What do you think?
Rate this book
Devoted Hearts #1
The Social Tutor
A Sweet and Swoony Regency Romance
After years of escaping etiquette lessons in favor of the stables, Christine Devon’s grand debut in London is only weeks away, though her deportment lacks the sophisticated polish she needs to achieve her goals of a lofty marriage. Desperate to take her place in society, she needs someone to instruct her in proper behavior.
Thomas Gilbert, newly returned from Italy, is ready to begin his dream of founding a horse farm. But during his time away, the estate’s finances have dwindled to almost nothing. Unless he can find a way to save his family from ruin, he will be forced to sell his horses and give up his dreams entirely.
A chance meeting between them may solve both their problems. Christine gains a tutor in the finer arts of polite behavior, while Thomas is given access to the finest bloodlines in England. But as time passes, the arrangement is less about business, and more about love. Will they see it in time, or will Christine leave Thomas behind for the splendor of London’s ballrooms?
After years of escaping etiquette lessons in favor of the stables, Christine Devon’s grand debut in London is only weeks away, though her deportment lacks the sophisticated polish she needs to achieve her goals of a lofty marriage. Desperate to take her place in society, she needs someone to instruct her in proper behavior.
Thomas Gilbert, newly returned from Italy, is ready to begin his dream of founding a horse farm. But during his time away, the estate’s finances have dwindled to almost nothing. Unless he can find a way to save his family from ruin, he will be forced to sell his horses and give up his dreams entirely.
A chance meeting between them may solve both their problems. Christine gains a tutor in the finer arts of polite behavior, while Thomas is given access to the finest bloodlines in England. But as time passes, the arrangement is less about business, and more about love. Will they see it in time, or will Christine leave Thomas behind for the splendor of London’s ballrooms?
228 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2018
1845 people are currently reading
1105 people want to read
About the author
Sally Britton
47 books1,259 followersSally Britton is sixth generation Texan, received her BA in English forever ago, and reads voraciously. She started her writing journey at the tender age of fourteen on an electric typewriter, and she’s never looked back.
Sally lives in Oklahoma with her husband, four children, and their overly energetic Australian Shepherds, cat, and snake named Nancy. She loves researching, hiking, and eating too much chocolate.
Sally lives in Oklahoma with her husband, four children, and their overly energetic Australian Shepherds, cat, and snake named Nancy. She loves researching, hiking, and eating too much chocolate.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 380 reviews
April 10, 2019
Kindle freebie romance time again! Nineteen year old Christine Devon, raised in the country and enthusiastic about horses, is on the verge of making her debut in London society. Her hardhearted widowed father is counting on her making a match that will benefit their family. But her social graces are lacking despite her beauty and intelligence (a little improbable, but just roll with it), and she becomes aware of it after stepping in it at a couple of neighborhood parties. More improbably, she lands on the idea of asking Thomas Gilbert, a handsome young man she knows, to help her be a better conversationalist. And, oh yes, a better flirt too. Let's not forget that!
As they secretly meet for Christine's social lessons, the inevitable (in romance novels anyway) starts to happen. But there's a major barrier: Tom is DEFINITELY not wealthy or titled enough to satisfy Christine's father.
The Social Tutor has a draggy start ... and middle ... and I was starting to skim ... but it picks up nicely toward the end. The writing is decent for a self-published book, but there are a few noticeable spelling errors, like "his son poured over their records" (it's "pored"). It does get bonus points for using - not once, but twice - my favorite misspelling in Regency romances: "ring a peel". Bells peal, oranges peel!
As they secretly meet for Christine's social lessons, the inevitable (in romance novels anyway) starts to happen. But there's a major barrier: Tom is DEFINITELY not wealthy or titled enough to satisfy Christine's father.
The Social Tutor has a draggy start ... and middle ... and I was starting to skim ... but it picks up nicely toward the end. The writing is decent for a self-published book, but there are a few noticeable spelling errors, like "his son poured over their records" (it's "pored"). It does get bonus points for using - not once, but twice - my favorite misspelling in Regency romances: "ring a peel". Bells peal, oranges peel!
September 18, 2018
This is first in a series but takes place concurrently with the third. From hints, it looks like the second and fourth are concurrent as well. Interesting structure.
This turns out much better than you'd think from the cover copy. It sounds way more absurd than it turns out to be and I like how reasonable it was when finally presented and how it flowed out of who the lead characters are. Unfortunately, after the setup the pace bogs down to a crawl and that continues to near the middle of the story. When it picks up again, it's very lovely but that's a long slog at the start/middle.
It helps to get through it that the main couple are so well-suited. I really liked how well they connected even beyond the superficiality of a love for horses. Their connection is as much emotional and intellectual as it is anything else and watching their relationship build was fun.
I'm a little less convinced of the main antagonist. Christine's dad was an unfeeling monster and strained credulity a bit. He's a little too mean and too mercenary and is consistently so to the point that his neighbors and associates know it. He works as the domestic monster keeping our couple apart. But there's no way he'd have the social and political standing he appears to enjoy.
Anyway, this is a solid three stars with an outstanding main couple that I enjoyed spending time with. The early slow-down and domestic monster detracted enough that I can't honestly go higher.
A note about Historical Accuracy: Britton says in a note in the third book that she strives for historical accuracy and that's on evidence here, too—at least insofar as I could detect, at any rate.
A note about Chaste: This is a very chaste story, and appropriately so. There's an outstanding kiss, but that's really it.
This turns out much better than you'd think from the cover copy. It sounds way more absurd than it turns out to be and I like how reasonable it was when finally presented and how it flowed out of who the lead characters are. Unfortunately, after the setup the pace bogs down to a crawl and that continues to near the middle of the story. When it picks up again, it's very lovely but that's a long slog at the start/middle.
It helps to get through it that the main couple are so well-suited. I really liked how well they connected even beyond the superficiality of a love for horses. Their connection is as much emotional and intellectual as it is anything else and watching their relationship build was fun.
I'm a little less convinced of the main antagonist. Christine's dad was an unfeeling monster and strained credulity a bit. He's a little too mean and too mercenary and is consistently so to the point that his neighbors and associates know it. He works as the domestic monster keeping our couple apart. But there's no way he'd have the social and political standing he appears to enjoy.
Anyway, this is a solid three stars with an outstanding main couple that I enjoyed spending time with. The early slow-down and domestic monster detracted enough that I can't honestly go higher.
A note about Historical Accuracy: Britton says in a note in the third book that she strives for historical accuracy and that's on evidence here, too—at least insofar as I could detect, at any rate.
A note about Chaste: This is a very chaste story, and appropriately so. There's an outstanding kiss, but that's really it.
March 2, 2023
Enjoyed this sweet Regency romance by Sally Britton. It’s a friends to lovers trope with a few twists that make it a creative new addition to the genre. What starts out as simple bargain quickly turns to more when the sparks fly between two childhood friends. It’s a clean, fun, romance, historical romance fans will enjoy.
Anticipating her first season, Christine Devon is anxious to please her father after her sister’s disastrous season. Unfortunately, she lacks the social graces her mother would have taught her if she’d lived. More comfortable talking about her horses or politics, her vibrant spirit is hard to control. When her neighbor returns from several years in Italy, she enlists his help to tutor her in proper behavior. She must ignore her growing attraction to her handsome friend though if she is to obey her father’s wishes.
Thomas Gilbert returns home to a quickly dwindling estate. His dream of starting a horse farm now seems out of reach. When his beautiful neighbor who’s grown up while he was gone offers him a bargain that will give him access to her prize horses in exchange for lessons in decorum and proper behavior, it’s hard to resist. The more time they spend together though, the harder it is for him to remember his original purpose.
Loved the slow-burn attraction between Christine and Thomas. The story starts off introducing characters and history. Once the bargain is made, the story really picks up and becomes hard to put down. There are several twists which make you wonder if these two will ever find a happily ever after. I loved the scenes where Thomas tries to teach her a lesson about men, and how to waltz.
Sally Britton is so good about the historical details. I find I learn new things all the time reading her books, especially about the Regency era. Highly recommend to Regency Romance fans and look forward to the next book in the series.
*Update: Sally Britton has released a new version of this book! She’s tightened up and edited her original story to make it even better. New content including an “epilogue” added at the end ties everything together nicely.
Anticipating her first season, Christine Devon is anxious to please her father after her sister’s disastrous season. Unfortunately, she lacks the social graces her mother would have taught her if she’d lived. More comfortable talking about her horses or politics, her vibrant spirit is hard to control. When her neighbor returns from several years in Italy, she enlists his help to tutor her in proper behavior. She must ignore her growing attraction to her handsome friend though if she is to obey her father’s wishes.
Thomas Gilbert returns home to a quickly dwindling estate. His dream of starting a horse farm now seems out of reach. When his beautiful neighbor who’s grown up while he was gone offers him a bargain that will give him access to her prize horses in exchange for lessons in decorum and proper behavior, it’s hard to resist. The more time they spend together though, the harder it is for him to remember his original purpose.
Loved the slow-burn attraction between Christine and Thomas. The story starts off introducing characters and history. Once the bargain is made, the story really picks up and becomes hard to put down. There are several twists which make you wonder if these two will ever find a happily ever after. I loved the scenes where Thomas tries to teach her a lesson about men, and how to waltz.
Sally Britton is so good about the historical details. I find I learn new things all the time reading her books, especially about the Regency era. Highly recommend to Regency Romance fans and look forward to the next book in the series.
*Update: Sally Britton has released a new version of this book! She’s tightened up and edited her original story to make it even better. New content including an “epilogue” added at the end ties everything together nicely.
October 20, 2019
This is a lovely book. I really enjoyed it. It is the opposite of how you would expect someone to tutor another on social etiquette. It is the male who is teaching the female on how to behave in society. She needs all the help she can get to make an advantageous match, it is the requirement of her father to increase their family's social standing. Love comes when least expected and with the most unlikely person.
“Attraction is a great deal like a pull, or a tug you feel when you are with someone. Particularly as you come to know them. For no reason you can be certain of, you will find yourself drawn to spending time in that person’s company. At times, you may wish to know them better because you are drawn to them; and at others, you will be drawn to them as you come to know them. It is something of a paradox.”
“Attraction is a great deal like a pull, or a tug you feel when you are with someone. Particularly as you come to know them. For no reason you can be certain of, you will find yourself drawn to spending time in that person’s company. At times, you may wish to know them better because you are drawn to them; and at others, you will be drawn to them as you come to know them. It is something of a paradox.”
September 9, 2018
I make no bones about it – I read reviews. I read them to help with book selection. I read them after reading the book to help bring my thoughts together for writing the review. One common theme of note for “The Social Tutor” is the number of reviewers of this book, including me, who agree that the work has a slow start. We recognize that after that slow start, things pick up and she captures our interest. Sometimes I disagree with the majority. When this happens, I work hard at justifying my different opinion. In this case, I have no choice but to join in lockstep with the vast majority of reviewers in awarding five-stars to Sally Britton for this outstanding clean romance offering.
I knew from the Amazon synopsis that Christine Devon and Thomas Gilbert would find their HEA. But as Ms. Britton spun her tale, I tried, without success, to see a resolution to the significant obstacles in their path. The author so carefully crafted the story that she kept me in suspense right up to the final pages. The revealed solution is both simple and believable. I loved the contrast between Christine’s dictatorial and uncaring father and Thomas’ loving, kind, and supportive parents. My heart went out to Christine’s sister Julia who fell victim to her father’s domination during her first and only season. How pleased I was to find that Julia gets her own story that will lead to her HEA. I already have her story on my reading list.
I don’t have an English Degree, nor am I an expert in the Regency period, but I know enough to detect a large percentage of errors that need correction. Maybe I was too caught up in the story to notice, but my notepad was free of critical remarks when I finished the book. As my second exposure to Sally Britton’s work, I am pleased to awarded five-stars one more time. I heartily recommend Ms. Britton as an author worth reading.
I knew from the Amazon synopsis that Christine Devon and Thomas Gilbert would find their HEA. But as Ms. Britton spun her tale, I tried, without success, to see a resolution to the significant obstacles in their path. The author so carefully crafted the story that she kept me in suspense right up to the final pages. The revealed solution is both simple and believable. I loved the contrast between Christine’s dictatorial and uncaring father and Thomas’ loving, kind, and supportive parents. My heart went out to Christine’s sister Julia who fell victim to her father’s domination during her first and only season. How pleased I was to find that Julia gets her own story that will lead to her HEA. I already have her story on my reading list.
I don’t have an English Degree, nor am I an expert in the Regency period, but I know enough to detect a large percentage of errors that need correction. Maybe I was too caught up in the story to notice, but my notepad was free of critical remarks when I finished the book. As my second exposure to Sally Britton’s work, I am pleased to awarded five-stars one more time. I heartily recommend Ms. Britton as an author worth reading.
June 5, 2018
I wasn't sure about this one when it started. Christine comes off in the first bit as a spoiled brat and I could not figure out why the sisters had such a weird relationship. Thomas was aloof and I could not figure out where the author was headed with this one. As with her other books everything came together beautifully! I really enjoyed reading this one, the end was so well done and I just wanted to cheer:} I am totally falling in love with the Earl and I am so excited his book is next. I have now realized I read these all out of order but that didn't diminish them and I was able to sort everything out. These are well written chaste romance books.
March 28, 2023
Even though I’m a slower reader these days, I’ve read some wonderful books so far this year. One of those was recently re-released - The Social Tutor by Sally Britton. It’s actually been on my radar a long time, ever since I read one of her novellas that I loved.
The Social Tutor features the friends to lovers trope, and it’s so well done! Christine needs the help of someone she can trust, as she feels inadequate for her upcoming London season. Enter Thomas who she’s known for years as her neighbor who shares her affinity for horses. They strike a bargain of sorts to help each other out, and I’m sure you can guess where this goes. 😍
Other things I loved are the relationship between Christine and her sisters, as well as Thomas and his family. I especially found his mother to be an endearing secondary character. I adored the tender moments between Christine and Thomas, especially a certain scene involving the waltz. Britton also sets the rest of series well with how I’m so curious about what will happen to Christine‘s sisters, as well as the enigmatic Earl that plays a key role in this story’s happily ever after.
If you like sweet, clean Regency romances, definitely add The Social Tutor to your list!
The Social Tutor features the friends to lovers trope, and it’s so well done! Christine needs the help of someone she can trust, as she feels inadequate for her upcoming London season. Enter Thomas who she’s known for years as her neighbor who shares her affinity for horses. They strike a bargain of sorts to help each other out, and I’m sure you can guess where this goes. 😍
Other things I loved are the relationship between Christine and her sisters, as well as Thomas and his family. I especially found his mother to be an endearing secondary character. I adored the tender moments between Christine and Thomas, especially a certain scene involving the waltz. Britton also sets the rest of series well with how I’m so curious about what will happen to Christine‘s sisters, as well as the enigmatic Earl that plays a key role in this story’s happily ever after.
If you like sweet, clean Regency romances, definitely add The Social Tutor to your list!
October 10, 2021
A sweet 1 kiss only story took place in 1811, in the English
countryside.
Thomas & Christine, developed from acquaintances to
friends to loves (?) Thomas agreed to teach Christine
social deportment in exchange for use of her stud horses
to enable him to start a horse farm. I enjoyed the gradual
build up to love. Non-titled Thomas was depicted as
circumspect. A relief from all the HR heroes I've read
about who grabbed women in gardens & behind potted
plants to steal a handsy kiss.
Christine & her 2 sisters were subjected to their father's
mercenary demands for marriages to wealthy, titled
men. Father castigated his eldest dtr Julia (about 21)
for being a "bad investment"after her 1st unsuccessful
season. Which became her only season.
Christine's father finally gave the MCs the approval
to wed. What a smug, self-righteous man! Julia is
featured in book #2.
countryside.
Thomas & Christine, developed from acquaintances to
friends to loves (?) Thomas agreed to teach Christine
social deportment in exchange for use of her stud horses
to enable him to start a horse farm. I enjoyed the gradual
build up to love. Non-titled Thomas was depicted as
circumspect. A relief from all the HR heroes I've read
about who grabbed women in gardens & behind potted
plants to steal a handsy kiss.
Christine & her 2 sisters were subjected to their father's
mercenary demands for marriages to wealthy, titled
men. Father castigated his eldest dtr Julia (about 21)
for being a "bad investment"after her 1st unsuccessful
season. Which became her only season.
Christine's father finally gave the MCs the approval
to wed. What a smug, self-righteous man! Julia is
featured in book #2.
March 17, 2023
This one's been languishing in my TBR pile but then I heard the author updated the cover and made a few edits to the story, so I downloaded the new updated version to my Kindle and lost myself in Christine Devon and Thomas Gilbert's unlikely road to love and their happily ever after.
Christine's mother passed away several years ago and her father cares more about his business affairs than making sure his daughters receive the social training a Season in London requires, yet he only allows them one Season to make a match that benefits him with additional connections. Needless to say, Christine doesn't do well in social situations. She speaks her mind often disagreeing with the opinion of her dinner companions and doesn't care for the usual topics relegated to women--the weather and fashion. So she asks her neighbor and childhood friend Thomas Gilbert to tutor her so she'll be prepared for her London debut, and in exchange she'll help him with something he needs.
This is definitely a slow-burn romance. It was so enjoyable to watch these two realize they were falling in love with the other. Thomas is truly a fine gentleman and I loved that he didn't want Christine to change--he loved her as she was. Something she'd probably never felt except from her sisters. I love to dance with my husband so I loved the waltzing scene! I didn't know how these two were going to finally end up together but thanks to the Earl of Annesbury it all worked out. I think every love story should have an epilogue and so happy the author added one to the updated version.
If you enjoy childhood friends to more or slow-burn romances you should definitely read this book.
Christine's mother passed away several years ago and her father cares more about his business affairs than making sure his daughters receive the social training a Season in London requires, yet he only allows them one Season to make a match that benefits him with additional connections. Needless to say, Christine doesn't do well in social situations. She speaks her mind often disagreeing with the opinion of her dinner companions and doesn't care for the usual topics relegated to women--the weather and fashion. So she asks her neighbor and childhood friend Thomas Gilbert to tutor her so she'll be prepared for her London debut, and in exchange she'll help him with something he needs.
This is definitely a slow-burn romance. It was so enjoyable to watch these two realize they were falling in love with the other. Thomas is truly a fine gentleman and I loved that he didn't want Christine to change--he loved her as she was. Something she'd probably never felt except from her sisters. I love to dance with my husband so I loved the waltzing scene! I didn't know how these two were going to finally end up together but thanks to the Earl of Annesbury it all worked out. I think every love story should have an epilogue and so happy the author added one to the updated version.
If you enjoy childhood friends to more or slow-burn romances you should definitely read this book.
June 4, 2018
After having read and enjoyed this novel's prequel, Martha's Patience, I was eager to read the story of the heroine's younger brother, Thomas, and his romance with Christine. Christine is eager for her Season in London and hopes her success will please her domineering father. Unfortunately, she's rather naive about the proper etiquette expected of her. She seeks the help of her neighbor and long-term acquaintance, the ineligible Thomas, to tutor her in the necessary social graces. However, as he begins to teach her the proper behavior of a young lady seeking a husband, their feelings for one another begin to deepen, despite the fact that Christine's father would never allow such a match to take place.
This was an enjoyable story, especially considering it was a different plot than most traditional Regency books I've read. Sarah Britton has a lovely writing style, both in her prose and her storytelling, and the story flowed nicely. The characters were both likable and well-developed; Thomas was such a gentleman and Christine's naivety was adorable. I loved how both she and Thomas mature alongside their deepening relationship. The juxtaposition between their two families was also well done— in one family love was discouraged as marriage was seen as a business transaction and investment, and in the other love was encouraged, despite the fact that marrying for money would have helped their financial struggles. The obstacles standing in the couple's way were resolved nicely, and watching Christine and Thomas finally come together was incredibly satisfying. A fun and cute read; I look forward to this author's future books.
This was an enjoyable story, especially considering it was a different plot than most traditional Regency books I've read. Sarah Britton has a lovely writing style, both in her prose and her storytelling, and the story flowed nicely. The characters were both likable and well-developed; Thomas was such a gentleman and Christine's naivety was adorable. I loved how both she and Thomas mature alongside their deepening relationship. The juxtaposition between their two families was also well done— in one family love was discouraged as marriage was seen as a business transaction and investment, and in the other love was encouraged, despite the fact that marrying for money would have helped their financial struggles. The obstacles standing in the couple's way were resolved nicely, and watching Christine and Thomas finally come together was incredibly satisfying. A fun and cute read; I look forward to this author's future books.
April 21, 2020
Lol, at least I am laughing, but... really? Another freebie disappointment. So the premise of this story sounds super cute. Girl needs etiquette lessons from a hot guy before her debut Season, and falls in love with him.
This girl needed way more than just etiquette lessons, she was a full-blown idiot that was completely oblivious to the feelings of others around her and had no clue on how to read other peoples facial expressions during a conversations to know when she is offending them, and needed to shut up. So by the time I stopped at 12% and started going thru other GR reviews to see if I was alone in my irritation, I had mumbled to myself, "are you serious, that was bitchy!" and "omg, shut up already" several times. Even if the story gets better later on, my first impression of her was not going to change.
If a story is going to be squeaky clean (as this is reported to be) it then needs likeable, engaging characters and a great story to keep my attention. #nobitchesallowed
This girl needed way more than just etiquette lessons, she was a full-blown idiot that was completely oblivious to the feelings of others around her and had no clue on how to read other peoples facial expressions during a conversations to know when she is offending them, and needed to shut up. So by the time I stopped at 12% and started going thru other GR reviews to see if I was alone in my irritation, I had mumbled to myself, "are you serious, that was bitchy!" and "omg, shut up already" several times. Even if the story gets better later on, my first impression of her was not going to change.
If a story is going to be squeaky clean (as this is reported to be) it then needs likeable, engaging characters and a great story to keep my attention. #nobitchesallowed
July 11, 2025
I will most definitely be reading future books by this author!
While I wasn't a fan of Christine at the beginning based on her naivety in general, and censure towards her sister, she definitely grew on me. It was great watching the characters mature over the course of the novel. I felt the pace was perfect. I found the differences in family dynamics interesting, and believable.
On a steaminess factor I would put this at a warm PG. My kind of temperature!
While I wasn't a fan of Christine at the beginning based on her naivety in general, and censure towards her sister, she definitely grew on me. It was great watching the characters mature over the course of the novel. I felt the pace was perfect. I found the differences in family dynamics interesting, and believable.
On a steaminess factor I would put this at a warm PG. My kind of temperature!
March 14, 2023
Swoonilicious to the nth degree. Clear off your fainting couch, grab your smelling salts and maybe a fan or two and settle in for a sublime Regency Romance Read.
I'm still in such a discombobulated flutter I don't know where to start with this review. Maybe the fact that it's the first in a series....eeeeeeeepppppp!!!! And the fact that Sally Britton knows her way around a Regency ballroom. The banter! The endless list of social rules that ladies must follow in order to make their coming out a success! Picture me rolling my eyes and tearing out my hair and howling with delight because Christine has lived a rather cloistered life with her sisters, a largely absentee boorish father and a string of dour governesses so she's not up to snuff on the social niceties. Hence the need for a tutor.
Cue the not-so-eligible bachelor next door. Christine makes Thomas an offer he can't refuse and he finds himself on the receiving end of Christine's guileless charm. He finds her maddening and frustrating and utterly captivating. I laughed myself silly over some of their lessons, and swooned my way through others.
I listened to the audible version and really enjoyed Rachael Beresford's narration. Love the way a proper British accent brings the story to life and her dramatization if very good as well.
Please note: While not a Christian Fiction selection, this book is definitely a clean read.
I'm still in such a discombobulated flutter I don't know where to start with this review. Maybe the fact that it's the first in a series....eeeeeeeepppppp!!!! And the fact that Sally Britton knows her way around a Regency ballroom. The banter! The endless list of social rules that ladies must follow in order to make their coming out a success! Picture me rolling my eyes and tearing out my hair and howling with delight because Christine has lived a rather cloistered life with her sisters, a largely absentee boorish father and a string of dour governesses so she's not up to snuff on the social niceties. Hence the need for a tutor.
Cue the not-so-eligible bachelor next door. Christine makes Thomas an offer he can't refuse and he finds himself on the receiving end of Christine's guileless charm. He finds her maddening and frustrating and utterly captivating. I laughed myself silly over some of their lessons, and swooned my way through others.
I listened to the audible version and really enjoyed Rachael Beresford's narration. Love the way a proper British accent brings the story to life and her dramatization if very good as well.
Please note: While not a Christian Fiction selection, this book is definitely a clean read.
July 14, 2018
I absolutely adored this book. I love the slow-development of the relationship, and the evolution of the heroine's thinking. I kept wondering how the author could pull off the ending in a believable way, but she did! I was intrigued by the older sister, Julia, and can't wait to read her story!
Read
July 5, 2018DNF @ 27%. I tried but this was so boring.
March 2, 2023
It’s so exciting seeing this series be rereleased! I’ve heard nothing but good things about it, and being a big fan of Sally Britton, I was beyond thrilled to finally dive into it for the first time!
In The Social Tutor we get to meet the Devon sisters and focus in on Christine, the second daughter. Christine is forthright and kind, speaking her mind and longing for deep connections and conversation. Unfortunately this doesn’t come across quite so well with certain members of society. So before she embarks on her first season in London, she recruits the help of an old family acquaintance and neighbor, Thomas Gilbert. Neither being prepared for what their arrangement will bring about!
I loved the previous connection between Thomas and the late Mrs Devon. This really set a nice base for how Christine would come to trust Thomas so implicitly. I enjoyed seeing Thomas and Christine become reacquainted then become increasingly good friends and eventually something more. This is a great sweet romance that occurs gradually over the course of time, which I always enjoy reading. And our main characters were certainly a delight to read about.
The side characters throughout are wonderful as well! Julia and Rebecca, the Gilbert family, Lord Annesbury! You can’t help but fall completely in love with them all. And we even have a bit of a villain in Mr Devon, who you absolutely will dislike.
This story is a great start to the series with a nice plot and a very satisfying happily ever after!
A huge congrats to Sally Britton for the relaunch of this series!
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
In The Social Tutor we get to meet the Devon sisters and focus in on Christine, the second daughter. Christine is forthright and kind, speaking her mind and longing for deep connections and conversation. Unfortunately this doesn’t come across quite so well with certain members of society. So before she embarks on her first season in London, she recruits the help of an old family acquaintance and neighbor, Thomas Gilbert. Neither being prepared for what their arrangement will bring about!
I loved the previous connection between Thomas and the late Mrs Devon. This really set a nice base for how Christine would come to trust Thomas so implicitly. I enjoyed seeing Thomas and Christine become reacquainted then become increasingly good friends and eventually something more. This is a great sweet romance that occurs gradually over the course of time, which I always enjoy reading. And our main characters were certainly a delight to read about.
The side characters throughout are wonderful as well! Julia and Rebecca, the Gilbert family, Lord Annesbury! You can’t help but fall completely in love with them all. And we even have a bit of a villain in Mr Devon, who you absolutely will dislike.
This story is a great start to the series with a nice plot and a very satisfying happily ever after!
A huge congrats to Sally Britton for the relaunch of this series!
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2023
How hard can it be to fit into "society?" It's definitely a lot harder than it seems, as Christine becomes all too aware. Britton pens a delightfully pleasing Regency tale.
Contradicting someone's opinion, interrupting, are touching on controversial topics are just a few of the awkward cringes that Christine bumbles through as she practices for her London debut. She's so naive and doesn't quite catch on to social cues and expectations and that's where her childhood acquaintance comes in. Thomas takes on the daunting task of tutoring her in exchange for something of his own heart's desire.
I laughed out loud and squirmed through some of the social experiences and experiments, yet I found myself falling fondly for this unmatched couple. It broke my heart a little to watch Christine try to tamp down her spirit and vivacity, but my heart also soared to see Thomas allow for her to truly be herself. I anticipated every interaction and cherished their association.
Such a sweet, sweet story of friendship, following ones heart, and tossing rules by the wayside.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Contradicting someone's opinion, interrupting, are touching on controversial topics are just a few of the awkward cringes that Christine bumbles through as she practices for her London debut. She's so naive and doesn't quite catch on to social cues and expectations and that's where her childhood acquaintance comes in. Thomas takes on the daunting task of tutoring her in exchange for something of his own heart's desire.
I laughed out loud and squirmed through some of the social experiences and experiments, yet I found myself falling fondly for this unmatched couple. It broke my heart a little to watch Christine try to tamp down her spirit and vivacity, but my heart also soared to see Thomas allow for her to truly be herself. I anticipated every interaction and cherished their association.
Such a sweet, sweet story of friendship, following ones heart, and tossing rules by the wayside.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Read
May 9, 2025I simply couldn't go past the first chapters as the main female character was beyond dumb. And for the author to assume that, us as readers, would buy into the idea that a person would get to be 18 years old and act and speak in that way being completely oblivious that anything is wrong, it becomes an insult to the reader.
April 11, 2023
Okay, so if you didn’t already know, Sally is releasing this series again after giving each book a facelift. 😁 New covers, little changes on the inside, and a whole lot of romance.
I haven’t had a ton of time to read lately and that makes me so sad. But!…I finally finished this one.
First off, Thomas. He’s adorable and great and all things handsome. I swooned along with Christine during multiple scenes, including their waltz. 😍
Their tutoring sessions were perfectly sweet and Christine was a character unlike any other. Which made reading her story a fun experience.
And oh my word!! I looove Julia. And although this wasn’t her story, she was one who stood out to me and made me smile. At first I couldn’t understand why she acted the way she did—which made sense since Christine didn’t either and we only knew what she knew. But as the story grew, I was so happy to get little snippets of Julia’s story and I’m excited for her own book.
All in all, it was a super cute read and fun if you like stories with depth.
I haven’t had a ton of time to read lately and that makes me so sad. But!…I finally finished this one.
First off, Thomas. He’s adorable and great and all things handsome. I swooned along with Christine during multiple scenes, including their waltz. 😍
Their tutoring sessions were perfectly sweet and Christine was a character unlike any other. Which made reading her story a fun experience.
And oh my word!! I looove Julia. And although this wasn’t her story, she was one who stood out to me and made me smile. At first I couldn’t understand why she acted the way she did—which made sense since Christine didn’t either and we only knew what she knew. But as the story grew, I was so happy to get little snippets of Julia’s story and I’m excited for her own book.
All in all, it was a super cute read and fun if you like stories with depth.
April 26, 2023
Christine Devon is anxious to attend her first season in London. But after discovering she's offended some of the guests at a dinner party, she's determined to learn the rules of proper social etiquette. When she happens upon her neighbor, Thomas Gilbert, while riding, she believes she's found just the person to teach her.
Thomas, recently returned from the continent, has learned his family is in dire financial straights. With their funds diminished, they must sell his prized horses to remain afloat, killing Thomas's dream of starting his own horse farm. At least he believes so until Miss Christine Devon makes him an offer he can't refuse—tutor her in the ways of sociability in exchange for the rights to breed her stallions.
Despite knowing Mr. Gilbert is completely ineligible and that her father would never allow a union between them, Christine finds herself falling for her tutor. The more time she spends in Thomas's company, the more she realizes he's the only man she enjoys conversing with. As Christmas draws closer, Thomas is loath to lose Christine to London society and has no desire to watch her light dim when she marries for the sake of returning her father's "investment," a view he wholeheartedly disagrees with and one his heart refuses to allow.
Awwww this book!! It was just as good as I remembered. This is my second time reading this sweet story, and I adore Christine and Thomas. He is so understanding of her accidental offensive remarks and loves her for those very things that she fears she hasn't mastered enough for Society. They are the perfect match, and rereading this one makes me want to dive right back into the whole series. So so SO good. A swoony read I once again couldn't put down.
Thomas, recently returned from the continent, has learned his family is in dire financial straights. With their funds diminished, they must sell his prized horses to remain afloat, killing Thomas's dream of starting his own horse farm. At least he believes so until Miss Christine Devon makes him an offer he can't refuse—tutor her in the ways of sociability in exchange for the rights to breed her stallions.
Despite knowing Mr. Gilbert is completely ineligible and that her father would never allow a union between them, Christine finds herself falling for her tutor. The more time she spends in Thomas's company, the more she realizes he's the only man she enjoys conversing with. As Christmas draws closer, Thomas is loath to lose Christine to London society and has no desire to watch her light dim when she marries for the sake of returning her father's "investment," a view he wholeheartedly disagrees with and one his heart refuses to allow.
Awwww this book!! It was just as good as I remembered. This is my second time reading this sweet story, and I adore Christine and Thomas. He is so understanding of her accidental offensive remarks and loves her for those very things that she fears she hasn't mastered enough for Society. They are the perfect match, and rereading this one makes me want to dive right back into the whole series. So so SO good. A swoony read I once again couldn't put down.
October 22, 2018
.
I read this is clean and wholesome series through the Kindle unlimited program on Amazon, and I thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of them. The characters are built with depth, situations are unique, each plot was interesting, all combined they compel the reader to continue long past their appointed time frame, and you don't see the twists and turns coming until they hit you in the eyes. I'm looking forward to more of this author's works.
The H/H struck a bargain to help each other in this installment and never realized how it would change their lives forever. It allowed them the freedom to get to know each other in ways society would have never allowed and ignited a fire in kindred spirits. Some lives are surrounded by brick walls and other scenarios have no boundaries. Which applies to this unique couple?
The romance portion was abnormally clean (totally glossed over = so if you prefer steamy, which I don't, you will be disappointed). However, for like-minded individuals who prefer a clean adventure, this is a delight! There is so much love and devotion portrayed that you will be grateful you were able to experience it for yourself (if only for this moment in time).
Each story is able to stand on its own, but its entertaining to intertwine with the characters in different segments. And of course, they each delivered a tremendous H.E.A.
I read this is clean and wholesome series through the Kindle unlimited program on Amazon, and I thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of them. The characters are built with depth, situations are unique, each plot was interesting, all combined they compel the reader to continue long past their appointed time frame, and you don't see the twists and turns coming until they hit you in the eyes. I'm looking forward to more of this author's works.
The H/H struck a bargain to help each other in this installment and never realized how it would change their lives forever. It allowed them the freedom to get to know each other in ways society would have never allowed and ignited a fire in kindred spirits. Some lives are surrounded by brick walls and other scenarios have no boundaries. Which applies to this unique couple?
The romance portion was abnormally clean (totally glossed over = so if you prefer steamy, which I don't, you will be disappointed). However, for like-minded individuals who prefer a clean adventure, this is a delight! There is so much love and devotion portrayed that you will be grateful you were able to experience it for yourself (if only for this moment in time).
Each story is able to stand on its own, but its entertaining to intertwine with the characters in different segments. And of course, they each delivered a tremendous H.E.A.
March 13, 2023
The Social Tutor was recently re-released as a second edition with not only this gorgeous new cover, updates including an additional chapter and an extended epilogue, and I loved it now even more than the first time I read it!
Christine is about to have her first London Season but realizes that without a mother, she is woefully unprepared to navigate society. Thomas Gilbert has recently returned home from traveling Europe only to discover his family is in financial straits. So a deal is struck. Christine will let Thomas use her horses to help him start a horse farm, and he will tutor her on social graces.
What to expect and love:
Forbidden love
Slow burn attraction
Fun bargain
Secret meetings
Reconciled family
The waltz
Controlling father
The Earl of Annesbury - you will want to read his story!
Plot twists
Cute banter
This book gave me alll the sweet and swoony feels! I love Christine's growth, and how their relationship progressed so naturally! If you enjoy sweet regency romance, this is one you absolutely need to have on your list. Can't wait to read the updated editions for the rest of the series!
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
Christine is about to have her first London Season but realizes that without a mother, she is woefully unprepared to navigate society. Thomas Gilbert has recently returned home from traveling Europe only to discover his family is in financial straits. So a deal is struck. Christine will let Thomas use her horses to help him start a horse farm, and he will tutor her on social graces.
What to expect and love:
Forbidden love
Slow burn attraction
Fun bargain
Secret meetings
Reconciled family
The waltz
Controlling father
The Earl of Annesbury - you will want to read his story!
Plot twists
Cute banter
This book gave me alll the sweet and swoony feels! I love Christine's growth, and how their relationship progressed so naturally! If you enjoy sweet regency romance, this is one you absolutely need to have on your list. Can't wait to read the updated editions for the rest of the series!
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
March 2, 2023
I just reread the new edition of this book and loved it even more than I did the first time. It has additional content, a beautiful illustration, and a brand new cover. It's like reading a new book!
Christine Devon is so socially awkward that it is painful to watch her try to navigate the societal expectations that are placed upon her. Her father sees her as nothing more than a commodity to enhance his fortune and standing among the Ton. He doesn't understand her or her sisters and has given her no attention since her mother died several years before. I felt extremely sorry for her and her sisters who are left to figure things out for themselves when it comes to interacting with those in society.
Things I loved about the book:
Christine Devon and her trusting, guileless nature
Thomas Gilbert and being a true gentleman
Julia Devon and refusing to give up on love
Rebecca Devon for her love of novels and hatred of gardening books
Earl of Annesbury coming to the rescue!
Sweet love story
Reconciliation of the sisters
I highly recommend reading this book if you enjoy clean and wholesome books set in the Regency period. I was given a complimentary copy of the book with no expectation to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Christine Devon is so socially awkward that it is painful to watch her try to navigate the societal expectations that are placed upon her. Her father sees her as nothing more than a commodity to enhance his fortune and standing among the Ton. He doesn't understand her or her sisters and has given her no attention since her mother died several years before. I felt extremely sorry for her and her sisters who are left to figure things out for themselves when it comes to interacting with those in society.
Things I loved about the book:
Christine Devon and her trusting, guileless nature
Thomas Gilbert and being a true gentleman
Julia Devon and refusing to give up on love
Rebecca Devon for her love of novels and hatred of gardening books
Earl of Annesbury coming to the rescue!
Sweet love story
Reconciliation of the sisters
I highly recommend reading this book if you enjoy clean and wholesome books set in the Regency period. I was given a complimentary copy of the book with no expectation to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 14, 2025
Oh my goodness, I love this book! The premise intrigued me and I absolutely loved the execution of it. There were so many scenes that I absolutely loved (...every moment Christine and Thomas were together...) but most of all, I loved the characters. I loved Christine and her innocence and kind heart, as well as her unique personality. I loved Thomas. It was enjoyable watching him somewhat dislike the tutoring lessons and then eventually look forward to them. They were an adorable couple and their romance was so well-written. It wasn't immediate but gradual and well-developed. I'm not sure what else to say except that this was so lovely and I wanted to read it during every spare moment!
April 30, 2019
This was too much fun! Sweet and naive Christine and patient and awesome Thomas...loved the story.
Except her father, who was an ogre...guess there needs be opposition in all things. But he got his comeuppance.
Except her father, who was an ogre...guess there needs be opposition in all things. But he got his comeuppance.
March 1, 2023
Miss Christine Devon is about to embark on her first and only season and she has become painfully aware she is ill-prepared for what lies ahead. Her mother’s death several years prior and her father’s indifference have left her lacking the polish required in a social setting. After several missteps during dinners and polite conversations, she concocts a plan to ensure her success on the marriage mart.
Christine approaches her gentleman neighbor, Thomas Gilbert with a proposal to become her “social tutor” and in exchange she will grant his greatest wish. Thomas is not too keen on the idea given the ramifications to their reputations if they are found out, but his impending financial ruin has him overlooking the consequences. He is in no position to marry and Christine has been given a strict list of suitable matches. This should be a simple, straightforward agreement with no chance of grow affections.
Hello!! You know what is going to happen! And it is so good! Christine is so sweet and spunky, a little bit opinionated and much too trusting. Thomas is such a gentleman and takes his job very seriously, sometimes too seriously.
I absolutely adored this story! These two are so perfect for each other. It is a joy to see them grow closer and more comfortable together.
This book was released previously, but Sally has updated the cover, polished the story, and added an epilogue. Loved every second of it!
Thank you Sally for letting be a part of this relaunch!
Christine approaches her gentleman neighbor, Thomas Gilbert with a proposal to become her “social tutor” and in exchange she will grant his greatest wish. Thomas is not too keen on the idea given the ramifications to their reputations if they are found out, but his impending financial ruin has him overlooking the consequences. He is in no position to marry and Christine has been given a strict list of suitable matches. This should be a simple, straightforward agreement with no chance of grow affections.
Hello!! You know what is going to happen! And it is so good! Christine is so sweet and spunky, a little bit opinionated and much too trusting. Thomas is such a gentleman and takes his job very seriously, sometimes too seriously.
I absolutely adored this story! These two are so perfect for each other. It is a joy to see them grow closer and more comfortable together.
This book was released previously, but Sally has updated the cover, polished the story, and added an epilogue. Loved every second of it!
Thank you Sally for letting be a part of this relaunch!
Want to read
April 5, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/5/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
After years of escaping etiquette lessons in favor of the stables, Christine Devon’s grand debut in London is only weeks away, though her deportment lacks the sophisticated polish she needs to achieve her goals of a lofty marriage. Desperate to take her place in society, she needs someone to instruct her in proper behavior.
Thomas Gilbert, newly returned from Italy, is ready to begin his dream of founding a horse farm. But during his time away, the estate’s finances have dwindled to almost nothing. Unless he can find a way to save his family from ruin, he will be forced to sell his horses and give up his dreams entirely.
A chance meeting between them may solve both their problems. Christine gains a tutor in the finer arts of polite behavior, while Thomas is given access to the finest bloodlines in England. But as time passes, the arrangement is less about business, and more about love. Will they see it in time, or will Christine leave Thomas behind for the splendor of London’s ballrooms?
Blurb:
After years of escaping etiquette lessons in favor of the stables, Christine Devon’s grand debut in London is only weeks away, though her deportment lacks the sophisticated polish she needs to achieve her goals of a lofty marriage. Desperate to take her place in society, she needs someone to instruct her in proper behavior.
Thomas Gilbert, newly returned from Italy, is ready to begin his dream of founding a horse farm. But during his time away, the estate’s finances have dwindled to almost nothing. Unless he can find a way to save his family from ruin, he will be forced to sell his horses and give up his dreams entirely.
A chance meeting between them may solve both their problems. Christine gains a tutor in the finer arts of polite behavior, while Thomas is given access to the finest bloodlines in England. But as time passes, the arrangement is less about business, and more about love. Will they see it in time, or will Christine leave Thomas behind for the splendor of London’s ballrooms?
March 21, 2023
I absolutely adored this book! I loved Christine and her excitement to go to parties and to experience her first season. There were moments though that I wanted to stop her from saying some of her comments to her sister. Christine wants to please her father and be accepted by him, that she is loved by him. He is not the most pleasant or kindest man and through her attempts to placate him and receive his love she doesn't see and understand other aspects of her familial dynamics. But I will tell you that she comes to have learning moments in regards to this. Her eyes are opened up as she experiences life in preparation for her season.
In all of her excitement though, she's lacking in the finer points of being in polite behavior. I must say that her first foray into a social party/dinner, had me giggling. The poor dear. But I loved her internal thoughts and thinking she's doing what is socially acceptable for a young debutante. She has a little ways to go and comes to realize that she messed up.
Enter Thomas, a long ago friend and in a way a student of her mother's. He's the perfect one to ask to help her fix her faux pas and be ready for all the social events in London.
I loved these two together. They have some great witty banter back and forth. A secret agreement. Growing attraction. Growing friendship. And the possibility of a big scandal on their hands if they are discovered. I loved how they challenged and helped each other. Very sweet story!
I've read other books in this series (the author updated the books and covers recently), but I hadn't read this one yet. And I'm very happy to report that I loved it so much!!!! I can't wait to read all of the others (some a second time and some for the first time)!
Content: Clean.
I received a copy for review from the author, but already had my own personal copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
In all of her excitement though, she's lacking in the finer points of being in polite behavior. I must say that her first foray into a social party/dinner, had me giggling. The poor dear. But I loved her internal thoughts and thinking she's doing what is socially acceptable for a young debutante. She has a little ways to go and comes to realize that she messed up.
Enter Thomas, a long ago friend and in a way a student of her mother's. He's the perfect one to ask to help her fix her faux pas and be ready for all the social events in London.
I loved these two together. They have some great witty banter back and forth. A secret agreement. Growing attraction. Growing friendship. And the possibility of a big scandal on their hands if they are discovered. I loved how they challenged and helped each other. Very sweet story!
I've read other books in this series (the author updated the books and covers recently), but I hadn't read this one yet. And I'm very happy to report that I loved it so much!!!! I can't wait to read all of the others (some a second time and some for the first time)!
Content: Clean.
I received a copy for review from the author, but already had my own personal copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
December 26, 2021
Cute, fun, clean regency romance read!
March 6, 2023
Do you like when a long time favorite story gets a “new life” with a cover update and bonus content?? I certainly do and I’m so excited to share about this sweetheart of a story that Sally made even better with her writing updates. I love the new cover too, it’s absolutely gorgeous!! It was so fun to revisit this lovely story about finding love right in front of you. The friends to lovers was so well done and we got to see more of the side characters that will get their own stories too. Thomas is one of those really good heroes who tempers the sweet and yet stubborn Christine with his kindness and love. Their conversations are delightful and give wonderful depth to the story. Definitely get this one on your TBR because it’s a story that is not to be missed. Especially given that the rest of the series is being re-released soon as well, yay!!!
I received a complimentary ARC from the author via Bookfunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary ARC from the author via Bookfunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 380 reviews