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The Way to a Lord's Heart #1
Brave New Earl
An Earl mired in melancholy is no match for a determined woman...
Widower Benjamin Romilly, Earl of Furness, has given up hope of finding happiness. His wife died in childbirth five years ago, leaving him with a broken heart and a child who only reminds him of his loss.
Miss Jean Saunders is a cousin by marriage. She doted on Benjamin's late Countess, and can't bear it when she hears rumors that the Earl is too bereaved to care for his young son. She arrives on the scene to evaluate his fitness as a father, and if necessary, to take his son away.
Jean's sudden eruption into the Earl's household simultaneously infuriates and invigorates him. She may be the only person who can breathe life into his neglected home―and his aching heart...
Widower Benjamin Romilly, Earl of Furness, has given up hope of finding happiness. His wife died in childbirth five years ago, leaving him with a broken heart and a child who only reminds him of his loss.
Miss Jean Saunders is a cousin by marriage. She doted on Benjamin's late Countess, and can't bear it when she hears rumors that the Earl is too bereaved to care for his young son. She arrives on the scene to evaluate his fitness as a father, and if necessary, to take his son away.
Jean's sudden eruption into the Earl's household simultaneously infuriates and invigorates him. She may be the only person who can breathe life into his neglected home―and his aching heart...
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 31, 2018
331 people are currently reading
482 people want to read
About the author
Jane Ashford
52 books406 followersJane Ashford has written historical and contemporary romances. Her books have been published in England, Spain, France, Italy, Sweden, Slovakia, Denmark, Russia, and Latvia, Croatia and Slovenia as well as the U.S. She was nominated for a Career Achievement Award by RT Book Reviews. Her latest book, Lost Time, is romantic suspense with a touch of magic.
Her website is https://www.janeashford.com/ and her Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/JaneAshfordW... If you'd like to subscribe to Jane's monthly newsletter go to www.eepurl.com/cd-O7r and sign up.
Her website is https://www.janeashford.com/ and her Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/JaneAshfordW... If you'd like to subscribe to Jane's monthly newsletter go to www.eepurl.com/cd-O7r and sign up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
August 15, 2018
This was messy.
I rather think that is all that is needed to describe this, but let me try to be more descriptive. One of the central themes of this novel is grief. The hero is suffering from crippling grief since the death of his wife in childbirth 5 years ago. It is so severe that he has very little contact with anyone outside his home, has no idea who is in charge of his 5-year old son or that he ran away and was almost lost. Enter meddlesome uncle. The start of the story features a dinner hosted by said uncle in a sort of grief counseling setting. The other gentlemen present are introduced, never to be heard from again in this novel. It was series setup at its most obvious.
Then the novel takes us to hero, Benjamin’s, estate where an insistent female claiming relation to the dead wife, is just arriving proposing to take charge of the neglected son. The meddlesome uncle follows closely behind and the heroine stays on quickly turning the hero’s life upside down. The transitions were abrupt and there were multiple hints of direction or scenes that felt significant that led nowhere. The story was told from multiple characters’ POV, and sometimes they did not add to the story at all.
While I did not have trouble reading this, the plot was full of contrivances and felt, at times, nonsensical. This was a first for me by this author and I am unlikely to seek out more books by her.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I rather think that is all that is needed to describe this, but let me try to be more descriptive. One of the central themes of this novel is grief. The hero is suffering from crippling grief since the death of his wife in childbirth 5 years ago. It is so severe that he has very little contact with anyone outside his home, has no idea who is in charge of his 5-year old son or that he ran away and was almost lost. Enter meddlesome uncle. The start of the story features a dinner hosted by said uncle in a sort of grief counseling setting. The other gentlemen present are introduced, never to be heard from again in this novel. It was series setup at its most obvious.
Then the novel takes us to hero, Benjamin’s, estate where an insistent female claiming relation to the dead wife, is just arriving proposing to take charge of the neglected son. The meddlesome uncle follows closely behind and the heroine stays on quickly turning the hero’s life upside down. The transitions were abrupt and there were multiple hints of direction or scenes that felt significant that led nowhere. The story was told from multiple characters’ POV, and sometimes they did not add to the story at all.
While I did not have trouble reading this, the plot was full of contrivances and felt, at times, nonsensical. This was a first for me by this author and I am unlikely to seek out more books by her.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 15, 2025
Kid was a plot device, not a character
The elements were there for a story I might like but the author decided to used them in such a way they maximized my hatred for her characters.
───〃⟡ ⋅ The plot
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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The elements were there for a story I might like but the author decided to used them in such a way they maximized my hatred for her characters.
───〃⟡ ⋅ The plot
・
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━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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August 16, 2021
2.5 stars? It's a DNF for me because the heroine is ANNOYING. she's just cries and lashes out at the boy when she's supposed to be the caring one. Meanwhile our hero is a cardboard cut out. He's stiff and his personality makes no sense. One minute he doesn't care about the kid and the next he's being sensible with him. I adored the kid though. Thought he was cute.
August 9, 2018
Brave New Earl is the first in a new series by Jane Ashford which seems set to follow a group of gentlemen who have all experienced great loss, as they find their happily ever after. Benjamin, Earl of Furness, is still grieving his wife even five years after her death, so much so that he can hardly bear to look at his son Geoffrey since he sees too much of Alice in the boy. Consequently, Geoffrey is allowed to run somewhat wild and barely knows his father.
Miss Jean Somerset hears of her cousin Alice’s child being neglected and turns up on Benjamin’s doorstep in a righteous fury, determined to right things. Her passion largely comes from having been a neglected child herself, indeed an abused one. Her mother was clearly a manic depressive and the descriptions of the abuse Jean was subjected to are fairly graphic, including how Jean developed severe claustrophobia. Determined to protect Geoffrey from similar abuse, Jean is overprotective, amusingly so considering Geoffrey’s intelligence and determination. He’s a hilarious Plot Moppet of the best kind, one with his own arc within the story.
Jean was a great character, and I particularly liked her unruly hair - I have impossible hair of my own! Her childhood was brutal, but she had fought her way past it and made a life of her own despite that.
Honestly, I had less liking for Benjamin. He seemed ambivalent at best towards Geoffrey, which was utterly unfair. His trying to get rid of his son in order to be alone with Jean put a bad taste in my mouth, and he generally seemed more inclined towards letting Jean have her way as regards his son’s upbringing, than doing the right thing himself.
If you like your historicals without the sex-filled romps which seem to be de rigeur lately, this is a good one for you. There are a couple of fade-to-black scenes and some kissing, but that’s all.
The story didn’t quite seem to fit within the Regency period (one of my pet hate words in historicals, ‘gotten’, made several appearances) but it was still a charming and amusing read. I’m going to have to knock off a star for those ‘gottens’ though. Four stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
Miss Jean Somerset hears of her cousin Alice’s child being neglected and turns up on Benjamin’s doorstep in a righteous fury, determined to right things. Her passion largely comes from having been a neglected child herself, indeed an abused one. Her mother was clearly a manic depressive and the descriptions of the abuse Jean was subjected to are fairly graphic, including how Jean developed severe claustrophobia. Determined to protect Geoffrey from similar abuse, Jean is overprotective, amusingly so considering Geoffrey’s intelligence and determination. He’s a hilarious Plot Moppet of the best kind, one with his own arc within the story.
Jean was a great character, and I particularly liked her unruly hair - I have impossible hair of my own! Her childhood was brutal, but she had fought her way past it and made a life of her own despite that.
Honestly, I had less liking for Benjamin. He seemed ambivalent at best towards Geoffrey, which was utterly unfair. His trying to get rid of his son in order to be alone with Jean put a bad taste in my mouth, and he generally seemed more inclined towards letting Jean have her way as regards his son’s upbringing, than doing the right thing himself.
If you like your historicals without the sex-filled romps which seem to be de rigeur lately, this is a good one for you. There are a couple of fade-to-black scenes and some kissing, but that’s all.
The story didn’t quite seem to fit within the Regency period (one of my pet hate words in historicals, ‘gotten’, made several appearances) but it was still a charming and amusing read. I’m going to have to knock off a star for those ‘gottens’ though. Four stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
August 3, 2018
Brave New Earl is the first book in The Way to a Lord's Heart series by Jane Ashford.
I have read other reviews where inconsistencies with the time era have been pointed out and I am fortunate in as much as either I don't notice them myself, or I do notice them but don't let them bother me. I guess it depends on how much I am enjoying the story and how glaringly the inconsistencies stand out. I am happy to say that despite any in this book I still thoroughly enjoyed the story.
Benjamin Romilly, Earl of Furness is a widower. He is grieving so much that he has slipped into a slump where he sees nobody, goes nowhere and pays very little attention to his 5-year-old son.
Jean Saunders is a cousin of Ben's late wife, Alice. When she hears at a party that her nephew is being sorely neglected she is determined to take the boy away from him and have him live with Alice's grandparents. When she arrives at the estate and makes her demands Ben is horrified. He may not spend much time with his boy, but he is certainly not treated badly and nobody is ever going to take him away. Ben's argument against his son not being looked after doesn't start off well when the boy himself races into the room covered in what looks like blood, wearing just a homemade loincloth and wielding a real tomahawk!
Jean refuses to leave without the boy, and the longer she spends at the estate the more she helps Ben reach out to his son. She can see that he loves him and is happy to help as much as possible and to make sure Geoffery is a happy little boy. The more time she spends with the family also sees her starting to appreciate Ben, his good looks, his manners, and how he listens to her. He also happens to be very good looking and it isn't long until Jean finds herself very infatuated with him. Fortunately Ben feels the same towards Jean, but he hasn't even thought of moving on from Alice. Jean also has some serious baggage of her own due to her very neglected upbringing by her mother who resented Jean from her birth. There is a huge physical attraction between our hero and heroine, can they make do with that, or will they both want more? Can more be a possibility when they have so many obstacles to overcome?
The characters in this story, from the main ones to the lesser ones were all fabulous. Especially Geoffery, he was a right little tearaway but one with a heart of gold. I loved seeing how he grew throughout the story. I loved too the romance developing between Jean and Ben. Their intimate scenes were perfect. Not too much description, but still scorching with their passion. And the ending, well I can't tell you what happens obviously, but rest assured that it was absolutely perfect and left me with a smile on my face.
I have read other reviews where inconsistencies with the time era have been pointed out and I am fortunate in as much as either I don't notice them myself, or I do notice them but don't let them bother me. I guess it depends on how much I am enjoying the story and how glaringly the inconsistencies stand out. I am happy to say that despite any in this book I still thoroughly enjoyed the story.
Benjamin Romilly, Earl of Furness is a widower. He is grieving so much that he has slipped into a slump where he sees nobody, goes nowhere and pays very little attention to his 5-year-old son.
Jean Saunders is a cousin of Ben's late wife, Alice. When she hears at a party that her nephew is being sorely neglected she is determined to take the boy away from him and have him live with Alice's grandparents. When she arrives at the estate and makes her demands Ben is horrified. He may not spend much time with his boy, but he is certainly not treated badly and nobody is ever going to take him away. Ben's argument against his son not being looked after doesn't start off well when the boy himself races into the room covered in what looks like blood, wearing just a homemade loincloth and wielding a real tomahawk!
Jean refuses to leave without the boy, and the longer she spends at the estate the more she helps Ben reach out to his son. She can see that he loves him and is happy to help as much as possible and to make sure Geoffery is a happy little boy. The more time she spends with the family also sees her starting to appreciate Ben, his good looks, his manners, and how he listens to her. He also happens to be very good looking and it isn't long until Jean finds herself very infatuated with him. Fortunately Ben feels the same towards Jean, but he hasn't even thought of moving on from Alice. Jean also has some serious baggage of her own due to her very neglected upbringing by her mother who resented Jean from her birth. There is a huge physical attraction between our hero and heroine, can they make do with that, or will they both want more? Can more be a possibility when they have so many obstacles to overcome?
The characters in this story, from the main ones to the lesser ones were all fabulous. Especially Geoffery, he was a right little tearaway but one with a heart of gold. I loved seeing how he grew throughout the story. I loved too the romance developing between Jean and Ben. Their intimate scenes were perfect. Not too much description, but still scorching with their passion. And the ending, well I can't tell you what happens obviously, but rest assured that it was absolutely perfect and left me with a smile on my face.
August 2, 2023
Jane Ashford has a few marriage of convenience stories. I am predisposed to enjoying books about a couple who fall in love after the wedding, and I think Ashford's writing style work well with the trope.
As opposed to graphic erotica or clean romance, her sex scenes usually only involve descriptions of kissing and petting. Then, there is one or two sentences about an orgasm or mention of satisfaction. She continues on in detail after the sex act is complete with their body positions and any conversation that occurs in bed afterward.
Overall, I thought this not her best; but I know there are some great books coming up and wanted to reread the entire series.
As opposed to graphic erotica or clean romance, her sex scenes usually only involve descriptions of kissing and petting. Then, there is one or two sentences about an orgasm or mention of satisfaction. She continues on in detail after the sex act is complete with their body positions and any conversation that occurs in bed afterward.
Overall, I thought this not her best; but I know there are some great books coming up and wanted to reread the entire series.
August 21, 2018
Beware the 'chocolate box' lid dream!
There were many things about this story that plain annoyed me. Mostly that a young woman Miss Jean Saunders who storms into an Earl's country estate, claiming to be his wife's cousin, a woman he's never met, and demands he hands over his son. Why the Earl didn't just throw her out on her ear is quite beyond me. Prior to this scene we have met the kindly yet duplicitous uncle, the fallen-to-pieces grieving widower, and now enter stage right the overbearing do-gooder surrounded by hints of something about her upbringing. Yes, Benjamin Romilly, Earl of Furness was not paying attention to his son due to his melancholia after his wife's death. Well in fact he'd handed him over to his staff and the child had run wild. But really, as if a Lord of the realm is going to hand over his son and heir to a woman he doesn't know, despite her claiming relationship to his wife and her parents, just beggars belief. So what we have is this regency comic farce developing with overtones of Alan Ayckbourn. Contributed to further by insights of Benjamin's uncle, Arthur Shelton, Earl of Macklin, who seems to be trying to act out as some sort of regency Yoda to a set of bereaved Regency gentlemen.
I really liked the orphan Tom, and the gentle irony that Jean gets more than she bargained for with her introduction to young Geoffrey. Definitely not the 'chocolate box', ride into the sunset with adoring child being saved from a scoundrel of a father she'd imagined. The reality is a rather shocking wake up call. But to be fair Jean is made from stronger stuff.
However an interesting concept for a new series and I'm looking forward to see how future stories develop having decided that this is a romantic farce with comic overtones.
A NetGalley ARC
There were many things about this story that plain annoyed me. Mostly that a young woman Miss Jean Saunders who storms into an Earl's country estate, claiming to be his wife's cousin, a woman he's never met, and demands he hands over his son. Why the Earl didn't just throw her out on her ear is quite beyond me. Prior to this scene we have met the kindly yet duplicitous uncle, the fallen-to-pieces grieving widower, and now enter stage right the overbearing do-gooder surrounded by hints of something about her upbringing. Yes, Benjamin Romilly, Earl of Furness was not paying attention to his son due to his melancholia after his wife's death. Well in fact he'd handed him over to his staff and the child had run wild. But really, as if a Lord of the realm is going to hand over his son and heir to a woman he doesn't know, despite her claiming relationship to his wife and her parents, just beggars belief. So what we have is this regency comic farce developing with overtones of Alan Ayckbourn. Contributed to further by insights of Benjamin's uncle, Arthur Shelton, Earl of Macklin, who seems to be trying to act out as some sort of regency Yoda to a set of bereaved Regency gentlemen.
I really liked the orphan Tom, and the gentle irony that Jean gets more than she bargained for with her introduction to young Geoffrey. Definitely not the 'chocolate box', ride into the sunset with adoring child being saved from a scoundrel of a father she'd imagined. The reality is a rather shocking wake up call. But to be fair Jean is made from stronger stuff.
However an interesting concept for a new series and I'm looking forward to see how future stories develop having decided that this is a romantic farce with comic overtones.
A NetGalley ARC
August 31, 2019
2,5
The story was really simple but the rating would be higher if our main MC's treated the five year old Geoffrey better. I know that the raising of aristocratic children was left mainly in the care of the household staff but Geoffrey here was really lovable although a little bit on the wild side and our characters ignored him when they wanted to have a "private moment". I found it really selfish because the plot of the book and the meeting of our main characters rests solely on the heroine's wish to make Geoffrey's childhood normal after his father ignored him for the last five years and to improve their father-son relationship.
I should stop elaborating this inconsistency in the plot or the rating will drop even more.
If this wasn't a work of fiction with happy ending poor Geoffrey would grow to be more like...
The story was really simple but the rating would be higher if our main MC's treated the five year old Geoffrey better. I know that the raising of aristocratic children was left mainly in the care of the household staff but Geoffrey here was really lovable although a little bit on the wild side and our characters ignored him when they wanted to have a "private moment". I found it really selfish because the plot of the book and the meeting of our main characters rests solely on the heroine's wish to make Geoffrey's childhood normal after his father ignored him for the last five years and to improve their father-son relationship.
I should stop elaborating this inconsistency in the plot or the rating will drop even more.
If this wasn't a work of fiction with happy ending poor Geoffrey would grow to be more like...
July 20, 2018
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
Series: The Way To A Lord’s Heart #1
Publication Date: 8/7/18
Ashford’s prose is charming and witty. The plot is unique, but certainly not period accurate. I really had to work at suspending my disbelief before I could begin to enjoy the read. The characters were likable.
I am assuming this is supposed to be a Regency romance, but there were few signs relating it to any period. The one sign was that ‘the war was over’. I’m not saying that there should always be an indicator, but it would be nice to know, for sure, what period the author intended. The entire premise of this book is inaccurate for any of the earlier time periods. The father actually owned his wife and children – just as if they were a piece of land or livestock. So, there would be no way that anybody could barge into his home and threaten to take his child from him – and threaten to call the magistrate if he didn’t comply. We also had a single young woman staying in a home with two unmarried males – without a chaperone. The chaperone was provided later, but not in the beginning. So, the book is unique and interesting, but totally improbable. So, just suspend your disbelief and enjoy the book.
Both of our main characters are very, very broken people. Benjamin was devastated by his wife’s death during childbirth five years ago and he sank into a very deep and dark depression. He couldn’t even look at his son because he looked so much like his mother. Jean is learning to cope with life on her own after both of her parents have died. She had a horrendous childhood and she is still lancing the boil that was her mother.
Miss Jean Saunders sweeps into the home of Benjamin Romilly, the Earl of Furness, like a tiny tornado. Jean is a distant cousin to Benjamin’s late wife and she has heard that their child is being mistreated, totally ignored and not properly cared for at all. She has coerced his late wife’s parents into agreeing to take the child in – all she has to do is go collect him. You can imagine Benjamin’s reaction when this total stranger barges into his home – where absolutely no visitors are welcome.
Jean is quickly followed by Benjamin’s uncle – yet another totally unwelcome guest. Benjamin sees no one. He sits in his library staring at the large portrait of his deceased wife and drinking. What are all of these people doing populating his entryway? Then, there is a loud whoop and a mostly naked five-year-old boy painted in red paint dashes in wielding a tomahawk.
Jean won’t take no for an answer when it comes to the welfare of this delightful, incorrigible, highly intelligent young boy. Either she will take him or his father will take proper care of him. It is fun to watch these two dance around each other – each brings out the other – until they find they are in accord.
The HEA is sweet, but I have to wonder if he would mourn Jean as much as he did his first wife. I know people can love more than once in a lifetime – but – I also think there is only one soulmate. So, if the first wife was the soulmate, then what does that really leave for Jean. She can’t even give him his heir – he already has that too. I don’t know – I know he loves her, but . . .
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Series: The Way To A Lord’s Heart #1
Publication Date: 8/7/18
Ashford’s prose is charming and witty. The plot is unique, but certainly not period accurate. I really had to work at suspending my disbelief before I could begin to enjoy the read. The characters were likable.
I am assuming this is supposed to be a Regency romance, but there were few signs relating it to any period. The one sign was that ‘the war was over’. I’m not saying that there should always be an indicator, but it would be nice to know, for sure, what period the author intended. The entire premise of this book is inaccurate for any of the earlier time periods. The father actually owned his wife and children – just as if they were a piece of land or livestock. So, there would be no way that anybody could barge into his home and threaten to take his child from him – and threaten to call the magistrate if he didn’t comply. We also had a single young woman staying in a home with two unmarried males – without a chaperone. The chaperone was provided later, but not in the beginning. So, the book is unique and interesting, but totally improbable. So, just suspend your disbelief and enjoy the book.
Both of our main characters are very, very broken people. Benjamin was devastated by his wife’s death during childbirth five years ago and he sank into a very deep and dark depression. He couldn’t even look at his son because he looked so much like his mother. Jean is learning to cope with life on her own after both of her parents have died. She had a horrendous childhood and she is still lancing the boil that was her mother.
Miss Jean Saunders sweeps into the home of Benjamin Romilly, the Earl of Furness, like a tiny tornado. Jean is a distant cousin to Benjamin’s late wife and she has heard that their child is being mistreated, totally ignored and not properly cared for at all. She has coerced his late wife’s parents into agreeing to take the child in – all she has to do is go collect him. You can imagine Benjamin’s reaction when this total stranger barges into his home – where absolutely no visitors are welcome.
Jean is quickly followed by Benjamin’s uncle – yet another totally unwelcome guest. Benjamin sees no one. He sits in his library staring at the large portrait of his deceased wife and drinking. What are all of these people doing populating his entryway? Then, there is a loud whoop and a mostly naked five-year-old boy painted in red paint dashes in wielding a tomahawk.
Jean won’t take no for an answer when it comes to the welfare of this delightful, incorrigible, highly intelligent young boy. Either she will take him or his father will take proper care of him. It is fun to watch these two dance around each other – each brings out the other – until they find they are in accord.
The HEA is sweet, but I have to wonder if he would mourn Jean as much as he did his first wife. I know people can love more than once in a lifetime – but – I also think there is only one soulmate. So, if the first wife was the soulmate, then what does that really leave for Jean. She can’t even give him his heir – he already has that too. I don’t know – I know he loves her, but . . .
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
February 21, 2022
Stupidest premise ever. A crazy woman knocks at your door and says she's come to take your child away because she has judged you unfit even though she has never met you or your child. A DNF with capital letters.
November 2, 2018
This book dragged in places and seemed to have a conflict for the sake of conflicts sake. Much of what was going on could have been resolved with a conversation.
August 7, 2018
A story of second chances and finding happiness when least expected. Benjamin had lost his wife during childbirth and could not seem to come out of his grief. He had a hard time interacting with his five year old son Geoffrey because he reminded him of his mother too much. Jean, a distant cousin to Benjamin's late wife, barges into his household determine to to take Geoffrey with her. What occurs is a lot of humorous moments and Jean and Benjamin are such great characters. I enjoyed the dialogue and the interactions between the three and could not wait to see how it all turned out. Prepare to be entertained!
July 1, 2018
I don’t normally enjoy stories centred around children, but Brave New Earl by Jane Ashford kept my attention from beginning to end! Geoffrey was such a comical child and there was never a dull moment. I full belly laughed so many times! Benjamin and Jean are absolutely wonderful and well developed characters, it was fascinating watching them grow. Benjamin is a desirable hero and I was drawn to him. Jean was a little on the emotional side, but you can’t help but like her. Tom is a character that completely stands out; there is such a wisdom to him. I loved his character and how he spoke. This is a romantic and sweet story, that is tactfully done. I loved the storyline, it was unique and fun. The story feels natural and flows nicely. A very enjoyable read.
July 2, 2018
A lovely Historical Romance. I enjoyed watching all the characters evolve from the start of the book to the end. They worked hard to reach the happy ever after. This is the first book in the new series and set a great start as to what to except. Well written and worth the read.
September 7, 2018
The hero chooses to lock himself away for 5 years, following the death of his wife. He ignores his son who is allowed to run wild and is supervised by a young unknown man who showed up one day and who seems able to control the child. The heroine is a shrill know-it-all who shows up unannounced and is amazed that the hero won't let her take his son off with a woman he doesn't know. She expects a little cherub but the child is actually a rather nasty, vindictive brat who needs discipline and lessons on controlling his temper. And these characters are actually better than the completely unnecessary villain who appears from nowhere and who, at the end of the book, somehow turns into an woman who understands children. I have read and enjoyed many of Jane Ashford's older Signet Regencies but this book is definitely not on a par with them. The opening pages indicate that there are future titles in this series to follow - but, based on this title, I won't waste time reading them.
Read
August 3, 2019I really need to read these faster, crikey. More of the trials of RRR. Never read a regency romance before, but as I expected, these romances read as if the book had taken a few brief ganders at Pride & Prejudice and immediately jumps to using words like "approbation", thinking that proper words qualify the story's regency worthiness. The characters did grow on me, but whether that's a Stockholm Syndrome effect or not is beyond me.
August 2, 2018
As reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-N0
Benjamin Romilly, Earl of Furness lost his wife, Alice, five years ago as she gave birth to their son, Geoffrey. Since then, Benjamin basically retreated from the world, paying no attention to his estate, his household, or his son. He spends his time in the library, gazing at the portrait of his dead wife, and wallowing in his misery. His son is a stranger to him, referring to him as, "the lord," instead of, "Papa." Benjamin can't even bear to look at Geoffrey, as he's the image of his mother. Geoffrey is a precocious and intelligent boy, but without any love or stable supervision, he's become something of a hellion.
Jean Saunders is a distant cousin to Alice, and when she hears of the situation Geoffrey is in, she coerces Alice's parents into agreeing to take him into their home and raise him. On a wave of righteous indignation, Jean storms into Benjamin's house, announcing that she is taking Geoffrey away. The ruckus lures Benjamin from the library, and the situation finally pierces the fog of grief and indifference he's been living in. No one is going to remove his son from his home. And he certainly hasn't been neglecting Geoffrey......or, has he?
On the heels of Jean, Benjamin's uncle, Arthur, arrives, adding yet another unwanted guest at Furness Hall. Uncle Arthur had the best of intentions when he discussed his nephew's situation with Jean, but he never imagined she'd attempt to take the boy away from his father. He only hoped that Jean may have been the person who could shake Benjamin awake, and bring him back to the land of the living. Arthur, himself, is a widower, and knows all about grief.
As Jean and Benjamin clash over Geoffrey, Benjamin begins to look around him and see the true state of his house, and how his son really has been neglected. Slowly, he begins to take an interest in everything he's ignored for the last five years, including his son. Much to his own surprise, Benjamin finds that he's interested in Jean -- he feels desire, and starts to feel alive again. Once Jean sees that Benjamin is making a start to repair his broken family, she agrees to stay and help with Geoffrey.
I truly admire Benjamin's love and devotion for his first wife, but his wallowing in self pity for years when he had a son who needed him was pitiful. As he began to reinsert himself into the real world, I could see and like the man he once was, and is becoming once again. Jean charged blindly into this situation without any true authority, but with the best of intentions. Her own childhood was fraught with neglect and mistreatment, so she was over zealous about her cousin's young child. When she calmed down, I liked her very much. The slow building romance between these two damaged people seems like a match made in heaven - or, made at the instigation of Uncle Arthur. Geoffrey is wise beyond his young years, and a tough young man. It was especially poignant to see him showing some emotion late in the story. BRAVE NEW EARL is a gentle, warm romance which I greatly enjoyed reading. I'm a true believer that sometimes love is better the second time around.
Benjamin Romilly, Earl of Furness lost his wife, Alice, five years ago as she gave birth to their son, Geoffrey. Since then, Benjamin basically retreated from the world, paying no attention to his estate, his household, or his son. He spends his time in the library, gazing at the portrait of his dead wife, and wallowing in his misery. His son is a stranger to him, referring to him as, "the lord," instead of, "Papa." Benjamin can't even bear to look at Geoffrey, as he's the image of his mother. Geoffrey is a precocious and intelligent boy, but without any love or stable supervision, he's become something of a hellion.
Jean Saunders is a distant cousin to Alice, and when she hears of the situation Geoffrey is in, she coerces Alice's parents into agreeing to take him into their home and raise him. On a wave of righteous indignation, Jean storms into Benjamin's house, announcing that she is taking Geoffrey away. The ruckus lures Benjamin from the library, and the situation finally pierces the fog of grief and indifference he's been living in. No one is going to remove his son from his home. And he certainly hasn't been neglecting Geoffrey......or, has he?
On the heels of Jean, Benjamin's uncle, Arthur, arrives, adding yet another unwanted guest at Furness Hall. Uncle Arthur had the best of intentions when he discussed his nephew's situation with Jean, but he never imagined she'd attempt to take the boy away from his father. He only hoped that Jean may have been the person who could shake Benjamin awake, and bring him back to the land of the living. Arthur, himself, is a widower, and knows all about grief.
As Jean and Benjamin clash over Geoffrey, Benjamin begins to look around him and see the true state of his house, and how his son really has been neglected. Slowly, he begins to take an interest in everything he's ignored for the last five years, including his son. Much to his own surprise, Benjamin finds that he's interested in Jean -- he feels desire, and starts to feel alive again. Once Jean sees that Benjamin is making a start to repair his broken family, she agrees to stay and help with Geoffrey.
I truly admire Benjamin's love and devotion for his first wife, but his wallowing in self pity for years when he had a son who needed him was pitiful. As he began to reinsert himself into the real world, I could see and like the man he once was, and is becoming once again. Jean charged blindly into this situation without any true authority, but with the best of intentions. Her own childhood was fraught with neglect and mistreatment, so she was over zealous about her cousin's young child. When she calmed down, I liked her very much. The slow building romance between these two damaged people seems like a match made in heaven - or, made at the instigation of Uncle Arthur. Geoffrey is wise beyond his young years, and a tough young man. It was especially poignant to see him showing some emotion late in the story. BRAVE NEW EARL is a gentle, warm romance which I greatly enjoyed reading. I'm a true believer that sometimes love is better the second time around.
April 30, 2021
This was ok, sadly nothing that stood out or would stick with me though. I found this audio available through my library so decided to give it a listen since the trope sounded so good. A widower hero who has been living the last 5 years in isolated pain and sadness, his wife passed away in childbirth and now he can’t even spend time with his son because of being reminded of his wife. The Earl spends time ignoring everyone and sadly doesn’t even care to pay attention to his 5-year-old son (he just hires others to care for him). One day the heroine shows up saying she’s a distant cousin of the Earl’s deceased wife and has heard about how his son is being barely cared for and wants to rescue him/take him away.
I just wanted more romance between the hero and heroine. There is a lot going on in the story and it hops around in POVs a lot and I just didn’t care about much of what was happening. We are told more about the pain/sadness instead of being shown and I just wanted to feel more emotions with this read. The romance is very slow-burn and I just wanted a few more moments between them to believe they cared/fell in love.
I just wanted more romance between the hero and heroine. There is a lot going on in the story and it hops around in POVs a lot and I just didn’t care about much of what was happening. We are told more about the pain/sadness instead of being shown and I just wanted to feel more emotions with this read. The romance is very slow-burn and I just wanted a few more moments between them to believe they cared/fell in love.
August 9, 2018
The Way to a Lord's Heart: Brave New Earl (Book 1) by Jane Ashford is a delightful and charming Regency romance. Follow, Benjamin Romilly, Earl of Furness, a widower with a five year old son and Miss Jean Saunders, a cousin to Benjamin's late wife on their journey of redemption, finding love and a HEA.
What strong, wonderful and charming characters! Well crafted, well written with plenty of wit, charm and romance. Readers will be glued to the pages of this charming, witty, delightful and energetic Regency Romance. Unpredictable and unique with interesting obstacles, challenges and a strong romantic love story.
Ms. Ashford expertly bended the conventions of Regency historical with a refreshingly different, and sweetly romantic love story. Fans of cute kids, kitty antics and witty charm with a message of redemption will definitely enjoy BRAVE NEW EARL. BRAVO, Ms. Ashford!!!
"I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however,�� these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review."
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewer: AprilR
What strong, wonderful and charming characters! Well crafted, well written with plenty of wit, charm and romance. Readers will be glued to the pages of this charming, witty, delightful and energetic Regency Romance. Unpredictable and unique with interesting obstacles, challenges and a strong romantic love story.
Ms. Ashford expertly bended the conventions of Regency historical with a refreshingly different, and sweetly romantic love story. Fans of cute kids, kitty antics and witty charm with a message of redemption will definitely enjoy BRAVE NEW EARL. BRAVO, Ms. Ashford!!!
"I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however,�� these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review."
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewer: AprilR
August 18, 2018
Vikki’s Musings
This is another interesting novel by Jane Ashford. Since I had read other books by this author, when I received an invitation from the publisher, via Net-Galley, I eagerly accepted. My opinions are my own and not influenced in any way.
Brave New Earl has engaging characters, especially the young boy, Geoffrey. He grabbed my heart from his first scene and held it to the end. That little boy desperately needed a champion, and he got it in Jean Sanders.
As with all Jane Ashford's books, the writing flows smoothly capturing me early on. As some reviewers have mentioned, there are inaccuracies, but after all, it is fiction so they did not take away from my overall enjoyment.
Jean’s character is a true nurturer, and her determination to help Geoffrey endeared her to me. Her backstory is heartbreaking, and it easily lends itself to her passion to ensure the earl’s son has the emotional care and love he needs.
Benjamin is definitely a tormented hero, but one who is so enmeshed in his grief, he has left the care of his son to others without any thought to the child. That is not a trait I find appealing, so it took me quite some time to warm to his character. In the end, Ms. Ashford did redeem him for the most part.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the aspect of the story that involves Geoffrey, I did not feel a strong chemistry between the hero and heroine, making it difficult to crave a happy ending for them. As another reviewer mentioned, their romance feels rushed at the end.
Nonetheless, I did enjoy this novel. While it isn’t her best work, it still was engaging and I’m glad I had the chance to read it. Happy reading!
This is another interesting novel by Jane Ashford. Since I had read other books by this author, when I received an invitation from the publisher, via Net-Galley, I eagerly accepted. My opinions are my own and not influenced in any way.
Brave New Earl has engaging characters, especially the young boy, Geoffrey. He grabbed my heart from his first scene and held it to the end. That little boy desperately needed a champion, and he got it in Jean Sanders.
As with all Jane Ashford's books, the writing flows smoothly capturing me early on. As some reviewers have mentioned, there are inaccuracies, but after all, it is fiction so they did not take away from my overall enjoyment.
Jean’s character is a true nurturer, and her determination to help Geoffrey endeared her to me. Her backstory is heartbreaking, and it easily lends itself to her passion to ensure the earl’s son has the emotional care and love he needs.
Benjamin is definitely a tormented hero, but one who is so enmeshed in his grief, he has left the care of his son to others without any thought to the child. That is not a trait I find appealing, so it took me quite some time to warm to his character. In the end, Ms. Ashford did redeem him for the most part.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the aspect of the story that involves Geoffrey, I did not feel a strong chemistry between the hero and heroine, making it difficult to crave a happy ending for them. As another reviewer mentioned, their romance feels rushed at the end.
Nonetheless, I did enjoy this novel. While it isn’t her best work, it still was engaging and I’m glad I had the chance to read it. Happy reading!
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February 7, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/7/2023)! 🎁
August 27, 2018
The hero, Benedict’s uncle decides to matchmake for his nephew to help him come out of his grief. As the heroine, Jean comes to rescue Benedict’s son from his negligence and take him to his grandparents, sparks fly between Benedict and Jean. Initially, they disagree on Benedict’s treatment of his son, Geoffrey but once they decide to work together, attraction takes root. I liked the premise of this story but absolutely didn’t like the character of the heroine. She seemed flighty and over emotional and keeps crying at the drop of a hat. While there may or may not be reasons for this, I was really annoyed reading constantly about it without any explanation. The novel gets better towards the end but I wish Jean's character was emotional without being annoying. This novel is book one in the "Way to a Lord’s Heart" series.
* I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher for an honest review*
* I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher for an honest review*
July 29, 2019
ReadingRush: Read a book with purple on the cover
August 6, 2018
"I don't mean to seem--"
"You seem yourself, which is exactly as it should be."
3.4/5 stars
Plot: 3/5 - Brave New Earl centers on our protagonist, Miss Jean Saunders- an independent, stubborn young woman with a traumatic backstory. It's plot begins when she storms into the home of Lord Benjamin Furness, who is the widower of Jean's late cousin (second cousin?) Alice, intent on spiriting away his five-year-old son on the grounds that he's being mistreated. Of course all kinds of nonsense ensues from here, some of it light-hearted, some of it terribly deary. My favorite part of this story was BY FAR the romantic plot, mainly because it didn't take until the very end for the characters to recognize their feelings for each other. I dropped this score a bit because I thought there was enough internal conflict that the neighbor plotline was really unnecessary and because the ending seemed melodramatic for no reason.
Characters: 3/5 - I liked these characters but didn't love them. Jean was fiery and I loved her personality but, even though I KNOW it was there to establish her passion for child welfare, I didn't love her backstory. I won't go into it in detail, but definitely a trigger warning for child neglect, verbal abuse, and claustrophobia with this one. I wasn't too keen on Benjamin in the beginning, but I warmed up to him as he warmed up to Jean. I thought it was really sweet to see what a softy he really is :) His son, Geoffrey, was another main player. I thought overall he was written quite well but would perhaps be more believable as a seven-year-old. Still, it's hard not to be charmed by that mischievous imp. I also really enjoyed Tom as a side character, so I'm hoping he follows along with Benjamin's uncle in future books in the series. All other minor characters were pretty forgettable and again, in the case of the neighbors, at times unnecessary.
Pacing: 4/5 - I think the ending got a bit rushed with extra conflicts thrown in, but I was really pleased by the development of the romance and the pace it took. I think the same can be said for Geoffrey's relationship with his father.
Writing: 3/5 - Standard, passable writing. There were a few funny quips I highlighted, but nothing profound. I will mention here that if you're trying to dip your toes into the romance genre but feel squeamish or awkward about it veering into erotica territory, this book would be a good choice for you. The love scenes are very PG-13 fade-to-black and not at all explicit. (So alternately, if that's what you're looking for, this might not be your go-to lol).
Enjoyment: 4/5 - This was definitely a cute read! I'm not sure how memorable it will be in a few years, but I loved the main couple and, given this is a ROMANCE NOVEL, that's kind of what it's all about. I love very domestic couples so it was really cute to see them come together and work on Benjamin's household and his relationship with Geoffrey.
Thank you Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing me a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 10, 2018
Miss Jean Saunders is a woman with a mission. When she hears how her deceased cousin's child is being neglected, she finds herself at Furness Hall in Somerset, facing the distraught Benjamin Romulus, Earl of Furness, languishing in the library starring at a portrait of his late wife, unable to deal with the cause of her death, his son Geoffrey. Left to fend for himself, watched over by one of the servants and a young "wanderer" Tom, the five year old has the run of the house. His precocious, inquisitive nature gets him into all sorts of scraps and he appears all but naked before the "newly arrived "guest", brandishing a tomahawk from his grandfather's collection of native artifacts. Embarrassed, Benjamin realizes perhaps he hasn't been paying attention to the details of his son's life, too wrapped up in his grief to deal with much of anything. When his meddling Uncle Arthur shows up, it's agreed that Jean will stay for awhile to help Benjamin get back on track, with the first order of business finding an acceptable governess to teach the tot some manners.
Jean, used to rotating from home to home, visiting numerous relations with extended stays, is adept at rolling up his sleeves and helping out. That's why she is always welcome, but not back to the Phillipsons, Geoffrey's maternal grandparents, who are relieved that the tyke is staying put and won't be interfering with their settled lifestyle. Miss Saunders is an interesting character, if not an enigma, to the Earl, whose sensibilities are slowly awakened by her outspoken, witty ways. Jean, wealthy enough not to need a husband, has numerous unresolved issues from her childhood, but she, too, is drawn to the Earl as he slowly comes out of his shell. Romance ensues despite the antics of the little pitcher with big ears who seems to be everywhere and wants to explore everything.
Jane Ashford in Brave New Earl presents us with delightful characters, a tender romance, tons of humor, and room for some of the secondary players to shine in Book 2 of The Way to a Lord's Heart series, as Arthur Shelton, the Earl of Macklin, continues on his quest to assist other aristocrats wallowing in grief.
Four stars and a thank you to Edelweiss and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This review also appears on my blog, Gotta Read:
ellenk59.wordpress.com
Jean, used to rotating from home to home, visiting numerous relations with extended stays, is adept at rolling up his sleeves and helping out. That's why she is always welcome, but not back to the Phillipsons, Geoffrey's maternal grandparents, who are relieved that the tyke is staying put and won't be interfering with their settled lifestyle. Miss Saunders is an interesting character, if not an enigma, to the Earl, whose sensibilities are slowly awakened by her outspoken, witty ways. Jean, wealthy enough not to need a husband, has numerous unresolved issues from her childhood, but she, too, is drawn to the Earl as he slowly comes out of his shell. Romance ensues despite the antics of the little pitcher with big ears who seems to be everywhere and wants to explore everything.
Jane Ashford in Brave New Earl presents us with delightful characters, a tender romance, tons of humor, and room for some of the secondary players to shine in Book 2 of The Way to a Lord's Heart series, as Arthur Shelton, the Earl of Macklin, continues on his quest to assist other aristocrats wallowing in grief.
Four stars and a thank you to Edelweiss and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This review also appears on my blog, Gotta Read:
ellenk59.wordpress.com
June 6, 2019
The Earl of Furness, Benjamin Romilly, is a widower with a five-year-old son he barely knows. His wife died in childbirth and Benjamin has been grieving ever since. When Miss Jean Saunders, a cousin by marriage, comes to his home, his life is turned upside down. For starters, her purpose for visiting is to claim his son, as Jean feels that Benjamin is not able to be a good father.
However, despite the fact that Jean all but adored her cousin, Benjamin's deceased wife, she cannot help but to be drawn to Benjamin. By the same token, Benjamin is equally enthralled. Jean turns things upside down. One of the very first things at hand is for her to see that the youngster is properly cared for. If she cannot see that for herself, she is determined to take him away.
Brave New Earl is the first book in a new series by Jane Ashford. This wasn't one of my favorite historical romances but I am very glad to have read it so that I was able to read the next in the series, A Lord Apart. It was a pleasant read with a happy ending.
However, despite the fact that Jean all but adored her cousin, Benjamin's deceased wife, she cannot help but to be drawn to Benjamin. By the same token, Benjamin is equally enthralled. Jean turns things upside down. One of the very first things at hand is for her to see that the youngster is properly cared for. If she cannot see that for herself, she is determined to take him away.
Brave New Earl is the first book in a new series by Jane Ashford. This wasn't one of my favorite historical romances but I am very glad to have read it so that I was able to read the next in the series, A Lord Apart. It was a pleasant read with a happy ending.
August 4, 2018
3 1/2. I wavered on this book from a 3 to a 4. I ultimately gave it a 3 as I liked it (not loved) and would recommend to readers who like a clean romance (Meaning all love scenes are summed up in a sentence a two. The couple kiss then they are lying there satisfied. Very tastefully done.) I enjoyed the book but I had issues that the hero, Benjamin, would be in such a funk five years after his wife dies. Especially when they were together less than a year. So much so that he completely ignores his son. He knows and has zero to do with his son, who basically runs wild about the place. Is there not sometime in the 5 years you could have anything to do with your child? In comes Jean, cousin to his dead wife Alice. Jean wants to take the son away but instead stays behind to get a feel for the dynamic going on in the house, of course one thing leads to another, and you get the point. I didn't care for Jean at times, especially when she would break out in tears. Other times she was so fun and tough it seemed the crying was out of character. I know she had things happen to her but still, there were a few weird moments and sometimes Jean bored me. I also felt like we went super fast from nothing happening between the two, to being in love. I never felt like there was much between them. Once Jean arrived and Benjamin was pretty quickly back to normal, I liked him more. However, what I liked the most were the supporting people in the book. I loved the son and Tom, the uncle and actress, and the valet and ladies maid. These people made me enjoy the book and want to continue with the series. Ben and Jean (3 stars), everyone else (4 stars). I received a free copy from the publisher for my honest review, and here it is! Get it, read it, look forward to what the uncle does next, probably like it!
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December 17, 2018The young Earl of Furness, Benjamin Romilly, is no stranger to grief. His beloved wife died in childbirth five years previous, leaving him with a rambunctious young son who he can’t muster up energy to care for. Miss Jean Saunders bursts upon his melancholy estate, announcing she will take the child to his grandparents to be properly cared for, to the earl’s horror. Miss Saunders agrees to stay with the earl’s young son in his home as his caregiver, and fate may carve another path into the stony heart of the earl. Veteran romance narrator Rosalyn Landor creates an elegant ambience with her alto British accent, giving distinct performances of the fiery Miss Saunders and the deep male timbre of the earl Benjamin and the earl’s uncle, who strives to help Benjamin move through his grief. Slightly more grating is Landor’s portrayal of Geoffrey, the earl’s young son. She loudly trumpets Geoffrey’s prepubescent voice during almost every scene featuring the five year old, possibly causing a listener to turn down the volume to listen to the rest of the dialogue. However, Regency romance listeners will enjoy this rendition of a gentle romance with an introspective dramatic storyline.
August 1, 2018
**Received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Rating: 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars
This book was good. Both hero and heroine were likeable characters, both with pasts that haunted them. I felt this book was a little slower paced than the other historical romances I've read, but it still kept me invested in the story. The love scenes seemed a little abrupt and lasted all of what seemed like 5 sentences, but I had never read this author before, so maybe that is just her style of writing.
I wasn't the biggest fan of Geoffrey (I know, I know), but he kind of seemed a little sociopathic to me until the end. Some of his actions were because of how he had been raised the first 5 years of his life, I'm sure, but still...the kid was kind of a brat and creeped me out at times.
I did like Tom's character, however, and Mrs. Thorpe. They seemed like characters whose stories I would love to hear more about.
Overall, a good read, but I would have liked to have seen a little more chemistry between the 2 main characters.
Rating: 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars
This book was good. Both hero and heroine were likeable characters, both with pasts that haunted them. I felt this book was a little slower paced than the other historical romances I've read, but it still kept me invested in the story. The love scenes seemed a little abrupt and lasted all of what seemed like 5 sentences, but I had never read this author before, so maybe that is just her style of writing.
I wasn't the biggest fan of Geoffrey (I know, I know), but he kind of seemed a little sociopathic to me until the end. Some of his actions were because of how he had been raised the first 5 years of his life, I'm sure, but still...the kid was kind of a brat and creeped me out at times.
I did like Tom's character, however, and Mrs. Thorpe. They seemed like characters whose stories I would love to hear more about.
Overall, a good read, but I would have liked to have seen a little more chemistry between the 2 main characters.
August 20, 2018
With this story Jane Ashford starts her new series, The Way to a Lord's Heart. Given a glimpse of the future characters, I'd say the series is aptly named.
The reason I've decided to give this series a try is because I'm a sucker for a broken down hero/heroine and this one promised both characters would be burdened with a lot of baggage from their pasts. I have to say that it didn't disappoint in that, however it took me almost the whole book to warm up to the hero.
As for the heroine, I liked that she's gone through hell and come out the other end better for it.
And then there was the little devil of a child that I just couldn't help but love!
Try it. I think you'll like it.
Melanie for b2b
Gift ARC provided by the publisher
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