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Secrets at Thorncliff Manor #4
Christmas at Thorncliff Manor
More than love is in the air …
Join the Heartly family as they return to Thorncliff Manor for the holiday season where four sisters and four very handsome, very eligible bachelors, are about to enjoy a lively Christmastime filled with laughter and love. But aside from the covert matchmaking undertaken by the eccentric hostess, Lady Duncaster, the thrill of adventure is sweeping through the estate. Soon, all the guests will be entangled in a treasure hunt for a lost heirloom and secrets hidden for decades will rise to the surface as matters of the heart are finally revealed.
Will Fiona ever see the Earl of Chadwick as more than a friend? Will Emily find an unlikely love in the Marquess of Montsmouth? Can Laura recognize the man of her dreams in the Duke of Lamont? And is Viscount Belgrave able to open Rachel’s eyes to romance? The magic of Thorncliff is about to offer the last unmarried Heartly sisters a chance at their own happily-ever-afters. So sit back with a warm mug of cocoa and lose yourself in a Regency Christmas Romance…
Join the Heartly family as they return to Thorncliff Manor for the holiday season where four sisters and four very handsome, very eligible bachelors, are about to enjoy a lively Christmastime filled with laughter and love. But aside from the covert matchmaking undertaken by the eccentric hostess, Lady Duncaster, the thrill of adventure is sweeping through the estate. Soon, all the guests will be entangled in a treasure hunt for a lost heirloom and secrets hidden for decades will rise to the surface as matters of the heart are finally revealed.
Will Fiona ever see the Earl of Chadwick as more than a friend? Will Emily find an unlikely love in the Marquess of Montsmouth? Can Laura recognize the man of her dreams in the Duke of Lamont? And is Viscount Belgrave able to open Rachel’s eyes to romance? The magic of Thorncliff is about to offer the last unmarried Heartly sisters a chance at their own happily-ever-afters. So sit back with a warm mug of cocoa and lose yourself in a Regency Christmas Romance…
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2017
490 people are currently reading
1173 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Barnes
67 books1,753 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Sophie Barnes writes historical romance novels in which the characters break away from social expectations in their quest for happiness and love. Having written for Avon, an imprint of Harper Collins, her books have been published internationally in eight languages. With a fondness for travel, Sophie has lived in six countries, on three continents, and speaks English, Danish, French, Spanish, and Romanian with varying degrees of fluency. Ever the romantic, she married the same man three times—in three different countries and in three different dresses.
When she’s not busy dreaming up her next swoon worthy romance novel, Sophie enjoys spending time with her family, practicing yoga, baking, gardening, watching romantic comedies and, of course, reading.
For all the latest releases, promotions, and exclusive story updates, subscribe to Sophie Barnes’ newsletter today: www.sophiebarnes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
October 12, 2017
“More than love is in the air …”
A Christmas house party, set in regency times, involving four couples thrown together and a sidepiece of mystery and adventure.
I had to check that this was meant to be written in the regency era several times, because of the language used and the odd behavior of the characters (who I think were meant to be unexceptional, everyday regency era aristocracy).
There were some phrases that jangled like
“A maid entered the room. ‘How may I be of service?’ she asked. Fiona placed their order.”
Is Fiona at the Sonic drive-thru?
“You don’t look half-bad yourself.”
20th century flirting.
A wealthy Dowager Countess turning her estate into a guest house in the warmer months.
At dinner, a girl questions:
”You would rather eat an animal that’s soft and gentle with innocent eyes and a trusting nature?”
Behavior including:
In the drawing room with their hostess, a married couple winking about afternoon naps, and the hostess making a suggestive reply.
A young man pouring brandy out for an unmarried lady that he was courting, while they were alone. On another occasion, champagne is drank at a ball by an unmarried lady, as if it were normal and acceptable. Later that same ball, after dancing once with a suitor, she tells him her heart is otherwise engaged. Nice to meet you, known you for 10 minutes, don’t try anything, I am in love with someone else.
The need for a chaperones is at times stressed and at other times ignored, seemingly at the author’s whim.
When dinner is served, there is no assigned seating, no escorting into the dining room, and a couple is left behind in the other room (because he is in a daze, intently imagining tearing her clothes off).
But that was nothing compared to the Creep Factor that permeated every couple’s courtship. It did not start well, with the men together sipping brandy and dividing up the women amongst them, because:
“...we’ve all surpassed our thirtieth year. Perhaps it is time for us to stop keeping mistresses…”
The first couple we spend time with, Fiona and Edward, have a past ‘friendship’ and an age difference of 11 years. He is 30. She is 19. At what age would all the roughhousing and mischief making in their past be appropriate? With him being so attracted to her but trying to act brotherly? It highlights how creepy it is that a 19 year old man would be so attached to an 8 year old, or that a 16 year old woudl choose to hang out with a 5 year old. 25 and 14?
His feelings:
”She was a good sport, always ready for a bit of adventure, so in spite of the difference in age, I couldn’t help but look forward to seeing her - especially as she got older.”
Pinning a woman down in the snow in regency times, straddling her and tickling her? That is disturbing enough, and together with the age difference and the one-sided attraction really loads up points on the Creep Scale.
“No woman should be allowed to look at a man with such innocent obliviousness.”
Because women should all expect men to be pervy and watch what they say, do, how they look, etc. Or, women should never be allowed any innocence. Confused as to the meaning of this one.
How about finding a woman alone in the manor’s library and physically forcing her to talk to you?
“‘If you’ll excuse me.’ She meant to move past him, but he stuck out his arm, trapping her between it and the ladder.”
That is Rachel, the scientific one, who has no use for social niceties and considers herself to be completely unattractive.
“Rachel hesitated. If only she could manage to escape without being rude.”
And then he pours her out a brandy.
“She stared at him with big round eyes, like a rabbit caught in a snare.”
How romantic! An animal in fear for it’s life.
”She actually gulped, in the adorable sort of way that only an unschooled woman faced with the prospect of venturing down a forbidden path would do.”
Which of course caused him to feel
“a dangerous need threatening to conquer her innocence.”
Is this written from the perspective of a serial molester?
“Things were returning to normal, except for the part where he wanted to throw her over his shoulder and run off to the nearest available bedroom. Or parlor. Really, at this point, any room with a horizontal surface would do. Except for the slight detail that she had no interest in that sort of thing.”
Non consensual? Slight detail. Blech.
Shortly later, he informs her:
”Have a care or I might not be able to stop myself from taking more than you ought to be willing to give me at this moment.”
So, it is up to her to stop him from doing whatever he likes with her. Of course she should not be willing to do anything because she should be innocent and not feel any attraction.
There is also a couple who have an 18 year age difference, but at least they don’t have a history of a close friendship that involved wrestling around. He wants a nice good woman to be motherly towards his wards. And he thinks she is hot. So, done.
With all the ladies licking their lips, and the men ‘deliberately dropping his tone to a husky whisper’ and otherwise lowering their voices to appear sexier, it was quite nauseating. Although, the women did admit to being “seduced by the deep timbre of his voice.”
More than love is in the air, indeed.
*eARC Netgalley*
A Christmas house party, set in regency times, involving four couples thrown together and a sidepiece of mystery and adventure.
I had to check that this was meant to be written in the regency era several times, because of the language used and the odd behavior of the characters (who I think were meant to be unexceptional, everyday regency era aristocracy).
There were some phrases that jangled like
“A maid entered the room. ‘How may I be of service?’ she asked. Fiona placed their order.”
Is Fiona at the Sonic drive-thru?
“You don’t look half-bad yourself.”
20th century flirting.
A wealthy Dowager Countess turning her estate into a guest house in the warmer months.
At dinner, a girl questions:
”You would rather eat an animal that’s soft and gentle with innocent eyes and a trusting nature?”
Behavior including:
In the drawing room with their hostess, a married couple winking about afternoon naps, and the hostess making a suggestive reply.
A young man pouring brandy out for an unmarried lady that he was courting, while they were alone. On another occasion, champagne is drank at a ball by an unmarried lady, as if it were normal and acceptable. Later that same ball, after dancing once with a suitor, she tells him her heart is otherwise engaged. Nice to meet you, known you for 10 minutes, don’t try anything, I am in love with someone else.
The need for a chaperones is at times stressed and at other times ignored, seemingly at the author’s whim.
When dinner is served, there is no assigned seating, no escorting into the dining room, and a couple is left behind in the other room (because he is in a daze, intently imagining tearing her clothes off).
But that was nothing compared to the Creep Factor that permeated every couple’s courtship. It did not start well, with the men together sipping brandy and dividing up the women amongst them, because:
“...we’ve all surpassed our thirtieth year. Perhaps it is time for us to stop keeping mistresses…”
The first couple we spend time with, Fiona and Edward, have a past ‘friendship’ and an age difference of 11 years. He is 30. She is 19. At what age would all the roughhousing and mischief making in their past be appropriate? With him being so attracted to her but trying to act brotherly? It highlights how creepy it is that a 19 year old man would be so attached to an 8 year old, or that a 16 year old woudl choose to hang out with a 5 year old. 25 and 14?
His feelings:
”She was a good sport, always ready for a bit of adventure, so in spite of the difference in age, I couldn’t help but look forward to seeing her - especially as she got older.”
Pinning a woman down in the snow in regency times, straddling her and tickling her? That is disturbing enough, and together with the age difference and the one-sided attraction really loads up points on the Creep Scale.
“No woman should be allowed to look at a man with such innocent obliviousness.”
Because women should all expect men to be pervy and watch what they say, do, how they look, etc. Or, women should never be allowed any innocence. Confused as to the meaning of this one.
How about finding a woman alone in the manor’s library and physically forcing her to talk to you?
“‘If you’ll excuse me.’ She meant to move past him, but he stuck out his arm, trapping her between it and the ladder.”
That is Rachel, the scientific one, who has no use for social niceties and considers herself to be completely unattractive.
“Rachel hesitated. If only she could manage to escape without being rude.”
And then he pours her out a brandy.
“She stared at him with big round eyes, like a rabbit caught in a snare.”
How romantic! An animal in fear for it’s life.
”She actually gulped, in the adorable sort of way that only an unschooled woman faced with the prospect of venturing down a forbidden path would do.”
Which of course caused him to feel
“a dangerous need threatening to conquer her innocence.”
Is this written from the perspective of a serial molester?
“Things were returning to normal, except for the part where he wanted to throw her over his shoulder and run off to the nearest available bedroom. Or parlor. Really, at this point, any room with a horizontal surface would do. Except for the slight detail that she had no interest in that sort of thing.”
Non consensual? Slight detail. Blech.
Shortly later, he informs her:
”Have a care or I might not be able to stop myself from taking more than you ought to be willing to give me at this moment.”
So, it is up to her to stop him from doing whatever he likes with her. Of course she should not be willing to do anything because she should be innocent and not feel any attraction.
There is also a couple who have an 18 year age difference, but at least they don’t have a history of a close friendship that involved wrestling around. He wants a nice good woman to be motherly towards his wards. And he thinks she is hot. So, done.
With all the ladies licking their lips, and the men ‘deliberately dropping his tone to a husky whisper’ and otherwise lowering their voices to appear sexier, it was quite nauseating. Although, the women did admit to being “seduced by the deep timbre of his voice.”
More than love is in the air, indeed.
*eARC Netgalley*
December 8, 2017
Originally published at Reading Reality
Christmas at Thorncliff Manor is a delightful little sugarplum of a holiday romance.
It is also the final book in the Secrets at Thorncliff Manor series, and as such, it does its level best to both resolve the outstanding mysteries left from the first three books in the series and get the remaining Heartly daughters happily married before the final page.
I have not read the previous books in the series, and it looks like some absolutely fascinating things occurred during those books. Thorncliffe Manor is hiding a secret stash of valuables smuggled out of France during the Terror. And while those who betrayed the nobles who left that stash have been revealed and received their just desserts, the treasure trove itself has never discovered.
Not that several of the Heartly siblings, among others, have not spent a significant amount of time hunting for it.
Fiona is hoping to find her great-aunts jewel box. The Marquess of Montsmouth, an avid art collector, wants to find the paintings that are supposed to be included. They do not end up with each other.
But the remaining Heartly sisters, fun-loving Fiona, author Laura, artist Emily and scientist Rachel, do find their happily ever afters where they at least least expect them, among the wealthy, titled, and eligible men that their hostess Lady Duncaster has invited to spend the holidays at Thorncliff Manor.
The fun in this story is watching each of these singular sisters find someone who is just perfect for them. Even the scientific and mathematically inclined Rachel, who can prove with statistical certain that it is statistically impossible for her to ever meet the right man for her.
Instead, one after another the sisters find their matches, men who appreciate them as they are, and have no desire to attempt to mold them into what society expects them to be.
The sweetest story of all is Fiona’s. She is finally mature enough to see that the man who has been her playmate and protector is the only man she could ever possibly love. Even though trying for more has the potential to ruin the foundational friendship of both of their lives, it is too great a prize for them not to risk it all.
Finding the missing treasure is the icing on a very delicious cake of a holiday romance.
Escape Rating B+: If you’re looking for a sweet historical holiday romance, Christmas at Thorncliff Manor is an excellent choice. And I say that even though I have not read the rest of the series. It seems clear that there is more depth to the backstory if you’ve read them all, but this entry is surprisingly complete in itself, especially considering that the Heartly siblings have been hunting for that treasure from the very first book.
The holiday party setting also adds to the fun, and it provides the “glue” that makes these four separate romances stick together. It’s obvious to the reader, and to at least some of the participants, that someone is matchmaking in the background, and that everyone is more than willing to go along for the ride.
I did find Fiona and Chadwick’s romance to have the most depth. It does feel as if they are the primary couple in the story, and we see Fiona’s point of view more than her sisters. Their romance is in a classic trope. They have known each other forever, but Chadwick was her older brother’s friend. He has treated her like a little sister, but now she is 19 and he has finally realized that she is the woman he wants to marry. He has to figure out how to make her see him as something other than an older brother without scaring her off. And there’s a bit of a bittersweet touch because he knows this marks an ending no matter what happens. If she can’t see him as a romantic partner, he’ll need to step away from a family that has become a second home to him.
As I said at the very beginning, this one is a sugarplum, a sweet holiday treat, indeed.
Christmas at Thorncliff Manor is a delightful little sugarplum of a holiday romance.
It is also the final book in the Secrets at Thorncliff Manor series, and as such, it does its level best to both resolve the outstanding mysteries left from the first three books in the series and get the remaining Heartly daughters happily married before the final page.
I have not read the previous books in the series, and it looks like some absolutely fascinating things occurred during those books. Thorncliffe Manor is hiding a secret stash of valuables smuggled out of France during the Terror. And while those who betrayed the nobles who left that stash have been revealed and received their just desserts, the treasure trove itself has never discovered.
Not that several of the Heartly siblings, among others, have not spent a significant amount of time hunting for it.
Fiona is hoping to find her great-aunts jewel box. The Marquess of Montsmouth, an avid art collector, wants to find the paintings that are supposed to be included. They do not end up with each other.
But the remaining Heartly sisters, fun-loving Fiona, author Laura, artist Emily and scientist Rachel, do find their happily ever afters where they at least least expect them, among the wealthy, titled, and eligible men that their hostess Lady Duncaster has invited to spend the holidays at Thorncliff Manor.
The fun in this story is watching each of these singular sisters find someone who is just perfect for them. Even the scientific and mathematically inclined Rachel, who can prove with statistical certain that it is statistically impossible for her to ever meet the right man for her.
Instead, one after another the sisters find their matches, men who appreciate them as they are, and have no desire to attempt to mold them into what society expects them to be.
The sweetest story of all is Fiona’s. She is finally mature enough to see that the man who has been her playmate and protector is the only man she could ever possibly love. Even though trying for more has the potential to ruin the foundational friendship of both of their lives, it is too great a prize for them not to risk it all.
Finding the missing treasure is the icing on a very delicious cake of a holiday romance.
Escape Rating B+: If you’re looking for a sweet historical holiday romance, Christmas at Thorncliff Manor is an excellent choice. And I say that even though I have not read the rest of the series. It seems clear that there is more depth to the backstory if you’ve read them all, but this entry is surprisingly complete in itself, especially considering that the Heartly siblings have been hunting for that treasure from the very first book.
The holiday party setting also adds to the fun, and it provides the “glue” that makes these four separate romances stick together. It’s obvious to the reader, and to at least some of the participants, that someone is matchmaking in the background, and that everyone is more than willing to go along for the ride.
I did find Fiona and Chadwick’s romance to have the most depth. It does feel as if they are the primary couple in the story, and we see Fiona’s point of view more than her sisters. Their romance is in a classic trope. They have known each other forever, but Chadwick was her older brother’s friend. He has treated her like a little sister, but now she is 19 and he has finally realized that she is the woman he wants to marry. He has to figure out how to make her see him as something other than an older brother without scaring her off. And there’s a bit of a bittersweet touch because he knows this marks an ending no matter what happens. If she can’t see him as a romantic partner, he’ll need to step away from a family that has become a second home to him.
As I said at the very beginning, this one is a sugarplum, a sweet holiday treat, indeed.
November 23, 2017
Series: Thorncliff Manor #4
Publication Date: 12/5/17
This is a delightful read with a mystery, hidden doors, tunnels and rooms, missing treasure and four romances. I have not read the other books in this series, but that didn’t detract from enjoying this one – it just made me want to go back and read them! If you are a Regency purist, this book may set your teeth on edge because it does contain some anachronistic language, phraseology and social standards, etc. I am usually one of those purists and frankly, I just enjoyed the book!
Lady Duncaster is quite a matchmaker and she’s invited her good friends Lord and Lady Oakland along with their four remaining unmarried daughters to spend Christmas with her. She’s also invited four imminently eligible bachelors to spend Christmas there as well. She won’t interfere, but if they come to know and love each other while they are at Thorncliff Manor, that is a good thing. They know each other already, they just need to spend some time together.
Fiona Heartly is the youngest of the four sisters and doesn’t feel there is any hurry for her to marry. She’s sweet, refined, good-natured, witty and mischievous. She is also obsessed with finding her great-aunt’s jewelry box that she is sure is hidden somewhere at Thorncliff. Edward, Earl of Chadwick is a long-time friend of the Heartly family and he and Fiona have always been close despite their age difference. He has also fallen in love with her. Can she ever see him as anything other than a friend?
Emily Heartly always has a sketchbook in her hand, but she never lets anyone see her drawings. They are private and she just feels they are good enough for anyone to see. Will the Marquess of Montsmouth be able to convince her to show him her sketches? He is a renowned art lover and expert. Will he love her sketches? Will he love her?
Laura Heartly is a published author and a genuine romantic. The Duke of Lamont has two young wards who need a lady in their lives – but he deserves love too. Can they come together and love each other?
Rachel Heartly is a scientist, very smart, very focused and very practical. She’s so focused that she has no time to worry about social skills, hair styling or fashion. Viscount Belgrave is the cousin of the Duke of Lamont. He’s very kind, good natured and curious. He loves discussing science with Rachel. Can they find love with each other?
They all have quite an adventure on their way to love and happiness and along the way, they solve a decades-old mystery and find a treasure. This is a fun read.
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."
Publication Date: 12/5/17
This is a delightful read with a mystery, hidden doors, tunnels and rooms, missing treasure and four romances. I have not read the other books in this series, but that didn’t detract from enjoying this one – it just made me want to go back and read them! If you are a Regency purist, this book may set your teeth on edge because it does contain some anachronistic language, phraseology and social standards, etc. I am usually one of those purists and frankly, I just enjoyed the book!
Lady Duncaster is quite a matchmaker and she’s invited her good friends Lord and Lady Oakland along with their four remaining unmarried daughters to spend Christmas with her. She’s also invited four imminently eligible bachelors to spend Christmas there as well. She won’t interfere, but if they come to know and love each other while they are at Thorncliff Manor, that is a good thing. They know each other already, they just need to spend some time together.
Fiona Heartly is the youngest of the four sisters and doesn’t feel there is any hurry for her to marry. She’s sweet, refined, good-natured, witty and mischievous. She is also obsessed with finding her great-aunt’s jewelry box that she is sure is hidden somewhere at Thorncliff. Edward, Earl of Chadwick is a long-time friend of the Heartly family and he and Fiona have always been close despite their age difference. He has also fallen in love with her. Can she ever see him as anything other than a friend?
Emily Heartly always has a sketchbook in her hand, but she never lets anyone see her drawings. They are private and she just feels they are good enough for anyone to see. Will the Marquess of Montsmouth be able to convince her to show him her sketches? He is a renowned art lover and expert. Will he love her sketches? Will he love her?
Laura Heartly is a published author and a genuine romantic. The Duke of Lamont has two young wards who need a lady in their lives – but he deserves love too. Can they come together and love each other?
Rachel Heartly is a scientist, very smart, very focused and very practical. She’s so focused that she has no time to worry about social skills, hair styling or fashion. Viscount Belgrave is the cousin of the Duke of Lamont. He’s very kind, good natured and curious. He loves discussing science with Rachel. Can they find love with each other?
They all have quite an adventure on their way to love and happiness and along the way, they solve a decades-old mystery and find a treasure. This is a fun read.
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."
January 25, 2022
Sweet story!! Four sisters all finding their beloveds at Christmas while engaged in a hunt for missing treasure.
November 30, 2022
An enjoyable read with a HEA and solving of a mystery. Four sisters find the perfect matches at a Christmas house party with three matchmakers.
Review https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
December 2, 2021
A good read
A hunt for treasure, and a matchmaking hostess, leads into a Christmas feel good novel. Characters are well crafted and appropriate to the story.
A hunt for treasure, and a matchmaking hostess, leads into a Christmas feel good novel. Characters are well crafted and appropriate to the story.
January 17, 2021
There are four Heartly sisters who are unmarried. Their parents and an old friend
have a plan to remedy that.
There are four very eligible bachelors who have been invited to celebrate Christmas at Thorncliff Manor. One of the bachelors and one of the Heartly daughters are there to find a treasure. Everyone knows about the hidden treasure, but not everyone is particularly interested.
The hunt for the treasure included referrals to groups from the past. Since I have not read any previous books in the series, I got lost at times. Various people in the past were bad guys, and there were others who were good guys. All of those people were involved in hiding the treasure from one another.
An ongoing theme throughout the story is the fact that there are hidden rooms, hidden tunnels and secret panels and all of them are in place to discourage anyone from finding the treasure.
The four young ladies and the four gentlemen all pair off. These people have met in the past. And now, with encouragement from parents and old friend, each couple will find they share interests. So, as it happens, each of the couples are quite perfect for one another.
This is a quick read. And the plot is an interesting one. I generally do not have a problem with keeping up with characters. For some reason, in this book, I had to go back and be reminded who was who. I think part of my problem was the fact that there were not definitive breaks between changes in point of view.
I did enjoy the characters and their adventures. I liked the fact that in the beginning there was little evidence that each couple would do well together. But, things developed.
I enjoy Ms Barnes writing. This was an enjoyable book which introduced me to a family who are quite interesting. And there are men who find those interesting daughters to be just what they have been seeking.
The books moves at a good pace and Ms Barnes has provided the reader with characters who make enjoyable companions.
have a plan to remedy that.
There are four very eligible bachelors who have been invited to celebrate Christmas at Thorncliff Manor. One of the bachelors and one of the Heartly daughters are there to find a treasure. Everyone knows about the hidden treasure, but not everyone is particularly interested.
The hunt for the treasure included referrals to groups from the past. Since I have not read any previous books in the series, I got lost at times. Various people in the past were bad guys, and there were others who were good guys. All of those people were involved in hiding the treasure from one another.
An ongoing theme throughout the story is the fact that there are hidden rooms, hidden tunnels and secret panels and all of them are in place to discourage anyone from finding the treasure.
The four young ladies and the four gentlemen all pair off. These people have met in the past. And now, with encouragement from parents and old friend, each couple will find they share interests. So, as it happens, each of the couples are quite perfect for one another.
This is a quick read. And the plot is an interesting one. I generally do not have a problem with keeping up with characters. For some reason, in this book, I had to go back and be reminded who was who. I think part of my problem was the fact that there were not definitive breaks between changes in point of view.
I did enjoy the characters and their adventures. I liked the fact that in the beginning there was little evidence that each couple would do well together. But, things developed.
I enjoy Ms Barnes writing. This was an enjoyable book which introduced me to a family who are quite interesting. And there are men who find those interesting daughters to be just what they have been seeking.
The books moves at a good pace and Ms Barnes has provided the reader with characters who make enjoyable companions.
December 12, 2021
Christmas at Thorncliff Manor by Sophie Barnes is a fun Christmas story about 4 sisters. The hostess of Thorncliffe Manor, Lady Duncaster, has planned carefully with the parents for the perfect fit for each of the daughters and has invited four perfect candidates for each of the girls. Now if they would just cooperate!
Mixed up in the story is that of a huge mystery. There is the theory about treasure and riches hidden away in the old building. Hints and some artifacts were found when the family visited Lady Duncaster in the summer, but the hints just made the family more curious. Tunnels, secret passageways and even traps wait for the curious. Between the matchmaking and shenanigans looking for treasure the book is a fun treat to read.
Christmas at Thorncliff Manor by Sophie Barnes was a fun read.
Mixed up in the story is that of a huge mystery. There is the theory about treasure and riches hidden away in the old building. Hints and some artifacts were found when the family visited Lady Duncaster in the summer, but the hints just made the family more curious. Tunnels, secret passageways and even traps wait for the curious. Between the matchmaking and shenanigans looking for treasure the book is a fun treat to read.
Christmas at Thorncliff Manor by Sophie Barnes was a fun read.
December 5, 2017
A busy holiday historical, Christmas at Thorncliff Manor is a standalone I feel would be best enjoyed after the previous books.
I was pleasantly surprised by the multiple romances happening. I found myself getting involved with the characters and wishing I knew about them. The mystery and intrigue that is a focal point of the story was exciting and had me anxiously turning the pages.
Each of the heroines were unique in their way. They had a hero suited for each of them, all excited to help them solve the family mystery.
For such a busy story, I was pleasantly surprised the pacing was not jumping all over, the plot kept them together a lot, making it easier to follow.
*Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads*
![“ARC]()
I was pleasantly surprised by the multiple romances happening. I found myself getting involved with the characters and wishing I knew about them. The mystery and intrigue that is a focal point of the story was exciting and had me anxiously turning the pages.
Each of the heroines were unique in their way. They had a hero suited for each of them, all excited to help them solve the family mystery.
For such a busy story, I was pleasantly surprised the pacing was not jumping all over, the plot kept them together a lot, making it easier to follow.
*Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads*
January 2, 2018
Ms. Barnes has put into words all the sentiment and amusement of what makes the holidays a magical time. Falling in love, discovering new adventures and reuniting with the people you care most about. Christmas at Thorncliff is a love note to the heart. With a thirst for the unknown, behind the scenes matchmaking, new beginnings and happy endings Sophie Barnes speaks the language of any season. Heartwarming perfection.
December 15, 2017
It's rare that I read a 4 in one novel. I say 4-in-1 because this book is about 4 love couples. I haven't read the previous books so I went in blind. I usually like reading out of order because that will help me gauge if it can be read as a standalone. In this case, I would say that though it can be read as one, it will take away from the experience.
There is history between each other which is hinted at, frequently during the tale. I felt that inspite of covering the major parts, there might have some details missed in connection to that. So the growth of feelings felt too abrupt except in the case of Fiona.
The characters also don't have much growth but they are appropriate in their roles. The author has crammed so much in such a short space that sometimes it felt incomplete. The POVs of different protagonists are shown at different times so it did add to the depth of the book.
As a whole, I enjoyed the book inspite of the points highlighted above. The romance though sudden had me smiling and giddy with anticipation. The mystery angle added to the plot and the historical aspect had me intrigued. The book is fast paced and it ended with satisfactory results.
I find myself curious about the other members of the family. So I am sure my curiosity will have checking out the other books.
I received a copy for reviewing purposes which doesn't impact my reviewn in any way.
My one line review : A short and sweet 4 in 1 love stories.
My rating : 3.5/5
My reread factor : 4/5
There is history between each other which is hinted at, frequently during the tale. I felt that inspite of covering the major parts, there might have some details missed in connection to that. So the growth of feelings felt too abrupt except in the case of Fiona.
The characters also don't have much growth but they are appropriate in their roles. The author has crammed so much in such a short space that sometimes it felt incomplete. The POVs of different protagonists are shown at different times so it did add to the depth of the book.
As a whole, I enjoyed the book inspite of the points highlighted above. The romance though sudden had me smiling and giddy with anticipation. The mystery angle added to the plot and the historical aspect had me intrigued. The book is fast paced and it ended with satisfactory results.
I find myself curious about the other members of the family. So I am sure my curiosity will have checking out the other books.
I received a copy for reviewing purposes which doesn't impact my reviewn in any way.
My one line review : A short and sweet 4 in 1 love stories.
My rating : 3.5/5
My reread factor : 4/5
December 8, 2017
A treasure- four unmarried sister, 4 bachelors, manipulative parents and Christmas- what could be better?
Returning to Thorncliff Manor for the holidays was more than a simple Christmas celebration for Ladies Fiona, Emily, Laura and Rachel. I adored this story and the adventure. Each of the sisters brought a different perspective and texture to the story. The way Ms Barnes brought out their vulnerabilities and insecurities with heroes that also had their own was wonderfully played. The couples complimented each other giving and receiving strength to address and overcome the uncertainties with humor, grace, patience and love.
The underlying search for treasure added the needed drama to the story. It allowed for some wonderful unchaperoned private moments that lead to the HEA we all want to see. This story answered some questions from the Secrets at Thorncliff Manor series, but brought up many more leaving room for Ms. Barnes to continue to share the Secrets at Thorncliff Manor with us. Thank you for a lovely read.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
4.5 stars
Returning to Thorncliff Manor for the holidays was more than a simple Christmas celebration for Ladies Fiona, Emily, Laura and Rachel. I adored this story and the adventure. Each of the sisters brought a different perspective and texture to the story. The way Ms Barnes brought out their vulnerabilities and insecurities with heroes that also had their own was wonderfully played. The couples complimented each other giving and receiving strength to address and overcome the uncertainties with humor, grace, patience and love.
The underlying search for treasure added the needed drama to the story. It allowed for some wonderful unchaperoned private moments that lead to the HEA we all want to see. This story answered some questions from the Secrets at Thorncliff Manor series, but brought up many more leaving room for Ms. Barnes to continue to share the Secrets at Thorncliff Manor with us. Thank you for a lovely read.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
4.5 stars
October 31, 2017
3.5 stars
More than love is in the air …
the Heartly family return to Thorncliff Manor for Christmas where four sisters and four very handsome, very eligible bachelors, are about to enjoy a lively Christmastime filled with laughter and love. But aside from the covert matchmaking undertaken by the eccentric hostess, Lady Duncaster, the thrill of adventure is sweeping through the estate. Soon, all the guests will be entangled in a treasure hunt for a lost heirloom and secrets hidden for decades will rise to the surface as matters of the heart are finally revealed.
I enjoyed this light Christmassy read. Fiona, Emily, Laura & Rachel’s are well portrayed as young misses but each has her own talent. The four noblemen are each likeable. However I would have preferred more depth of character & them all falling in love so quickly seemed a little too pat. The plot stuttered at times but overall kept my interest all the way through. It was a very pleasant easy read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
More than love is in the air …
the Heartly family return to Thorncliff Manor for Christmas where four sisters and four very handsome, very eligible bachelors, are about to enjoy a lively Christmastime filled with laughter and love. But aside from the covert matchmaking undertaken by the eccentric hostess, Lady Duncaster, the thrill of adventure is sweeping through the estate. Soon, all the guests will be entangled in a treasure hunt for a lost heirloom and secrets hidden for decades will rise to the surface as matters of the heart are finally revealed.
I enjoyed this light Christmassy read. Fiona, Emily, Laura & Rachel’s are well portrayed as young misses but each has her own talent. The four noblemen are each likeable. However I would have preferred more depth of character & them all falling in love so quickly seemed a little too pat. The plot stuttered at times but overall kept my interest all the way through. It was a very pleasant easy read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 29, 2017
A amazing story that are well written. I like the storyline and plot. It made me laugh a lot sometimes. But it has also got passion, drama, emotional ups and downs. The twists are unsuspected. Characters are well described and develops nicely. Great chemistry and true to the timeperiod. A quick and romantic read. Four couples that has to find their HEA. Amazing read.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
December 5, 2017
Christmas At Thorncliff Manor by Sophie Barnes is the Fourth book in the "Secrets at Thorncliff Manor". The Heartly family have been invited to Thorncliff Manor for a house party. The Heartly sister will meet four bachelors. Lady Duncaster is the hostess who has matchmaking in mind. But alone with couples falling in love there is a treasure hunt and some mystery going on.
This also has the Christmas Holiday theme so you have something for everyone in this joyful read!
Loved it!
December 7, 2017
Rating: 4.5
Fiona Heartly reminds the reader how simple things were back then. At Christmas, a lot of things had to be made and not bought in a store. You actually had to talk to someone as opposed to email or text. She’s a woman who doesn’t have a clue. But I’ve answered the clue that this author has left for me. Next time I read this, and yes there will be a next time, I will light a candle to read by. As I read I will also put on some Christmas music – especially since it’s kind of hard to read and sing Christmas carols at the same time – too distracting.
Our author has created several other interesting characters. One such character is Rachel – her smarts shine through. I would love to know the creative process on how this young woman was created. You will understand as you get to know her. She also doesn’t give up anything because she has a man that loves her the way she is.
Then we have Laura who has her own passion. It’s interesting to watch these women once they’re caught in a man’s web – who’s to say that the woman is always the spider. Each woman’s strength garners the attention of a man they feel they’re not worthy of. The more I read the more I have to think about how different our time periods are. People back then couldn’t go into the parlor and watch tv or play video games in order to entertain themselves. They had to find ways to keep their minds and hands engaged.
I’ve had a very rough year but this book reminded me of why I fell in love with the romance genre. All my troubles can disappear even if for only a little while. I may feel down but the author has a great way of bringing me out of my funk and I crave to see where her mystery is going to take me. And my good feelings don’t stop especially when I get my happy ending – I love the sense of family especially at this time of year. It’s also a great incentive to follow the series.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Fiona Heartly reminds the reader how simple things were back then. At Christmas, a lot of things had to be made and not bought in a store. You actually had to talk to someone as opposed to email or text. She’s a woman who doesn’t have a clue. But I’ve answered the clue that this author has left for me. Next time I read this, and yes there will be a next time, I will light a candle to read by. As I read I will also put on some Christmas music – especially since it’s kind of hard to read and sing Christmas carols at the same time – too distracting.
Our author has created several other interesting characters. One such character is Rachel – her smarts shine through. I would love to know the creative process on how this young woman was created. You will understand as you get to know her. She also doesn’t give up anything because she has a man that loves her the way she is.
Then we have Laura who has her own passion. It’s interesting to watch these women once they’re caught in a man’s web – who’s to say that the woman is always the spider. Each woman’s strength garners the attention of a man they feel they’re not worthy of. The more I read the more I have to think about how different our time periods are. People back then couldn’t go into the parlor and watch tv or play video games in order to entertain themselves. They had to find ways to keep their minds and hands engaged.
I’ve had a very rough year but this book reminded me of why I fell in love with the romance genre. All my troubles can disappear even if for only a little while. I may feel down but the author has a great way of bringing me out of my funk and I crave to see where her mystery is going to take me. And my good feelings don’t stop especially when I get my happy ending – I love the sense of family especially at this time of year. It’s also a great incentive to follow the series.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
December 5, 2017
I am a fan of Sophie Barnes's books and I usually like her books. The lowest rating I have given her is 3 stars. So keep that in mind when you read this review.
Here is a thing you should know about me. I am really bad with names. I mean very bad and I am usually confused by all the titles and Christian names in a novel. The ladies are simpler creatures and I like that. Now, I imagine how a person like me felt when I realized that this book had four main couples! Yeah, you heard that correctly. 8 people got their happy ending in a book with 250 pages. I should have written their names down and who they are partnered with!
As you can understand it's impossible to write the perfect novel when you have so many characters. None of them was able to develop even a little because there was no space for it. I believe that if each couple had gotten a separate book each one would have received a higher rating from me. I liked 3 out of 4 couples and the fourth wasn't that bad, it just took them 'till the end of the book to get together for silly reasons. I have a feeling that this is the final book in the series and it would explain why the 4 sisters found their men in one book. I don't know how many secrets have been left at Thorncliff Manor, but if there is more, I will be happy to find them out.
The story could have been so much better if it wasn't for all these people. I keep saying that because it's my biggest problem when it comes to this book. I liked most of the characters and I enjoyed reading their point of views. All of them were very interesting and Rachel should have gotten her own book at least because of her not so usual for the time interests. I wanted to see her being courted more. To be fair though her man and the author did a great job with that couple.
In the end and despite my low rating, I would recommend the book with the warning to be prepared for all the people in the novel.
Here is a thing you should know about me. I am really bad with names. I mean very bad and I am usually confused by all the titles and Christian names in a novel. The ladies are simpler creatures and I like that. Now, I imagine how a person like me felt when I realized that this book had four main couples! Yeah, you heard that correctly. 8 people got their happy ending in a book with 250 pages. I should have written their names down and who they are partnered with!
As you can understand it's impossible to write the perfect novel when you have so many characters. None of them was able to develop even a little because there was no space for it. I believe that if each couple had gotten a separate book each one would have received a higher rating from me. I liked 3 out of 4 couples and the fourth wasn't that bad, it just took them 'till the end of the book to get together for silly reasons. I have a feeling that this is the final book in the series and it would explain why the 4 sisters found their men in one book. I don't know how many secrets have been left at Thorncliff Manor, but if there is more, I will be happy to find them out.
The story could have been so much better if it wasn't for all these people. I keep saying that because it's my biggest problem when it comes to this book. I liked most of the characters and I enjoyed reading their point of views. All of them were very interesting and Rachel should have gotten her own book at least because of her not so usual for the time interests. I wanted to see her being courted more. To be fair though her man and the author did a great job with that couple.
In the end and despite my low rating, I would recommend the book with the warning to be prepared for all the people in the novel.
December 10, 2017
Dowager Countess of Duncaster has invited a group of people to spend Christmas with her. The group consists of Lord and Lady Oakland, and their four unwed daughters Ladies Laura, Emily, Rachel and Fiona. She has also invited Lords Montmouth, Chadwick, Belgrave and Lamont. They all have ulterior motives for coming to this holiday house party.
The story tells of Lady Duncaster and Lord and Lady Oakland’s matchmaking with the lords and the Ladies who find love and treasure at a Christmas party. The people are paired as Lord Montmouth and Lady Emily who share a love of art. Lord Belgrave and Lady Rachel, he is enamored of her mind as she is determined to be a published scientist at the Royal Society. Lord Lamont and Lady Laura, he is looking for a mother figure for his nieces and coming to terms with the death of his father and brother, and unexpectant becoming a duke. Laura is a romance writer. The obvious couple of Fiona and Chadwick have been friends for forever. They are always up to some mischief until the relationship changes. As the couples explore they find that they are compatible and find love they were not looking for.
This story was very delightful, I laughed and enjoyed the comradery between the couples and the adults. They got to learn more about themselves and each other.
The story tells of Lady Duncaster and Lord and Lady Oakland’s matchmaking with the lords and the Ladies who find love and treasure at a Christmas party. The people are paired as Lord Montmouth and Lady Emily who share a love of art. Lord Belgrave and Lady Rachel, he is enamored of her mind as she is determined to be a published scientist at the Royal Society. Lord Lamont and Lady Laura, he is looking for a mother figure for his nieces and coming to terms with the death of his father and brother, and unexpectant becoming a duke. Laura is a romance writer. The obvious couple of Fiona and Chadwick have been friends for forever. They are always up to some mischief until the relationship changes. As the couples explore they find that they are compatible and find love they were not looking for.
This story was very delightful, I laughed and enjoyed the comradery between the couples and the adults. They got to learn more about themselves and each other.
December 5, 2017
I love reading wintry romances set during the Christmas season. I’m especially partial to historical holiday romances, so getting a chance to read Sophie Barnes’s Christmas at Thorncliff Manor was ideal.
This was the first time I’d read anything by this author, and I really enjoyed her writing style and the way she captured the atmosphere of the manor and its owner the eccentric Lady Duncaster. Another thing that I very much enjoyed was following the stories of the four remaining unmarried sisters (Emily, Fiona, Laura and Rachel) and their paths to love. There’s a little mystery, there’s a festive feel and of course the charm of the Regency era.
Another reviewer mentioned that Christmas at Thorncliff was reminiscent of Downton Abbey, and I can agree—even if it’s not set during the same time period, we get a nice sense of this aristocratic world through the lens of romance.
My quibbles? Some anachronistic phrasings and a few times there were sentences a little too packed with details that knocked me temporarily out of the story. However, I am not such a Regency purist that I will fault this too much since I enjoyed reading the stories in Christmas at Thorncliff Manor and I found the characters charming.
Looking forward to reading more by Sophie Barnes!
This was the first time I’d read anything by this author, and I really enjoyed her writing style and the way she captured the atmosphere of the manor and its owner the eccentric Lady Duncaster. Another thing that I very much enjoyed was following the stories of the four remaining unmarried sisters (Emily, Fiona, Laura and Rachel) and their paths to love. There’s a little mystery, there’s a festive feel and of course the charm of the Regency era.
Another reviewer mentioned that Christmas at Thorncliff was reminiscent of Downton Abbey, and I can agree—even if it’s not set during the same time period, we get a nice sense of this aristocratic world through the lens of romance.
My quibbles? Some anachronistic phrasings and a few times there were sentences a little too packed with details that knocked me temporarily out of the story. However, I am not such a Regency purist that I will fault this too much since I enjoyed reading the stories in Christmas at Thorncliff Manor and I found the characters charming.
Looking forward to reading more by Sophie Barnes!
December 11, 2017
England - 1820
Fiona Heartly and her sisters Emily, Laura, and Rachel, are part of the group of people who have been invited to Thorncliff Manor for the holidays. Their hostess is the Dowager Countess of Duncaster. The guests include the Duke of Lamont; his cousin Viscount Belgrave; Edward Rothburn; and the Earl of Chadwick who is a friend of Fiona’s brother, Christopher, is also among the group. The Earl of Chadwick has a great sense of humor and makes Fiona laugh. They are still waiting for the Earl of Montsmouth to arrive.
It is believed that a treasure hidden within the Manor, has yet to be found. In order to help with the upkeep of the manor, Lady Doncaster opens the manor as an exclusive guest house in the summer.
The gentleman at the party decide that they are at the age to take a wife and each of them has their eye on one of the Heartly sisters. Rachel is of a scientific mind and has never been interested in marriage. However, when Arthur starts to court her, she takes right to it. Laura writes romance novels which consumes much of her time. The Duke of Lamont is quite taken with her and thus begins to court her. Even though he is attracted to her, he fears he may be too old for her. Charles, the Earl of Montsmouth, has told Emily that her artistic talent is wonderful and he would like for her to show some of her work. Fiona and the Earl of Chadwick have known one another since they were children but he fears she only thinks of him as a friend.
The story continues with the women chatting about the men and vice versa. The hunt for the treasure continues as well.
Here is my problem with series. As a person who reads and reviews a lot of books, it is difficult to maintain a photographic memory of all of the characters in a series and the basic plot. That leads to some frustration as I read a book like this because I find I struggle to remember who is who. However, I greatly admire Sophie Barnes and love her books. I hope we can safely say this is the last book in this series.
Copy provided by NetGalley and the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Fiona Heartly and her sisters Emily, Laura, and Rachel, are part of the group of people who have been invited to Thorncliff Manor for the holidays. Their hostess is the Dowager Countess of Duncaster. The guests include the Duke of Lamont; his cousin Viscount Belgrave; Edward Rothburn; and the Earl of Chadwick who is a friend of Fiona’s brother, Christopher, is also among the group. The Earl of Chadwick has a great sense of humor and makes Fiona laugh. They are still waiting for the Earl of Montsmouth to arrive.
It is believed that a treasure hidden within the Manor, has yet to be found. In order to help with the upkeep of the manor, Lady Doncaster opens the manor as an exclusive guest house in the summer.
The gentleman at the party decide that they are at the age to take a wife and each of them has their eye on one of the Heartly sisters. Rachel is of a scientific mind and has never been interested in marriage. However, when Arthur starts to court her, she takes right to it. Laura writes romance novels which consumes much of her time. The Duke of Lamont is quite taken with her and thus begins to court her. Even though he is attracted to her, he fears he may be too old for her. Charles, the Earl of Montsmouth, has told Emily that her artistic talent is wonderful and he would like for her to show some of her work. Fiona and the Earl of Chadwick have known one another since they were children but he fears she only thinks of him as a friend.
The story continues with the women chatting about the men and vice versa. The hunt for the treasure continues as well.
Here is my problem with series. As a person who reads and reviews a lot of books, it is difficult to maintain a photographic memory of all of the characters in a series and the basic plot. That leads to some frustration as I read a book like this because I find I struggle to remember who is who. However, I greatly admire Sophie Barnes and love her books. I hope we can safely say this is the last book in this series.
Copy provided by NetGalley and the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 5, 2017
Sophie Barnes brings the Heartly family back to Thorncliff Manor, this time for Christmas. Lady Duncaster is hoping for some romance between the four remaining Heartly sisters and her male guests. The holiday romance is combined with a treasure hunt for lost heirlooms and more than one thing is uncovered.
It is easy to immerse oneself into the world Ms. Barnes has created. Each sister has a distinct feel as do their gentleman romancers. Lady Duncaster and the ladies’ parents – Lord and Lady Oakdale – subtle encouragement of the romances provide some amusement. The relationship between the four sisters is nicely illustrated and it is heartwarming to read how they each encourage and love one another. Their suitors all have their own concerns, but their devotion to their chosen ones is sweet. My only complaint is that I would have liked to have seen each fall in love with one another more than we did. Indeed, it felt as if there were mere vignettes surrounding each of the sisters that suddenly developed into love. Nonetheless, this is a cute historical romance, perfect for the holiday season.
4 Stars
It is easy to immerse oneself into the world Ms. Barnes has created. Each sister has a distinct feel as do their gentleman romancers. Lady Duncaster and the ladies’ parents – Lord and Lady Oakdale – subtle encouragement of the romances provide some amusement. The relationship between the four sisters is nicely illustrated and it is heartwarming to read how they each encourage and love one another. Their suitors all have their own concerns, but their devotion to their chosen ones is sweet. My only complaint is that I would have liked to have seen each fall in love with one another more than we did. Indeed, it felt as if there were mere vignettes surrounding each of the sisters that suddenly developed into love. Nonetheless, this is a cute historical romance, perfect for the holiday season.
4 Stars
December 13, 2017
This is such a great book; if you have read any of Sophie Barnes’ previous books in this series then you have met several of the Heartly children. You do not need to read those before you can enjoy this book. This book follows the remaining four single daughters: Emily, Laura, Rachel & Fiona. The Heartly family are taking a Christmas vacation at Thorncliff Manor, where they meet up with four very eligible bachelors and Lady Duncaster, their host. Of course feelings start to develop by more than one pair of lady & gentleman, and the journey they take on together is so worth the read.
This books takes the reader on a roller coaster of sweetness, romance, mystery and intrigue. It wasn’t a very long read – only about 240 pages – but the story was so deep that it felt like multiple books lumped in one. If you are a fan of historical romances, and are inclined to enjoy a little mystery in your books, you will absolutely love this book.
**4.5 Stars - I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy**
This books takes the reader on a roller coaster of sweetness, romance, mystery and intrigue. It wasn’t a very long read – only about 240 pages – but the story was so deep that it felt like multiple books lumped in one. If you are a fan of historical romances, and are inclined to enjoy a little mystery in your books, you will absolutely love this book.
**4.5 Stars - I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy**
December 29, 2017
Imagine you are a parent who has seen three of your children settled, but still have four daughters unattached. Earlier in the year some sparks were noted between the girls and some eligible bachelors. Maybe they just need a little push!. So the lady of Thorncliff Manor, Lady Duncaster and Lady Oakland, the girls mother plot to get them attached during their annual Christmas visit. Having a treasure hidden somewhere in the manor provides a chance for the young ladies to spend time with their potential beaus while searching. One by one Laura, Rachel, Emily, and Fiona succumb to the gentlemen, although there are some issues. I generally prefer some intrigue and danger (the treasure hunt is not enough) in my reads, this was a nice read, especially if you enjoy romance for romance sake. This is the first book by Sophie Barnes I have read, and would read another as the opportunity arises. I received this eBook from the publisher for an honest review. These opinions are my own.
October 16, 2017
I haven’t read the other books in this series, but enjoyed this, so may do so. This stands quite well alone without having read them. I have read this author, and found her stories to be light, sweet romance books. This was no exception. It’s Christmas, and a family with 4 unmarried daughters has been invited to Thorncliff Manor for the holidays, along with four unmarried gentlemen of their acquaintance, though there has been no prior romance between any of them. One of the men has been a lifelong friend, and has fallen in love with one girl, as she has him, but both fear refusal, and the loss of a dear friend. The four couples are all completely different, with totally different stories and romances. This was a fun and entertaining read. I received a free arc from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 16, 2017
The remaining four unmarried Heartly sisters and their parents are spending Christmas at Thorncliff Manor. Lady Duncaster has brought them together with four gentlemen in a matchmaking scheme, although a few are also looking for the hidden treasure from the first books in the series.
This is a quick and cute read though I did get confused with the names of the four couples, switches in POV, and the numerous anachronisms. All works out in the very convenient ending. I did think there were four couples because there just wasn't enough story for one, and perhaps that would have been a better option in a novella format.
This is a quick and cute read though I did get confused with the names of the four couples, switches in POV, and the numerous anachronisms. All works out in the very convenient ending. I did think there were four couples because there just wasn't enough story for one, and perhaps that would have been a better option in a novella format.
January 18, 2018
Having read nothing from the author previously, I went into this with an open mind. On one hand, I enjoyed the majority of the characters and if there is anything I love more than one romance story, it’s four. That being said, some things just didn’t sit right with me. One gentleman was rather aggressive for a female who wasn’t quite receptive.
Overall, Thorncliff Manor is a delightful historical romance that is easy to read with a simple style. While the romances can be sweet with couples to become invested it, the characters are what really make this story. If you are looking for a rainy (er...snowy) day read this winter, Thorncliff Manor is a delightful way to fill the time.
Overall, Thorncliff Manor is a delightful historical romance that is easy to read with a simple style. While the romances can be sweet with couples to become invested it, the characters are what really make this story. If you are looking for a rainy (er...snowy) day read this winter, Thorncliff Manor is a delightful way to fill the time.
January 2, 2022
This book admittedly took me a bit to get into. It took me a while to get into the story and figure out the characters. This genre likes to give multiple names to the characters and that takes some time to work your mind around. Once I figured out who was who, I began to really enjoy this book.
Four sisters, four suitors (unbeknownst to them of course), a tiny mystery and a hostess who played matchmaker. The relationships were believable and I fell in love with a few of the couples from the start.
If you are looking for a romantic, historical Christmas book, give this one a try. I ended up really enjoying it. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Four sisters, four suitors (unbeknownst to them of course), a tiny mystery and a hostess who played matchmaker. The relationships were believable and I fell in love with a few of the couples from the start.
If you are looking for a romantic, historical Christmas book, give this one a try. I ended up really enjoying it. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 17, 2023
Four romances in one … with a treasure hunt, to boot.
I was annoyed with Fiona and Chadwick for much of the book (one of those instances where each was assuming the other does not feel the same way they do, when they’re really crazy about each other).
How convenient that the other three sisters happened to match up nicely with who the Thorncliff hostess contrived to put them in proximity with, during the holidays. 😃
Alas, I read this last one of the series first, so the preceding couples were already a given, and it sounds like they each had a piece of the mystery that led to the final treasure hunt.
Maybe someday, I’ll try to read the others in the series. 🤷🏻♀️
I was annoyed with Fiona and Chadwick for much of the book (one of those instances where each was assuming the other does not feel the same way they do, when they’re really crazy about each other).
How convenient that the other three sisters happened to match up nicely with who the Thorncliff hostess contrived to put them in proximity with, during the holidays. 😃
Alas, I read this last one of the series first, so the preceding couples were already a given, and it sounds like they each had a piece of the mystery that led to the final treasure hunt.
Maybe someday, I’ll try to read the others in the series. 🤷🏻♀️
October 20, 2017
This is the first book I've read by this author. I really enjoyed the story very much. It was a nice, fun read to me. I enjoyed the almost Downton Abbey feel to the manor and the characters of the story. I liked there was mystery woven into the story of four sisters falling in love while searching for the "secret" that was hidden in the old manor. It was romantic and just descriptive enough to let me use my imagination. I will definitely read another book by Sophie Barnes. I received a kindle copy of this book from netgalley and happily leave this review!
December 3, 2017
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review
I couldn't put it until I finished it! I love how different it was with four different romances going on at the same time, but not taking away from each other. Then the search for the treasure and twists about that kept me hooked. I loved that there was matchmaking going on and none of them being matched knew it. They are all very different couples.
Each couple had something unique about them in common that helped their romances along. I loved how they all interacted with each other and the girls parents were great too.
I couldn't put it until I finished it! I love how different it was with four different romances going on at the same time, but not taking away from each other. Then the search for the treasure and twists about that kept me hooked. I loved that there was matchmaking going on and none of them being matched knew it. They are all very different couples.
Each couple had something unique about them in common that helped their romances along. I loved how they all interacted with each other and the girls parents were great too.
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