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The Silver Foxes of Westminster #3
May Mistakes
After the death of her father, Miss Elaine Bond had decided to embrace life as an independent woman…much to the chagrin of her neighbors. Her eccentric ways alarm the entire town of Brynthwaite, to the point where concerned friends turn to the only person they believe can settle Elaine into a respectable married life, mysterious bookseller Mr. Basil Wall. Basil has been in love with Elaine since the moment he moved to Brynthwaite years ago, but the secret that drove him out of London and into the remote Lake District has kept him from declaring himself. At least until a twist of fate throws the two potential lovers together in a way that neither of them expected. But what begins as a romance that is as charming as it is sultry turns into a game with far higher stakes when the infamous Missing Earl of Waltham is tracked down and dragged out into the light. And with the fate of Parliament—not to mention a bill increasing the rights of women—in the balance, Basil must choose between love and duty. Which leaves Elaine caught between what is right and what is proper, and leads her to an adventure far more daring than any of her Brynthwaite neighbors could dream of. PLEASE BE Steam Level – Very Hot! If you would like to read about events leading up to May Mistakes, check out A WILD ADVENTURE, part of the West Meets East series, available now. And be sure to pick up the two sequel novellas to May Mistakes (coming soon), BRYNTHWAITE PROMISE and BRYNTHWAITE SUMMER. The Silver Foxes of Westminster Series consists DECEMBER HEART (and its accompanying novellas) --Starcross Lovers --Starcross Dreams AUGUST SUNRISE (and its accompanying novellas) --Winterberry Spark --Winterberry Fire MAY MISTAKES (and its accompanying novellas) --Brynthwaite Promise --Brynthwaite Summer
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 20, 2018
351 people are currently reading
236 people want to read
About the author
Merry Farmer
292 books1,137 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Merry Farmer lives in suburban Philadelphia with her two cats, Justine and Peter. She has been writing since she was ten years old and realized she didn't have to wait for the teacher to assign a creative writing project to write something. It was the best day of her life. Her books have reached the top of Amazon's charts, and have been named finalists for several prestigious awards, including the RONE Award for indie romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
January 29, 2019
The blurb caught my eyes, and I do love romance with older than usual couples, here, there is too a great difference of age between the h and the H, more than the classic 8 to 10 years.
It was not a bad read but many time I felt frustrated by the main characters.
I do loved Basil as a bookseller, being a dear friend to Elaine, standing up for her and loving her from afar while worshipping the ground she walks on. But once he was back as the Earl Of Waltham, he becomes a coward, a weak man who is unable to fight for who he thinks is the most important woman in his whole life, he is incapable to go up against his friend’s pressuring him to do what he wants. He fails Elaine.
But idem with Elaine, while I do loved the quirky young woman who dresses as she pleases, who is not afraid of telling her mind and shares a deep friendship for a bookseller. Once the truth is out about who is who, she becomes a ninny. No more thoughts, only stupid actions.
I found it courageous she wants to follow Basil but once in London, Help! She makes mistakes after mistakes, blinds to the obvious.
I could have accepted that being new to the ton, she was lost but she runs in every trap sets for her. Even when she knows she should not trust the people, she goes willingly.
While Basil suffers from stutter as each time he is confronted to her, he can’t find the words to make up for his errors.
After, it was rather entertaining to see how the political ideas were discussed and how a reputation can play a role.
A 3,5 stars read.
It was not a bad read but many time I felt frustrated by the main characters.
I do loved Basil as a bookseller, being a dear friend to Elaine, standing up for her and loving her from afar while worshipping the ground she walks on. But once he was back as the Earl Of Waltham, he becomes a coward, a weak man who is unable to fight for who he thinks is the most important woman in his whole life, he is incapable to go up against his friend’s pressuring him to do what he wants. He fails Elaine.
But idem with Elaine, while I do loved the quirky young woman who dresses as she pleases, who is not afraid of telling her mind and shares a deep friendship for a bookseller. Once the truth is out about who is who, she becomes a ninny. No more thoughts, only stupid actions.
I found it courageous she wants to follow Basil but once in London, Help! She makes mistakes after mistakes, blinds to the obvious.
I could have accepted that being new to the ton, she was lost but she runs in every trap sets for her. Even when she knows she should not trust the people, she goes willingly.
While Basil suffers from stutter as each time he is confronted to her, he can’t find the words to make up for his errors.
After, it was rather entertaining to see how the political ideas were discussed and how a reputation can play a role.
A 3,5 stars read.
January 7, 2019
**SPOILER-ISH**SPOILER-ISH**
We begin with independent Miss Elaine Bond, who has had it with rules forced upon woman in society. She says no thank you to propriety and refuses to adapt herself to fit into everyone else’s ideals. Her whole being screams “Who made these rules on how I should behave and who’s going to stop me when I refuse to follow them?” She’s eccentric, vocal, asks questions when she wishes answers, and wears what she wants to in a time period where its most certainly not acceptable behavior.
Basically, Elaine is AWESOME.
You know who else thinks Elaine is awesome? Basil, who is hopelessly in love with her. The town, when they’re not snickering “THAT WOMAN”, have come to the conclution that the only way to get Elaine to settle down is to marry her off to our mysterious bookseller, Mr. Wall. Ah, the shortsighted, pigheaded fools of the romantic period. Just when it looks like romantic bliss is upon us...whoops. Happiness is obliterated when Basil’s past hunts him down.
Basil....my good man.....is a bit of a moron..and a big ol’ fibber. Turns out our poor bookkeeper is actually an Earl who disappeared (more like ran) from London two years prior. Nobody likes a liar, Basil!! He is needed back in the fold of his former life immediately for an upcoming election, with the future of women’s rights hanging in the balance. Duty forces him away from his love, but don’t worry, his love refuses to be left behind. Elaine being let loose in high society London was an adventure in its own right and a lot of fun. Was she in over her head most of the time (because someone wasn’t forthcoming with info)? Yes. Did she ruffle a few feathers? A few? No. All of them? Most definitely.
Most of the conflicts in this book could have completely been avoided if Basil was less of a wimp and told Elaine about his past and the situations that would put them both at risk. He was also VERY well acquainted with basically every female in close proximity. The dolt. Added bonus! The high class ladies of society made sure to take every opportunity to inform Elaine of their past liaisons. How sweet!! *eye rolls for days*
My personal favorite was the few sentences where my beloved Peter appeared from December Heart. I just love him so much!!
If period romances are your jam, Merry Farmer does a mighty fine job of delivering a great little love story.
We begin with independent Miss Elaine Bond, who has had it with rules forced upon woman in society. She says no thank you to propriety and refuses to adapt herself to fit into everyone else’s ideals. Her whole being screams “Who made these rules on how I should behave and who’s going to stop me when I refuse to follow them?” She’s eccentric, vocal, asks questions when she wishes answers, and wears what she wants to in a time period where its most certainly not acceptable behavior.
Basically, Elaine is AWESOME.
You know who else thinks Elaine is awesome? Basil, who is hopelessly in love with her. The town, when they’re not snickering “THAT WOMAN”, have come to the conclution that the only way to get Elaine to settle down is to marry her off to our mysterious bookseller, Mr. Wall. Ah, the shortsighted, pigheaded fools of the romantic period. Just when it looks like romantic bliss is upon us...whoops. Happiness is obliterated when Basil’s past hunts him down.
Basil....my good man.....is a bit of a moron..and a big ol’ fibber. Turns out our poor bookkeeper is actually an Earl who disappeared (more like ran) from London two years prior. Nobody likes a liar, Basil!! He is needed back in the fold of his former life immediately for an upcoming election, with the future of women’s rights hanging in the balance. Duty forces him away from his love, but don’t worry, his love refuses to be left behind. Elaine being let loose in high society London was an adventure in its own right and a lot of fun. Was she in over her head most of the time (because someone wasn’t forthcoming with info)? Yes. Did she ruffle a few feathers? A few? No. All of them? Most definitely.
Most of the conflicts in this book could have completely been avoided if Basil was less of a wimp and told Elaine about his past and the situations that would put them both at risk. He was also VERY well acquainted with basically every female in close proximity. The dolt. Added bonus! The high class ladies of society made sure to take every opportunity to inform Elaine of their past liaisons. How sweet!! *eye rolls for days*
My personal favorite was the few sentences where my beloved Peter appeared from December Heart. I just love him so much!!
If period romances are your jam, Merry Farmer does a mighty fine job of delivering a great little love story.
February 8, 2019
“May Mistakes” is a charming romp in the tradition of a historical “I Love Lucy” homage.
Read full review in the 2019 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2019 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
July 9, 2019
Yet another good read in this series. I liked the character of Elaine, she was unconventional but she was herself, a brave and determined woman. Basil, had loved Elaine for some time and now Elaine felt the same for him. This romance had many obstacles particularly when they were in London. There are a number of characters from previous books who make an appearance and the same villains are scheming again. The political elements continue through this book. This was an engaging read.
September 2, 2018
I was so excited to see another addition to The Silver Foxes of Westminster Series. I have enjoyed the first two in the series and this was no exception. Merry Farmer has a gift for writing about the older hero which is not usually captured in historical romance. This one finds Elaine, who has just lost her father, becoming almost defiant in her attitude and dress. Of course a lot of that was because of the books she had been reading from the local bookstore owned by Mr Basil Wall. They had formed a strong friendship since the two years he had come to town to open the store. But with her eccentric ways, the townspeople wanted him to get Elaine under control and make her a respectable married woman. You see Basil had been in love with Elaine for awhile, yet never spoke of it to her.
But Basil had a secret that he never told anyone and as the truth finds him, everything changes. He is called back to London and Elaine, determinedly follows him.
When this story started my thought was this was going to be a fast delightful story. As the tale continued, it became complicated with large amounts of intrigue, strong emotions and several unexpected villains coming to life. As I quickly turned the pages I could not figure out if the two could come together at the end or not!
A fast paced, well written and suspenseful story, you will not want to miss!!
But Basil had a secret that he never told anyone and as the truth finds him, everything changes. He is called back to London and Elaine, determinedly follows him.
When this story started my thought was this was going to be a fast delightful story. As the tale continued, it became complicated with large amounts of intrigue, strong emotions and several unexpected villains coming to life. As I quickly turned the pages I could not figure out if the two could come together at the end or not!
A fast paced, well written and suspenseful story, you will not want to miss!!
April 28, 2024
3.5/5
Elaine is PERFECTION!!!!!! She's everything that the ton stands against, and I love her even more for it. She didn't care how "society" perceived her. She ruffled all the feathers, and I couldn't help but laugh at the antics. I think she would have assimilated into society had Basil just been freaking honest with her. As much as I love Elaine, I can't stand Basil. I found him to he weak and foolish. He married Elaine because he loves her. That's all well and good, but he could have given her some warning that he was a freaking EARL!!! Poor Elaine suffered much for his foolishness. Now that ending? Hahaha, oh Lavinia, what have you gotten yourself into? I can't wait to read her story.
Elaine is PERFECTION!!!!!! She's everything that the ton stands against, and I love her even more for it. She didn't care how "society" perceived her. She ruffled all the feathers, and I couldn't help but laugh at the antics. I think she would have assimilated into society had Basil just been freaking honest with her. As much as I love Elaine, I can't stand Basil. I found him to he weak and foolish. He married Elaine because he loves her. That's all well and good, but he could have given her some warning that he was a freaking EARL!!! Poor Elaine suffered much for his foolishness. Now that ending? Hahaha, oh Lavinia, what have you gotten yourself into? I can't wait to read her story.
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July 28, 2018
May Mistakes book 3 The Silver Foxes of Westminster by Merry Farmer. The characters are interesting, well drawn and passionate. This is a good page turn one you won't want to put down. My free opinion. Thanks.
September 19, 2018
I really liked May Mistakes by Merry Farmer. Ms. Farmer is becoming a favorite author of mine. Elaine is a small-town country girl who allows herself to be different - gotta love that! She dresses in medieval styled clothes, reads books that men would normally read and is a devoted spinster at 30.
After her father dies, she relies on her best friend, Basil, the book-seller in town as a support. But Basil is in love with Elaine, his prior romantic entanglements have been just that - a tangle. He is scared to declare his feelings for her - he is 20 years her senior and is hiding out from his earldom to boot.
Word gets out that the missing earl has been found, and to everyone in the small town's shock it is mild-mannered book-seller Basil. Elaine feels betrayed by Basil's duplicity and is so very hurt that he didn't share his secret with her especially.
When Basil leaves the country side for London, Elaine is torn. Does she make her way to London and get her man back or does she lick her wounds in her hometown. Elaine charges forward and goes to London prepared to convince Basil of her feelings and find out how he feels.
This is really a sweet story, not lacking in heat though, I loved both Elaine and Basil and believed they are meant to be together. Very, very good story - highly recommended!
After her father dies, she relies on her best friend, Basil, the book-seller in town as a support. But Basil is in love with Elaine, his prior romantic entanglements have been just that - a tangle. He is scared to declare his feelings for her - he is 20 years her senior and is hiding out from his earldom to boot.
Word gets out that the missing earl has been found, and to everyone in the small town's shock it is mild-mannered book-seller Basil. Elaine feels betrayed by Basil's duplicity and is so very hurt that he didn't share his secret with her especially.
When Basil leaves the country side for London, Elaine is torn. Does she make her way to London and get her man back or does she lick her wounds in her hometown. Elaine charges forward and goes to London prepared to convince Basil of her feelings and find out how he feels.
This is really a sweet story, not lacking in heat though, I loved both Elaine and Basil and believed they are meant to be together. Very, very good story - highly recommended!
January 30, 2022
May Mistakes, Book 3 of The Silver Foxes of Westminster, was about Miss Elaine Bond and Mr. Basil Wall, the local bookseller, aka Lord Basil Allenby, the Missing Earl of Waltham.
When Basil arrived in town two years prior, he immediately fell in love with Elaine, but he could never bring himself to tell her, so he became her close friend and confidante. When Elaine's father died, and then everyone in town turned on her for her eccentric ways, Basil remained a faithful friend.
When Elaine's landlord forced her from her home, she had nowhere to go. Basil gave up his space above his bookstore so she could have a place to live and he moved into the local tavern. Knowing it wouldn't be long before his friend Lord Malcolm Campbell showed up and revealed to the world his true identity, Basil struggled to tell Elaine the truth. Unfortunately, he waited too long. Malcolm arrived and immediately started telling everyone who he was...which made it back to Elaine, but not in a good way. People started treating her even worse than they had before...even Malcolm told her she wasn't fit for Basil and that he would have used her and walked away as he had done other women in the past.
Malcolm, forcing Basil to abandon Elaine in Cumbria to return to London, didn't care that he was separating two people who were very much in love. All his focus was on the upcoming election and getting Basil to do his part towards helping their party to win. Basil, desperate to make amends with Elaine, wasn't given the opportunity to even say goodbye.
Elaine, determined to prove to Basil that they belonged together, took what little money she had left and made the long, arduous journey to London where she hoped to stay with her uncle, Daniel Turpin, and to find Basil.
The angst and drama were both quite high in this story. Too many people kept interfering with the relationship between Basil and Elaine, whether they were fighting for or against them There was a good deal of anger, resentment, fear, disappointment, uncertainty, and several other negative emotions that made the book hard to read. However, there was also passion, though it was light, a touch of humor sprinkled here and there, and a tremendous amount of feistiness to keep the reader glued to the pages.
The characters, though, were a bit on the weak and immature side. Basil, for all that he was fifty years old, acted more like a whipped teenager who allowed everyone around him to control his every move, emotion, and even word. Elaine, being from the country, was extremely naive. She was too easily swayed by others in so many ways, but she also was a bit ... awkward is the best I could come up with. She chose not to dress in modern clothing, she didn't follow society rules in any form or fashion. She just didn't care that everyone laughed at her at every turn.
While it was a decent book, it wasn't five-star worthy. It lacked so much in so many ways and it just never got any better.
When Basil arrived in town two years prior, he immediately fell in love with Elaine, but he could never bring himself to tell her, so he became her close friend and confidante. When Elaine's father died, and then everyone in town turned on her for her eccentric ways, Basil remained a faithful friend.
When Elaine's landlord forced her from her home, she had nowhere to go. Basil gave up his space above his bookstore so she could have a place to live and he moved into the local tavern. Knowing it wouldn't be long before his friend Lord Malcolm Campbell showed up and revealed to the world his true identity, Basil struggled to tell Elaine the truth. Unfortunately, he waited too long. Malcolm arrived and immediately started telling everyone who he was...which made it back to Elaine, but not in a good way. People started treating her even worse than they had before...even Malcolm told her she wasn't fit for Basil and that he would have used her and walked away as he had done other women in the past.
Malcolm, forcing Basil to abandon Elaine in Cumbria to return to London, didn't care that he was separating two people who were very much in love. All his focus was on the upcoming election and getting Basil to do his part towards helping their party to win. Basil, desperate to make amends with Elaine, wasn't given the opportunity to even say goodbye.
Elaine, determined to prove to Basil that they belonged together, took what little money she had left and made the long, arduous journey to London where she hoped to stay with her uncle, Daniel Turpin, and to find Basil.
The angst and drama were both quite high in this story. Too many people kept interfering with the relationship between Basil and Elaine, whether they were fighting for or against them There was a good deal of anger, resentment, fear, disappointment, uncertainty, and several other negative emotions that made the book hard to read. However, there was also passion, though it was light, a touch of humor sprinkled here and there, and a tremendous amount of feistiness to keep the reader glued to the pages.
The characters, though, were a bit on the weak and immature side. Basil, for all that he was fifty years old, acted more like a whipped teenager who allowed everyone around him to control his every move, emotion, and even word. Elaine, being from the country, was extremely naive. She was too easily swayed by others in so many ways, but she also was a bit ... awkward is the best I could come up with. She chose not to dress in modern clothing, she didn't follow society rules in any form or fashion. She just didn't care that everyone laughed at her at every turn.
While it was a decent book, it wasn't five-star worthy. It lacked so much in so many ways and it just never got any better.
September 2, 2018
Elaine Bond is spirited and alone since the death of her father. Basil Wall (Waltham) is the town bookseller who is hiding from his London past. They become close friends over the last 2 years. Elaine refusing to form to society standards and simply wants to be who she is with no restrictions. Their neighbors insist he marries her to settle her down and assume her position as a mere woman. Elaine supports womens rights, Basil is part of a liberal movement to make that a reality. His friend shows up, makes a scene and drags him home... Elaine follows him to win him back, drawing attention in every way possible. We meet up with some of our past characters, including Livinia (who I'm anxiously awaiting her story now since being introduced to her in book 2).
Ok, I was a bit disappointed in this installment. I adore this author, but this one just didn't work for me. I felt it dragged on and found myself powering through just to shelve it and move onto something else. For some reason I just could not connect with this unrealistic happily ever after. Yea, I know, Romanceland is fantasy, but this one was just so generic. As much as I wanted to, just didn't mesh with Elaine. She just seemed so oblivious to everything. But then again, I understand the author intended her to ignore everything outside her goal.
After book 2 when I felt readers were jilted with justice being served, at least one of our bad guys is handled here in book 3. I usually avoid series that aren't completed before I start them (I don't like to wait for an installment, because I sometimes lose interest during that time) but I'm totally ready to see book 4, and hope more is accomplished in Shayles crew.
Ok, I was a bit disappointed in this installment. I adore this author, but this one just didn't work for me. I felt it dragged on and found myself powering through just to shelve it and move onto something else. For some reason I just could not connect with this unrealistic happily ever after. Yea, I know, Romanceland is fantasy, but this one was just so generic. As much as I wanted to, just didn't mesh with Elaine. She just seemed so oblivious to everything. But then again, I understand the author intended her to ignore everything outside her goal.
After book 2 when I felt readers were jilted with justice being served, at least one of our bad guys is handled here in book 3. I usually avoid series that aren't completed before I start them (I don't like to wait for an installment, because I sometimes lose interest during that time) but I'm totally ready to see book 4, and hope more is accomplished in Shayles crew.
April 14, 2025
❤️❤️❤️❤️💔
Elaine Bond è una donna indipendente di trent'anni, il suo atteggiamento anticonformista sconvolge gli abitanti del piccolo paesino inglese in cui vive. Mentre attira l'interesse del misterioso Basil Wall, il librario, che da anni ne è segretamente innamorato.
Basil Wall da due anni si è trasferito a Brynthwaite lasciandosi tutto alle spalle, ha voglia di vivere una vita tranquilla e serena ma, l'incontro con Elaine mette tutto in discussione, lui la ama e la protegge da qualsiasi minaccia, ma ha paura di dichiararsi perché nasconde un segreto che potrebbe rovinare il loro rapporto.
Cosa accadrà quando il passato lo troverà e lo costringerà a fare una scelta?
«Amo il vostro spirito libero e il vostro senso dell'avventura. Amo che niente vi intimorisca e che diciate sempre quello che pensate, indipendentemente da chi vi si oppone.»
Il personaggio maschile come nel precedente volume che ho letto è un uomo maturo di cinquant'anni dolce, un pò insicuro, vero, con tanta voglia di amare ed essere amato.
Elaine è una donna che si batte per i propri diritti andando incontro spesso a situazioni pericolose. Un personaggio il suo passionale e impulsivo.
Una lettura scorrevole e coinvolgente che parla di progresso, di libertà, di donne che lottano per i propri diritti.
«Niente è più importante dell’amore che provo per voi.»
Ho letto il primo libro della serie che mi aveva conquistata a trecentosessanta gradi, forse questo un pò meno, ho trovato il personaggio di Elaine troppo ingenuo nonostante dichiarasse a gran voce la sua indipendenza, spesso il suo atteggiamento è stato troppo impetuoso e immaturo.
Ringrazio la Literary Romance per la bellissima copia cartacea
Elaine Bond è una donna indipendente di trent'anni, il suo atteggiamento anticonformista sconvolge gli abitanti del piccolo paesino inglese in cui vive. Mentre attira l'interesse del misterioso Basil Wall, il librario, che da anni ne è segretamente innamorato.
Basil Wall da due anni si è trasferito a Brynthwaite lasciandosi tutto alle spalle, ha voglia di vivere una vita tranquilla e serena ma, l'incontro con Elaine mette tutto in discussione, lui la ama e la protegge da qualsiasi minaccia, ma ha paura di dichiararsi perché nasconde un segreto che potrebbe rovinare il loro rapporto.
Cosa accadrà quando il passato lo troverà e lo costringerà a fare una scelta?
«Amo il vostro spirito libero e il vostro senso dell'avventura. Amo che niente vi intimorisca e che diciate sempre quello che pensate, indipendentemente da chi vi si oppone.»
Il personaggio maschile come nel precedente volume che ho letto è un uomo maturo di cinquant'anni dolce, un pò insicuro, vero, con tanta voglia di amare ed essere amato.
Elaine è una donna che si batte per i propri diritti andando incontro spesso a situazioni pericolose. Un personaggio il suo passionale e impulsivo.
Una lettura scorrevole e coinvolgente che parla di progresso, di libertà, di donne che lottano per i propri diritti.
«Niente è più importante dell’amore che provo per voi.»
Ho letto il primo libro della serie che mi aveva conquistata a trecentosessanta gradi, forse questo un pò meno, ho trovato il personaggio di Elaine troppo ingenuo nonostante dichiarasse a gran voce la sua indipendenza, spesso il suo atteggiamento è stato troppo impetuoso e immaturo.
Ringrazio la Literary Romance per la bellissima copia cartacea
July 15, 2023
I feel like both leads had potential, but neither ended up impressing me much. The heroine started out seemingly having the courage to go against society's expectations, which is something, but was also so naive that it ended up undermining any claim to bravery. You need to be afraid but still do it anyway, to be truly courageous, but she often seemed entirely unaware of how she would be perceived. You don't really get the credit if you just accidentally blunder into awkward situations and then go 'oh dear...'. She also started off seeming well read and feminist, which are commendable, but actually she was completely clueless about people and didn't have even a basic grasp of politics. She's like a stubborn child walking around in the body of an adult.
The hero apparently took like 40 years to grow out of his boyhood (so I suppose there's hope for the heroine? lol), and came off kind of cowardly. He's gone into hiding basically after embarrassing himself, and then allows his bully of a friend (and others) to rearrange his life.
Both of them were basically pawns used by more powerful (mostly villainous) characters. And this is supposed to be their story! Both were sort of gullible as well, it just was not fun at all. And there is a enormous amount of awkward and embarrassing situations. To me it was often cringeworthy. The heroine may be oblivious to all social graces or whatever, but I'm not, and I felt like wincing in embarrassment on her behalf.
The first book in this series was basically fine, but the last book and this one were unpleasant for me to get through, so I'm abandoning the series.
The hero apparently took like 40 years to grow out of his boyhood (so I suppose there's hope for the heroine? lol), and came off kind of cowardly. He's gone into hiding basically after embarrassing himself, and then allows his bully of a friend (and others) to rearrange his life.
Both of them were basically pawns used by more powerful (mostly villainous) characters. And this is supposed to be their story! Both were sort of gullible as well, it just was not fun at all. And there is a enormous amount of awkward and embarrassing situations. To me it was often cringeworthy. The heroine may be oblivious to all social graces or whatever, but I'm not, and I felt like wincing in embarrassment on her behalf.
The first book in this series was basically fine, but the last book and this one were unpleasant for me to get through, so I'm abandoning the series.
January 4, 2021
Miss Elaine Bond has decided to enjoy life as an independent woman living her bohemian, eccentric life in Brynthwaite, Cumbria. Dressing as if she were in the Pre-Raphaelite movement, this beautiful, outspoken young woman is shunned and ridiculed by the locals where she lives, everyone excludes her except the older handsome bookshop owner, Mr. Basil Wall.
Basil has been in love with Elaine ever since he moved there and Elaine breezed into his shop in a waft of loveliness two years ago. Not only do they share a love of books, but they also share a friendship and bond, that hopefully cannot be broken.
But Basil is a man of secrets and he is not what or who he seems, he is too afraid to let Elaine into his heart because of past experiences, but would she not understand....
And once his old and dear friend Sir Malcom Campbell whisks him back to London, will she ever forgive him.
This is a beautifully told story from the very talented Merry Farmer who captures the reader's heart with this tale of forgiveness, love and duty.
As usual, she very ably describes the era at this time while including the usual characters, camaraderie, humour, emotion and plots around these two wonderful characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed it and yes, it appears that love can conquer all!
Basil has been in love with Elaine ever since he moved there and Elaine breezed into his shop in a waft of loveliness two years ago. Not only do they share a love of books, but they also share a friendship and bond, that hopefully cannot be broken.
But Basil is a man of secrets and he is not what or who he seems, he is too afraid to let Elaine into his heart because of past experiences, but would she not understand....
And once his old and dear friend Sir Malcom Campbell whisks him back to London, will she ever forgive him.
This is a beautifully told story from the very talented Merry Farmer who captures the reader's heart with this tale of forgiveness, love and duty.
As usual, she very ably describes the era at this time while including the usual characters, camaraderie, humour, emotion and plots around these two wonderful characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed it and yes, it appears that love can conquer all!
July 22, 2018
As usual I just immersed myself in the latest from Merry Farmer. It was engrossing and full of surprises, I never would have expected Elaine to be related to the villain of the story, Definitely took me by surprise! Elaine’s quirky character endeared her so much more to me, I loved her “ I don’t give a damn” attitude this is who I am and not changing for no-one!
I LOVED Basil his love for Elaine was so romantic their bond was made so much stronger because of their friendship. The fact that he believed in her no matter what everyone thought said a lot about his character.
So when Basils life comes crashing and tears him away from Elaine, she does the unthinkable and follows him to London, she not only finds the man she loves but a nefarious plot to ruin what Basil and his friends are fighting for in parliament!
A fast paced story full of evil villains, steamy romance and a heroine who sticks her nose at convention, a hero who will stop at nothing to prove his love to the woman he loves!
Well written and entertaining and full of surprises!
I received a complimentary copy, this is my honest unbiased opinion.
I LOVED Basil his love for Elaine was so romantic their bond was made so much stronger because of their friendship. The fact that he believed in her no matter what everyone thought said a lot about his character.
So when Basils life comes crashing and tears him away from Elaine, she does the unthinkable and follows him to London, she not only finds the man she loves but a nefarious plot to ruin what Basil and his friends are fighting for in parliament!
A fast paced story full of evil villains, steamy romance and a heroine who sticks her nose at convention, a hero who will stop at nothing to prove his love to the woman he loves!
Well written and entertaining and full of surprises!
I received a complimentary copy, this is my honest unbiased opinion.
June 26, 2022
Lord Basil Allenby, Earl of Waltham left London under a cloud of his own private shame, loving a woman who’d left him for another. Comfortable in Cumbria as a local bookseller known as Basil Wall, the Earl had no idea he’d fall for his friend, the eccentric Elaine Bond as her father lie dying. Basil waited patiently for Elaine to return his out-of-control feelings for her.
And he couldn’t tell her, Basil could no more confess his feelings to outspoken, passionate Elaine than he could discuss the parliamentary seat, land and riches he’d abandoned to live simply. Basil’s been found out, his friends want him in London while the men in town insist he marry Elaine, settle her down, they scheme to run Elaine out of town, raising Basil’s ire.
Basil’s worlds clash as his friend arrives and loudly announces Basil’s truth bringing a change in the way townsfolk treat Basil with much deference and treat Elaine with more abominable disdain. It doesn’t take long until Basil is swept off to London and it doesn’t take much longer than that before Elaine follows her heart.
Rating: 4stars
And he couldn’t tell her, Basil could no more confess his feelings to outspoken, passionate Elaine than he could discuss the parliamentary seat, land and riches he’d abandoned to live simply. Basil’s been found out, his friends want him in London while the men in town insist he marry Elaine, settle her down, they scheme to run Elaine out of town, raising Basil’s ire.
Basil’s worlds clash as his friend arrives and loudly announces Basil’s truth bringing a change in the way townsfolk treat Basil with much deference and treat Elaine with more abominable disdain. It doesn’t take long until Basil is swept off to London and it doesn’t take much longer than that before Elaine follows her heart.
Rating: 4stars
July 23, 2018
May Mistakes by Merry Farmer was a delightful read it was quite fun and very entertaining. This was a story with some surprises, loss, some laughs and definitely some love. The characters are well developed, they are independent, strong and loyal. Miss Elaine Bond was a very intriguing character, she is an intelligent woman who knows what she wants and has a deep passion for her beliefs. She has an incredible friendship with the local book store owner, Mr. Basil Wall. Mr. Wall aka Earl of Waltham is the local bookstore owner who has for the last two years been Elaine friend, but he has also kept a secret or two from her. This was a story with some fun and exciting twists and turns that will keep you hook till the very end. If you love strong sexy and intelligent lead characters this is the book for you. I absolutely recommend this great story. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
September 16, 2018
The Missing Earl and the freethinking maiden
This is the third novel in this story arc. I really enjoy short series involving a cadre of friends. In this case they are all men in their 50’s who have either lost loves or never truly found them. Thankfully the 4th installment will be out in two weeks.
Merry Farmer chose an interesting and turbulent time in British history in the late 1800’s. Women’s rights, voting rights for working class men, workers rights in general, a move toward the modern era. This series is reminiscent of Courtney Milan’s The Brothers Sinister, which I also enjoyed.
From page 23: “Because no one will give you anything in life. Because unless you stand up and fight for the things that you want, the world you want, nothing will change.”
And yes, it is a spicy, steamy relationship. Don’t read it if that’s not your cup of tea!
This is the third novel in this story arc. I really enjoy short series involving a cadre of friends. In this case they are all men in their 50’s who have either lost loves or never truly found them. Thankfully the 4th installment will be out in two weeks.
Merry Farmer chose an interesting and turbulent time in British history in the late 1800’s. Women’s rights, voting rights for working class men, workers rights in general, a move toward the modern era. This series is reminiscent of Courtney Milan’s The Brothers Sinister, which I also enjoyed.
From page 23: “Because no one will give you anything in life. Because unless you stand up and fight for the things that you want, the world you want, nothing will change.”
And yes, it is a spicy, steamy relationship. Don’t read it if that’s not your cup of tea!
September 6, 2023
So there are a few authors I read that I call my “go to” authors. Merry Farmer is one of those authors. I have read all my "regular read" authors new releases and looking for more to read until the next group of new releases come out. Nothing against not calling her one of my “regular authors” because I really enjoy her books and always get a good read. I just picked up her books way later than some of the other authors I read. I like to know I have some good authors to fall back on and also I can actually read a whole series back to back and not have to wait in-between each new release within the series. This is actually my 14th book by her. I read her the first time when she wrote Second Chance Manor series that she wrote with Scarlett Scott and Caroline Lee.
I am really loving this series. I loved Elaine and Basil. I loved how different these stories are.
I am really loving this series. I loved Elaine and Basil. I loved how different these stories are.
July 22, 2018
Exceeded my expectations💕
Elaine and Baisel. The book I have been waiting on. Engaging as usual with interesting people and an enjoyable story. The characters come alive. Like Elaine, She has sas and no matter how many times she is put down or made fun of, she doesnt give up on her convictions. Baisel looks over the flaws everyone sees to find the one women he has ever been able to love. Of course, there has to be some mystery and manipulation to keep you on the edge of your seat. I can't wait to see what will happen.💟
Elaine and Baisel. The book I have been waiting on. Engaging as usual with interesting people and an enjoyable story. The characters come alive. Like Elaine, She has sas and no matter how many times she is put down or made fun of, she doesnt give up on her convictions. Baisel looks over the flaws everyone sees to find the one women he has ever been able to love. Of course, there has to be some mystery and manipulation to keep you on the edge of your seat. I can't wait to see what will happen.💟
August 7, 2018
A Wonderful story!
A delightful story that combines romance and history! Ms. Farmer is one of the few authors who can incorporate numerous historical facts into a romance without boring the reader to death. 😁 If you haven't read any of her books, now is a great time to start!
You will enjoy the journey Basil and Elaine undertake. You will cheer Elaine on as she proudly speaks her mind and stands up for what she believes in.
Thank you again Ms. Farmer for another wonderful story!
A delightful story that combines romance and history! Ms. Farmer is one of the few authors who can incorporate numerous historical facts into a romance without boring the reader to death. 😁 If you haven't read any of her books, now is a great time to start!
You will enjoy the journey Basil and Elaine undertake. You will cheer Elaine on as she proudly speaks her mind and stands up for what she believes in.
Thank you again Ms. Farmer for another wonderful story!
January 27, 2019
May-December romance with unusual background
The inclusion of late Victorian politics and the rights of women make for an unusual setting in this entertaining romance. The heroine is strong-willed, courageous, principled, and grossly naive. An older man who has seen war, the hero exercises caution in abundance to the point where one wishes he'd quit dithering and use that power he has simply because he's an earl. The editing is well done, only a handful of minor bobbled, and the writing strong. Recommended.
The inclusion of late Victorian politics and the rights of women make for an unusual setting in this entertaining romance. The heroine is strong-willed, courageous, principled, and grossly naive. An older man who has seen war, the hero exercises caution in abundance to the point where one wishes he'd quit dithering and use that power he has simply because he's an earl. The editing is well done, only a handful of minor bobbled, and the writing strong. Recommended.
February 26, 2022
Such A Delight!
Oh, I just love the older man, younger lady trope. The holding back and anticipation is just marvelous. And, so it is in Elaine and Basil's story which is an absolute delight.
Elaine's outspokenness on subjects she feel strongly about is remarkable and always downright funny.
I would certainly love to have a Basil in my life - he is just so swoony!
I know I'm reading these stories out of sequence but they are stand-alones so it really doesn't matter and I am enjoying them so much.
Can I recommend this one? Oh, yes!
Oh, I just love the older man, younger lady trope. The holding back and anticipation is just marvelous. And, so it is in Elaine and Basil's story which is an absolute delight.
Elaine's outspokenness on subjects she feel strongly about is remarkable and always downright funny.
I would certainly love to have a Basil in my life - he is just so swoony!
I know I'm reading these stories out of sequence but they are stand-alones so it really doesn't matter and I am enjoying them so much.
Can I recommend this one? Oh, yes!
July 13, 2019
A Bohemian Countess
Elaine had a free spirited upbringing and was overly indulged as a child! Once her father passed Basil came into her life as a Bookstore owner! Basil has a past and the people of Cumbria have requested he marry Elaine and get her to settle down! Elaine is a fierce protector of women's rights! Her Uncle is not the person she thinks he is and neither is Basil! When secrets are revealed will they run or stay and fight!!!
Elaine had a free spirited upbringing and was overly indulged as a child! Once her father passed Basil came into her life as a Bookstore owner! Basil has a past and the people of Cumbria have requested he marry Elaine and get her to settle down! Elaine is a fierce protector of women's rights! Her Uncle is not the person she thinks he is and neither is Basil! When secrets are revealed will they run or stay and fight!!!
August 23, 2018
Never disappointed:
All of her books will keep you so enthralled , till the wee hours of the morning , so worth staying up late to see what will happen next... Keep on writing those books Merry, we really do appreciate all the hard work you put into them for us to read!! This Book is Reviewed by a Book Loving Vixen !!
All of her books will keep you so enthralled , till the wee hours of the morning , so worth staying up late to see what will happen next... Keep on writing those books Merry, we really do appreciate all the hard work you put into them for us to read!! This Book is Reviewed by a Book Loving Vixen !!
October 21, 2018
Disappointment for me.
In the first half of the book strong heroine, but later that disappeared.
The hero was weak and coward throughout the book.
I love books with older hero and heroine, but this book just slowly went from great to bad. And grown-up man leaving woman who loves him and might be with child is no hero, especially knowing that she has no one else.
In the first half of the book strong heroine, but later that disappeared.
The hero was weak and coward throughout the book.
I love books with older hero and heroine, but this book just slowly went from great to bad. And grown-up man leaving woman who loves him and might be with child is no hero, especially knowing that she has no one else.
December 24, 2021
While I love the main characters in this series and there is a lot to love about these books there also is some really annoying parts to these stories that take away from the enjoyment but everytime I'm about to give up on this writer she pulls me back in to see what happens to the next couple
March 6, 2022
Great story of the missing earl and his friend
Living in far north england, Basil is running his bookshop and the happiest he has ever bee. He has a lovely lady friend. She is very outspoken re her political views and he agrees, but the town does not. Then parliament " calls" and his life changes!
Living in far north england, Basil is running his bookshop and the happiest he has ever bee. He has a lovely lady friend. She is very outspoken re her political views and he agrees, but the town does not. Then parliament " calls" and his life changes!
January 23, 2020
I had forgotten how much I like sappy Merry Farmer novels. This lady sure can write 'em! Really enjoyed this guy, even though it was hard for me to place an older couple in the world denoted, it was fun to try.
Do recommend for the romance novel enthusiast.
Do recommend for the romance novel enthusiast.
January 31, 2019
Mixed feelings on this one
I enjoyed the general story, but was disappointed in the female lead. Her reactions and behavior weren't plausible for a woman in her late twenties.
I enjoyed the general story, but was disappointed in the female lead. Her reactions and behavior weren't plausible for a woman in her late twenties.
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