the horses, have Trent take Adelaide to place more familiar, have her come into her own and shine, as is what happens to someone once returned to familiar territory. I'm constantly wondering why, they seem to finally connect, and 5 minutes later, Trent or Adelaide is over analyzing and we are right back to square one. Of course, I appreciate that this humanizes the characters for us. Reality likely would make this a long drawn out scenario.
On top of that we are dealing with Adelaide's, understandably, lack of self assurance & confidence. She is lacking every aspect of knowing the high social society of London, though she is credited with some abilities having grown up in a titled home, that would have given her at least some insight into the proper way to behave, dress & speak. Though if she were excluded from social situations that would be a real hurdle for her. It was wonderful to see a continuance of the kindness and respect the highly titled Hawthorne family and spouses, in the way they interacted. There was no doubt they would accept and take care of Adelaide, which did leave me wondering the reason for Trent's hesitation to share his news. His mother seems like such a delight, and of course for Adelaide - desperately needed to show her the alternate way a family relationship was intended by God.
As always grateful for the inclusion of a Christian message. I especially enjoyed the final review by Trent of the verses in Corinthians, and the thought process he went through as he put them into perspective with marriage.
I do agree with another reviewer here, that this book steps out a little from the boundaries most Christian novels set, for how much detail to write of intimate things. This is definitely more descriptive than her previous books, and caught me a little off guard. How much it will bother you will depend on your own personal expectations. Of course this is far from an explicit novel, but a little edgier than we have seen so far. Some may say that the intimate relationship needed to be included in some way, and it was dealt with in an interesting fashion. It handled the expectations of Trent & Adelaide, as well as giving you the feel of their development and growth as a married couple. I would add, as Trent often reminds us, quickie engagements were not unheard of, and plenty of marriages of convenance or arranged to keep the aristocratic blood pure. So likely, everything they were experiencing together was probably quite common amongst marriages of the ton.
Many, many enjoyable scenes in the book, as always I can't put Kristi Hunter's book down - although I had to as life also goes on!!! But I was anxious to get back to it. I'm content with the way the book concludes, it's sweet & seems perfect for these two unique personalities.
I'm really looking forward to Griffiths story, and as the Duke, and oldest brother, hope we get some element of risk and pressure under which he lives. I also hope we get to see a good chunk of Riverton. I would love to see him governing his great estate!
Thank you to Netgalley & Bethany House for the opportunity to read and review a complimentary copy. This is my honest review.
December 16, 2017
After reading and loving the first two books in this series, I was really looking forward to this story. Unfortunately, it just wasn't my cup of tea. I still loved the characters and writing, but the storyline was just...odd. I didn't get some of Trent's actions and I didn't like how I was confused in the beginning of the book -- you are just kind of "thrown" into the story without much detail (it does come later, but I would have liked to have known right away (in detail) what had happened to lead to the marriage).
Another thing that lessened my enjoyment was the romance. It got a little too descriptive at one point in the story and, while it wasn't completely detailed, it was a little too much for me. It's not something I expect in Christian Fiction and I would have liked it to be a little more "fade-to-black".
I did love the last portion of the story. That was when things really started to click and I was enjoying the read. I wish the entire book would have been like that, but sadly it wasn't and so I can only give this 2.5 stars. In between "It was okay" and "I liked it".
I am looking forward to the next book, as I'm hoping it is more like the first two -- which I loved -- and I'm curious about Griffith's story. :))
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Another thing that lessened my enjoyment was the romance. It got a little too descriptive at one point in the story and, while it wasn't completely detailed, it was a little too much for me. It's not something I expect in Christian Fiction and I would have liked it to be a little more "fade-to-black".
I did love the last portion of the story. That was when things really started to click and I was enjoying the read. I wish the entire book would have been like that, but sadly it wasn't and so I can only give this 2.5 stars. In between "It was okay" and "I liked it".
I am looking forward to the next book, as I'm hoping it is more like the first two -- which I loved -- and I'm curious about Griffith's story. :))
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
February 13, 2017
I was looking forward to reading this book because I enjoyed SO much the previous one (“An Elegant Façade”). But, no matter how much I tried to like this story, it just didn’t work for me.
Writing is good, dialogues are fine … those were not the problem. The thing was that I didn’t like the plot, the big idea of the book, the whole courtship thing. I couldn’t connect with it.
Even though the main characters were facing what we can call a very hard and awkward situation, I believe they should have taken another approach in order to find a proper solution. I mean, Trent acted like a coward the entire book, and I wasn’t expecting that from him. It was a bit disappointing. Adelaide was better, though. I liked her more.
I’m not saying it’s a bad story; it’s just that I couldn’t be drawn into it.
However, for some reason, I’m letting my expectations go up again for the last book. Let’s see what the Duke’s story brings us!
**I received a copy of this book from Bethany House through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own**
Writing is good, dialogues are fine … those were not the problem. The thing was that I didn’t like the plot, the big idea of the book, the whole courtship thing. I couldn’t connect with it.
Even though the main characters were facing what we can call a very hard and awkward situation, I believe they should have taken another approach in order to find a proper solution. I mean, Trent acted like a coward the entire book, and I wasn’t expecting that from him. It was a bit disappointing. Adelaide was better, though. I liked her more.
I’m not saying it’s a bad story; it’s just that I couldn’t be drawn into it.
However, for some reason, I’m letting my expectations go up again for the last book. Let’s see what the Duke’s story brings us!
**I received a copy of this book from Bethany House through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own**
September 12, 2021
I read this awhile ago but I remember that it was just good/ok. The whole series was good enough to read through but I actually never continued to the 4th one, I started it and lost interest…I remember this book had a weird/unnecessary scene that I think made me lose interest in the whole series.
June 10, 2018
No pude terminarlo. Un libro totalmente decepcionante, una historia aburrida, una pareja cero química. Un libro sin gracia. Unos personajes simples demasiado inocentes para ser verdad
March 6, 2022
I took forever to get to this on my tbr, and in the end, it was just what I hoped it would be.
The story starts after Trent and Adelaide have been trapped into marriage through an accident of circumstances. I was a bit disappointed to not be part of that night's conversation, but in the end it made the unveiling of their suitableness more interesting.
Adelaide's family sucks... except for maybe her father and brother. Trent's family is wonderful. I figure she is around 19 or 20, and Trent is early 20's to mid.
The story is about them learning about loving eachother and growing up at the same time. Trent had a vague plan to fall in love, so marrying a veritable stranger is not what he'd hoped for. Adelaide is a stranger because she's been an afterthought for her mother and worse, for her whole life. When they marry, others are surprised to find out that her mother had a second daughter.
The first half of the book is a little frustrating and goes on too long before they start to communicate. But then there's a nice arc to the end which was pretty romantic.
Trent is a beta hero but when it's important, he steps up with style. Adelaide is shy and used to being ignored'. She's never been anywhere let alone lived elsewhere. When she and Trent marry she is set adrift in a sea of unknowns. AAAaaandD then Trent spends a couple weeks doing his best to pretend he's not married and all is as usual. I was not a fan of his cowardice, even if she wasn't any better.
But I liked the author's style. Her story had a nice arc that was a little Christian but not heavy handed. It was more character driven than I expected which made the characters relatable and fallible, like going for the underdog.
Safety is perfect.
The story starts after Trent and Adelaide have been trapped into marriage through an accident of circumstances. I was a bit disappointed to not be part of that night's conversation, but in the end it made the unveiling of their suitableness more interesting.
Adelaide's family sucks... except for maybe her father and brother. Trent's family is wonderful. I figure she is around 19 or 20, and Trent is early 20's to mid.
The story is about them learning about loving eachother and growing up at the same time. Trent had a vague plan to fall in love, so marrying a veritable stranger is not what he'd hoped for. Adelaide is a stranger because she's been an afterthought for her mother and worse, for her whole life. When they marry, others are surprised to find out that her mother had a second daughter.
The first half of the book is a little frustrating and goes on too long before they start to communicate. But then there's a nice arc to the end which was pretty romantic.
Trent is a beta hero but when it's important, he steps up with style. Adelaide is shy and used to being ignored'. She's never been anywhere let alone lived elsewhere. When she and Trent marry she is set adrift in a sea of unknowns. AAAaaandD then Trent spends a couple weeks doing his best to pretend he's not married and all is as usual. I was not a fan of his cowardice, even if she wasn't any better.
But I liked the author's style. Her story had a nice arc that was a little Christian but not heavy handed. It was more character driven than I expected which made the characters relatable and fallible, like going for the underdog.
Safety is perfect.
October 13, 2017
I love stories with a premise like this, where the couple gets to know each other and falls in love after they marry. There are so many obstacles to overcome- in this situation, it was mostly the lack of communication between Adelaide and Trent and their naiveté. I loved seeing Adelaide come into her own and learn to embrace her new independence. Being free of her family allowed her to blossom and true colors shine. Trent was a bit of an idiot of course as he worked through his feelings of feeling trapped into a loveless marriage, but once he opened his eyes and received some needed advice from his family, he was able to keep "trying again" with Adelaide until their choice to love was finally able to flourish. Great humor and great romance in this story, even if the plot was not as involved as the first book in the series.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
February 6, 2017
The latest book in The Hawthorne House series is here! woot woot! We’ve had a chance to read both of his sister’s stories and now it is Trent’s turn. Squeee!
Ok, thoughts? Loved it, of course. I know that it’s the publisher that makes the covers, but HOLY MOLY her covers are beautiful. That is, honestly, half of the battle right there. I could go on about how her characters are always entertaining, well rounded and lovable, but I especially love how they are deep. They really love God and these books are not just just clean or overall “religious”. They have true and deep relationships with God that are obvious throughout. I LOVE THAT!
Adelaide and Trent are married in an effort to protect her reputation since they were trapped alone together. As they muddle through their awkward marriage, I often times want to smack Trent in the head for being such a guy. ha! As they work through their after-marriage courtship, you will find yourself rooting for them and falling more in love with the Hawthorne family.
Pick it up! It’s a great read.
Thanks for this great read in exchange for my thoughts. As always, this is my honest opinion. Here’s to many more!!
Ok, thoughts? Loved it, of course. I know that it’s the publisher that makes the covers, but HOLY MOLY her covers are beautiful. That is, honestly, half of the battle right there. I could go on about how her characters are always entertaining, well rounded and lovable, but I especially love how they are deep. They really love God and these books are not just just clean or overall “religious”. They have true and deep relationships with God that are obvious throughout. I LOVE THAT!
Adelaide and Trent are married in an effort to protect her reputation since they were trapped alone together. As they muddle through their awkward marriage, I often times want to smack Trent in the head for being such a guy. ha! As they work through their after-marriage courtship, you will find yourself rooting for them and falling more in love with the Hawthorne family.
Pick it up! It’s a great read.
Thanks for this great read in exchange for my thoughts. As always, this is my honest opinion. Here’s to many more!!
February 4, 2017
Trent’s musings over breakfast was a charming way to start An Uncommon Courtship. He declares it “one of God’s greatest gifts to humanity” and I couldn’t have been more delighted with his enjoyment of the start of the day.
Quickly thereafter, readers find out Trent has just married Adelaide, and we follow their journey together. Will they learn to love one another, or will they become strangers who merely live in the same house?
Trent’s household is run a little differently than the average household, which is quite the shocker for Adelaide. The unconventional dynamics of his household are amusing and humorous. I really enjoyed how the staff was involved in the life of the home, immediately treating Adelaide with familiarity.
Trent and Adelaide struggle to find sure footing in their marriage, but I really enjoyed watching them learn more about one another and develop feelings. One thing I loved was how something was always askew with Adelaide’s dress and she never knew how it happened. And Trent’s amusement in discovering these mishaps and his pleasure in being the only one to notice them. It made my heart happy.
This is my favorite novel from Kristi Ann Hunter to date. I only wonder now if Griffith will get his own love story….
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts expressed are my own.*
Review originally published on https://bookshelvesandwindows.wordpre....
Quickly thereafter, readers find out Trent has just married Adelaide, and we follow their journey together. Will they learn to love one another, or will they become strangers who merely live in the same house?
Trent’s household is run a little differently than the average household, which is quite the shocker for Adelaide. The unconventional dynamics of his household are amusing and humorous. I really enjoyed how the staff was involved in the life of the home, immediately treating Adelaide with familiarity.
Trent and Adelaide struggle to find sure footing in their marriage, but I really enjoyed watching them learn more about one another and develop feelings. One thing I loved was how something was always askew with Adelaide’s dress and she never knew how it happened. And Trent’s amusement in discovering these mishaps and his pleasure in being the only one to notice them. It made my heart happy.
This is my favorite novel from Kristi Ann Hunter to date. I only wonder now if Griffith will get his own love story….
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts expressed are my own.*
Review originally published on https://bookshelvesandwindows.wordpre....
March 15, 2017
Kristi Ann Hunter has once again written a fabulous regency romance novel. This book is about Lord Trent Hawthorne, another of the Hawthorne brothers. The story is an absolute delight, focusing on the courtship and romance of Lady Adelaide and Lord Hawthorne; their romance is both sweet and swoon worthy. Readers will become enchantment with this fun and romantic novel. It is a story that readers will love from page one and will not soon forget. I would recommend this novel to readers that enjoy historical novels, as well as regency romance.
Series: Hawthorne House
Genre: historical, regency, romance, Christian
Publisher: Bethany House
Publication date: January 3, 2017
Number of pages: 352
Content Rating: PG
Book Rating: 5 stars
Other books in the series:
0.5-A Lady of Esteem
1-A Noble Masquerade
2-An Elegant Façade
4-An Inconvenient Beauty (coming September 2017)
A review copy of this book was provided by Bethany House. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Series: Hawthorne House
Genre: historical, regency, romance, Christian
Publisher: Bethany House
Publication date: January 3, 2017
Number of pages: 352
Content Rating: PG
Book Rating: 5 stars
Other books in the series:
0.5-A Lady of Esteem
1-A Noble Masquerade
2-An Elegant Façade
4-An Inconvenient Beauty (coming September 2017)
A review copy of this book was provided by Bethany House. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
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