El secreto de Amber

A Proper Romance #1

by Josi S. Kilpack

¿Por qué habría de casarse por algo tan pasajero como el amor? La vida da muchas vueltas...
Amber Marie Sterlington, la sensación de la temporada en Londres, ya ha elegido a unos cuantos hombres, y sabe qué es lo que más le importa en un marido: que tenga un título y fortuna. ¿Por qué habría de casarse por algo tan pasajero como el amor? ¿Y por qué habría de mirar más de dos veces a Thomas Richards, el tercer hijo de un hacendado rural?
Sin embargo, cuando su estatus social se ve amenazado por un secreto que la agobia, el carácter de quien sea su futuro esposo se convierte en algo mucho más importante que su posición. Tras sufrir una humillación pública, se ve desterrada a Yorkshire. Sola, con la única compañía de su doncella, Amber tendrá que enfrentarse a un futuro y una vida que está muy por debajo de lo que ella siempre ha conocido. Humillada y abandonada por todos, empezará a plantearse si esa soledad será lo mejor. Después de todo, ¿quién podría quererla ahora?

LOS LECTORES OPINAN:
«Me encanta esta línea de Clean Romance - un romance limpio y divertido, y este definitivamente es único en su género». Goodreads
«Emocionante e hipnótica... Excepcionalmente conmovedora...». Publishers Weekly Starred Review
«Prosa inusualmente bien elaborada…». Kirkus Reviews

SOBRE EL LIBRO:
1. Libro ganador del premio Swoony a la mejor novela de Regencia.
2. Gustará a las lectoras de Charlotte Brönte y Jane Austen y a todas las amantes de historias de Regencia.
3. Otro libro de nuestra línea Clean Romance, precedido de historias tan vendidas como Edenbrooke, de Julianne Donaldson, Por fin en Marshington Abbey, de Kristi Ann Hunter, o El secreto de Pembrooke Park, de Julie Klassen.

Genres: Romance, Historical Fiction, Regency, Historical, Historical Romance, Fiction, Regency Romance

337 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 7, 2015

About the author

I wrote my first book while on bed rest with my third child in 1998 and haven't stopped. My most recent books have been Historical Romance through the Proper Romance line with Shadow Mountain Publishing.

I currently live in Willard, Utah with my husband, and children.

Reviews

[Maria Clara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hace un tiempo renuncié a la romántica histórica; a pesar de ser mi género favorito. Era tan obvio y predecible todo lo que sucedía en ellas, sus personajes copias todas idénticas del momento, que me decanté hacia otros géneros. Pero esta novela me ha devuelto la fe! Y ojalá sea para quedarse. Me ha encantado!

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

(4.5 Stars) I love this Proper Romance line--really, I love a clean, fun romance and this one was definitely unique. I've read a lot of books by this author, if not all of them. This one was unlike anything she's done before and she totally nailed it.

It's safe to say that Amber is a snob, completely self-centered, and completely unlikable. She thinks of no one, save herself, and her desire to have a title and money. When a condition and situation out of her control causes her to be banished from society, a real and deep introspection occurs and I absolutely loved the results. Watching the transformation, acceptance, and humbling that happened was very sweet and I completely changed my opinions.

Thomas is a man who wishes to marry, but is one who doesn't enjoy the fickle London society. He really stands out because he's so different from the norm and I adored that trait. He couldn't care less about what is proper--he's kind, fair, and accepting of all. He's also an extremely patient man and I really admired him and liked him.

I really enjoyed the way an unknown and little talked about condition was used in the story and felt that the reactions were accurate for the times. This element was definitely unique. The characters were well written--there were several whom I loved and a few that I hated and just couldn't understand why they behaved the way they did. Of course, I would have loved just a little more romance, but this is a great start to what promises to be a fun, clean series.

Content: mild romance (kissing, over the top flirting with mild innuendo); very mild religious elements (mention of one character attending church, but nothing preachy); no language or violence. Clean!

*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*

[Rachel McMillan · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the absolute best historical romances I have ever read. The game changing kind. In any other writer's hands, this might fall short; but a competent pen, a wonderfully assured narrative voice and a keen eye for the nuances of the human condition are masterfully rendered here.


I read this book on recommendation in one breathless sitting. It was delightful. I sunk into its world and meandered about and found my heart constricting at the treatise on how humans can change, can be tested, can find opportunities to let the steadfast qualities that are lying dormant underneath expected facade slowly and surely rise to view.

This is suffused with a unique type of seemingly restrictive tragedy that opens up a world for authentic acceptance and grace.

A perfect character-driven piece, it springboarded me into die-hard and immediate Kilpack fandom. I immediately bought up her backlist.


Intelligent, sublimely rendered and achingly beautiful, I will return to this intelligent ( yes, intelligent, I might never be able to read Shakespeare's Henrys or Taming of the Shrew the same again), wistful, enlightening treasure of a book that will make you feel better about yourself. Any supposed limitations, the side you hide from the world are paraded in proxy by this anthem on true value.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

[Mela · Rating 4 out of 5]

A surprising book. It isn't what I call Regency romance. It isn't witty and amusing in a way those romances are.

This book is of an own kind. I have enjoyed it very much, there were even moments when I thought it was amazing.

What I love the most is a transformation which Amber underwent, although she wasn't the only one which changed. Her changes were very realistic. They weren't sudden. They needed time to evolve.

The second thing I like the most is a story of relationship between sisters and between a daughter and a mother. It was priceless. Yes, it was a little sad but it was so true and I am afraid it reflected many such kind relationships not only in those times...

As for a love story it is charming and sweet.

For me there were two novels: a clean romance and a wise psychological book about self-acceptance and finding an own path and meaning of own life. And I like more the latter.

[PS I would like to read more about Fenton and Darra. I would like to know and understand them better.]

Edit: I forgot to add my favorite quotes:

Perhaps that is what everyone does, she thought. We pass our discomfort to someone else so as not to carry so much of it ourselves

She had never before imagined that one aspect of a person could have such power as to change every detail of their existence

"No one can expect approval from every other person in the world—even the young woman you were in London did not expect such a thing—but I believe all of us can expect those few who matter to us to see past our limitations"

[Jacob Proffitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once I abandoned my expectations based on "romance" as a genre, I sank into this book with gratification. Amber is tough to take in the first half of the book. She's beautiful and calculating and ruthless and she can be mean, even heartless. Her treatment of the hero, Thomas, is dismissive and he takes that understandably poorly. There are hints that she's not a complete loss as a human being, but for that first half, she kind of is.

Thomas, on the other hand, is delightful from the start. He's serious and honorable and doing his best. And when he fails at his own principles, he doesn't whine or indulge self-recriminations. He picks himself up and tries to do better next time. And his friendship with Lord Fenton was an outstanding addition to the story and a huge draw.

Kilpack is a talented-enough author to keep my interest despite the off-putting Amber. And that's saying something, frankly. Some of that is how well Thomas offsets her. And the understanding (from genre and cover copy) that he'll end up happy with Amber helped me with my patience with her. Also, Amber's affliction that precipitates her change was one that drew my sympathy and its effect on her and those around her was engaging, as well. Once the second half kicks in, however, I could hardly put the story down. Amber's humanization through the sacrifice of her maid, Suzanne, was as heartwarming as her previous behavior was off-putting. And again, Kilpack's talent with characterization and description is a huge part of that turn-around. I believed in her alteration, even as she clung desperately to her fear and isolation.

The bigger drawback to the story as a romance is that Thomas and Amber spend hardly any time together—pretty much through the entirety of the novel (both parts). Thomas declares himself "in love" but I don't see how he's had time to fall for her. His experience with her has been surface and he can have no real insight into her actual heart or feelings. Her attachment to him makes much more sense because it's based on actual observation and understanding of his good qualities. But I didn't feel that he actually knew her well enough to be able to declare himself in love.

Given how little they interact and the difficulty I have buying Thomas actually falling for Amber I'm going to call this a solid four stars. Kilpack is an outstanding author and I look forward to reading more of her work.

A note about the Publisher: Shadow Mountain is one of those publishers who believes that ebooks should be $11. I seriously do not get this as that seems crazy over-priced. I was originally thinking I'd buy the book, but at that price, I turned to my library instead. I may be the only sale they lost, but I can't believe that is true. Not at that price.

A note about Chaste: Most of this story takes place with the protagonists apart. They share a single kiss in the end, though it's an outstanding one. So this is an entirely chaste read.

[Linda (NOT RECEIVING NOTIFICATIONS) · Rating 4 out of 5]

What if I told you about a story that was driven by the MCs' perception? Expectation? Acceptance?

And, before now, a subject that I have never seen touched upon in a fictional story.

What if I recommended that you start it afresh? Read the book editorial and maybe several of your trusted GR friends' valued opinions? 😉

What if I suggested you find a partner and mentioned that A Heart Revealed would be best read as a 'buddy-read'? You are going to want to talk to someone and discuss the story's ups and downs? And, if you please, invite me to your exchange because there are so many thoughts bursting from my mind.

Thank you, Mela and Anneceleste, for this slow-moving but scrumptious find.

That said, I will finish my review.

[Anne Osterlund · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thomas Richards is a less-than-exalted member of the elite. In London for the Season, he will be lucky to find a wife willing to move to the north country. He has no business falling for raging beauty, Amber Sterlington.

As she confirms for him, sternly, when he dares to ask her to dance.

Amber is in London to secure her position. To make the most advantageous match possible, even if it means squashing a few hearts and her sister’s hopes along the way. Everything Amber has done, her entire life, has trained her for this opportunity.

And then, to her horror, a mysterious condition threatens to alter everything. To strip away her greatest asset—her beauty. And with it, all the tethers that have always held Amber’s world together.


Hmmm. Very good. A very unlikely heroine. A courtship different from any I have ever read. And a beautiful study of what makes us truly beautiful. I am loving the A Proper Romance series. It has been a long time since I enjoyed a historical fiction series with a variety of authors, but I have loved every book I have read in this one. The editing is terrific. The authors are all well chosen. And the subject area goes beyond the predictable to something much deeper.

[Melissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had very high hopes for this book and I really wish I could have liked it more and given it more stars but I have to be honest. The first 100 pages I just really didn't like. I almost put it down and took it back to the library. I finally decided to skim the next 100 pages I ended up reading a little more then skimming because the main character finally started to change. I really disliked her and the leading man for most of this book. The leading man was not a big part of this book, he was in very few chapters, so I really didn't get to know him till the last 100 pages. Basically this is a book about a girl who has a trial that changes her life and how she comes to grip with it and changes. The whole first 100 pages of this book should have been shorted to 30 pages. There was too much negative and much of it was repeated. Over and over we hear about conflict with her mother, this could have been done in one or two scenes not 10. The redeeming factor and the reason this is getting two stars and not one is the last 60 pages, they were awesome, but they couldn't pull the book up enough. So basically a 300 page book should have been about 200 if that.

[An · Rating 4 out of 5]

Todo está escrito muy dulcemente, la historia me ha parecido preciosa y diferente.
El es un amor, con sentimientos puros y espléndidos, me ha encantado.
Ella aunque se muestra fría en un principio, vemos como el témpano de su temperamento va derritiéndose poco a poco hasta convertirse en alguien con bonitos sentimientos y una fortaleza digna de admirar.
Una novela esencial, para aquel que disfrute de la Romántica histórica.

Bonus track: El final me pareció tan hermoso, que me di el gusto de leerlo más de una vez!

[Mon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Una historia entretenida con una historia de amor muy tierna. Tiene dos partes muy diferenciadas, la centrada en Londres y la ambientada en el campo, la que más disfrute con diferencia fue la segunda, más intima, más centrada en los sentimientos y en la vida sencilla del campo. Vemos una gran evolución en la protagonista, que resulta odiosa y egoista al principio dándome ganas de dejar el libro para después aceptarse y aceptar el revés que le da la vida.
Un punto y aparte es el personaje de Suzanne, toda la amiga que deberiamos tener.

[Lyuda · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars

Thank you, Linda for your beautiful review and a challenge. Even though, the story didn't work for me, our discussion was so much fun. Loved it!

If I think of an overall message of the story, it is this:

1. Physical work and the wholesome/virtuous thoughts is a guide for the correct path in life.
2. Working class will provide the above guidance to their betters.

I have no problem with the first one as the story fits Inspirational Christian Fiction genre of the book but it’s a preachiness of the second that rubbed me the wrong way. I don’t read the genre, so not sure if this is typical of it or not…But it’s not even this. My biggest problem with this character study/light romance read is the characterization of the main heroine, Amber (oh, the name, the not-so-historical name, it bugs me) and, for this, I would use spoilers.

Amber is beautiful and nasty at the beginning of the story. She is an epitome of narcissistic and spoiled rich mean girl. In cases like this, I would expect to encounter an indulgent, quickly forgiving parent (s). This is clearly not the case here. Moreover, we left to believe that she is constantly looking for approval of her distant and truly despicable parents. Her goal is to make them proud of her. I can’t see narcissistic, self-indulgent person capable of doing this.

She is also smart and calculating. This could fit nicely with her initial portrayal. But, when her circumstances change, she seems to lose her brain and capability to use critical thinking. She still wants to marry and not just anybody but the biggest title to boot. Why can’t just leave and live quietly in one of the numerous father’s estates? A father who is a viscount… And that where I came to the turn of the story that stretches credibility for me in a big way. A daughter of a viscount is sent to live in a rundown cottage with only one maid (not very reliable in terms of staying-or-going) and not even a chaperone? Nope, would never happen. Her parents didn’t disown her. The only thing I could think of is that this turn is there to drive an overall moral message of the story (see above). And since the message must be driven, the narrative also needs to show how this smart, calculating, spoiled rich girl just meekly accepts her circumstances and let her maid guide her through. I think when I read about Amber churning butter, milking cows, carrying for chickens, baking bread and making all manner of roasted vegetables and soups I thought to be done with the book.

This is a light romance story so let’s talk about the hero. He’s really more of a secondary character. He’s virtuous, humble, righteous and…very boring. At the begging, he lusts after the heroine for her looks, latter distances himself because of her nastiness. And then, over the course of a handful of meetings, only two of which where he actually sees her, they fall in love. Not sure I can buy this. (hide spoiler)]

[Peach · Rating 3 out of 5]

Got to read an ARC from Deseret Book. It's a cute story, and I absolutely loved the author's writing style. I loved all the literary references in the latter half of the book, and I almost thought the author was going to do a play "Believe me if all these endearing young charms." I loved that the conflict was different, that it was not a one conniving woman or evil man that kept Amber from being accepted in society, but it was herself. I also appreciated that though she was beautiful in the beginning, she was not in the end, and it was her inner beauty that attracted Thomas.

The one fault I find with the book is that the characters were more developed separately than they were together, so the romance happens suddenly and kindof unbelievably at the end. I like the characters individually and the way the story developed, I just think that as a "romance," that could have been played up more.

[Lisa (Bookworm Lisa) · Rating 4 out of 5]

***4.5 stars***

Sometimes it takes extreme circumstances for a person to change for the better.

Amber Sterlington is the bell of the London Season. She turns all heads when she walks into the room. Men flock to her. She knows she is beautiful and knows how to use it to her advantage.

The unthinkable happens and she is disgraced, sent into exile, and humbled.

Thomas Richards is an exceptional man. He is pulled to Amber whenever he hears the sound of her voice. He tries to stay away, even when she publicly embarrasses him. In her time of greatest trial, he is the only one who extends kindness.

This book is not a typical regency romance. Balls and the antics of the ton are found at the beginning of the book, but then it takes a huge turn. The book takes a closer look at the condition of the human heart. It looks at how a person can change and see their faults.

The book follows both Amber and Thomas. Most of the book they are not in the same room. Instead the book looks at societies emphasis on the outward appearance of a person and social expectations. It also looks at family ties. Amber learns that to be wealthy doesn't bring happiness.

I really enjoyed this book. If you read it, don't expect for the romance to be typical regency. Expect something a little more.

[MaryannC Victorian Dreamer · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 Stars. A nice and pleasant romance. I was going to make my review short and simple, but I feel the need to express that though it was nice and pleasant to read, you knew exactly where this was going and how it was going to end. Sometimes that's what I want in a great story, but I also want a few twists and turns to keep you wondering if maybe it will end differently than you expected. I guess the bottom line for this was that it was a nice, safe read without a lot of excitement.

[QNPoohBear · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5-3.75 stars - I liked it but a little less than REALLY liked it.

Amber Sterlington, the daughter of Viscount Merchant, is the reigning belle of the ton. So what if her sister was supposed to come out with her - her sister can take a back seat for all Amber cares. She aims to have a good time and carefully choose her husband based on who has the highest title and most money NOW. When her new maid Suzanne, discovers a secret about Amber that affects her beauty and her social standing, Amber is dismayed. After a retreating from the public temporarily to work out her problem, Amber emerges only to find her sister has taken her place and her suitor. A jealous moment leads to public humiliation and Amber is banished to the wilds of Yorkshire with only Suzanne for company. How will Amber ever survive? Thomas Richards, third son of a Baron and gentleman farmer has come to town from his farm in Yorkshire to seek a wife. He wants his wife to be intelligent and desirable -is that too much to ask? He sets his sights on the beautiful Amber Sterling, but she doesn't even know he exists. How can he get her out of his mind?

This story is sort of a fairy tale similar to Beauty and the Beast in reverse. In this story it's the female character who is vain, spoiled and selfish. It is she who turns into the beast character and has to learn a lesson while the hero becomes the selfless person who would do anything to help his loved ones. Despite a few historical inaccuracies and the almost fairy tale nature of the story, I enjoyed it. I had a really hard time putting it down. The hero and heroine don't really meet until 2/3 of the way through the story and the romance is pretty rushed after that but it's sweet and lovely. The hero is missing from a large chunk of the novel but when he reappears some of the story is told from his point-of-view, which is nice. It seemed like this might end up a Christian novel but it isn't. The characters attend church and Thomas believes in God's will and that's it except for a message of love and acceptance that will appeal to any reader.

The characters in this novel are well-drawn and realistic. At first Amber is spoiled, selfish, vain and a completely horrid, unlikable person. I hated to admit that I probably would have reacted the same way in her situation with Suzanne at that age. It takes time to grow up and Amber's character growth is excellent. My only major problem is that women commonly did wear hairpieces. Hair extensions are nothing new and due to poor diets people probably needed those false hair pieces but once the story got going and Amber's condition worsens, the story gets more believable. It takes a little too long to get there though. Amber's relationship with Suzanne reflects Amber's feelings about herself and shows how her character is growing, rather than telling the reader which I really liked. The same can be said with Suzanne. Suzanne is a bit too impertinent to be realistic but her relationship with Amber shows her true character and how she is also changed by Amber and their situation.

Thomas is a perfect gentleman. He's almost too good to be true. He doesn't exhibit the same kind of growth that Amber does. He's a kind and loving brother, uncle and caring friend. He loves poetry and Shakespeare, wants to work his own land and own his own land to pass down to future generations- what's not to love? Well, he's the third son and though his eldest brother is deceased, his second brother has an infant son, making Thomas unlikely to inherit; therefore, he is unworthy of Amber's attention. He's way too good for her. I wish the relationship hadn't been quite so rushed. The author could have cut out a lot of repetitive domestic scenes with Thomas to further the relationship more.

Overall, I enjoyed the book though and I think traditional/sweet Regency lovers will enjoy this one too. Young Adults should read this book as well. It has just enough period detail to set the scene but not enough to throw off first time Regency readers and the message is important. The romance is squeaky clean too.

[Soany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Qué historia tan preciosa!! De verdad! En estos momentos al terminarla siento que la abrazo por hacerme sentir tantas cosas pero sobre todo enamorarme con su historia.

Este libro está dividido en dos partes, ambas con peso, la primera parte trata sobre nuestra protagonista Amber siendo la sensación de la Temporada, una muchacha hermosa, con muchos admiradores pero tenía un punto negro en ella. Era tan egoísta, grosera, manipuladora. Menospreciaba a los demás si no tenía un titulo el caballero. Ni su hermana se salvaba con su egoísmo.

Pero qué pasa cuando empiezas a sufrir una afección que te marca y cambia la vida y lo que querías? El mundo que conociste gira y cae para ti. Eso fue lo que le paso a esta chica. Todo cambio a partir de esa afección y su caída en sociedad.

Amber en la primera parte del libro no me caía muy bien. Pero cuando empieza a padecer una enfermedad empiezo a ablandarme con ella y es que lo que a ella le pasa le puede pasar a todos.

Me dio mucha cosita por lo que tuvo que pasar esta prota, su caída en público y la mirada de todos horrorizada, una madre que no corre en su ayuda para no quedar mal en la sociedad y una hermana que tampoco lo hace porque fuiste mala con ella. Así que Amber le toco enfrentarse sola.

Dicen que cada cosa que te pasa es por algo, para que recapacitemos y aprendamos algo de ello y es cierto en esta prota como cambio debido a ello pero ese cambio fue doloroso y como fue desahuciada por su familia.

Pero esos que trataste mal serán los que te den la mano y ayuden a levantarte.

Amber cambiará, empezara a ver con otros ojos la vida, aprenderá lo que es la humildad, la amabilidad, apreciar los sentimientos de los demás y que cada persona no es menos todos tienen su valor. Y no en títulos ni muchos menos en dinero.

Hasta el momento no había tenido la oportunidad de leer una novela con el tema por el que pasa Amber y me gusto como planteo la autora esa enfermedad y como lo enfrento Amber.

Los capítulos están narrados por ambos protas, Amber y Thomas pero yo diría que este libro fue más sobre Amber.

El romance? Claro que hubo y muy lindo, me llego al corazón.

Estamos sujetos al destino solo si elegimos permitir que las voluntades de los demás den forma a nuestras vidas.

Me encanta un libro que es más de sentimientos, de palabras, donde los protas tienen cambios, superaciones y cuando el romance se da no por belleza, sino por sentimientos.
Completamente enamorada de esta historia, de verdad la recomiendo.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm most familiar with Josi Kilpack for her culinary cozy mystery series which I love so I was interested to see how she would do in the regency romance arena. I'm glad to say that she delivered!

Amber Sterlington is beautiful and knows it. She's a snob and extremely unlikable. She's shallow and has men lining up for her attention. Thomas Richards doesn't have title or a fortune. He's kind and likable and isn't too serious about finding a wife. He feels drawn to Ms. Sterlington but she is rude to him and he decides to avoid her. Suzanne is Amber's new maid. She's not treated well but needs the job.

Early on, we get a taste of what the "scandal" will involve and I was interested to see how it would play out. I liked that it was different from the typical scandal with regency romances--and it certainly would have been easy enough for Ms. Kilpack to go in that other direction. It builds to one humiliating incident at which point Amber is exiled. When that happens, Suzanne goes with her but doesn't plan to stay for long.

I enjoyed the character development of Amber, Suzanne and Thomas. Amber had a lot of changes to make and they didn't happen overnight. It still took her a while to understand the sacrifices Suzanne made to stay with her and help her. She was put in a situation she wasn't at all prepared for and Suzanne's compassion showed as she made unselfish, yet quiet, choices. It took a while for Amber and Thomas to meet back up again. Thomas showed his patience during this time as he was trying to put the pieces together yet didn't want to scare her off. The romance unfolded slowly, but in the end, it was completely satisfying.

I wasn't crazy about the way Amber's family treated her, especially when Amber learns something significant towards the end. There was a lot to this book and I enjoyed it all! If you enjoy regency romance, this is one you'll want to pick up!

I received a copy of this book to review. My opinion is 100% my own.

Mel's Shelves

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amber and Thomas are two main characters who are definitely opposites. The beginning does a great job setting up the scene of the spoiled debutante who is going to get all that she sets her mind(not her heart) to and the humble third son of a baron searching for a wife who will build a good life with him.

He can't understand the pull that Amber has over him and continues to try to avoid her though everything keeps setting them within each other's paths. She is oblivious to him and honestly everything and everyone that doesn't bring her towards her goal of marrying the highest titled man and also the wealthiest. She goes to such great lengths that along the way she loses her allies who happily give her up when disaster strikes. Nothing scandalous but definitely something that would place her hidden away from society...perplexed? Good! You should be. As she is hidden away by her family she comes to realize through circumstances and the help of her maid that she is not a kindhearted lady and has many shortcomings. She learns that life in high society wasn't as wonderful as she originally believed but that working and living simply can truly bring happiness.

Thomas yet again is brought to a point where their paths cross and realizes immediately who she is although she doesn't even remember him. He continues to come visit and she thinks she will ruin any respect he has in society if they continue their friendship.

I must say I didn't care for Amber at all to begin with but then loved the growth and change in her that she was someone to admire. Thomas was always a great gentleman who you were cheering for when he was safe from Amber at the beginning and then cheering again as his goodness and desires were being rewarded.

I just loved it! I have read many other books by the author and love all her genres and must say I'm super duper glad she wrote that regency book she had contemplated years and years ago! I highly recommend this one and hope you take the time to enjoy it too!



Happy Reading!!!

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't normally enjoy reading stories where the main character is so flawed that she is unlikeable, but in this case the author did such a fabulous job with Amber's character arc. Amber's vulnerabilities and motivations for her attitudes and behavior are revealed as we get to know her and her family situation. As a sister to three, I could even relate to some of her sibling rivalry and frustrations. I don't want to give anything away, but the trial that sends Amber to the far north country and outcast from her family and society is one that is truly humbling. I loved Suzanne, her lady's maid who unwillingly accompanies her and learns to find the good in their situation and the good in Amber. They lean on each other and become sisters of a sort as they fend for themselves in a meager cottage without the amenities they are used to.

Thomas is presented as something of an anomaly in England's high society- a man who would rather work his own farm than rely on an annual income from his brother. A man who values the character of a person over their standing in society. His own quality of character becomes apparent to Amber as she forms a friendship of sorts with him during her exile and gives her the hope than she can be accepted for the improved individual she has become despite her outward appearance.

(Thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've loved every book I've read by Josi Kilpack, and A HEART REVEALED is no exception. A genre jump for Kilpack, but I thought she did an excellent job. One of Kilpack's strengths is character development, and I loved watching Amber's character develop and change. Usually regencies focus on the "sweet girl who is about to make a love match," but Amber is not one of the sweet girls. She's spoiled and arrogant. When a life-changing event occurs, it still takes her time to truly change her heart.

[Océano de libros · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amber Marie Sterlington, es la sensación de la temporada en Londres. Su meta es encontrar un esposo que tenga título y fortuna. Por eso no le interesa conocer a Thomas Richards, un hombre sin título y grandes posesiones.

Todo cambia cuando tiene que huir al campo tras una terrible humillación y así esconder su secreto de la sociedad. Abandonada por su familia, vivirá sola junto a su sirviente y su vida dará un giro radical.

“El secreto de Amber” es la primera novela de la serie “A proper romance” en la que Amber Sterlington es una joven de la alta sociedad dotada de una gran belleza que embelesa a todos los caballeros. Su meta es encontrar un marido rico y con título; ella no cree en matrimonios por amor. Se ha criado entre algodones y tiene un carácter altivo, de niña mimada que consigue todo lo que quiere. Ella deslumbra en su temporada y tiene múltiples pretendientes hasta que sufre un percance y es humillada en público. Desde ese momento, toda su vida cambió. Su familia la abandona para que viva en Yorkshire con la única compañía de su sirvienta. Alejada de la sociedad y de un futuro prometedor, Amber se replantea su vida y empieza a descubrir cómo era y cómo quiere ser a partir de este momento.

Amber es un personaje que tiene una evolución impresionante a lo largo de la novela. Al inicio es una joven que me caía muy mal (me iba a dar algo si seguía siendo así) y es que era esa típica muchachita ambiciosa y altanera que desprecia a los que están por debajo de su posición. Pero la vida le da un buen revolcón, ese “percance” lo cambia todo y ahora estará en el lado perdedor y sufrirá las consecuencias. Sentirá en sus carnes el desaire y la humillación de una sociedad superficial y llena de prejuicios. Hasta su familia le da de lado y tendrá que aprender por las buenas, cambiar su visión de la vida y su carácter. Poco a poco se dará cuenta de que su antiguo yo no era para nada agradable y las circunstancias la harán cambiar.
Sigue en: https://oceanodelibros.blogspot.com/2...

[Mindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off, I want to congratulate Josi on this amazing book. It is already getting rave reviews, and I now that I am finished I can see why! Kirkus, Publisher's Weekly, and so on and so on, all agree it is a fabulous book. Way to go, Josi!!

This book was beautiful. The writing was flawless and the characters were strong and developed well. I loved how the author took her time in helping the reader learn to like Amber, because I admit, I didn't like her at first. I LOVED Suzanne. She was so wonderful. I loved how she was with Amber and how she didn't take any guff from her, and was brave enough to tell her. I loved how their relationship grew into a treasured friendship. I also loved when Amber was sent to Yorkshire, her friendship/relationship with Thomas took time and I appreciated the fact that Thomas knew some things about her that Amber didn't know and how they learned to love each other. One of my favorite things happened at the end of the story with Amber's sister Darra, I was in tears. As the story progressed, my heart broke for Amber, not knowing what was happening to her and learning her new life in her tiny cottage. I loved how she learned to take care of herself and appreciated her friendship and need for Suzanne. I honestly could go on and on, but you will need to read it for yourself, and love it as much as I did.

5 ouf 5 stars! Josi is also the author of the Sadie Hoffmiller culinary mystery series, another favorite of mine. Plus many other novels and novellas. She is amazing, and I am a huge fan of her writing and Josi herself.

I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Chrissy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was thankful that I had read my friends' reviews and knew that Amber started out horrible. I like heroines who are strong and kind, yet for the first third of the book, Amber is mean and arrogant. The author did a good job of establishing the negative so I could truly appreciate the change in her throughout the book. I thought the hero was truly a hero. I also appreciated that this story points out the power of overcoming tribulation. Amber learned so much through her trial, much more than any teacher or book could have ever taught her. She was truly a different person in the end and found her true love.

[Tangi · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not what I was expecting. Took until 80% through book for main two characters to meet. I wanted a little more romance. Interesting story line but not what I was expecting.

[Cherry's Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reseña en el blog: https:\\misscherrybooks.blogspot.com.es

[Alice-Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this in 24 hours while sick in bed. (Thanks for the distraction.) But I felt like it was a step above other regency romance books. Loved how the affliction this young woman had changed her for the better.

[Aimee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the “Proper Romance” series by Shadow Mountain publisher. These books are fall exactly in my sweet spot for reading. I know exactly what I’m going to get when I pick one of these books up.

This book was a bit of romance, but mostly it was a journey of self- discovery for Miss Amber Sterlington. At the height of her season in London, Amber encounters a most distressing and devastating turn of events. Everything she has known changes. She cast away, discarded, humiliated and scared. I knew from the beginning that I would be taking an emotional journey with Amber. Right from the start Amber is a character that I did not love. I didn’t even like her. She is selfish, catty and uncaring. But, since she is the main character of the book, I figured by the end I would have no choice but to like her so I knew the author had quite the journey in store for Amber and me too.

Thank goodness that Amber has one person in her life that doesn’t give up on her even when she probably deserved to be left completely alone. That one steady influence (that stood her ground) forced Amber to make changes and look at things differently. Amber begins to see the value of work and honesty and real friendship.

The romance is slow coming but sweet and perfect for this story. I really loved it. The best part for me was the emotional journey. The place I started in the book was completely different from where I ended and that was the best part for me. I think it was the best part for Amber too.

Love this book. Love this “Proper Romance” brand. Love to see Josi Kilpack writing a regency romance! (so different from her culinary mysteries!) There’s a lot of love going on here.

[Mar de llibres · Rating 4 out of 5]

Me ha gustado muchísimo el personaje de Amber, especialmente por su transformación. Al principio, Amber es una joven egoísta, vanidosa y prepotente, que goza de una posición bienestante en la sociedad y que menosprecia a los que son de estatus inferior al suyo. Ella solo piensa en casarse con un hombre rico, apuesto y con un título nobiliario. Únicamente se preocupa por las apariencias y las habladurías. Pero todo cambia en su vida de un día para otro y tiene que aprender a valerse por si misma y a apreciar valores como la amistad, la bondad y la humildad para darse cuenta que las cosas que antes eran tan importantes, como las fiestas, los vestidos, ahora ya no lo son. Es una historia predecible pero incluso hoy en día es muy edificante.

[Linda · Rating 2 out of 5]

While reading this novel I've discovered a new bookish pet peeve: historical novels that are way too modern regarding characters, plot and/or language. I simply didn't find it believable that Mr. Richards, the son of a lord, was such an egalitarian and feminist, who really cared nothing for anything but love. And would a 19th century English woman really be considering anything "waspish"? But the story did revolve around a theme I haven't encountered before, which is a clear plus. If not for the awful ending (kissing all over the place whilst not even engaged and such nonsense), I might even have considered 3 stars.

[Consuelo · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sabía que era una historia sin sexo, pero era lo que quería leer, el problema es que tampoco es romantica, mucho prólogo, mucho rollo y en el 20% final se desarrolla algo más, las dos estrellas por el final, que es precioso, pero no compensa lo anterior