What do you think?
Rate this book
Spinster Heiresses #1
If Ever I Should Love You
Once upon a time there were three young ladies who, despite their fortunes, had been on the Marriage Mart a bit too long. They were known as the “Spinster Heiresses” . . .
He’s inherited a title, but not a penny to speak of, so the Earl of Rochdale knows he must find a wife—preferably one tolerably pretty and good-tempered, but definitely wealthy, and willing to exchange her fortune for his family name.
His Leonie Charnock, one of the season’s “Spinster Heiresses.” Years before, the earl had saved the dark-eyed beauty’s reputation, and she is still breathtakingly lovely, leading Rochdale to hope that their marriage will be more than in name only.
However, Leonie doesn’t want to be anyone’s wife. Nearly destroyed by the secrets in her past, Leonie agrees to their union with one there will be a wedding but no bedding. But it’s a condition the new Countess Rochdale isn’t sure even she can keep . . .
He’s inherited a title, but not a penny to speak of, so the Earl of Rochdale knows he must find a wife—preferably one tolerably pretty and good-tempered, but definitely wealthy, and willing to exchange her fortune for his family name.
His Leonie Charnock, one of the season’s “Spinster Heiresses.” Years before, the earl had saved the dark-eyed beauty’s reputation, and she is still breathtakingly lovely, leading Rochdale to hope that their marriage will be more than in name only.
However, Leonie doesn’t want to be anyone’s wife. Nearly destroyed by the secrets in her past, Leonie agrees to their union with one there will be a wedding but no bedding. But it’s a condition the new Countess Rochdale isn’t sure even she can keep . . .
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 26, 2017
376 people are currently reading
1306 people want to read
About the author
Cathy Maxwell
71 books2,200 followersCATHY MAXWELL spends hours in front of her computer pondering the question, "Why do people fall in love?" It remains for her the mystery of life and the secret to happiness.
She lives in the Austin, TX area where she is having the time of her life.
Visit her on Instagram, Twitter, FB, and TikTok at maxwellcathy (Yes, some other Cathy Maxwell nabbed the handle. However, she does own www.cathymaxwell.com and she'd love for you to swing by.)
She lives in the Austin, TX area where she is having the time of her life.
Visit her on Instagram, Twitter, FB, and TikTok at maxwellcathy (Yes, some other Cathy Maxwell nabbed the handle. However, she does own www.cathymaxwell.com and she'd love for you to swing by.)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 245 reviews
January 6, 2018
DNF'd 70% Ugg!!! This book! Triggers for rape. Pointless backstory rape. I would definitely recommend skipping this terrible story and reading something less problematic.
February 6, 2018
The heroine's alcohol abuse is an interesting concept, but her recovery is glossed over too lightly. Perhaps it is my personal experience with an alcoholic loved one that caused me to be dissatisfied. Two books that present more realistic alcoholic behavior are Reforming Lord Ragsdale and The Rake.
Mary Jane Wells did her usual excellent job narrating.
Mary Jane Wells did her usual excellent job narrating.
June 25, 2024
Review from 2018
I've given this an A- for narration and a B for content at AudioGals
Given my disappointment with Cathy Maxwell’s last series ( Marrying the Duke ), I wasn’t sure I was going to read or listen to any of her new Spinster Heiresses novels, but Mary Jane Wells’ name on the cover meant that I couldn’t resist picking up book one for review. If Ever I Should Love You proved to be a stronger book than any in Ms. Maxwell’s previous series, telling the story of a couple with a shared secret in their past which has affected them both profoundly in very different ways. The author tackles some difficult issues with insight and sensitivity as our hero and heroine discover that secrets thought long buried have a way of bleeding through into the present.
Former army officer Roman Gilchrist inherited the earldom of Rochdale on the death of his uncle, and is dismayed to discover that the title is an empty one (i.e., there is no money to go with it) and that he is expected to honour his uncle’s massive gaming debts. Without the funds to do that, or to run his Somerset estate of Bonhomie, Roman has no alternative but to consider marring a wealthy heiress – after all, it’s a common enough practice for men in his situation. The idea sticks in Roman’s craw, but he listens grudgingly to his solicitor – who is also his godfather – extolling the virtues of the three so-called ‘Spinster Heiresses’, three attractive, extremely wealthy young women who are still unmarried because their fathers are holding out for a duke or marquess – but who might accept the holder of one of the oldest titles in England even though he is a mere earl. Roman’s ears prick up when he hears the name of the last of the three – Miss Leonie Charnock. Miss Charnock is beautiful, charming and rich as Croesus, but she is also the woman responsible for ruining Roman’s army career; he was serving in India when they first met, and he killed a fellow officer in a duel over her. Recalling her loveliness, Roman admits it will be no hardship to marry a woman he finds attractive – and deciding that Leonie owes him, Roman determines to marry her. Or rather, to marry her money.
Leonie doesn’t want to marry, and even if she did, Roman Gilchrist would be the last man she would choose. He is the only person who knows the truth of what happened in India (the duel was a story Roman concocted in order to save Leonie’s reputation) and of Leonie’s shame, and she doesn’t want an ever-present reminder of the night that changed her life forever. But it seems she is to have no choice in the matter. Roman has (as was the custom) already spoken to her father and gained his consent to their marriage; all Leonie can do is try to get him to agree to a white marriage (a sexless union) and every time she tries to broach the subject he evades the question.
Leonie’s reasons for not wanting to marry and for trying to avoid physical intimacy are fairly obvious and are explained early on in the story. Roman is fully aware of them, so rather than plunging listeners into a tortuous round of misunderstandings the novel focuses on the aftermath and how those events continue to affect Leonie and sour her relationship with her new husband. I don’t want to give too much away, so I’ll just say that Leonie’s problem is not one often found in historical romance – I don’t think I’ve ever come across a heroine with this particular issue – and that the author handles this storyline well, first of all showing Leonie in denial and then not afraid to show that in spite of her determination to fix things, it’s not easy and that she makes mistakes along the way. She’s not always easy to like and seems, sometimes, as though she is bent on self-destruction, but she is a troubled young woman with a shedload of emotional baggage – not only over what happened in India, but because being the only child of self-absorbed parents who barely remember her existence has deprived her of any sort of real affection – and as such, her thought-processes and actions, even when they are ill-conceived, make sense.
Roman is a lovely hero, a decent, honourable man who takes his responsibilities to his title and dependents seriously, loves his family and wants to do right by them, and who genuinely wants to create a home and family with Leonie. It’s true that perhaps his initial reasoning – “she owes me for ruining my life, so I’ll marry her for her money” – doesn’t paint him in the best of lights, but marrying for money happened frequently, and Roman is both completely up-front about his motivations and far from the least gracious of the heroes I’ve come across when faced with such circumstances. In a neat bit of role-reversal, in this story it’s the heroine with the dark, tortured past and the hero who eventually helps her to leave it behind, but it’s not easy for either of them and I can’t deny that there are times when Roman could – and should – have been more supportive of Leonie. But he’s struggling, too, with the possibility that the woman he’s married and fallen in love with is someone he may never be able to trust and ultimately their HEA is hard-won and well-deserved.
As I said at the outset, narrator Mary Jane Wells is the main reason I picked up this audio for review, and she doesn’t disappoint, delivering another enjoyable and accomplished performance all-round. Her pacing in both narrative and dialogue is excellent, as is her character differentiation; in the scenes in which Leonie appears with her two fellow Spinster Heiresses, there is never any question as to which of the ladies is speaking as they are all rendered very distinctly from one another. Ms. Wells’ interpretation of Leonie is particularly good; she expertly conveys her vulnerability as well as her stubbornness and strength of character, especially later in the book when Leonie has to find that strength and draw on it if she is to become the woman she has realised she wants to be. Roman sounds suitably and attractively masculine; sometimes he’s a little overbearing, but in the quieter, more introspective or emotional moments, Ms. Wells adopts a softer, more subtly nuanced tone that clearly shows the depth of his concern for Leonie and his frustration that he doesn’t know what to do to help her. The other secondary characters are all appropriately characterised, and the slightly slurred manner of speech she adopts to portray Leonie’s father – who is almost always partially foxed – works perfectly. It’s a well-judged, expressive performance and one I greatly enjoyed, although a handful of odd and sometimes inconsistent mispronunciations led me to knock my narration grade down a little. That aside, I was pleased with the overall result in terms of both story and performance, and If Ever I Should Love You (I really hope Alan Jay Lerner isn’t turning in his grave!) earns a recommendation from this listener.
I've given this an A- for narration and a B for content at AudioGals
Given my disappointment with Cathy Maxwell’s last series ( Marrying the Duke ), I wasn’t sure I was going to read or listen to any of her new Spinster Heiresses novels, but Mary Jane Wells’ name on the cover meant that I couldn’t resist picking up book one for review. If Ever I Should Love You proved to be a stronger book than any in Ms. Maxwell’s previous series, telling the story of a couple with a shared secret in their past which has affected them both profoundly in very different ways. The author tackles some difficult issues with insight and sensitivity as our hero and heroine discover that secrets thought long buried have a way of bleeding through into the present.
Former army officer Roman Gilchrist inherited the earldom of Rochdale on the death of his uncle, and is dismayed to discover that the title is an empty one (i.e., there is no money to go with it) and that he is expected to honour his uncle’s massive gaming debts. Without the funds to do that, or to run his Somerset estate of Bonhomie, Roman has no alternative but to consider marring a wealthy heiress – after all, it’s a common enough practice for men in his situation. The idea sticks in Roman’s craw, but he listens grudgingly to his solicitor – who is also his godfather – extolling the virtues of the three so-called ‘Spinster Heiresses’, three attractive, extremely wealthy young women who are still unmarried because their fathers are holding out for a duke or marquess – but who might accept the holder of one of the oldest titles in England even though he is a mere earl. Roman’s ears prick up when he hears the name of the last of the three – Miss Leonie Charnock. Miss Charnock is beautiful, charming and rich as Croesus, but she is also the woman responsible for ruining Roman’s army career; he was serving in India when they first met, and he killed a fellow officer in a duel over her. Recalling her loveliness, Roman admits it will be no hardship to marry a woman he finds attractive – and deciding that Leonie owes him, Roman determines to marry her. Or rather, to marry her money.
Leonie doesn’t want to marry, and even if she did, Roman Gilchrist would be the last man she would choose. He is the only person who knows the truth of what happened in India (the duel was a story Roman concocted in order to save Leonie’s reputation) and of Leonie’s shame, and she doesn’t want an ever-present reminder of the night that changed her life forever. But it seems she is to have no choice in the matter. Roman has (as was the custom) already spoken to her father and gained his consent to their marriage; all Leonie can do is try to get him to agree to a white marriage (a sexless union) and every time she tries to broach the subject he evades the question.
Leonie’s reasons for not wanting to marry and for trying to avoid physical intimacy are fairly obvious and are explained early on in the story. Roman is fully aware of them, so rather than plunging listeners into a tortuous round of misunderstandings the novel focuses on the aftermath and how those events continue to affect Leonie and sour her relationship with her new husband. I don’t want to give too much away, so I’ll just say that Leonie’s problem is not one often found in historical romance – I don’t think I’ve ever come across a heroine with this particular issue – and that the author handles this storyline well, first of all showing Leonie in denial and then not afraid to show that in spite of her determination to fix things, it’s not easy and that she makes mistakes along the way. She’s not always easy to like and seems, sometimes, as though she is bent on self-destruction, but she is a troubled young woman with a shedload of emotional baggage – not only over what happened in India, but because being the only child of self-absorbed parents who barely remember her existence has deprived her of any sort of real affection – and as such, her thought-processes and actions, even when they are ill-conceived, make sense.
Roman is a lovely hero, a decent, honourable man who takes his responsibilities to his title and dependents seriously, loves his family and wants to do right by them, and who genuinely wants to create a home and family with Leonie. It’s true that perhaps his initial reasoning – “she owes me for ruining my life, so I’ll marry her for her money” – doesn’t paint him in the best of lights, but marrying for money happened frequently, and Roman is both completely up-front about his motivations and far from the least gracious of the heroes I’ve come across when faced with such circumstances. In a neat bit of role-reversal, in this story it’s the heroine with the dark, tortured past and the hero who eventually helps her to leave it behind, but it’s not easy for either of them and I can’t deny that there are times when Roman could – and should – have been more supportive of Leonie. But he’s struggling, too, with the possibility that the woman he’s married and fallen in love with is someone he may never be able to trust and ultimately their HEA is hard-won and well-deserved.
As I said at the outset, narrator Mary Jane Wells is the main reason I picked up this audio for review, and she doesn’t disappoint, delivering another enjoyable and accomplished performance all-round. Her pacing in both narrative and dialogue is excellent, as is her character differentiation; in the scenes in which Leonie appears with her two fellow Spinster Heiresses, there is never any question as to which of the ladies is speaking as they are all rendered very distinctly from one another. Ms. Wells’ interpretation of Leonie is particularly good; she expertly conveys her vulnerability as well as her stubbornness and strength of character, especially later in the book when Leonie has to find that strength and draw on it if she is to become the woman she has realised she wants to be. Roman sounds suitably and attractively masculine; sometimes he’s a little overbearing, but in the quieter, more introspective or emotional moments, Ms. Wells adopts a softer, more subtly nuanced tone that clearly shows the depth of his concern for Leonie and his frustration that he doesn’t know what to do to help her. The other secondary characters are all appropriately characterised, and the slightly slurred manner of speech she adopts to portray Leonie’s father – who is almost always partially foxed – works perfectly. It’s a well-judged, expressive performance and one I greatly enjoyed, although a handful of odd and sometimes inconsistent mispronunciations led me to knock my narration grade down a little. That aside, I was pleased with the overall result in terms of both story and performance, and If Ever I Should Love You (I really hope Alan Jay Lerner isn’t turning in his grave!) earns a recommendation from this listener.
October 11, 2017
Four plus wow stars. I am in awe of Cathy Maxwell’s bravery in writing such a flawed, such a human heroine in Leonie. Only a writer so confident in her abilities can pull it off. Ms. Maxwell certainly did.
If Ever I Should Love You breaks through the tried-and-tested trope of an impoverished lord having to marry a commoner heiress. By tackling a serious seldom-discussed issue, it rises above historical romance novels set in the same time period. This book is an original.
It is not an easy read, not light and fluffy. At some points in the book, you'd actively dislike the characters. The payoff comes when you get to understand and empathize with them.
I would have liked more scenes depicting the close friendship among the Spinster Heiresses, but I understand why that subplot has to be abandoned to focus on the relationship between Leonie and Roman. Apart from that, I enjoyed this book. It engaged my brain as well as my heart.
If Ever I Should Love You breaks through the tried-and-tested trope of an impoverished lord having to marry a commoner heiress. By tackling a serious seldom-discussed issue, it rises above historical romance novels set in the same time period. This book is an original.
It is not an easy read, not light and fluffy. At some points in the book, you'd actively dislike the characters. The payoff comes when you get to understand and empathize with them.
I would have liked more scenes depicting the close friendship among the Spinster Heiresses, but I understand why that subplot has to be abandoned to focus on the relationship between Leonie and Roman. Apart from that, I enjoyed this book. It engaged my brain as well as my heart.
March 29, 2020
Good feeling of menace produced by alcoholism. I didn’t like how she needed to make herself worthy of him. The whole prove herself thing was depressing, even if necessary. Bit of a power imbalance.
He was definitely a self righteous prig on occasion (with a magical cure-all-trauma penile projectile). Her recovery on all fronts was too simplistic.
Brave subject for the author to tackle. She did not tread lightly. So praise where it’s due.
He was definitely a self righteous prig on occasion (with a magical cure-all-trauma penile projectile). Her recovery on all fronts was too simplistic.
Brave subject for the author to tackle. She did not tread lightly. So praise where it’s due.
January 4, 2018
DNF at 41%..
I can't spend $7 on this mess! I just can't read this. Every other page or so the heroine, Leonie, is drinking or drunk. Even on her wedding day she emptied her mother's flask into her teapot and proceeded to drink it as she got ready. She didn't even remember getting married.
I can't read about a drunken MC.
As to the narration: Not even the awesome Mary Jane Wells could help this.
I can't spend $7 on this mess! I just can't read this. Every other page or so the heroine, Leonie, is drinking or drunk. Even on her wedding day she emptied her mother's flask into her teapot and proceeded to drink it as she got ready. She didn't even remember getting married.
I can't read about a drunken MC.
As to the narration: Not even the awesome Mary Jane Wells could help this.
December 4, 2017
4.5 Stars Rounded up to 5
Series: Spinster Heiresses #1
Publication Date: 12/26/17
Many kudos to Ms. Maxwell for dealing with some tough issues – and doing it superbly. Our heroine isn’t the normal skittish maiden. She has some excellent reasons for not wanting to marry and some real issues to overcome. Our hero has his own set of issues and you wonder how they are going to overcome them individually and together to finally reach that HEA they deserve. I do not enjoy dark books at all and I was fearful this one would be dark – but it wasn’t – it was wonderfully hopeful while still leaving you to wonder if they could overcome. However, it isn’t an easy read – definitely not a fluffy and light read. There were times when I wanted to turn both characters over my knee and spank them, but as you learn more about them and come to understand them, you begin to not only like, but respect them.
Leonie Charnock is a very flawed young lady who has no desire to marry. However, her parents want her to marry – and to marry into the aristocracy. Yes, she is literally for sale. That really is a sad commentary on the times, isn’t it? Her home is not a happy one. Her parents live totally separate lives and both ignore her. She has never known love and has no idea what love or happiness is. So, you can imagine how difficult it would be for her to recognize it if she found it. Then, throw in the horrendous thing that happened to her and you have the makings of a total disaster of a life. However, a little tipple now and then makes all the pain and loneliness a little easier to bear.
Roman Gilchrist is now, unexpectedly, the Earl of Rochdale. Sadly, he has inherited a debt-ridden estate and his man of business tells him the only way out is to marry an heiress – a very rich heiress. Roman is a romantic and always wanted to marry for love. His whole family has married for love and they are still in love – he wants that for himself. He soon realizes that the only way to take care of his family is to pay off the earldom’s debts and restore the family seat to a habitable condition. He also feels a deep responsibility for the tenants and others on the estate who depend on him. Therefore, he considers what his man of business has to say – and when the man of business gives him the name of the richest heiress – his mouth drops open. Leonie Charnock!
Roman and Leonie have a history from several years ago when her father worked in India for the East India Company and Roman was a soldier stationed there. I won’t tell you the story because that would be a spoiler – but I can tell you Roman never forgot Leonie. Sometimes that remembrance was not with fondness, but he never forgot her.
I absolutely loved the book, the characters, the writing – well – all of it. My only wish is that it could have been a tad longer so that we could have seen more of the friendship and interactions between the ‘Spinster Heiresses’. I would have also loved an epilogue a year or so out in the future so we could see Leonie and Roman with their bouncing baby AND also see her shocked parents visiting for the first time – shock at the changes in their daughter and how she and Roman are living.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Series: Spinster Heiresses #1
Publication Date: 12/26/17
Many kudos to Ms. Maxwell for dealing with some tough issues – and doing it superbly. Our heroine isn’t the normal skittish maiden. She has some excellent reasons for not wanting to marry and some real issues to overcome. Our hero has his own set of issues and you wonder how they are going to overcome them individually and together to finally reach that HEA they deserve. I do not enjoy dark books at all and I was fearful this one would be dark – but it wasn’t – it was wonderfully hopeful while still leaving you to wonder if they could overcome. However, it isn’t an easy read – definitely not a fluffy and light read. There were times when I wanted to turn both characters over my knee and spank them, but as you learn more about them and come to understand them, you begin to not only like, but respect them.
Leonie Charnock is a very flawed young lady who has no desire to marry. However, her parents want her to marry – and to marry into the aristocracy. Yes, she is literally for sale. That really is a sad commentary on the times, isn’t it? Her home is not a happy one. Her parents live totally separate lives and both ignore her. She has never known love and has no idea what love or happiness is. So, you can imagine how difficult it would be for her to recognize it if she found it. Then, throw in the horrendous thing that happened to her and you have the makings of a total disaster of a life. However, a little tipple now and then makes all the pain and loneliness a little easier to bear.
Roman Gilchrist is now, unexpectedly, the Earl of Rochdale. Sadly, he has inherited a debt-ridden estate and his man of business tells him the only way out is to marry an heiress – a very rich heiress. Roman is a romantic and always wanted to marry for love. His whole family has married for love and they are still in love – he wants that for himself. He soon realizes that the only way to take care of his family is to pay off the earldom’s debts and restore the family seat to a habitable condition. He also feels a deep responsibility for the tenants and others on the estate who depend on him. Therefore, he considers what his man of business has to say – and when the man of business gives him the name of the richest heiress – his mouth drops open. Leonie Charnock!
Roman and Leonie have a history from several years ago when her father worked in India for the East India Company and Roman was a soldier stationed there. I won’t tell you the story because that would be a spoiler – but I can tell you Roman never forgot Leonie. Sometimes that remembrance was not with fondness, but he never forgot her.
I absolutely loved the book, the characters, the writing – well – all of it. My only wish is that it could have been a tad longer so that we could have seen more of the friendship and interactions between the ‘Spinster Heiresses’. I would have also loved an epilogue a year or so out in the future so we could see Leonie and Roman with their bouncing baby AND also see her shocked parents visiting for the first time – shock at the changes in their daughter and how she and Roman are living.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
June 13, 2021
So, there is a lot that I liked and a lot that was frustrating about this book. I thought it was a great choice to give the heroine an addiction, but we didn't work through her drama or treat her issues enough for my satisfaction.
3.5/5 stars
3.5/5 stars
June 17, 2021
I was hoping that this would be the first Cathy Maxwell that I love. Unfortunately that is not the case :(
I loved the heroine’s growth in this book.
But I honestly did not like the hero. The heroine has an addiction to alcohol, and I honestly despised the hero’s reaction to it. He was just super mad at her and I felt like did little to support her. All he did was get the alcohol out of the house and just leave the heroine alone. I wanted to see that loving support system and I felt like we didn’t get that here.
I loved the heroine’s growth in this book.
But I honestly did not like the hero. The heroine has an addiction to alcohol, and I honestly despised the hero’s reaction to it. He was just super mad at her and I felt like did little to support her. All he did was get the alcohol out of the house and just leave the heroine alone. I wanted to see that loving support system and I felt like we didn’t get that here.
December 26, 2017
I honestly think this book was over the top. It had too many subplots and none of them was explored as much as it should have been. I wish the author had used more pages to show us who Leonie and Rochdale truly are. I wanted to see how Leonie was handling the consequences of her secrets and maybe how she was struggling because I didn't feel like she went through a hardship. I wish I could say what her deepest secret is, but unfortunately, I can't. It's hinted before the big revelation, but I could honestly say that the hints were too subtle and I could only see them after we found out the truth. This is the first time in my reading experience where a heroine is having a problem like the one Leonie has in a historical romance and you have no idea how much I was thrown off. Leonie and Rochdale managed to give me mixed feelings because they had very colorful personalities. I couldn't always understand their mood changes, which were very abrupt I might say. I liked them sometimes and other not. They are weird people and not easy to like.
The rest of the Spinster Heiresses were forgotten soon after the "happy" couple got married. Not that they appeared much before the wedding. We barely know a couple of things about them and that's bad because this is the first book in a series about them. I will read the next book and the only thing I will know about the heroine will be her height. At least I hope she will have a better-constructed book because this one was as good as I was expecting. I have to say though that the cover is on point and it represents the heroine perfectly. I think the ton should have been harsher with the heroine and her heritage.
To sum it up, I didn't like the book and the main characters. Leonie's secrets threw me off and all hope was lost for me. I like how the author explained everything, but I still couldn't get over it. The hero had his good moments and I could see that he was trying, but somewhere along the way he failed to win me over.
The rest of the Spinster Heiresses were forgotten soon after the "happy" couple got married. Not that they appeared much before the wedding. We barely know a couple of things about them and that's bad because this is the first book in a series about them. I will read the next book and the only thing I will know about the heroine will be her height. At least I hope she will have a better-constructed book because this one was as good as I was expecting. I have to say though that the cover is on point and it represents the heroine perfectly. I think the ton should have been harsher with the heroine and her heritage.
To sum it up, I didn't like the book and the main characters. Leonie's secrets threw me off and all hope was lost for me. I like how the author explained everything, but I still couldn't get over it. The hero had his good moments and I could see that he was trying, but somewhere along the way he failed to win me over.
March 21, 2019
4.5 - Voto
.
"Leonie sapeva come fare un’uscita drammatica. Le donne avevano poche risorse per ribellarsi, o almeno le figlie. Sua madre invece tradiva suo padre ad ogni occasione, anche se lui non sembrava curarsene. Leonie sapeva che il padre avrebbe ignorato la sua uscita a testa alta, in chiaro segno di disapprovazione, ma Gilchrist no. Avrebbe lasciato che la seguisse e alla prima occasione gli avrebbe fatto rimpiangere di averla avvicinata e invitata a ballare. Come osava? Lo avrebbe fatto a pezzi con la sua lingua tagliente, e lui sarebbe tornato di corsa ovunque fosse rimasto in tutti quegli anni. Prima però doveva ballare con lui."
.
Lo storico di cui oggi vi voglio parlare, è uscito in questi giorni per la collana I Grandi Romanzi Storici, e mi ha davvero piacevolmente sorpreso. La rinascita di Leonie è il primo della serie “Le ereditiere zitelle”. Parliamo di tre ragazze che pur essendo di piacevole aspetto, dopo alcune stagioni, non hanno ancora accettato un pretendente, e che ora le loro famiglie sono intenzionate a far sposare nel più breve tempo possibile.
Il nostro protagonista Roman, è appena diventato Conte di Rochdale, un casato nobile di antica data. Si tratta di un titolo prestigioso, che però, negli ultimi anni è passato da sperperatore a sperperatore. Ora Roman si trova con una bellissima proprietà in rovina che lui intende riportare ai vecchi splendori, ma è attorniato dai creditori di gioco del Conte precedente, che intendono incassare da lui le loro vincite di gioco. Consigliato dal suo avvocato, non gli rimane che una strada: sposare una ricca ereditiera, ed usare il suo denaro per realizzare i sogni che ha per la tenuta di Bonhomie. Scoprire che una delle ereditiere sulla lista è Leonie Charnock, lo porta a fare dei piani precisi. Loro due si sono conosciuti anni prima in India, e la ragazza gli deve molto. Scopriremo infatti che la giovane, appena diciasettenne, era solita civettare con lui e con un suo commilitone. Fin quando, una tragica notte è avvenuto un duello che ha messo fine alla carriera militare di Roman, accusato di aver ucciso Arthur per gelosia. Ma nulla di ciò che è emerso allora dall’inchiesta corrisponde a verità. Quella la conoscono solo Roman e Leonie, ed è terribile. Spedita subito in patria dal padre, la ragazza ha tentato di dimenticare, non ponendosi mai il problema di ciò che Roman abbia dovuto subire, o di quali siano state le conseguenze per lui. Ora sente di dovergli moltissimo, ed accetta la sua proposta di matrimonio, ponendo però delle condizioni inderogabili. Roman accetta perché è convinto con il tempo, di farle comprendere che il loro potrebbe essere un buon matrimonio. Ma scoprire il modo in cui Leonie cerca di affrontare gli incubi che affollano la sua mente, potrebbe far finire il loro matrimonio, ancora prima di incominciare.
Nella maggior parte degli storici, è il protagonista che ha dipendenze o vizi. Mentre l’eroina arriva col suo amore a curare i suoi demoni. Qui, invece, abbiamo qualcosa di totalmente diverso. Roman fin da subito, spicca per il suo enorme senso dell’onore. L’idea di doversi sposare per denaro lo devasta, proviene da una famiglia molto particolare, in cui però l’amore ha sempre avuto un grande rilievo. La scoperta che Leonie potrebbe salvare i suoi sogni, lo rende felice, perché lui quella ragazzina bellissima e piena di spirito non l’ha mai dimenticata, ed in fondo è sempre stato innamorato di lei. Per lei si è assunto colpe che non gli appartenevano e quando la sposa è cosciente che dovrà lottare con i ricordi di quella notte per poter sperare di essere felice. Ma non avrebbe mai pensato che sua moglie si sarebbe presentata al matrimonio in condizioni così incredibili, e la loro storia sembra destinata a finire in brevissimo tempo.
Leonie ha dovuto mentire per anni, scappata di casa convinta di essere innamorata di Arthur ha visto morire in modo orribile tutti i suoi sogni, e per anni si è macerata nei rimorsi per non aver detto la verità. Figlia unica di una coppia che si odia fin dal primo giorno di matrimonio, ha una madre che ritorna a casa alla fine della nottata uscendo dal letto dell’amante di turno, e non esce dalla sua camera da letto fino alla sera dopo, per recarsi a qualche festa. Suo padre lungi dall’amarla, vede in lei solamente lo strumento che permetterà ai suoi nipoti di fregiarsi di un titolo, e per questo è disposto a pagare generosamente. Sono genitori troppo occupati a farsi la guerra, per vedere che Leonie ha una dipendenza che diventa sempre più grave.
Ho trovato molto bello il modo in cui l’autrice fa crescere il rapporto fra Leonie e Roman. I sospetti dell’uomo sull’incapacità della moglie di resistere, troveranno spesso conferma. Ma sarà proprio grazie alle parole del marito che Leonie prenderà coscienza di ciò che è diventata e si renderà conto di avere un grande e grave problema di dipendenza. Ed è stata brava l’autrice nel raccontare le difficoltà, nel lasciare proprio a Leonie il compito di uscirne. L’essere amata ed accettata per la prima volta nella sua vita può aiutarla, ma fintanto che lei non riuscirà ad espellere il veleno di quella notte che non ha mai dimenticato, e non troverà in se stessa la forza di perdonarsi, nessuno potrà fare qualcosa per lei e salvarla. Ed è davvero una rinascita, un riconoscere le proprie debolezze e trovare qualcosa che valga così tanto per cui lottare e vincere, sapendo che il problema continuerà a sussistere e che bisogna lottare ogni giorno.
È una storia d’amore insolita, dove non è la mancanza di sentimenti il problema, ma un animo devastato dal rimorso e dal non aver mai avuto nessuno con cui confidarsi. Due persone che si amano davvero, ma che sanno che questo potrebbe davvero non bastare. La scrittura dell’autrice è davvero bella, così come la caratterizzazione dei suoi personaggi davvero indovinata. L’unica pecca, è la guarigione di Leonie, che risulta davvero troppo facile. Una serie partita davvero molto bene e che vedrà nel prossimo capitolo Cassandra, la seconda delle ereditiere zitelle, finire sposata con il nemico della sua famiglia.
.
Lucia63 -per RFS
.
"Leonie sapeva come fare un’uscita drammatica. Le donne avevano poche risorse per ribellarsi, o almeno le figlie. Sua madre invece tradiva suo padre ad ogni occasione, anche se lui non sembrava curarsene. Leonie sapeva che il padre avrebbe ignorato la sua uscita a testa alta, in chiaro segno di disapprovazione, ma Gilchrist no. Avrebbe lasciato che la seguisse e alla prima occasione gli avrebbe fatto rimpiangere di averla avvicinata e invitata a ballare. Come osava? Lo avrebbe fatto a pezzi con la sua lingua tagliente, e lui sarebbe tornato di corsa ovunque fosse rimasto in tutti quegli anni. Prima però doveva ballare con lui."
.
Lo storico di cui oggi vi voglio parlare, è uscito in questi giorni per la collana I Grandi Romanzi Storici, e mi ha davvero piacevolmente sorpreso. La rinascita di Leonie è il primo della serie “Le ereditiere zitelle”. Parliamo di tre ragazze che pur essendo di piacevole aspetto, dopo alcune stagioni, non hanno ancora accettato un pretendente, e che ora le loro famiglie sono intenzionate a far sposare nel più breve tempo possibile.
Il nostro protagonista Roman, è appena diventato Conte di Rochdale, un casato nobile di antica data. Si tratta di un titolo prestigioso, che però, negli ultimi anni è passato da sperperatore a sperperatore. Ora Roman si trova con una bellissima proprietà in rovina che lui intende riportare ai vecchi splendori, ma è attorniato dai creditori di gioco del Conte precedente, che intendono incassare da lui le loro vincite di gioco. Consigliato dal suo avvocato, non gli rimane che una strada: sposare una ricca ereditiera, ed usare il suo denaro per realizzare i sogni che ha per la tenuta di Bonhomie. Scoprire che una delle ereditiere sulla lista è Leonie Charnock, lo porta a fare dei piani precisi. Loro due si sono conosciuti anni prima in India, e la ragazza gli deve molto. Scopriremo infatti che la giovane, appena diciasettenne, era solita civettare con lui e con un suo commilitone. Fin quando, una tragica notte è avvenuto un duello che ha messo fine alla carriera militare di Roman, accusato di aver ucciso Arthur per gelosia. Ma nulla di ciò che è emerso allora dall’inchiesta corrisponde a verità. Quella la conoscono solo Roman e Leonie, ed è terribile. Spedita subito in patria dal padre, la ragazza ha tentato di dimenticare, non ponendosi mai il problema di ciò che Roman abbia dovuto subire, o di quali siano state le conseguenze per lui. Ora sente di dovergli moltissimo, ed accetta la sua proposta di matrimonio, ponendo però delle condizioni inderogabili. Roman accetta perché è convinto con il tempo, di farle comprendere che il loro potrebbe essere un buon matrimonio. Ma scoprire il modo in cui Leonie cerca di affrontare gli incubi che affollano la sua mente, potrebbe far finire il loro matrimonio, ancora prima di incominciare.
Nella maggior parte degli storici, è il protagonista che ha dipendenze o vizi. Mentre l’eroina arriva col suo amore a curare i suoi demoni. Qui, invece, abbiamo qualcosa di totalmente diverso. Roman fin da subito, spicca per il suo enorme senso dell’onore. L’idea di doversi sposare per denaro lo devasta, proviene da una famiglia molto particolare, in cui però l’amore ha sempre avuto un grande rilievo. La scoperta che Leonie potrebbe salvare i suoi sogni, lo rende felice, perché lui quella ragazzina bellissima e piena di spirito non l’ha mai dimenticata, ed in fondo è sempre stato innamorato di lei. Per lei si è assunto colpe che non gli appartenevano e quando la sposa è cosciente che dovrà lottare con i ricordi di quella notte per poter sperare di essere felice. Ma non avrebbe mai pensato che sua moglie si sarebbe presentata al matrimonio in condizioni così incredibili, e la loro storia sembra destinata a finire in brevissimo tempo.
Leonie ha dovuto mentire per anni, scappata di casa convinta di essere innamorata di Arthur ha visto morire in modo orribile tutti i suoi sogni, e per anni si è macerata nei rimorsi per non aver detto la verità. Figlia unica di una coppia che si odia fin dal primo giorno di matrimonio, ha una madre che ritorna a casa alla fine della nottata uscendo dal letto dell’amante di turno, e non esce dalla sua camera da letto fino alla sera dopo, per recarsi a qualche festa. Suo padre lungi dall’amarla, vede in lei solamente lo strumento che permetterà ai suoi nipoti di fregiarsi di un titolo, e per questo è disposto a pagare generosamente. Sono genitori troppo occupati a farsi la guerra, per vedere che Leonie ha una dipendenza che diventa sempre più grave.
Ho trovato molto bello il modo in cui l’autrice fa crescere il rapporto fra Leonie e Roman. I sospetti dell’uomo sull’incapacità della moglie di resistere, troveranno spesso conferma. Ma sarà proprio grazie alle parole del marito che Leonie prenderà coscienza di ciò che è diventata e si renderà conto di avere un grande e grave problema di dipendenza. Ed è stata brava l’autrice nel raccontare le difficoltà, nel lasciare proprio a Leonie il compito di uscirne. L’essere amata ed accettata per la prima volta nella sua vita può aiutarla, ma fintanto che lei non riuscirà ad espellere il veleno di quella notte che non ha mai dimenticato, e non troverà in se stessa la forza di perdonarsi, nessuno potrà fare qualcosa per lei e salvarla. Ed è davvero una rinascita, un riconoscere le proprie debolezze e trovare qualcosa che valga così tanto per cui lottare e vincere, sapendo che il problema continuerà a sussistere e che bisogna lottare ogni giorno.
È una storia d’amore insolita, dove non è la mancanza di sentimenti il problema, ma un animo devastato dal rimorso e dal non aver mai avuto nessuno con cui confidarsi. Due persone che si amano davvero, ma che sanno che questo potrebbe davvero non bastare. La scrittura dell’autrice è davvero bella, così come la caratterizzazione dei suoi personaggi davvero indovinata. L’unica pecca, è la guarigione di Leonie, che risulta davvero troppo facile. Una serie partita davvero molto bene e che vedrà nel prossimo capitolo Cassandra, la seconda delle ereditiere zitelle, finire sposata con il nemico della sua famiglia.
.
Lucia63 -per RFS
December 19, 2017
If Ever I Should Love You kicks off a new series, the Spinster Heiresses, by renowned historical romance author, Cathy Maxwell. The premise of the series involves three heiresses whose blood is just not quite blue enough for the bon ton, and who are each quite picky in their prospects for marital bliss. Unfortunately for our girls, their fathers are determined to sell them off in exchange for a title.
Our first spinster heiress is Leonie Charnock, whose name you might recognize as the chit who was jilted by the Duke of Baynton in A Date at the Altar. Although Leonie wasn't all that upset at being overthrown for an actress, as she harbors guilt, shame and fear over what was wrought by a foolish decision in her past, and it has caused an aversion to marriage and "man things." I had a hard time with Leonie at first. I did not like how she treated our hero and seemed not to think about the consequences her actions had on his life. However, I did try to make allowances for her past, and then I grew to like her flawed character. I got wrapped up in her turmoil and tippling, and I felt sorry for her. I also loved the cover of this book, and it fits our heroine perfectly.
Roman is the newly (and unexpectedly) inherited Earl of Rochdale. Having come from modest means, Roman was not quite prepared to be the bearer of such an old and respected title. So when he finds himself indebted and in possession of a crumbling manse, Roman learns his only choice is to marry an heiress. And when he discovers that Leonie is back in London and her father is shopping her around in exchange for a title, he knows that he will have her. I liked Roman as a hero. I liked that he went after Leonie and was determined to have her and protect her, and could see that she was in need of protection. There were a few times when I felt he could have been more understanding with her, but I also felt his turmoil over providing for his family and being saddled with a wife who might be trouble.
The relationship between Leonie and Roman was somewhat tumultuous due to their complicated past and Leonie's lingering issues. There were times when it seemed Roman would not stick it out, and that is where you really connected to Leonie's character because you could see that she needed help and he wasn't being as supportive as you might hope. So this was a good ride on the roller coaster along with our couple.
I liked the secondary characters as well, I only wished there would have been more time with them. I would have loved to see more of the friendship and interaction between our spinster heiresses, so hopefully we will get more of that in the future installments. I also really liked Roman's family and would have liked to know more about them. I kind of believe they may be the subject of some previous books that I have not yet read, as I felt like the references to their lives and past were made in a way that the reader should know who they are.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the publisher, Avon.
November 7, 2018
3.5 stars
January 2, 2018
Roman and Leonie
This is the first novel I've read by Cathy Maxwell. If this story is representative of her work, I intend to read more. I expected a romp. Ha! This was not that!
A rape, a murder and a coverup! The hero and heroine have a scandalous shared secret. Wow! I sat up and took notice. Maxwell has taken a subject matter that is usually cloaked in secrecy and shame and dumped it right out in the open forcing her characters and readers to deal with it.
Roman Gilchrist has inherited a title, a bankrupt, ramshackle estate along with debts of honor and no funds to satisfy them. His only option - a marriage of convenience with an heiress. The last thing he'd ever been raised to contemplate. His godfather presents him with several options. One young lady immediately captures his attention. They share a past and a devastating secret. If he must marry an heiress, then she is it, whether she likes it or not. She owes him after all.
Leonie wants to remain unmarried. She never wants to find herself at the mercy of a man. Her father has other ideas and goals. He has provided an immense dowry for the sole purpose of gaining a title for his progeny. She has no choice save obedience.
Leonie, as you will find fellow readers, is unlike any heroine I've encountered to date. She's real. She may have beautiful features and lovely ballroom manners, but underneath it all, Maxwell has created a woman who has experienced the ultimate horror and has coped with it in a manner that is oh so familiar.
Maxwell takes us on a journey here that creates empathy for this lovely couple and hope that they will continue to work together to make their home a happy one.
If you're looking for a romp, this is not it. If you're looking for a well-written and very nuanced story that challenges your preconceptions, you've come to the right place. I wonder what lies ahead for the next two spinster heiresses? I cannot wait!
This is the first novel I've read by Cathy Maxwell. If this story is representative of her work, I intend to read more. I expected a romp. Ha! This was not that!
A rape, a murder and a coverup! The hero and heroine have a scandalous shared secret. Wow! I sat up and took notice. Maxwell has taken a subject matter that is usually cloaked in secrecy and shame and dumped it right out in the open forcing her characters and readers to deal with it.
Roman Gilchrist has inherited a title, a bankrupt, ramshackle estate along with debts of honor and no funds to satisfy them. His only option - a marriage of convenience with an heiress. The last thing he'd ever been raised to contemplate. His godfather presents him with several options. One young lady immediately captures his attention. They share a past and a devastating secret. If he must marry an heiress, then she is it, whether she likes it or not. She owes him after all.
Leonie wants to remain unmarried. She never wants to find herself at the mercy of a man. Her father has other ideas and goals. He has provided an immense dowry for the sole purpose of gaining a title for his progeny. She has no choice save obedience.
Leonie, as you will find fellow readers, is unlike any heroine I've encountered to date. She's real. She may have beautiful features and lovely ballroom manners, but underneath it all, Maxwell has created a woman who has experienced the ultimate horror and has coped with it in a manner that is oh so familiar.
Maxwell takes us on a journey here that creates empathy for this lovely couple and hope that they will continue to work together to make their home a happy one.
If you're looking for a romp, this is not it. If you're looking for a well-written and very nuanced story that challenges your preconceptions, you've come to the right place. I wonder what lies ahead for the next two spinster heiresses? I cannot wait!
December 28, 2017
I really liked this book due to its deft tackling of serious subject matter in a way that makes the reader love these characters in spite of their many obstacles. Some awkward moments exist within the writing, but in retrospect those moments make the plot and people more realistic. Another great read from Ms. Maxwell.
December 18, 2017
Roman Gilchrist, the new Earl of Rochdale, knew he had to marry a wealthy woman. Apart from the family estate, which was in dire need of maintenance, his late uncle’s huge gambling debts left Roman no choice. Roman’s solicitor suggests one of the so-called Spinster Heiresses; Leonie Charnock was one of them. After being jilted the previous year by a duke, Leonie’s chances of attracting the sort of husband her parents wish for her has become slimmer: the Charnocks come from trade and Leonie’s father’s fondest wish is that she marry “a title”. Leonie and Roman had met in India, where Leonie had spent the greater part of her life; Roman had been totally smitten, whereas Leonie had preferred the even more handsome Arthur Paccard. Roman had sacrificed his future because of Leonie, and he figures that, six years later, she can pay him back.
IF EVER I SHOULD LOVE YOU is a most welcome and extraordinary twist on the familiar marriage of convenience trope, because it doesn’t follow the usual path. It is a story of true love, of forgiveness; words fail me, it is that grandiose a story. I was completely overwhelmed by the majesty of the story, and several tissues were needed, as I was enthralled and awed. Cathy Maxwell has written a painfully realistic of story of good people whose lives are forever altered because of events that should not have occurred in an ideal world, with long-term consequences that became unbearable burdens. Leonie and Roman share a tragic past, and my heart ached for both of them because of the secrets they have kept for so many years, which have caused resentment, guilt, and changed their lives forever. Leonie and Roman are unforgettable characters, exceptionally well-rounded, admirably imperfect, and so genuine I know a couple like them has existed somehow, somewhere in time. Roman’s mother Catherine and stepfather David are also outstanding.
IF EVER I SHOULD LOVE YOU is a riveting, sad, wondrous, mesmerising, rewarding, and marvellous romance, but even more, it truly is the story of two people and their marriage: one who loves, the other who doesn’t really know if that possibility exists anymore. IF EVER I SHOULD LOVE YOU is one of the most beautiful, touching, powerful and viscerally-affecting romances I have read; a truly spectacular novel which I most highly recommend to readers who need more than fluff.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
IF EVER I SHOULD LOVE YOU is a most welcome and extraordinary twist on the familiar marriage of convenience trope, because it doesn’t follow the usual path. It is a story of true love, of forgiveness; words fail me, it is that grandiose a story. I was completely overwhelmed by the majesty of the story, and several tissues were needed, as I was enthralled and awed. Cathy Maxwell has written a painfully realistic of story of good people whose lives are forever altered because of events that should not have occurred in an ideal world, with long-term consequences that became unbearable burdens. Leonie and Roman share a tragic past, and my heart ached for both of them because of the secrets they have kept for so many years, which have caused resentment, guilt, and changed their lives forever. Leonie and Roman are unforgettable characters, exceptionally well-rounded, admirably imperfect, and so genuine I know a couple like them has existed somehow, somewhere in time. Roman’s mother Catherine and stepfather David are also outstanding.
IF EVER I SHOULD LOVE YOU is a riveting, sad, wondrous, mesmerising, rewarding, and marvellous romance, but even more, it truly is the story of two people and their marriage: one who loves, the other who doesn’t really know if that possibility exists anymore. IF EVER I SHOULD LOVE YOU is one of the most beautiful, touching, powerful and viscerally-affecting romances I have read; a truly spectacular novel which I most highly recommend to readers who need more than fluff.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
March 9, 2021
The heroine Leonie was a strong character ..Felt sorry for her. The hero Roman was a disappointment and a hypocrite. The hero should have supported her but it was by her own will power Leonie survived
Was a very disturbing read..
Was a very disturbing read..
January 17, 2018
3.5 stars
TW for rape; Leonie's a rape survivor, and there was an attempted rape in the story as well.
Also TW for alcoholism.
I had to restart this a couple of times because I couldn't connect to the characters or the story. The pacing was a bit slow to start, and Leonie the heroine is a tad prickly for my taste, but I warmed up to her as the story progressed. I love her character growth, and I love how her relationship with Roman developed from two strangers in a marriage of convenience into something solid. That being said, I wish I was a bit more attached to the couple. The budding romance between them is sweet, but I wish I felt more for them.
So excited for Cassandra's story!
E-ARC is received thanks to the publisher via Edelweiss.
TW for rape; Leonie's a rape survivor, and there was an attempted rape in the story as well.
Also TW for alcoholism.
I had to restart this a couple of times because I couldn't connect to the characters or the story. The pacing was a bit slow to start, and Leonie the heroine is a tad prickly for my taste, but I warmed up to her as the story progressed. I love her character growth, and I love how her relationship with Roman developed from two strangers in a marriage of convenience into something solid. That being said, I wish I was a bit more attached to the couple. The budding romance between them is sweet, but I wish I felt more for them.
So excited for Cassandra's story!
E-ARC is received thanks to the publisher via Edelweiss.
January 6, 2018
Such a wonderful book, tackling an seldom-discussed issue. The blurb does not do it justice. Fully review here: https://courtneyreadsromancesite.word...
Read
March 12, 2018I have been reading Historical Romance books for many years, and this the first book to my knowledge that I have read to where one of the main characters had a problem with alcohol. And as we all know, alcoholism has been with us since the beginning of time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2019
** 2.5 / 3 stars **
I had some issues with this one. There were some elements that just didn’t make sense at all, and also just weren’t even realistic. Mini review to come!
I had some issues with this one. There were some elements that just didn’t make sense at all, and also just weren’t even realistic. Mini review to come!
February 1, 2018
TRIGGER WARNING- RAPE
This book uses a past rape as a plot device that is used throughout the entire book as fake excuse. We also have an attempted rape in this book.
STOP 👏USING👏RAPE👏AS👏A👏CHEAP👏PLOT👏POINT👏
the back cover says "Leonie doesn't want to be anyone's wife". she's afraid of marriage because of being raped (completely understandable). she's nervous about her wedding night (again, understandable)
I really like Cathy Maxwell, but this book has me feeling some kind of way and all of my emotions are negative.
This book uses a past rape as a plot device that is used throughout the entire book as fake excuse. We also have an attempted rape in this book.
STOP 👏USING👏RAPE👏AS👏A👏CHEAP👏PLOT👏POINT👏
the back cover says "Leonie doesn't want to be anyone's wife". she's afraid of marriage because of being raped (completely understandable). she's nervous about her wedding night (again, understandable)
I really like Cathy Maxwell, but this book has me feeling some kind of way and all of my emotions are negative.
August 27, 2017
The Earl of Rochdale never thought that he'd inherit a title. Especially one with such a large debt attached. When he's told of the three Spinter Heiresses, he's shocked to discover that he knows one of them, Leonie Charnock. They knew each other in India and the result of one of her flirtations got him dishonorably discharged.
Leonie has Very Good Reasons for not wanting to get married. But Roman decides they are going to be married and she figures she might as well go along with it. Besides, it's not like life with her overbearing father and philandering mother is all that great anyway.
The first part of this book seemed promising. Then Roman furthered my thoughts that he was going to be an asshat. And rather than getting better, he only got worse. And then the book got preachy. It was good of Maxwell to try to tackle a difficult topic but I did not feel like she succeeded.
Leonie has Very Good Reasons for not wanting to get married. But Roman decides they are going to be married and she figures she might as well go along with it. Besides, it's not like life with her overbearing father and philandering mother is all that great anyway.
The first part of this book seemed promising. Then Roman furthered my thoughts that he was going to be an asshat. And rather than getting better, he only got worse. And then the book got preachy. It was good of Maxwell to try to tackle a difficult topic but I did not feel like she succeeded.
November 4, 2021
So good! I think it says something when a historical romance manages to hit on issues that make it incredibly relevant in our modern world - and this did just that. Beyond being a lovely romance with some interesting twists and fantastic characters, I loved the way If Ever I Should Love You dealt with rape and it's consequences for all involved. It's sad, but our world hasn't progressed much beyond the victim shaming that kept the heroine quiet and the consequences for her mental health are well written. I also enjoyed the battle with alcoholism, which was unexpected and brilliantly done. I cannot wait to read more in this series.
Oh and I should note this was an audio read for me - with really great narration. I will definitely continue on audio.
Oh and I should note this was an audio read for me - with really great narration. I will definitely continue on audio.
December 25, 2017
This is most definitely not your run of the mill Historical Romance novel, Ms. Maxwell has written a very emotional thought provoking story of two people who are not perfect, but perfect for each other. This review might be slightly spoilerish!!
Roman Gilchrist is the new Earl of Rochdale and he is broke. His godfather suggests he marry an heiress to garner the funds he needs to pay off his uncle's debts and to set the estate to rights. Roman is vehemently opposed to the idea, until he learns that Leonie Charnock is one of the "Spinster Heiresses".
Leonie and Roman have a past, years ago Roman saved Leonie and paid for the act with his military career. While he has no desire for a loveless marriage for money, he feels that Leonie owes him.
Leonie has no desire to marry and even if she did, Roman would be the last man she would ever consider. Roman is the only person in the world who knows Leonie's secret shame. When he approaches her at a ball, she slaps him and runs away. Roman follows her and tells her that they will marry and that he already has her father's permission. She confronts her father and learns that Roman is telling the truth. Later while dancing with the Duke of Camberly, she has a flashback to the worst night of her life and feeling ill, leaves the ball without dancing with Roman.
Her father tells her that she will marry him and she decides to plead her case to her mother. Her mother reinforces her father's decision and Leonie knows that she will have to marry Roman, and she tries to set the terms of their relationship, to no avail.
Leonie struggles with her past, she wasn't aware that Roman suffered by covering for her and she is more than a little scared of the intimate side of marriage. So she does what she has always done to calm herself since that awful night, she drinks. Not enough to get drunk, but just a "nip" to help settle herself. Roman smells the brandy on her breathe and is concerned, but she waves it off and convinces him that it was a one time thing. Roman is leery, but tries to be understanding. All seems to be progressing well until the night before the wedding. Leonie drinks too much wine and wakes with a hangover, to settle herself, she decides to have a "nip" and ends up getting foxed.
She makes it through the wedding ceremony and then passes out. Again, Roman protects her, he knows that he loves her, but he is hurt and angry. When she wakes, he confronts her and she admits everything and is shocked to learn, he already knew what happened to her in India. He consoles her even though his is angry and she falls asleep again. When she wakes the next morning, she is told to pack for the country. She decides that she will not drink anymore and sets out with Roman. In the coach, she begins to feel the effects of withdrawal and when they stop for the night, she yearns for a "nip". But there is no alcohol with dinner and she is ashamed that she wants to drink. She tries to make up to Roman for the previous night and when they retire for the night, she trusts Roman with her body. They make love and she is shocked that she enjoyed it. When they settle down to sleep, Roman tells her he loves her and falls asleep.
Unable to sleep, Leonie goes to the water closet and then wanders into the tap room, she spies a bottle on the table and decides to take "just a sip" - she NEEDS the drink and promises herself that tomorrow she will stop drinking. But this sip leads to another and then she is confronted by the owner of the bottle. He attacks her and she screams. Roman saves her and beats the man, he then discovers she had been drinking. He is livid and orders brandy - he leaves her with the bottle and tells her to choose - she can go back to London or she can come with him.
The next day she chooses to go with Roman, but he shuts himself off from her. She feels terrible about her actions and for being dishonest with him - until they reach his estate and she learns that she is not the only one who lied, and she plots how to repay him.
Leonie meets his family and is charmed, later when they are alone, she lets him know what she thinks of his "holier than thou" act and refuses to share a bed with him. She leaves the room and finds an opened bottle of wine, she finishes the bottle and then settles down to sleep. But Roman has come for her, they kiss and he tastes the wine, he is angry and leaves the room. She follows and apologizes, she tells him she needs help. They make love and he tells her that he still loves her. But he begins to shut her out. She knows she can no longer drink or she will lose Roman.
Leonie begins a journey of self acceptance and forgiveness, but still Roman keeps his distance. He doesn't trust her not to drink and she doesn't trust herself. Leonie is confused about her feelings and needs to bare her soul before she can finally move forward.
These two are clearly meant for each other, but there are huge obstacles that must be overcome before they can have a HEA. The story is well written and gripping, the material has triggers that might be difficult for some readers, the secondary characters are wonderful and the love scenes are well done and on the "warm" side. I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the other heiresses stories! The only reason I didn't give this book 5 stars is because of the way Roman treated her after she asked for help, in my opinion he did nothing to help her, he claimed to love her, but basically ignored her and kept watching and waiting for her to either fail or prove herself.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by Edelweiss and the publisher*
Roman Gilchrist is the new Earl of Rochdale and he is broke. His godfather suggests he marry an heiress to garner the funds he needs to pay off his uncle's debts and to set the estate to rights. Roman is vehemently opposed to the idea, until he learns that Leonie Charnock is one of the "Spinster Heiresses".
Leonie and Roman have a past, years ago Roman saved Leonie and paid for the act with his military career. While he has no desire for a loveless marriage for money, he feels that Leonie owes him.
Leonie has no desire to marry and even if she did, Roman would be the last man she would ever consider. Roman is the only person in the world who knows Leonie's secret shame. When he approaches her at a ball, she slaps him and runs away. Roman follows her and tells her that they will marry and that he already has her father's permission. She confronts her father and learns that Roman is telling the truth. Later while dancing with the Duke of Camberly, she has a flashback to the worst night of her life and feeling ill, leaves the ball without dancing with Roman.
Her father tells her that she will marry him and she decides to plead her case to her mother. Her mother reinforces her father's decision and Leonie knows that she will have to marry Roman, and she tries to set the terms of their relationship, to no avail.
Leonie struggles with her past, she wasn't aware that Roman suffered by covering for her and she is more than a little scared of the intimate side of marriage. So she does what she has always done to calm herself since that awful night, she drinks. Not enough to get drunk, but just a "nip" to help settle herself. Roman smells the brandy on her breathe and is concerned, but she waves it off and convinces him that it was a one time thing. Roman is leery, but tries to be understanding. All seems to be progressing well until the night before the wedding. Leonie drinks too much wine and wakes with a hangover, to settle herself, she decides to have a "nip" and ends up getting foxed.
She makes it through the wedding ceremony and then passes out. Again, Roman protects her, he knows that he loves her, but he is hurt and angry. When she wakes, he confronts her and she admits everything and is shocked to learn, he already knew what happened to her in India. He consoles her even though his is angry and she falls asleep again. When she wakes the next morning, she is told to pack for the country. She decides that she will not drink anymore and sets out with Roman. In the coach, she begins to feel the effects of withdrawal and when they stop for the night, she yearns for a "nip". But there is no alcohol with dinner and she is ashamed that she wants to drink. She tries to make up to Roman for the previous night and when they retire for the night, she trusts Roman with her body. They make love and she is shocked that she enjoyed it. When they settle down to sleep, Roman tells her he loves her and falls asleep.
Unable to sleep, Leonie goes to the water closet and then wanders into the tap room, she spies a bottle on the table and decides to take "just a sip" - she NEEDS the drink and promises herself that tomorrow she will stop drinking. But this sip leads to another and then she is confronted by the owner of the bottle. He attacks her and she screams. Roman saves her and beats the man, he then discovers she had been drinking. He is livid and orders brandy - he leaves her with the bottle and tells her to choose - she can go back to London or she can come with him.
The next day she chooses to go with Roman, but he shuts himself off from her. She feels terrible about her actions and for being dishonest with him - until they reach his estate and she learns that she is not the only one who lied, and she plots how to repay him.
Leonie meets his family and is charmed, later when they are alone, she lets him know what she thinks of his "holier than thou" act and refuses to share a bed with him. She leaves the room and finds an opened bottle of wine, she finishes the bottle and then settles down to sleep. But Roman has come for her, they kiss and he tastes the wine, he is angry and leaves the room. She follows and apologizes, she tells him she needs help. They make love and he tells her that he still loves her. But he begins to shut her out. She knows she can no longer drink or she will lose Roman.
Leonie begins a journey of self acceptance and forgiveness, but still Roman keeps his distance. He doesn't trust her not to drink and she doesn't trust herself. Leonie is confused about her feelings and needs to bare her soul before she can finally move forward.
These two are clearly meant for each other, but there are huge obstacles that must be overcome before they can have a HEA. The story is well written and gripping, the material has triggers that might be difficult for some readers, the secondary characters are wonderful and the love scenes are well done and on the "warm" side. I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the other heiresses stories! The only reason I didn't give this book 5 stars is because of the way Roman treated her after she asked for help, in my opinion he did nothing to help her, he claimed to love her, but basically ignored her and kept watching and waiting for her to either fail or prove herself.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by Edelweiss and the publisher*
December 28, 2017
Cathy Maxwell has managed to surprise and delight me with this new title – taking two characters who are far from the norm and unafraid to be wholly unlikable on first impression and yet, somehow, are difficult to not want to see them find more and better. The season’s “spinster heiresses” are ostensibly ready and eager to wed: on the shelf just a touch too long, but with impeccable bloodlines and near-flawless reputations they are most eligible for their dowries. It is assumed in the tonne that these women are anxious to marry and end the merry-go-round of parties, balls, examinations and side-eye glances, not to mention pressure from family. That is, until Leonie. Beautiful, cautious and determined to never marry, she’s been clearly placed up for sale by her father, and unsupported by her faithless and often feckless mother. Years before she was nearly ruined in society’s eyes, until a gallant rescuer stepped in, and then life and other issues intervened. Now bored with the whole charade, she wants a life of self-determination and direction, free from the demands or constraints of marriage, particularly one like her parents have.
Oh Leonie is one of the most perplexing and contrary introductions to a character I’ve met in a long time. But, as we get to know her and see her secrets revealed as the relationship (or what passes for one) with her parents and the ‘model’ they set for her in a marriage, as well as some backstory and history all make most of her choices and reactions more understandable. Yes, she is frustrating and her naiveté fueled by seriously cynical expectations often feel overwrought –but considering her limited options, her experiences and her actual unfamiliarity with something different, added to her own worries about not being worthy of ‘more’, you can’t help but want to see things work for her with just the right man.
And perhaps that right man is in the form of Roman, impoverished Earl of Rochdale and savior of young Leonie’s reputation so long ago is just that man. He’s fully aware that he needs several things, most importantly money and a wife that amuses him while still being an appropriate choice for Countess. He remembers the beauty, Leonie, in fact he never forgot her – and while he knows marriage is inevitable and the sooner the better, he also wants to have a love connection. Imagine his surprise when news reaches him that the woman he never did forget is also available and the richest on offer. Oh they both have come so far since India –and neither’s path has been trouble free, but Roman is not to be denied. He remembers her, she confused, frustrated, amused, and intrigued him in equal measure: and it doesn’t seem that anything will be simple and straightforward. But, he’s going to get her to change her mind on so many things – and with quiet and steady progress, most of it forward, some of it arrogant and quite dismissive of Leonie’s wishes, she starts to see that these moments: good, bad or indifferent are starting to make an impression, an impression that is different from her usual cynical view of the world.
Maxwell has dealt with issues often ignored in most historical romance in a way that brings it new life. We know that women were little more than property – but by showing the blatant determination of her father to buy her a title at any cost this becomes a whole new outrage. The ridiculous constrictions placed on learning, living and self-determination, and the various choices that women of the time used to escape, if only through drink, the unhappiness and boredom of the ‘sameness’ of each day. Unique, a bit more somber and less light and fluffy than one may expect, this story was intriguing and engaging, even in moments where the characters frustrated me to the point of screaming. It will be interesting to see if the boldness in choices and characters continues in this series.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Oh Leonie is one of the most perplexing and contrary introductions to a character I’ve met in a long time. But, as we get to know her and see her secrets revealed as the relationship (or what passes for one) with her parents and the ‘model’ they set for her in a marriage, as well as some backstory and history all make most of her choices and reactions more understandable. Yes, she is frustrating and her naiveté fueled by seriously cynical expectations often feel overwrought –but considering her limited options, her experiences and her actual unfamiliarity with something different, added to her own worries about not being worthy of ‘more’, you can’t help but want to see things work for her with just the right man.
And perhaps that right man is in the form of Roman, impoverished Earl of Rochdale and savior of young Leonie’s reputation so long ago is just that man. He’s fully aware that he needs several things, most importantly money and a wife that amuses him while still being an appropriate choice for Countess. He remembers the beauty, Leonie, in fact he never forgot her – and while he knows marriage is inevitable and the sooner the better, he also wants to have a love connection. Imagine his surprise when news reaches him that the woman he never did forget is also available and the richest on offer. Oh they both have come so far since India –and neither’s path has been trouble free, but Roman is not to be denied. He remembers her, she confused, frustrated, amused, and intrigued him in equal measure: and it doesn’t seem that anything will be simple and straightforward. But, he’s going to get her to change her mind on so many things – and with quiet and steady progress, most of it forward, some of it arrogant and quite dismissive of Leonie’s wishes, she starts to see that these moments: good, bad or indifferent are starting to make an impression, an impression that is different from her usual cynical view of the world.
Maxwell has dealt with issues often ignored in most historical romance in a way that brings it new life. We know that women were little more than property – but by showing the blatant determination of her father to buy her a title at any cost this becomes a whole new outrage. The ridiculous constrictions placed on learning, living and self-determination, and the various choices that women of the time used to escape, if only through drink, the unhappiness and boredom of the ‘sameness’ of each day. Unique, a bit more somber and less light and fluffy than one may expect, this story was intriguing and engaging, even in moments where the characters frustrated me to the point of screaming. It will be interesting to see if the boldness in choices and characters continues in this series.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
November 22, 2018
I read the blurb before reading this book and I really thought I knew what I was in for. Not even close. Cathy Maxwell deals with real issues that people have been going through forever and continue to be a problem. It’s not a fluffy read. No love-heals-all-wounds quick fix. And deals with multiple triggers.
First I guess I’m just really used to the flawed hero with a damaged past to get over. And the heroine being the gentle hand guiding him with her love. So the switch up for these two came as a surprise. I’ve only read a handful of other HRs that reverse the norm like this and I have to say it’s a nice change.
And second I think her self recovery was center stage here and the romance was put in the background. Maybe that’s because I was focusing on her problem over anything else.
This book is riddled with triggering topics for me so without giving any spoilers I’m really happy the writing style and solution to the problem was delivered in a low angst way. And did I mention I love the mother in laws advice. It was spot on and I’m glad Leonie took it to heart.
I really empathized with Roman, having gone through something similar in the past but with a less than happy ending myself. I completely understood his frustration with the whole situation. You feel helpless and there’s hardly anything you can do. Just be supportive and hope for the best.
I don’t want to give anything away but given what Leonie went through mixed with how that would effect someone in 1813 with no one to confide in, I completely understand her problem. And I was rooting for her throughout the entire book. I mean, even in modern times and with therapy I would understand this being a problem for any woman. My heart went out to both of these characters.
The ending did feel extremely rushed and out of place compared to the rest of the book and I was worried we wouldn’t be getting closure so we could enjoy a happy ending. But while rushed I think it was handled nicely. I do wish we got an epilogue of a few years later. That would have helped wrap things up.
First I guess I’m just really used to the flawed hero with a damaged past to get over. And the heroine being the gentle hand guiding him with her love. So the switch up for these two came as a surprise. I’ve only read a handful of other HRs that reverse the norm like this and I have to say it’s a nice change.
And second I think her self recovery was center stage here and the romance was put in the background. Maybe that’s because I was focusing on her problem over anything else.
This book is riddled with triggering topics for me so without giving any spoilers I’m really happy the writing style and solution to the problem was delivered in a low angst way. And did I mention I love the mother in laws advice. It was spot on and I’m glad Leonie took it to heart.
I really empathized with Roman, having gone through something similar in the past but with a less than happy ending myself. I completely understood his frustration with the whole situation. You feel helpless and there’s hardly anything you can do. Just be supportive and hope for the best.
I don’t want to give anything away but given what Leonie went through mixed with how that would effect someone in 1813 with no one to confide in, I completely understand her problem. And I was rooting for her throughout the entire book. I mean, even in modern times and with therapy I would understand this being a problem for any woman. My heart went out to both of these characters.
The ending did feel extremely rushed and out of place compared to the rest of the book and I was worried we wouldn’t be getting closure so we could enjoy a happy ending. But while rushed I think it was handled nicely. I do wish we got an epilogue of a few years later. That would have helped wrap things up.
July 1, 2021
Trigger warnings: rape, death, alcoholism, violence, assault.
Hoooooo boy. This was...yeah. No. Not good.
So essentially, Leonie and her family used to live in India. Roman knew her there when he was in the army. And it's Leonie's fault that he got kicked out. Now, years later, they've met again. He's desperately for money and her parents are desperate to get her married ASAP. What a crazy random happenstance!
Look, the forced-together-into-a-marriage-of-convenience-and-then-they-slowly-fall-in-love side of things was actually not terrible. But there were two problems here:
1. Leonie was raped in India and killed her attacker. She's deeply traumatised and says that yes, she'll marry Roman but she wants to live separately and never consummate the marriage because of the aforementioned trauma. But don't worry, it's okay - Roman has a magical dick and the second he whips it out, all her trauma is magically fixed!
2. Leonie goes from 0-100 with alcohol abuse (I was kind of skim reading so I may have missed some details, but from what I can remember, her mother gives her some brandy to recover from her traumatic experience in India and then, like, five years later she randomly decides to drink AN ENTIRE TEAPOT of brandy just before her wedding???? To the point where she blacks out in the middle of the ceremony. But don't worry, it's okay - Roman says he won't love her if she drinks so she magically decides to stop drinking!
Add in the fact that the last...20%?...is very "And then they made these improvements to their house, and then they hung out with his family, and then they went to a fair, and then they lived happily ever after" and this was just an endless string of eyerolls tbh.
Hoooooo boy. This was...yeah. No. Not good.
So essentially, Leonie and her family used to live in India. Roman knew her there when he was in the army. And it's Leonie's fault that he got kicked out. Now, years later, they've met again. He's desperately for money and her parents are desperate to get her married ASAP. What a crazy random happenstance!
Look, the forced-together-into-a-marriage-of-convenience-and-then-they-slowly-fall-in-love side of things was actually not terrible. But there were two problems here:
1. Leonie was raped in India and killed her attacker. She's deeply traumatised and says that yes, she'll marry Roman but she wants to live separately and never consummate the marriage because of the aforementioned trauma. But don't worry, it's okay - Roman has a magical dick and the second he whips it out, all her trauma is magically fixed!
2. Leonie goes from 0-100 with alcohol abuse (I was kind of skim reading so I may have missed some details, but from what I can remember, her mother gives her some brandy to recover from her traumatic experience in India and then, like, five years later she randomly decides to drink AN ENTIRE TEAPOT of brandy just before her wedding???? To the point where she blacks out in the middle of the ceremony. But don't worry, it's okay - Roman says he won't love her if she drinks so she magically decides to stop drinking!
Add in the fact that the last...20%?...is very "And then they made these improvements to their house, and then they hung out with his family, and then they went to a fair, and then they lived happily ever after" and this was just an endless string of eyerolls tbh.
January 5, 2018
In this first book of her new Spinster Heiresses series, Cathy Maxwell takes a familiar romance convention and turns it on its head. Readers are used to seeing tormented heroes who turn to gambling, sex, or drink to quell their demons. Rarely, is it the heroine who wages this battle while the hero is the proper, responsible half of the relationship. Leonie and Roman have several obstacles to overcome if they have any hope of a happy ending, many of their own creation. Yes, Leonie's addiction plays a large role in their relationship but so too does Roman's reaction to it and to her. There are times in the book when neither of them is very likeable but if you've ever self-medicated or lived with someone who has you know there are always peaks and valleys to navigate. Kudos to Maxwell for not giving them any easy answers. This makes Leonie and Roman more realistic, their actions more believable, and the evolution of their relationship more satisfying.
If you're looking for something a little different, with real-life issues, flawed yet resilient characters, deep emotion, and a hard-won happy ending, give this one a try.
If you're looking for something a little different, with real-life issues, flawed yet resilient characters, deep emotion, and a hard-won happy ending, give this one a try.
May 15, 2018
3.5 stars. I really enjoyed this book up until the end. I liked that the Leonie had a problem that I haven't seen much in historical romances. I also liked that Roman and Leonie didn't get by without problems in their relationship that were internal and not simply external to the relationship itself. What I didn't like was Thus, interesting read, but not one that makes me feel an absolute need to read the rest of the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 245 reviews