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The Lancaster Family #3
Romancing Daphne
As her first London Season looms before her, the thought of the impending social whirl fills Daphne Lancaster's timid heart with dread. She hasn't her sisters beauty nor their talent for conversing easily. Even her family's enviable connections may not be enough to prevent disaster.
But Daphne's misery turns to surprised delight when the first event of her Season brings an unexpected visitor to her door—James Tilburn, whose tender kindness stole her heart in her youth. When the handsome young gentleman expresses his desire to court her, Daphne is elated. Their feelings for each other quickly grow, and it appears that, much to Daphne s disbelief, her happily ever after is within reach.
Yet nothing is as it seems. The couple finds themselves caught in a tangled web of greed and deceit, leaving James and Daphne to determine whether they are willing to risk everything for true love.
But Daphne's misery turns to surprised delight when the first event of her Season brings an unexpected visitor to her door—James Tilburn, whose tender kindness stole her heart in her youth. When the handsome young gentleman expresses his desire to court her, Daphne is elated. Their feelings for each other quickly grow, and it appears that, much to Daphne s disbelief, her happily ever after is within reach.
Yet nothing is as it seems. The couple finds themselves caught in a tangled web of greed and deceit, leaving James and Daphne to determine whether they are willing to risk everything for true love.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,132 reviews
October 13, 2022
First of all, thank you so much to chaity for recommending me this book! I am very rarely in the mood for an HR, so this recommendation came at a perfect time. 😘💗
Romancing Daphne was an incredibly sweet regency romance that made my teeth ache!
I loved the heroine, Daphne Lanchaster. Wallflower/plain Jane heroines will forever have my heart. It was great to see her blossom, and choose to be brave even when she feared social situations. I found the hero, James Tilburn, to be an interesting character. I can't remember the last time I read a regency romance where the hero wasn't a scoundrel or rake, so this was a breath of fresh air. I felt sorry for his situation but I really admired his loyalty to his family.
The main characters in this story were quite young and innocent (h was 18, hero was 24), so it was really cute seeing them navigate their feelings. I loved the Lancaster family and how they supported Daphne every step of the way. Alex was the perfect brother in law - I loved how he threatened to shoot anyone that hurt Daphne. I didn't expect this book to have so much humour in it, so I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of times this book made me laugh.
Ultimately, I felt like Alex really stole the show, so I'm definitely going to go back and read the first book which he is the hero of.
Note: This is a clean romance.
Rating: 4/5
Romancing Daphne was an incredibly sweet regency romance that made my teeth ache!
I loved the heroine, Daphne Lanchaster. Wallflower/plain Jane heroines will forever have my heart. It was great to see her blossom, and choose to be brave even when she feared social situations. I found the hero, James Tilburn, to be an interesting character. I can't remember the last time I read a regency romance where the hero wasn't a scoundrel or rake, so this was a breath of fresh air. I felt sorry for his situation but I really admired his loyalty to his family.
The main characters in this story were quite young and innocent (h was 18, hero was 24), so it was really cute seeing them navigate their feelings. I loved the Lancaster family and how they supported Daphne every step of the way. Alex was the perfect brother in law - I loved how he threatened to shoot anyone that hurt Daphne. I didn't expect this book to have so much humour in it, so I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of times this book made me laugh.
Ultimately, I felt like Alex really stole the show, so I'm definitely going to go back and read the first book which he is the hero of.
Note: This is a clean romance.
Rating: 4/5
June 5, 2017
Oh, what a sweet and heartrending story! I loved Daphne from the first page, and while her story began a bit slowly, the foundation of building the characters served the later part of the story well since I felt able to connect to their emotions when the plot steadily picked up speed. The dynamics of both James and Daphne's families play a huge role in the plot, from James' meddling upward-climbing father to Daphne's overprotective brother-in-law, the Duke of Kielder (who also brings much of the humor). Trust and forgiveness are important themes that are explored as the relationship that Daphne and James built is threatened by secrets. I loved their friendship and innate goodness that made them a perfect match, and although James could be a bit frustrating, it was nice to see him utilize his backbone in the end and fight for his true desires. A wonderful romance and addition to the Lancaster Family 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)
March 18, 2022
Oh my heart!!! I didn't want this book to end and yet I turned the pages as fast as possible because I was completely captured by Daphne. From the first time she was mentioned in Seeking Persephone, the first book of the Lancaster family, I wanted to know what her story would be. Years later and we finally get to see Miss Daphne Lancaster grown up.
I love Daphne's character. I felt like I could relate so well with her in many aspects. I loved her relationship with the Dangerous Duke, her brother in law. It reminded me a lot of when I was a teenager like Daphne and would spend hours visiting my sister and her husband. I'm the youngest in my family and when most everyone was moved away, this sister lived a few miles away. I'd always end up with them and would sit and talk my brother in law's ear off. He was so good and patient to listen to the woes of my teenage mind. When I struggled with friends, loneliness, sadness, work, school, whatever, he always was a great listener and would tell me that it would all be ok. Sometimes he'd laugh at me and then I'd start laughing and other times he'd just listen and let me get all the cares off my shoulders. Now, mind you, I didn't just stop by when I was sad, I stopped by lots when life was great and going good so I could share all those moments too. To this day whenever I get to visit with this brother we laugh and joke about me sitting for hours talking to him and I love it because my daughters, one in particular, do the same thing. He's their buddy and they sit and talk and talk and talk. Makes me smile! It also makes me feel like Daphne because not too many people take the time to know The Dangerous Duke, but Daphne doesn't let his temperament stop her, she befriends him anyway. That's how I feel about my brother in law as well. He's quiet and reserved and not many people take the time to truly get to know him but when I did, I found a great friend and a friendship I will always cherish.
I really am awed at the characters that Sarah Eden writes about. She creates these beautiful characters, all flawed and insecure and struggling and writes them in a way that as a reader you can't (I can't) help but feel a connection to them. Sometimes I feel as if the author is following me around and can read all my thoughts and insecurities or that she was my little Jiminey Cricket when I was younger.
Daphne and James, in all appearances have no problems and life is great and wonderful. But if anyone walking past them were to look on the inside and really analyze their lives, they would discover that there are nonstop struggles and insecurities and worries and most especially family struggles. Force these two characters together by devious means(well somewhat devious means) and have smooth sailing for a little amount of time, shake it up and let everything come spilling out about the true source of their connection, and the heartache will abound.
That may not make sense, except it's a great formula for many books. That formula causes pain and sorrow, heartache and ultimately (and hopefully) healing. Daphne and James have many underlying concerns that end up being brought to light and all due to a scheming schemer (I can't disclose names because that would just ruin it, but you'll find out soon enough as you read).
"Life is never entirely painless, Daphne. But you cannot have the happiness without passing through the sorrow, and doing so makes you stronger. Hiding from it only makes you a coward."
I loved James. He kind of reminds me of Edward from Sense and Sensibility. He liked Eleanor but wouldn't lead her on because of his previous commitment. Now, that isn't exactly what James has going on but he just was good like Edward in that he didn't want to deceive Daphne into anything. I loved watching his conscious work on him. I loved the moments of realization that occurred, his own and also Daphne's moments of realization.
I probably could go on and on and on...once my rambling thoughts start they have a way of just tumbling out more and more. I'll try to contain them and say that I can't recommend these books highly enough. When Sarah Eden's books first came out, I couldn't get them fast enough. I've read and reread them several times each. While reading Romancing Daphne, I really wanted to go back to the beginning and reread her sister's books. And let me just say I can't wait for Artemis' story. Oh please, oh please Sarah Eden, let us readers be given a wonderful gift of Artemis' story, and Linus' too! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you...in Advance!!!
If any of you are mythology buffs or just enjoy mythology in general, you might enjoy the fun way that the author connects that in with these stories. I loved it! I wasn't expecting that part at all in this one and let me say it just was GREAT!!!
Buy it, Borrow it, but most definitely Read this book (I'd start at the beginning of the Lancaster family books, although it can be read as a stand alone) and hopefully fall in love with these characters as I did years ago!!! <333333
*Happy sigh*
Content: Clean
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I love Daphne's character. I felt like I could relate so well with her in many aspects. I loved her relationship with the Dangerous Duke, her brother in law. It reminded me a lot of when I was a teenager like Daphne and would spend hours visiting my sister and her husband. I'm the youngest in my family and when most everyone was moved away, this sister lived a few miles away. I'd always end up with them and would sit and talk my brother in law's ear off. He was so good and patient to listen to the woes of my teenage mind. When I struggled with friends, loneliness, sadness, work, school, whatever, he always was a great listener and would tell me that it would all be ok. Sometimes he'd laugh at me and then I'd start laughing and other times he'd just listen and let me get all the cares off my shoulders. Now, mind you, I didn't just stop by when I was sad, I stopped by lots when life was great and going good so I could share all those moments too. To this day whenever I get to visit with this brother we laugh and joke about me sitting for hours talking to him and I love it because my daughters, one in particular, do the same thing. He's their buddy and they sit and talk and talk and talk. Makes me smile! It also makes me feel like Daphne because not too many people take the time to know The Dangerous Duke, but Daphne doesn't let his temperament stop her, she befriends him anyway. That's how I feel about my brother in law as well. He's quiet and reserved and not many people take the time to truly get to know him but when I did, I found a great friend and a friendship I will always cherish.
I really am awed at the characters that Sarah Eden writes about. She creates these beautiful characters, all flawed and insecure and struggling and writes them in a way that as a reader you can't (I can't) help but feel a connection to them. Sometimes I feel as if the author is following me around and can read all my thoughts and insecurities or that she was my little Jiminey Cricket when I was younger.
Daphne and James, in all appearances have no problems and life is great and wonderful. But if anyone walking past them were to look on the inside and really analyze their lives, they would discover that there are nonstop struggles and insecurities and worries and most especially family struggles. Force these two characters together by devious means(well somewhat devious means) and have smooth sailing for a little amount of time, shake it up and let everything come spilling out about the true source of their connection, and the heartache will abound.
That may not make sense, except it's a great formula for many books. That formula causes pain and sorrow, heartache and ultimately (and hopefully) healing. Daphne and James have many underlying concerns that end up being brought to light and all due to a scheming schemer (I can't disclose names because that would just ruin it, but you'll find out soon enough as you read).
"Life is never entirely painless, Daphne. But you cannot have the happiness without passing through the sorrow, and doing so makes you stronger. Hiding from it only makes you a coward."
I loved James. He kind of reminds me of Edward from Sense and Sensibility. He liked Eleanor but wouldn't lead her on because of his previous commitment. Now, that isn't exactly what James has going on but he just was good like Edward in that he didn't want to deceive Daphne into anything. I loved watching his conscious work on him. I loved the moments of realization that occurred, his own and also Daphne's moments of realization.
I probably could go on and on and on...once my rambling thoughts start they have a way of just tumbling out more and more. I'll try to contain them and say that I can't recommend these books highly enough. When Sarah Eden's books first came out, I couldn't get them fast enough. I've read and reread them several times each. While reading Romancing Daphne, I really wanted to go back to the beginning and reread her sister's books. And let me just say I can't wait for Artemis' story. Oh please, oh please Sarah Eden, let us readers be given a wonderful gift of Artemis' story, and Linus' too! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you...in Advance!!!
If any of you are mythology buffs or just enjoy mythology in general, you might enjoy the fun way that the author connects that in with these stories. I loved it! I wasn't expecting that part at all in this one and let me say it just was GREAT!!!
Buy it, Borrow it, but most definitely Read this book (I'd start at the beginning of the Lancaster family books, although it can be read as a stand alone) and hopefully fall in love with these characters as I did years ago!!! <333333
*Happy sigh*
Content: Clean
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
April 23, 2018
"Splitting hairs will do you no good, Daphne," her uncle tells her. "Like it or not, you are to have a season."
"But I do not wish to have one," she replies. "I have made my bows. Can we not declare that sufficient pain and suffering and return to Falstone Castle?"
"This is Society. No amount of pain and suffering will ever prove sufficient."
"How comforting. You know I hate these things every bit as much as you do. I am doomed to end my debut in failure."
"If Society doesn't take to you, Daphne, it will be no failure on your part. You are well-spoken and intelligent and--"
"When was the last time a gentleman at your club slapped his crony on the shoulder and said 'Perchance, have you met London's newest diamond? Every gentleman in Town is clamoring to win her regard because she is so well-spoken and intelligent?
"I doubt 90 percent of the gentlemen in London could spell the word perchance, let alone use it correctly in a sentence."
"And these are the gems with whom Persephone wishes me to spend the next few months?"
This marvelous, witty dialogue is a classic example of what you have to look forward to in Sarah M. Eden's novel. I loved Daphne. And James. And blitzed through their story in two days, despite being on vacation in Paradise. So good.
"But I do not wish to have one," she replies. "I have made my bows. Can we not declare that sufficient pain and suffering and return to Falstone Castle?"
"This is Society. No amount of pain and suffering will ever prove sufficient."
"How comforting. You know I hate these things every bit as much as you do. I am doomed to end my debut in failure."
"If Society doesn't take to you, Daphne, it will be no failure on your part. You are well-spoken and intelligent and--"
"When was the last time a gentleman at your club slapped his crony on the shoulder and said 'Perchance, have you met London's newest diamond? Every gentleman in Town is clamoring to win her regard because she is so well-spoken and intelligent?
"I doubt 90 percent of the gentlemen in London could spell the word perchance, let alone use it correctly in a sentence."
"And these are the gems with whom Persephone wishes me to spend the next few months?"
This marvelous, witty dialogue is a classic example of what you have to look forward to in Sarah M. Eden's novel. I loved Daphne. And James. And blitzed through their story in two days, despite being on vacation in Paradise. So good.
August 16, 2023
4.25 estrellas
Reconozco que no me van los clean romance, pero esta saga me está gustando mucho. Este es el libro de Dafne y me ha encantado conocerla. Todo el tema del cortejo de James está muy bien resuelto, y mi personaje favorito sigue siendo Adam, me encanta el duque y sus reacciones. Tengo ganas de leer el siguiente libro y me gustaría escucharlo, espero que no tarden en publicarlo
Reconozco que no me van los clean romance, pero esta saga me está gustando mucho. Este es el libro de Dafne y me ha encantado conocerla. Todo el tema del cortejo de James está muy bien resuelto, y mi personaje favorito sigue siendo Adam, me encanta el duque y sus reacciones. Tengo ganas de leer el siguiente libro y me gustaría escucharlo, espero que no tarden en publicarlo
April 3, 2022
Във всяка книга на Сара Идън може да се открие отражение на нашите слабости и страхове. Героите, ситуациите и трудностите са като тези ,с които се сблъскваме сами. Независимо, че нейните персонажи носят кринолини , цилиндри и имат титли, те се борят с природата си, с изискванията на обществото и се стремят да затвърдят бъдещето си и да бъдат щастливи. Грозното лице на обществените порядки, на лицемерието, на поклонничеството пред пари и власт се вихри и днес. И ако Дафни с тихата си срамежливост се стреми да намери правилното си място, то това не я предпази от мрежата на сребролюбците и от лапите на лицемерите.
Най - страшното нещо - и тогава, и сега и винаги - е да се отсее истинската причина някой да бъде близък с нас. Доверието, любовта и приятелството са ценни дарове. Те ни определят. Те ни мотивират. Те ни вдъхновяват. И пак те могат да ни унищожат. Да подкопаят самочувствието ни и да спрат вървежа ни напред. Много ме болеше за Дафни! И за Джеймс! Но повече за Дафни! Онези, които попадат в средата на заговори и претенции, без да са го очаквали, желали или предизвикали, винаги са най - потърпевши. И най - невинно се отказват от света, заради хората в него!
Сара Идън е автор, които с хирургически скалпел рови в раните на обществото ни такова, каквото го виждаме и усещаме. Дори с тези нейни малки книги, човек може да усети изтръпване заради правотата на погледа й !
Най - страшното нещо - и тогава, и сега и винаги - е да се отсее истинската причина някой да бъде близък с нас. Доверието, любовта и приятелството са ценни дарове. Те ни определят. Те ни мотивират. Те ни вдъхновяват. И пак те могат да ни унищожат. Да подкопаят самочувствието ни и да спрат вървежа ни напред. Много ме болеше за Дафни! И за Джеймс! Но повече за Дафни! Онези, които попадат в средата на заговори и претенции, без да са го очаквали, желали или предизвикали, винаги са най - потърпевши. И най - невинно се отказват от света, заради хората в него!
Сара Идън е автор, които с хирургически скалпел рови в раните на обществото ни такова, каквото го виждаме и усещаме. Дори с тези нейни малки книги, човек може да усети изтръпване заради правотата на погледа й !
June 8, 2017
Through no fault of her own, Daphne doesn't feel like she fits in anywhere. She feels like an outcast even in her family, as she's more reserved and not as blond and pretty as the rest of them. When a childhood crush, James, comes knocking at her door, her dreams for her future grow. I absolutely adore James! Although he's manipulated into a situation that he really doesn't want to be a part of, his sense of duty and loyalty take over and he does what must be done. He is a true gentleman and unknowingly builds up a broken heart. The outcome is unexpected and tugged at my heart, especially watching Daphne's confidence grow when she focuses on her strengths.
I love this family! I enjoyed seeing more of "The Dangerous Duke," Adam, in this story and love the way his gruff exterior gives way to a very sweet and caring man--at least where his family is concerned. The banter between characters and the nuances of each different relationship completely captivated me. There's a vile villain, dashing heroes, adorable heroines, and more in this delightful Regency romance.
Content: mild romance
*I received a copy through the publisher, which did not influence my thoughts in any way. All opinions are my own.*
I love this family! I enjoyed seeing more of "The Dangerous Duke," Adam, in this story and love the way his gruff exterior gives way to a very sweet and caring man--at least where his family is concerned. The banter between characters and the nuances of each different relationship completely captivated me. There's a vile villain, dashing heroes, adorable heroines, and more in this delightful Regency romance.
Content: mild romance
*I received a copy through the publisher, which did not influence my thoughts in any way. All opinions are my own.*
September 30, 2019
LOVED! I haven't read the first two books in the series but will definitely go back and read them now. This one was very well done.
Content: Squeaky clean
Content: Squeaky clean
February 11, 2023
Dafne Lancaster es una joven tímida, que no cuenta con la belleza y el don de gentes de sus hermanas. Su primera temporada en sociedad se presenta algo difícil hasta que aparece James Tilburn, un joven que parece estar interesado en su persona y de la que ella lleva enamorada desde que era muy jovencita. Pero nada será fácil, pues, hay intereses en juego y verdades ocultas.
Dafne es la tercera de las hermanas de la familia Lancaster. Es una joven inteligente, pero muy tímida, cuya infancia está marcada por la muerte temprana de una madre y un padre que la rechazó, hechos que han marcado aún más su carácter. No es fácil ganarse la confianza de la joven, teme el rechazo y tiene cierta sensibilidad, además de sentirse la menos agraciada de las hermanas, con lo que su trato con los demás se complica. Lleva seis años bajo la tutela del marido de su hermana Perséfone, el temido duque, Adam Boyce. Adam y ella tienen una especial relación, es el único que parece conocerla y que le ha infundido cierta confianza. Junto a él se siente comprendida, se ha convertido en una especie de hermano y mentor.
Tras cierta “recomendación” de Adam, James Tilburn hace acto de presencia en la casa familiar y parece tener una especie de interés por Dafne, solo que ella no sabe que esa simpatía tenga intenciones ocultas.
James Tilburn es un hombre... https://oceanodelibros.blogspot.com/2...
Dafne es la tercera de las hermanas de la familia Lancaster. Es una joven inteligente, pero muy tímida, cuya infancia está marcada por la muerte temprana de una madre y un padre que la rechazó, hechos que han marcado aún más su carácter. No es fácil ganarse la confianza de la joven, teme el rechazo y tiene cierta sensibilidad, además de sentirse la menos agraciada de las hermanas, con lo que su trato con los demás se complica. Lleva seis años bajo la tutela del marido de su hermana Perséfone, el temido duque, Adam Boyce. Adam y ella tienen una especial relación, es el único que parece conocerla y que le ha infundido cierta confianza. Junto a él se siente comprendida, se ha convertido en una especie de hermano y mentor.
Tras cierta “recomendación” de Adam, James Tilburn hace acto de presencia en la casa familiar y parece tener una especie de interés por Dafne, solo que ella no sabe que esa simpatía tenga intenciones ocultas.
James Tilburn es un hombre... https://oceanodelibros.blogspot.com/2...
June 8, 2017
I really wanted to love this book. I can't believe I am leaving one of Sarah Edens books with three stars, but it must be done. I didn't enjoy this book like I have ALL her others. I actually stopped 1/4 of the way in and reread Seeking Persephone and just loved that one. I think the problem was the long, slow beginning. I loved it about halfway threw to the end. This is a squeaky clean read with no violence and a little bit of kissing.
March 13, 2026
✨Spoiler-Free Review✨
Romancing Daphne by Sarah M. Eden
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was incredibly wholesome and heartwarming! 🥹 While it has a slightly different vibe than the first two books in the series, that difference actually made the story feel even more meaningful.❤️
Daphne is the middle child in the Lancaster family and often feels like the forgotten sibling. She is shy and quiet and I could relate a lot to her because of that. She struggles deeply with believing she is simply in the way and that no one truly wants her around. She also carries emotional wounds from childhood - losing her mother at a young age and growing up with a father who became distant afterward. When it’s finally her turn to enter the marriage market in Regency London society, it’s the last thing she wants. 🫠
Circumstances bring James into her life through a forced courtship arrangement. James is an honorable man who is uncomfortable with the deceit surrounding the situation, but complicated pressures push him to go along with it. Over time, though, his feelings for Daphne begin to grow in a very genuine way.
This story has a slightly heavier emotional core than the previous books because Daphne struggles so much with her sense of worth. Watching her journey was heartbreaking at times, but it was also beautiful to see James recognize her value and support her in the ways she needed most.🥲
James himself carries a lot of responsibility, having managed his family’s estate for years due to his father’s lack of care. Meanwhile, Daphne has developed a unique skill set from her childhood anxieties - she became very knowledgeable about herbs and healing remedies. It was such a fun and interesting element to see woven into the story! 🌿🍵
This is definitely a slower-paced, character-driven romance, but I loved it. It still has the humor that makes the series so charming, while also carrying a deeper emotional heart. 💛
If you enjoy wholesome Regency romances with strong emotional growth, tender romance, and meaningful character development, this one is absolutely worth picking up!!! 😭🙌❤️
•••
‼️⚠️Content Warnings ⚠️‼️
Grief from the loss of a sibling
Seriously ill parents
Unhealthy or strained parent/child relationships
Child neglect
Romancing Daphne by Sarah M. Eden
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was incredibly wholesome and heartwarming! 🥹 While it has a slightly different vibe than the first two books in the series, that difference actually made the story feel even more meaningful.❤️
Daphne is the middle child in the Lancaster family and often feels like the forgotten sibling. She is shy and quiet and I could relate a lot to her because of that. She struggles deeply with believing she is simply in the way and that no one truly wants her around. She also carries emotional wounds from childhood - losing her mother at a young age and growing up with a father who became distant afterward. When it’s finally her turn to enter the marriage market in Regency London society, it’s the last thing she wants. 🫠
Circumstances bring James into her life through a forced courtship arrangement. James is an honorable man who is uncomfortable with the deceit surrounding the situation, but complicated pressures push him to go along with it. Over time, though, his feelings for Daphne begin to grow in a very genuine way.
This story has a slightly heavier emotional core than the previous books because Daphne struggles so much with her sense of worth. Watching her journey was heartbreaking at times, but it was also beautiful to see James recognize her value and support her in the ways she needed most.🥲
James himself carries a lot of responsibility, having managed his family’s estate for years due to his father’s lack of care. Meanwhile, Daphne has developed a unique skill set from her childhood anxieties - she became very knowledgeable about herbs and healing remedies. It was such a fun and interesting element to see woven into the story! 🌿🍵
This is definitely a slower-paced, character-driven romance, but I loved it. It still has the humor that makes the series so charming, while also carrying a deeper emotional heart. 💛
If you enjoy wholesome Regency romances with strong emotional growth, tender romance, and meaningful character development, this one is absolutely worth picking up!!! 😭🙌❤️
•••
‼️⚠️Content Warnings ⚠️‼️
Grief from the loss of a sibling
Seriously ill parents
Unhealthy or strained parent/child relationships
Child neglect
June 6, 2017
Oh how I love the “Dangerous Duke”, Daphne’s ultra-protective brother-in-law whom we first met in book 1 and got to see again in book 2. He’s delightfully droll which I find delightfully humorous, and his gruffness is out in full force as Daphne embarks on her Season. The two have a special bond, and while you’re pretty sure he’s not going to separate Tilburn from his internal organs, you’re not 100% sure lol. And neither is Tilburn which adds to the wry humor. Daphne’s and James’ first ride through the park is a particularly favorite scene.
Speaking of James Tilburn, he makes a very dashing hero though he needs a good whomp upside the head a time or two. The way he sees past Daphne’s defense mechanisms and into her heart won me over. (P.S. – he’s not very good at skulking. But we can forgive him that.) Daphne is insecure and shy and has resigned herself to never measuring up enough to follow in her sisters’ matrimonial-bliss footsteps. Yet, like James, she has an inherently good heart and their friendship makes me smile.
Bottom Line: Great characters, dry humor and swoonworthy romance combine to deliver the ideal Regency novel. If you’re a fan of Kristi Ann Hunter, Julianne Donaldson, or Georgette Heyer, you will enjoy the Lancaster family series from Sarah M. Eden!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
see my review at Reading Is My SuperPower
Speaking of James Tilburn, he makes a very dashing hero though he needs a good whomp upside the head a time or two. The way he sees past Daphne’s defense mechanisms and into her heart won me over. (P.S. – he’s not very good at skulking. But we can forgive him that.) Daphne is insecure and shy and has resigned herself to never measuring up enough to follow in her sisters’ matrimonial-bliss footsteps. Yet, like James, she has an inherently good heart and their friendship makes me smile.
Bottom Line: Great characters, dry humor and swoonworthy romance combine to deliver the ideal Regency novel. If you’re a fan of Kristi Ann Hunter, Julianne Donaldson, or Georgette Heyer, you will enjoy the Lancaster family series from Sarah M. Eden!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
see my review at Reading Is My SuperPower
December 31, 2023
Not my favourite in the series, but still really good. Daphne is really shy, unlike her sisters, and it takes her a while to come out of her shell. James does help, but what I didn't like here as opposed to the other books, is that he didn't seem to be into her for at least half of the book.
His feelings were very friendly, and it makes sense because of how their "courtship" started, but I just felt so bad for Daphne who was earnestly hoping he liked her for her and finally saw her and James was just like "she's nice I guess???".
Anyway, I loved Daphne's relationship with Adam, and every single time he threatened James was hilarious, like this one:
“If you overturn your carriage with her in it, I will shoot you dead.” The duke made this pronouncement without a hint of hesitation and with every appearance of sincerity. “Dead,” he repeated with emphasis.
Or this one:
“ And know this”—not a hint of friendliness touched his voice— “ if I hear you have hurt her in any way, I will personally cut your liver out with a spoon, instruct my chef to prepare it with onions, and will enjoy eating it immensely. And then I will kill you.”
He's such a perfect big brother/guardian figure. I love him. And I'm so happy for him and Persephone, I love that they also play a big role in every book that isn't their own.
Now I'm going to be jumping back into the Jonquil Brothers series for a reread before returning to finish this one.
His feelings were very friendly, and it makes sense because of how their "courtship" started, but I just felt so bad for Daphne who was earnestly hoping he liked her for her and finally saw her and James was just like "she's nice I guess???".
Anyway, I loved Daphne's relationship with Adam, and every single time he threatened James was hilarious, like this one:
“If you overturn your carriage with her in it, I will shoot you dead.” The duke made this pronouncement without a hint of hesitation and with every appearance of sincerity. “Dead,” he repeated with emphasis.
Or this one:
“ And know this”—not a hint of friendliness touched his voice— “ if I hear you have hurt her in any way, I will personally cut your liver out with a spoon, instruct my chef to prepare it with onions, and will enjoy eating it immensely. And then I will kill you.”
He's such a perfect big brother/guardian figure. I love him. And I'm so happy for him and Persephone, I love that they also play a big role in every book that isn't their own.
Now I'm going to be jumping back into the Jonquil Brothers series for a reread before returning to finish this one.
June 6, 2017
I didn't realize that this book was part of a series of books that feature one of my all time favorite characters, The Duke of Kielder. The first book that I read of Sarah Eden's was Courting Miss Lancaster. From that moment I have read everything I can get my hands on written by Sarah Eden. While this book is part of a series, you can read them separately, but I do recommend starting with Seeking Persephone. It will give you an introduction to the characters and you may come to appreciate the Duke as much as I do.
Daphne is the third daughter and she hides behind the persona of mediocrity. She has been told that she is plain, so she dresses plainly. She doesn't think she is witty, so she hides her personality from others. She has read extensively and hides her intelligence. In fact, running and hiding is the talent she shows the word. The fact is that she is a very accomplished, intelligent, and kind person.
James Tilburn is a young man with a domineering father. He has spent his life trying to take care of everyone in his his family, leaving his thoughts and desires in the background. He is "forced" to seek out Daphne and give her a boost into society by pretending to be a suitor. Somewhere along the line, the pretending and the desire to court Daphne become blurred, but he is caught in a trap not of his own making.
I loved this book. I love this family. I hope Sarah Eden writes more about the Lancaster's. There is a younger sister and a brother that I would love to read a story about. :) I admire the dry humor, brutal honesty, and fear that Kielder inspires. His escapades and personality are "laugh out loud" moments. Not to say that I didn't like James and Daphne. Keilder always steals the show for me.
If you haven't read these books, "what are you waiting for!"
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. The gushing and loving the book are my own thoughts and opinions!
Daphne is the third daughter and she hides behind the persona of mediocrity. She has been told that she is plain, so she dresses plainly. She doesn't think she is witty, so she hides her personality from others. She has read extensively and hides her intelligence. In fact, running and hiding is the talent she shows the word. The fact is that she is a very accomplished, intelligent, and kind person.
James Tilburn is a young man with a domineering father. He has spent his life trying to take care of everyone in his his family, leaving his thoughts and desires in the background. He is "forced" to seek out Daphne and give her a boost into society by pretending to be a suitor. Somewhere along the line, the pretending and the desire to court Daphne become blurred, but he is caught in a trap not of his own making.
I loved this book. I love this family. I hope Sarah Eden writes more about the Lancaster's. There is a younger sister and a brother that I would love to read a story about. :) I admire the dry humor, brutal honesty, and fear that Kielder inspires. His escapades and personality are "laugh out loud" moments. Not to say that I didn't like James and Daphne. Keilder always steals the show for me.
If you haven't read these books, "what are you waiting for!"
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. The gushing and loving the book are my own thoughts and opinions!
February 13, 2023
Dafne se enfrenta a su primera terminada en Londres, pero a pesar de las conexiones de su familia, ella es tímida, y no cuenta con la belleza ni el desparpajo de sus hermanas, así que no se le presenta como algo sencillo enfrentarse a la sociedad. Sin embargo, todo comienza con la llegada de James Tilburn, quien ya le robó el corazón cuando era joven, y su entrada por supuesto que la emociona, viendo a su alcance el final feliz que tanto quería; pero nada es lo que parece, y ambos se verán atrapados en un entramado de mentiras y codicia, ¿lo arriesgarán todo por amor verdadero?
Ella, enamorada desde niña, y él, obligado a hacerla caso... pintaba a dramita desde el principio, pero desde luego que para eso estaba más que preparada: la forma en que ambos se acercan anuncia problemas y aun así, es que Dafne es tan mona y él tan correcto que hacían una pareja estupenda desde el minuto uno, a pesar de que el bueno de James no se diera ni cuenta...
Tal vez, lo que más me ha gustado de la historia, es lo bonitos que eran los personajes, lo bien construidos que estaban, y también me ha encantado el papel tan fundamental que tienen tanto su hermana como el cuñado de Dafne, a quienes tanto cariño he cogido ya a lo largo de los libros.
Reseña completa: http://fiebrelectora.blogspot.com/202...
Ella, enamorada desde niña, y él, obligado a hacerla caso... pintaba a dramita desde el principio, pero desde luego que para eso estaba más que preparada: la forma en que ambos se acercan anuncia problemas y aun así, es que Dafne es tan mona y él tan correcto que hacían una pareja estupenda desde el minuto uno, a pesar de que el bueno de James no se diera ni cuenta...
Tal vez, lo que más me ha gustado de la historia, es lo bonitos que eran los personajes, lo bien construidos que estaban, y también me ha encantado el papel tan fundamental que tienen tanto su hermana como el cuñado de Dafne, a quienes tanto cariño he cogido ya a lo largo de los libros.
Reseña completa: http://fiebrelectora.blogspot.com/202...
April 10, 2025
I love Sarah Eden’s books! I do a little happy dance every time I see that a new one is coming out. I was very excited for this one! I love Adam and I was curious to see how he would react to Daphne being courted. I knew from Courting Miss Lancaster that he and Daphne have a very special relationship, and I knew he would be extremely protective of her. He didn’t disappoint. The Dangerous Duke was in fine form, and it was so fun! He makes me laugh and cheer and I just love him!
Daphne has always been the shy sister. It was wonderful to get to know her! She is the most kind, humble, unassuming person. She is witty and bright. She deserved an amazing guy. And she got one! James is just looking to be Daphne’s friend at first, but as he gets to know the girl behind the shyness, he realizes what a treasure she is. He becomes so devoted to her, and it was so tender and sweet to watch.
We get to see more of Linus and Artemis in this book, and it just made me more excited for their books to come out. Artemis is quite the character! Her book is going to be so fun! While I wait for their books, I guess I’ll just have to read the rest of the series again. :)
I absolutely loved this book!! Sarah Eden has a way of writing that draws me in from the very beginning and holds me to the end. She is a master storyteller! She is one of my favorite authors, and I’ll be waiting anxiously for her next book!
Daphne has always been the shy sister. It was wonderful to get to know her! She is the most kind, humble, unassuming person. She is witty and bright. She deserved an amazing guy. And she got one! James is just looking to be Daphne’s friend at first, but as he gets to know the girl behind the shyness, he realizes what a treasure she is. He becomes so devoted to her, and it was so tender and sweet to watch.
We get to see more of Linus and Artemis in this book, and it just made me more excited for their books to come out. Artemis is quite the character! Her book is going to be so fun! While I wait for their books, I guess I’ll just have to read the rest of the series again. :)
I absolutely loved this book!! Sarah Eden has a way of writing that draws me in from the very beginning and holds me to the end. She is a master storyteller! She is one of my favorite authors, and I’ll be waiting anxiously for her next book!
October 17, 2021
I’ve really been looking forward to reading Romancing Daphne. I read the first two books in the Lancaster series back to back before I was forced to wait a long month on hold at the library for this one. I read it immediately after I finally got my hands on it.
I loved Daphne’s character and really related to her and the journey she experiences over the course of the novel. She’s insecure and shy, having resigned herself to never measuring up to her sisters. Despite her perceived mediocrity, Daphne is a very sweet, accomplished, and intelligent person, with an unusual but fascinating talent for herbs that I thoroughly enjoyed reading about. I loved experiencing her character journey and growth as she worked through her struggles to feel loved and accepted in order to discover her place within her family and develop more confidence. I also found it absolutely brilliant how Sarah Eden wove the real mythology of Daphne so seamlessly into the plot. It made it all the more lovely.
I also really liked James and how, despite having entered into a courtship with Daphne due to devious reasons and a sense of duty, his friendship with her blossoms naturally and his deeper romantic feelings gradually sneak up on him. I loved the way he sees past the wall Daphne hides behind to see into her heart, and from there he helps piece her broken heart back together. He was truly such a good, kind man. The romance between these endearing characters and the emotional struggles they deal with were very engaging and believable. It was wonderful watching James discover the true Daphne, come to realize what a treasure she is, and become utterly devoted to her. It was so sweet.
I thoroughly enjoyed Romancing Daphne. Sarah Eden writes such beautiful, deep, well-developed, and gentle romances, and this one was just as lovely; in fact, it's one of my favorite Sarah Eden books I’ve read. I’d forgotten just how wonderful her romances are until I’d taken a brief break from her novels to read others. I can’t wait to read more from this talented author, especially Artemis and Linus’s future stories in this wonderful and enjoyable Lancaster series.
I loved Daphne’s character and really related to her and the journey she experiences over the course of the novel. She’s insecure and shy, having resigned herself to never measuring up to her sisters. Despite her perceived mediocrity, Daphne is a very sweet, accomplished, and intelligent person, with an unusual but fascinating talent for herbs that I thoroughly enjoyed reading about. I loved experiencing her character journey and growth as she worked through her struggles to feel loved and accepted in order to discover her place within her family and develop more confidence. I also found it absolutely brilliant how Sarah Eden wove the real mythology of Daphne so seamlessly into the plot. It made it all the more lovely.
I also really liked James and how, despite having entered into a courtship with Daphne due to devious reasons and a sense of duty, his friendship with her blossoms naturally and his deeper romantic feelings gradually sneak up on him. I loved the way he sees past the wall Daphne hides behind to see into her heart, and from there he helps piece her broken heart back together. He was truly such a good, kind man. The romance between these endearing characters and the emotional struggles they deal with were very engaging and believable. It was wonderful watching James discover the true Daphne, come to realize what a treasure she is, and become utterly devoted to her. It was so sweet.
I thoroughly enjoyed Romancing Daphne. Sarah Eden writes such beautiful, deep, well-developed, and gentle romances, and this one was just as lovely; in fact, it's one of my favorite Sarah Eden books I’ve read. I’d forgotten just how wonderful her romances are until I’d taken a brief break from her novels to read others. I can’t wait to read more from this talented author, especially Artemis and Linus’s future stories in this wonderful and enjoyable Lancaster series.
May 25, 2017
This one was lovely. I really liked Daphne, and the conflict felt very realistic. I appreciated how the characters dealt with the issues that arose, and I enjoyed their interplay.
August 22, 2026
For anyone who’s ever wanted to be truly seen, Romancing Daphne delivers a swoony reminder that love can finds you even when you are hiding.
This book entertains.⚔️Adam’s gruffness becomes even more endearing in this book, especially when it comes to his shy sister-in-law, Daphne.
And then there’s Daphne and James, 🍯whose romance becomes a glorious tangle of comedy, secrets, misunderstandings, and things going spectacularly wrong.
The banter is delightful and watching Daphne navigate her insecurities while finding healing makes the romance especially sweet.
👉A lighthearted, funny, tender romance that leaves you smiling. And that ending? Very sweet and thoroughly satisfying. 🐦⬛
“You promised Persephone you wouldn’t shoot anyone.”
“I’ll run him through then.”
This book entertains.⚔️Adam’s gruffness becomes even more endearing in this book, especially when it comes to his shy sister-in-law, Daphne.
“There’s a reason gentlemen do not fall in love with the furniture.”
And then there’s Daphne and James, 🍯whose romance becomes a glorious tangle of comedy, secrets, misunderstandings, and things going spectacularly wrong.
“How are you?”
“You have no right to ask me that.”
The banter is delightful and watching Daphne navigate her insecurities while finding healing makes the romance especially sweet.
“Do not attack me with glares, you know I’m quite immune to them.”
“How could you?”
“Grow immune to glares? I could not help it, the talent developed naturally.”
👉A lighthearted, funny, tender romance that leaves you smiling. And that ending? Very sweet and thoroughly satisfying. 🐦⬛
July 18, 2026
Daphne Lancaster, age 12, knows she shouldn't be out of bed peeking at her sister's debut ball, her fearsome brother-in-law will have her head, but she can't help herself and she can't help wishing she was not plain but beautiful like Athena. She knows she'll never have the attention she's longed for. She's too short, too plain, too shy and too unnecessary. James Tilburn would rather be anywhere else than at a ball. At 18 he's too old for the nursery and too young for marriage. Under his father's thumb, James has to ATTEND the ball, that doesn't mean he can't hide himself away in the shadows of the terrace. There he comes across an adorable little sparrow peeking in the window. He promises not to tell and watches the little girl disappear wishing he could do the same. Six years later, it's Daphne's turn for a London season. She is absolutely dreading it and would rather hide away in the country. No man will ever love her and none will measure up to her memory of the kindness of James Tilburn. If only she could marry a man like him. James Tilburn, now of age, is summoned by his father and informed the Duke of Kielder requires James to pretend to court Daphne! James abhors dishonesty and refuses to agree to the pretense but his father threatens his inheritance along with his brother's and mother's allowances so James has to play along. If he goes to tea and befriends Daphne, introduces her to the notice of the ton, then it wouldn't really be a lie would it? He hasn't promised to marry the girl. Their first meeting is not auspicious but away from her family and her brother-in-law's spies, Daphne is quite a lovely girl even if she's bashful. She senses something not quite right in Mr. Tilburn's courtship and refuses to get her hopes up. Daphne longs for someone to see her, to love her in spite of her plainness and her shyness. Can she ever find someone who will match up to her ideals before she turns into a tree like her namesake?
I was eager to meet Daphne and get to know her after the first two books in the series. In Seeking Persephone, the Lancaster girls all sounded dippy to me but in Courting Miss Lancaster, I liked Daphne the best of the sisters. Sadly I was a bit disappointed in the plot of this story. It is essentially the same story as The Other Bennet Sister with a plain, shy, socially awkward girl trying to find her place in the family and in society. This one is way too angsty for me and a little bit preachy. It's a little more Christian themed than the others without being overtly Christian. I did love the mentions of characters from the other novels. That was fun. Who is Mr. Handle? Some relation to Crispin? I don't see Crispin being afraid of the Dangerous Duke.
Daphne is cripplingly shy and anxious. She compares herself to her siblings which isn't fair. Three of them have golden curls and green eyes. That's Ok Daphne. You're the smart one and the one Adam likes best after Persephone. Being smart is better than being pretty! Unless you're in London for a social season and it's 1812. Daphne is overwhelmed by her insecurities and she never really manages to mature and see her own self-worth. She constantly feels left out and is searching for her place in the family. Daphne thinks no one sees her, only her brother Evander did and now he's dead. She thinks her role is to be useful and helpful. She worries about them, especially Linus off at sea. I would have liked a self-discovery period after the misunderstanding. That should have happened sooner. I got a little bored. Daphne is kind and she has a secret talent that saves the day during a difficult situation with James's family. I liked that section of the novel best, when Daphne had a chance to show off her kindness, her intelligence and her practical nature. She doesn't rattle easily.
James is a stand up fellow and as the oldest, I can relate to the pressure of having to do everything for everyone but at some point you have to learn to say no. James reacts without thinking things through or checking on his facts, as others point out to him later. He's so used to taking care of everyone and doing everything that he just goes along with whatever anyone asks him. He feels it is his duty to sacrifice himself for his family. Only his sacrifices will hold the family together. Gee thanks James. Courting Daphne is a sacrifice? James, like Daphne, needs to grow a spine and stand up to his father. I'm tired of every single one of the gentlemen in these novels having father issues and the women feeling unseen. In this case though, Lord Techney is a bully and enjoys keeping his family under his thumb. He holds his wife's health and happiness hostage and his younger son's livelihood. Lord Techney is evil! He's a social climber who would do anything to further his standing with the ton but he does little in Parliament and doesn't truly care about anyone except himself. The thing about bullies is, they back down when threatened, when someone stands up to them! James could have tired harder to befriend Adam and then he could have threatened his father. James is kind, caring and loving but he lacks spunk.
Adam has grown on me since his first appearance in Seeking Persephone. In Forget Me Not, my heart went out to the lonely little boy who lacked friendship and functioning adult parents. By the time I did read Persephone, I wondered what happened and why the Jonquils' influence didn't soften him a bit more. Alas, Adam seemed to like Daphne and was kind to her when she was a little girl. Now he's meddling in her social life when he shouldn't. To be fair, he did try to ease her way with ONE tea but then he glowers and threatens at James at every turn. Which is it? Give her a chance to get to know James better or warn him away because his father is an idiot? Adam is WAY too over protective with Daphne. He wasn't like that with Athena. He settled for dark looks and threats. Adam has been softened a bit by Persephone. She's matured and developed a sense of humor. Adam and Persephone's banter is cute and I like seeing their love grow and develop into a real relationship. I was surprised to discover Persephone has a sense of humor and she can stand up to Adam when necessary.
Artemis is still young but old enough to be eager for her season. She'd rather they skip Daphne and go straight for her. She's rude and mean to her sister and still bratty. I know her story because I read Charming Artemis first (and cried a lot) but I am missing some character development here. When did she start acting so dramatic? I finally met Linus but didn't like him very much. He is overprotective of his sister and between Adam and Linus, poor James doesn't stand a chance. Linus is struggling with his future plans. He's now the heir to the family estate but would rather be at sea. His brother's death changed everything and now he lacks the guidance of brother and father. Mr. Lancaster is still living but his mind is long gone. His grief over losing his beloved wife in childbirth never left and he let unhappiness consume him. Daphne has a few happy memories of when he let her sit on his knee and read to her. She wonders why he has rejected her and it affects her sense of self-worth. This whole family could benefit from some psychotherapy.
I like James's brother, Bennett. Bennett is perceptive and under no illusions their father is anything other than a bully. Bennett is determined to make his own way in the world and succeed without help from his father. I hope he's successful. He seemed surprised when someone did something kind for him, which is rather sad. Lady Techney is one of those women! She's meek, weak and constantly ill with headaches or other ailments. She can't handle running a household and unlike Persephone, she can't stand up to her horrible husband. She does seem to love her sons but she is powerless to stop her husband's bullying. She can't even handle a puppy and James has to take on the care and training of the unruly terrier. (Shades of Lady Bertram? At least Pug doesn't DO anything).
Mr. Finley makes his first appearance and he really is sickening. Does he opportune ALL the women in these two families? At least THIS time he's willing to make an honest offer to Daphne if her dowry is large enough. Yuck. He needs to be sent packing and preferably somewhere far, far away from women. With the hostilities in America heating up and war with France, send him to war. The Duke of Hartley has a brief cameo and I believe after all this time I know who the Duchess is . We still don't know much about him though. He doesn't have his own book.
We meet some new characters in this novel. Mrs. Bower and her unmarried daughters. Mrs. Bower is determined to make excellent matches for her daughters. She's too obvious about it and she will let nothing stop her. Mrs. Bower and her daughters are unkind to Daphne. Miss Bower thinks Lord Lampton is odd! GASP! NO! Philip is my favorite Jonquil brother! He's so funny! Of course I know what's behind his foppish personality but still, I find him most amusing. Miss Bower doesn't seem to possess a sense of humor. Even Daphne can laugh and joke with Bennett. The maid, Fanny, is a hopeless romantic and tries to help the romance along.
This story had too much angst and went on too long for me. I hope Linus's story is better.
I was eager to meet Daphne and get to know her after the first two books in the series. In Seeking Persephone, the Lancaster girls all sounded dippy to me but in Courting Miss Lancaster, I liked Daphne the best of the sisters. Sadly I was a bit disappointed in the plot of this story. It is essentially the same story as The Other Bennet Sister with a plain, shy, socially awkward girl trying to find her place in the family and in society. This one is way too angsty for me and a little bit preachy. It's a little more Christian themed than the others without being overtly Christian. I did love the mentions of characters from the other novels. That was fun. Who is Mr. Handle? Some relation to Crispin? I don't see Crispin being afraid of the Dangerous Duke.
Daphne is cripplingly shy and anxious. She compares herself to her siblings which isn't fair. Three of them have golden curls and green eyes. That's Ok Daphne. You're the smart one and the one Adam likes best after Persephone. Being smart is better than being pretty! Unless you're in London for a social season and it's 1812. Daphne is overwhelmed by her insecurities and she never really manages to mature and see her own self-worth. She constantly feels left out and is searching for her place in the family. Daphne thinks no one sees her, only her brother Evander did and now he's dead. She thinks her role is to be useful and helpful. She worries about them, especially Linus off at sea. I would have liked a self-discovery period after the misunderstanding. That should have happened sooner. I got a little bored. Daphne is kind and she has a secret talent that saves the day during a difficult situation with James's family. I liked that section of the novel best, when Daphne had a chance to show off her kindness, her intelligence and her practical nature. She doesn't rattle easily.
James is a stand up fellow and as the oldest, I can relate to the pressure of having to do everything for everyone but at some point you have to learn to say no. James reacts without thinking things through or checking on his facts, as others point out to him later. He's so used to taking care of everyone and doing everything that he just goes along with whatever anyone asks him. He feels it is his duty to sacrifice himself for his family. Only his sacrifices will hold the family together. Gee thanks James. Courting Daphne is a sacrifice? James, like Daphne, needs to grow a spine and stand up to his father. I'm tired of every single one of the gentlemen in these novels having father issues and the women feeling unseen. In this case though, Lord Techney is a bully and enjoys keeping his family under his thumb. He holds his wife's health and happiness hostage and his younger son's livelihood. Lord Techney is evil! He's a social climber who would do anything to further his standing with the ton but he does little in Parliament and doesn't truly care about anyone except himself. The thing about bullies is, they back down when threatened, when someone stands up to them! James could have tired harder to befriend Adam and then he could have threatened his father. James is kind, caring and loving but he lacks spunk.
Adam has grown on me since his first appearance in Seeking Persephone. In Forget Me Not, my heart went out to the lonely little boy who lacked friendship and functioning adult parents. By the time I did read Persephone, I wondered what happened and why the Jonquils' influence didn't soften him a bit more. Alas, Adam seemed to like Daphne and was kind to her when she was a little girl. Now he's meddling in her social life when he shouldn't. To be fair, he did try to ease her way with ONE tea but then he glowers and threatens at James at every turn. Which is it? Give her a chance to get to know James better or warn him away because his father is an idiot? Adam is WAY too over protective with Daphne. He wasn't like that with Athena. He settled for dark looks and threats. Adam has been softened a bit by Persephone. She's matured and developed a sense of humor. Adam and Persephone's banter is cute and I like seeing their love grow and develop into a real relationship. I was surprised to discover Persephone has a sense of humor and she can stand up to Adam when necessary.
Artemis is still young but old enough to be eager for her season. She'd rather they skip Daphne and go straight for her. She's rude and mean to her sister and still bratty. I know her story because I read Charming Artemis first (and cried a lot) but I am missing some character development here. When did she start acting so dramatic? I finally met Linus but didn't like him very much. He is overprotective of his sister and between Adam and Linus, poor James doesn't stand a chance. Linus is struggling with his future plans. He's now the heir to the family estate but would rather be at sea. His brother's death changed everything and now he lacks the guidance of brother and father. Mr. Lancaster is still living but his mind is long gone. His grief over losing his beloved wife in childbirth never left and he let unhappiness consume him. Daphne has a few happy memories of when he let her sit on his knee and read to her. She wonders why he has rejected her and it affects her sense of self-worth. This whole family could benefit from some psychotherapy.
I like James's brother, Bennett. Bennett is perceptive and under no illusions their father is anything other than a bully. Bennett is determined to make his own way in the world and succeed without help from his father. I hope he's successful. He seemed surprised when someone did something kind for him, which is rather sad. Lady Techney is one of those women! She's meek, weak and constantly ill with headaches or other ailments. She can't handle running a household and unlike Persephone, she can't stand up to her horrible husband. She does seem to love her sons but she is powerless to stop her husband's bullying. She can't even handle a puppy and James has to take on the care and training of the unruly terrier. (Shades of Lady Bertram? At least Pug doesn't DO anything).
Mr. Finley makes his first appearance and he really is sickening. Does he opportune ALL the women in these two families? At least THIS time he's willing to make an honest offer to Daphne if her dowry is large enough. Yuck. He needs to be sent packing and preferably somewhere far, far away from women. With the hostilities in America heating up and war with France, send him to war. The Duke of Hartley has a brief cameo and I believe after all this time I know who the Duchess is . We still don't know much about him though. He doesn't have his own book.
We meet some new characters in this novel. Mrs. Bower and her unmarried daughters. Mrs. Bower is determined to make excellent matches for her daughters. She's too obvious about it and she will let nothing stop her. Mrs. Bower and her daughters are unkind to Daphne. Miss Bower thinks Lord Lampton is odd! GASP! NO! Philip is my favorite Jonquil brother! He's so funny! Of course I know what's behind his foppish personality but still, I find him most amusing. Miss Bower doesn't seem to possess a sense of humor. Even Daphne can laugh and joke with Bennett. The maid, Fanny, is a hopeless romantic and tries to help the romance along.
This story had too much angst and went on too long for me. I hope Linus's story is better.
January 29, 2023
Muy entretenido y tierno, con valores muy bonitos. Como pega, diré que la segunda mitad del libro se me ha hecho algo lenta :(
January 23, 2026
Daphne Lancaster is shy and has generally felt unnoticed for her entire life. James Tilburn was kind to her when she was a young girl, and she has dreamed of him since, so when he finally comes calling, she is elated. Unfortunately, her happily-ever-after seems within reach until she finds out James has a terrible secret. Will all her dreams be crushed?
I love Sarah Eden's books because she draws me in with the emotional depth of the characters. I care about what happens to them and want to see them find a happy ending. Daphne was so relatable and the issues she had with her self-esteem and unhappy childhood really make her three dimensional. When she is tongue-tied and shy, my heart hurt for her! But her interactions with the Duke of Kielder were funny and sweet, and they brought out a side of her that I wanted her beau to see. James was also a great hero, not perfect, but just swoon-worthy enough that you want him to win the fair lady's hand. His reaction to the Duke also made me smile because I could totally imagine that in my head. The book was full of really great characters and a plot that had me so enthralled I was turning pages as quickly as I could.
One other thing I loved was that we get to see the Duke and Duchess of Kielder again and catch up on what's going on with the Lancaster family. Those were some of my favorite characters that Sarah has written and I hope we get to see more of them in the future.
If you love clean historical romance that is also witty and a page-turner, then you need to clear your schedule, grab the book, and head to the beach---it will be a book you don't want to put down!
Originally reviewed at http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com
I love Sarah Eden's books because she draws me in with the emotional depth of the characters. I care about what happens to them and want to see them find a happy ending. Daphne was so relatable and the issues she had with her self-esteem and unhappy childhood really make her three dimensional. When she is tongue-tied and shy, my heart hurt for her! But her interactions with the Duke of Kielder were funny and sweet, and they brought out a side of her that I wanted her beau to see. James was also a great hero, not perfect, but just swoon-worthy enough that you want him to win the fair lady's hand. His reaction to the Duke also made me smile because I could totally imagine that in my head. The book was full of really great characters and a plot that had me so enthralled I was turning pages as quickly as I could.
One other thing I loved was that we get to see the Duke and Duchess of Kielder again and catch up on what's going on with the Lancaster family. Those were some of my favorite characters that Sarah has written and I hope we get to see more of them in the future.
If you love clean historical romance that is also witty and a page-turner, then you need to clear your schedule, grab the book, and head to the beach---it will be a book you don't want to put down!
Originally reviewed at http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com
June 9, 2017
There is nothing quite like the anticipation of a new Sarah Eden book. I usually get books well before I will be reading them so they sit there, taunting me with the awesome I know is inside but can't have just yet. But when I finally get to pick it up? It's like Christmas!
Sarah Eden will always be a must read, go-to author for me. I love her books. She has such a gentle way of weaving a story together. Her characters are flawed, with insecurities and mistakes which make them human and so very endearing. This book is no exception to that. It was exactly what I've come to expect from Sarah Eden and I was simply in love with Daphne and James.
It was so good to see characters from previous books. It adds to that feeling of coming home. This is the third book in this particular series but you don't need to read the previous books to enjoy this one. It would just add to your connection of secondary characters- mainly Daphne's sister and brother in law.
I loved this book. It was perfect.
Content: clean
- I received a copy of this book from the publisher. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
Sarah Eden will always be a must read, go-to author for me. I love her books. She has such a gentle way of weaving a story together. Her characters are flawed, with insecurities and mistakes which make them human and so very endearing. This book is no exception to that. It was exactly what I've come to expect from Sarah Eden and I was simply in love with Daphne and James.
It was so good to see characters from previous books. It adds to that feeling of coming home. This is the third book in this particular series but you don't need to read the previous books to enjoy this one. It would just add to your connection of secondary characters- mainly Daphne's sister and brother in law.
I loved this book. It was perfect.
Content: clean
- I received a copy of this book from the publisher. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
June 9, 2017
Romancing Daphne is perfect. I loved that it was another story for the Lancaster family. The first book I read of Sarah's was Courting Miss Lancaster, so I was thrilled to have another story with this enduring family. Every time Adam was on the page, I smiled. There were so many clever and heartwarming moments. I loved Daphne right from the start. I loved her growth and how as her and James got to know each other her confidence grew. James was wonderful too.
5 out of 5 stars. Sarah is a fantastic author, every time I read another book of hers it becomes my new favorite.
I received a copy from the publisher, all views and opinions expressed are my own.
5 out of 5 stars. Sarah is a fantastic author, every time I read another book of hers it becomes my new favorite.
I received a copy from the publisher, all views and opinions expressed are my own.
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December 15, 20174 1/2 stars.
It was a little too long. Other than that, I really liked this one. I felt Daphne's shyness and awkwardness, and her hope when James was nice to her.
James had a few things to learn, and it was great to see him change.
The ending was really sweet.
It was a little too long. Other than that, I really liked this one. I felt Daphne's shyness and awkwardness, and her hope when James was nice to her.
James had a few things to learn, and it was great to see him change.
The ending was really sweet.
September 18, 2019
From the cover and title you can tell this is a romance, but I still hoped for more historical background (as the book was listed under historical fiction). It is just a drop in a bucket in this story. Therefore, I’m not the right reviewer for this book.
@FB: Best Historical Fiction
@FB: Best Historical Fiction
August 15, 2017
Very good book. I thoroughly enjoyed, and highly recommend.
July 12, 2017
I felt a connection to Daphne so I really understood her! She seems to feel as though everyone leaves her and no one wants her. Her father’s mind was deteriorating as she grew up and where she used to sit in his office, he started to not allow her there. Her and her sister were sent to live with her other sister’s home. There she felt happier as she felt happy that her older sister’s husband seemed to be fond of her and he allowed her to sit in his office while he worked. Her brothers went off in the military. Her one brother was very fond of her, but he died. Once when she was younger, she had to peek out and watch a ball that her brother was hosting. On the patio (not the correct word), a man came out and called her his "Little Sparrow". He was kind and she latched onto that memory and wanted to someday belong to him.
Now grown up, she meets him again. His name is James. James' father told him to court Daphne. He said that Daphne’s brother in law commanded it of him. (just fyi- Daphne’s uncle is also known as the Dangerous Duke, he makes everyone quake in their boots.) James did as he was told but then found as time went on, he really liked being in her company. But it wasn’t fair to Daphne and he didn’t know how to tell her the truth without ruining her trust in him.
But as all stories go, she finds out. When she did, I had to put down the book. I stewed over it for 2 days before I was able to pick it back up. She was also losing time with the Dangerous Duke as well. As something was taking over that time she had with him. Now she felt all alone and like everyone leaves her. She withdrew from the world. The Dangerous Duke and her brother who was at home on leave notices. They tried to figure out what to do to help her. James also would try to check on her. He didn’t like her being so withdrawn. He still cared very deeply for her. But her family kept them apart as well. But families also see things other people don’t and I loved her family for all that they did for Daphne.
I hadn’t read the story of The Dangerous Duke and I need to get that book so I can read his story. I also hope there is a story of the younger sister as she is totally out of control for that time period.
If you love regency romance, clean reads, betrayals, dementia, grieving, finding love, doing what is right over family, picnics, gardens, then this might be for you!
Now grown up, she meets him again. His name is James. James' father told him to court Daphne. He said that Daphne’s brother in law commanded it of him. (just fyi- Daphne’s uncle is also known as the Dangerous Duke, he makes everyone quake in their boots.) James did as he was told but then found as time went on, he really liked being in her company. But it wasn’t fair to Daphne and he didn’t know how to tell her the truth without ruining her trust in him.
But as all stories go, she finds out. When she did, I had to put down the book. I stewed over it for 2 days before I was able to pick it back up. She was also losing time with the Dangerous Duke as well. As something was taking over that time she had with him. Now she felt all alone and like everyone leaves her. She withdrew from the world. The Dangerous Duke and her brother who was at home on leave notices. They tried to figure out what to do to help her. James also would try to check on her. He didn’t like her being so withdrawn. He still cared very deeply for her. But her family kept them apart as well. But families also see things other people don’t and I loved her family for all that they did for Daphne.
I hadn’t read the story of The Dangerous Duke and I need to get that book so I can read his story. I also hope there is a story of the younger sister as she is totally out of control for that time period.
If you love regency romance, clean reads, betrayals, dementia, grieving, finding love, doing what is right over family, picnics, gardens, then this might be for you!
February 1, 2023
Un romance dulce e inspirador que unirá el destino de dos tímidos amantes.
El amor de Dafne de Sarah M. Eden es una novela emotiva y especial donde veremos como la tímida Dafne consigue la felicidad que llevaba tiempo anhelando, todo gracias al amor que James le regalará, una pareja que deberá pelear para encontrar la senda que los llevará a la más absoluta dicha, una vida juntos y para siempre.
➞ Link de la reseña completa: https://florecilladecereza.blogspot.c...
El amor de Dafne de Sarah M. Eden es una novela emotiva y especial donde veremos como la tímida Dafne consigue la felicidad que llevaba tiempo anhelando, todo gracias al amor que James le regalará, una pareja que deberá pelear para encontrar la senda que los llevará a la más absoluta dicha, una vida juntos y para siempre.
➞ Link de la reseña completa: https://florecilladecereza.blogspot.c...
October 12, 2023
3.5 Aunque la recta final me resultó innecesariamente extensa, disfruté un montón de esta historia. Dafne es una protagonista adorable, real para la época, y en constante crecimiento; James también me gustó aunque quizá un poquito menos, y supongo que eso se debe a la presencia de Adam, que se roba el corazón de todo el mundo y es imposible que no atraiga la atención cuando aparece, lo que es también un acierto porque es tan encantador como divertido. Pienso seguir con la serie, tengo mucha curiosidad por las historias de Linus y de la dramática Artemisa.
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