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Other Pens, Mansfield Park #2
Charles: To Discover His Purpose
All he wanted was a kiss. What he got was so much more.
Charles Edwards is no stranger to scandal. He lives an easy, carefree life, floating from one moment of pleasure to another. Or, at least, he did until one fateful night when two young ladies asked him to come to their aid. Since then, Charles has been hiding from society until his injuries heal, which is what he was attempting to do when one of those ladies – the one with the kissable lips – re-enters his life.
Evelyn Barrett loves nothing better than assisting others. Therefore, when she is presented with the possibility of guiding a shiftless gentleman toward improving himself, she just can’t refuse. It should be an easy task. All she needs to do is sidestep his charm and ignore is good looks while pointing him in the right direction.
However, Charles has no intention of taking Evelyn’s advice and then leaving her alone. A gentleman determined to claim a kiss from a lady must ingratiate himself with the lady. And that is where the trouble begins.
As the two spend time together, desires increase, affections are engaged, and Charles’s end goal shifts. But will his scandalous past be the very thing which keeps him from achieving what he desires, or will he find himself at the beginning of a new scheme and direction for his life?
To Discover His Purpose is the second book in Leenie Brown's Other Pens series. If you like well-written stories of sweet redemption, then you will love this story of facing the challenges that reformation can bring and discovering the pleasure that only deep, abiding love can provide.
So, put the kettle on, grab your copy of To Discover His Purpose, and let this sweet romance inspire a hope that even the most reprobate, wandering heart can, with care and proper direction, be transformed into that of a worthy gentleman ready to forge a new path in his life.
----
Book
• just under 46,000 words
• 239 paperback pages
Charles Edwards is no stranger to scandal. He lives an easy, carefree life, floating from one moment of pleasure to another. Or, at least, he did until one fateful night when two young ladies asked him to come to their aid. Since then, Charles has been hiding from society until his injuries heal, which is what he was attempting to do when one of those ladies – the one with the kissable lips – re-enters his life.
Evelyn Barrett loves nothing better than assisting others. Therefore, when she is presented with the possibility of guiding a shiftless gentleman toward improving himself, she just can’t refuse. It should be an easy task. All she needs to do is sidestep his charm and ignore is good looks while pointing him in the right direction.
However, Charles has no intention of taking Evelyn’s advice and then leaving her alone. A gentleman determined to claim a kiss from a lady must ingratiate himself with the lady. And that is where the trouble begins.
As the two spend time together, desires increase, affections are engaged, and Charles’s end goal shifts. But will his scandalous past be the very thing which keeps him from achieving what he desires, or will he find himself at the beginning of a new scheme and direction for his life?
To Discover His Purpose is the second book in Leenie Brown's Other Pens series. If you like well-written stories of sweet redemption, then you will love this story of facing the challenges that reformation can bring and discovering the pleasure that only deep, abiding love can provide.
So, put the kettle on, grab your copy of To Discover His Purpose, and let this sweet romance inspire a hope that even the most reprobate, wandering heart can, with care and proper direction, be transformed into that of a worthy gentleman ready to forge a new path in his life.
----
Book
• just under 46,000 words
• 239 paperback pages
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 28, 2018
43 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Leenie Brown
95 books112 followersLeenie Brown has always been a girl with an active imagination, which, while growing up, was both an asset, providing many hours of fun as she played out stories, and a liability, when her older sister and aunt would tell her frightening tales. At one time, they had her convinced Dracula lived in the trunk at the end of the bed she slept in when visiting her grandparents!
Although it has been years since she cowered in her bed in her grandparents’ basement, she still has an imagination which occasionally runs away with her, and she feeds it now as she did then ─ by reading!
Her heroes, when growing up, were authors, and the worlds they painted with words were (and still are) her favourite playgrounds! Now, as an adult, she spends much of her time in the Regency world, playing with the characters from her favourite Jane Austen novels and those of her own creation.
When she is not traipsing down a trail in an attempt to keep up with her imagination, Leenie resides in the beautiful province of Nova Scotia with her two sons and her very own Mr. Brown (a wonderful mix of all the best of Darcy, Bingley, and Edmund with a healthy dose of the teasing Mr. Tilney and just a dash of the scolding Mr. Knightley).
Although it has been years since she cowered in her bed in her grandparents’ basement, she still has an imagination which occasionally runs away with her, and she feeds it now as she did then ─ by reading!
Her heroes, when growing up, were authors, and the worlds they painted with words were (and still are) her favourite playgrounds! Now, as an adult, she spends much of her time in the Regency world, playing with the characters from her favourite Jane Austen novels and those of her own creation.
When she is not traipsing down a trail in an attempt to keep up with her imagination, Leenie resides in the beautiful province of Nova Scotia with her two sons and her very own Mr. Brown (a wonderful mix of all the best of Darcy, Bingley, and Edmund with a healthy dose of the teasing Mr. Tilney and just a dash of the scolding Mr. Knightley).
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
August 28, 2018
“Look at how a man behaves with the women in his life and you will know if he is a gentleman or a scoundrel.” –Avijeet Das
Other Pens, Mansfield Park
Book 2: Charles: To Discover His Purpose
Book 1: Henry: To Prove Himself Worthy
Since I had already read Henry: Book 1 in Leenie Brown’s Other Pens series, I can say this one is not a stand-alone and a basic knowledge of Mansfield Park helps with both books. Charles was introduced in book 1 and Henry carried over and was still a big part of this story. I loved Henry’s story and I loved this story even more. Adorable, quick read, clean, and a HEA that will just melt your heart. It was well written and laid out well with transitions that were smooth and easy to follow. There was medium angst as we thought it was going to fall apart there for a while. The villains were obvious and their antics were used well. I enjoyed this very much.
I loved the supporting characters and thoroughly enjoyed the fun parts. There were surprises sprinkled throughout and even a crossover visit from other Austen characters. I won’t spoil it as it was so much fun discovering them on the page. The story ended at 91% on my reading device. There was an excerpt from ‘His Beautiful Bea’ from Brown’s Touches of Austen Collection.
I volunteered to read an ARC [advanced reader copy] with no expectations of a review positive or otherwise. The views expressed are my own.
Other Pens, Mansfield Park
Book 2: Charles: To Discover His Purpose
Book 1: Henry: To Prove Himself Worthy
Since I had already read Henry: Book 1 in Leenie Brown’s Other Pens series, I can say this one is not a stand-alone and a basic knowledge of Mansfield Park helps with both books. Charles was introduced in book 1 and Henry carried over and was still a big part of this story. I loved Henry’s story and I loved this story even more. Adorable, quick read, clean, and a HEA that will just melt your heart. It was well written and laid out well with transitions that were smooth and easy to follow. There was medium angst as we thought it was going to fall apart there for a while. The villains were obvious and their antics were used well. I enjoyed this very much.
I loved the supporting characters and thoroughly enjoyed the fun parts. There were surprises sprinkled throughout and even a crossover visit from other Austen characters. I won’t spoil it as it was so much fun discovering them on the page. The story ended at 91% on my reading device. There was an excerpt from ‘His Beautiful Bea’ from Brown’s Touches of Austen Collection.
I volunteered to read an ARC [advanced reader copy] with no expectations of a review positive or otherwise. The views expressed are my own.
January 4, 2021
Can an idle flirt discover a purpose beyond teasing a kiss out of a woman? And, can that woman make a choice from her heart and not just do her duty to her parents? The second in a series that is follow up the Jane Austen's Mansfield Park was another light and sparkling read.
Charles Edwards determined long ago that he was not cut out to please his father's high expectations so he didn't bother to try and has developed something of a reputation in London Society as a light flirt. But, seeing his fellow gadabout Henry Crawford fall in love and change and meeting a woman who enjoys the Season, but her true loves are her charity works to make a difference for others has him considering a great change in his life Instead of winning Miss Barrett's kiss, he is determined to win her smile and her appreciation.
Evelyn Barrett would rather go along with her mother's dictates about suitor and social schedule so she can focus on her two favorite works- helping match serving staff to posts and orphan children. Mr. Edwards livens up their party, but she doesn't take him seriously when he decides he wants to see what charity work is about. He does well with the children and impresses the staff and people at both works he attends, but is a real or is he amusing himself or playing some sort of game. She doesn't dare allow herself to feel affection or anything beyond pleasure that he is doing something worthwhile. His interest can't be real or lasting, right?
While the first story in the series about Henry Crawford could be seen as a direct sequel to Austen's Mansfield Park, this one involves the author's own original characters and their story with the Crawfords and, fun, the Darcys in the background. Charles does most of the growing as a person, but Evelyn has to do her own soul-searching to figure out what she really wants and to balance that against what she perceives as parental expectation.
It was a light and sparkling Regency Romance and I adored both the reforming Charles and the thoughtful, compassionate Evelyn. Though predictable, it was an all around delight. After a another brief encounter with an unchanged Mary Crawford, I am intrigued for her book next. Definitely a series I can recommend to Austen and to sweet historical romance fans.
Charles Edwards determined long ago that he was not cut out to please his father's high expectations so he didn't bother to try and has developed something of a reputation in London Society as a light flirt. But, seeing his fellow gadabout Henry Crawford fall in love and change and meeting a woman who enjoys the Season, but her true loves are her charity works to make a difference for others has him considering a great change in his life Instead of winning Miss Barrett's kiss, he is determined to win her smile and her appreciation.
Evelyn Barrett would rather go along with her mother's dictates about suitor and social schedule so she can focus on her two favorite works- helping match serving staff to posts and orphan children. Mr. Edwards livens up their party, but she doesn't take him seriously when he decides he wants to see what charity work is about. He does well with the children and impresses the staff and people at both works he attends, but is a real or is he amusing himself or playing some sort of game. She doesn't dare allow herself to feel affection or anything beyond pleasure that he is doing something worthwhile. His interest can't be real or lasting, right?
While the first story in the series about Henry Crawford could be seen as a direct sequel to Austen's Mansfield Park, this one involves the author's own original characters and their story with the Crawfords and, fun, the Darcys in the background. Charles does most of the growing as a person, but Evelyn has to do her own soul-searching to figure out what she really wants and to balance that against what she perceives as parental expectation.
It was a light and sparkling Regency Romance and I adored both the reforming Charles and the thoughtful, compassionate Evelyn. Though predictable, it was an all around delight. After a another brief encounter with an unchanged Mary Crawford, I am intrigued for her book next. Definitely a series I can recommend to Austen and to sweet historical romance fans.
August 28, 2018
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
I read this without having read the previous Mansfield Park Book in this series (Henry: To Prove Himself Worthy: A Mansfield Park Continuation, Episode 1). FYI, I don't recommend doing that. This isn't really a Mansfield Park variation; it's the sequel to a Mansfield Park variation, and it focuses primarily on non-MP characters. The minute I finished this, I grabbed the other to fill in the plot holes I missed, so now I have read both of them, although in backwards order.
Our protagonist here, Charles Edwards, is a wealthy, charming, well-known rake and a good friend of the recently rehabilitated (*yawn*) Henry Crawford. Henry is now betrothed to Constance Linton. (If you want to know how that came about, you must read the previous work.) Constance has a dear friend, Miss Evelyn Barrett, our current heroine, whose mother is extremely proper and overprotective. Mrs. Barrett is very eager for Evelyn to make an appropriate match.
Evelyn devotes most of her time to various charities, participating in enough social events to keep her mother satisfied. She's been hanging with Mr. Marsh, a perfectly acceptable but dull gentleman she expects she'll probably marry, only because she believes he's too mild-mannered to object to her charitable pursuits.
Recently, however, Charles Edwards has surprised her. His intervention on behalf of Henry and Constance (see previous book) has proved to Evelyn that he must have a better side. The do-gooder in her demands that she attempt to redeem him. She believes that if he experiences how satisfying it is to assist others, he can become an honorable gentleman.
But how much does Charles really WANT to change? His main objective is to procure a kiss from the enticing and virtuous Miss Barrett. Mrs. Barrett is very unhappy with the amount of attention her daughter is giving such a scoundrel, while Evelyn is just as dedicated to rehabilitating Mr. Edwards as she is to her other charitable works.
It's a delightful plot that's well executed and nicely written by the always satisfying Ms. Brown. Just make sure you read Book 1 FIRST, and don't expect anything more than little hints of Mansfield Park in this particular story.
Received an ARC from the author with no promise of a review, favorable or otherwise.
I read this without having read the previous Mansfield Park Book in this series (Henry: To Prove Himself Worthy: A Mansfield Park Continuation, Episode 1). FYI, I don't recommend doing that. This isn't really a Mansfield Park variation; it's the sequel to a Mansfield Park variation, and it focuses primarily on non-MP characters. The minute I finished this, I grabbed the other to fill in the plot holes I missed, so now I have read both of them, although in backwards order.
Our protagonist here, Charles Edwards, is a wealthy, charming, well-known rake and a good friend of the recently rehabilitated (*yawn*) Henry Crawford. Henry is now betrothed to Constance Linton. (If you want to know how that came about, you must read the previous work.) Constance has a dear friend, Miss Evelyn Barrett, our current heroine, whose mother is extremely proper and overprotective. Mrs. Barrett is very eager for Evelyn to make an appropriate match.
Evelyn devotes most of her time to various charities, participating in enough social events to keep her mother satisfied. She's been hanging with Mr. Marsh, a perfectly acceptable but dull gentleman she expects she'll probably marry, only because she believes he's too mild-mannered to object to her charitable pursuits.
Recently, however, Charles Edwards has surprised her. His intervention on behalf of Henry and Constance (see previous book) has proved to Evelyn that he must have a better side. The do-gooder in her demands that she attempt to redeem him. She believes that if he experiences how satisfying it is to assist others, he can become an honorable gentleman.
But how much does Charles really WANT to change? His main objective is to procure a kiss from the enticing and virtuous Miss Barrett. Mrs. Barrett is very unhappy with the amount of attention her daughter is giving such a scoundrel, while Evelyn is just as dedicated to rehabilitating Mr. Edwards as she is to her other charitable works.
It's a delightful plot that's well executed and nicely written by the always satisfying Ms. Brown. Just make sure you read Book 1 FIRST, and don't expect anything more than little hints of Mansfield Park in this particular story.
Received an ARC from the author with no promise of a review, favorable or otherwise.
October 8, 2018
"Charles: To Discover His Purpose (Other Pens, Mansfield Park Book 2)" was so delightful and swoon-worthy. From the cover (love it) to the end of the story, I was completely engaged and enamoured. His charm oozes off the page and you will wish you were Evelyn Barrett...an inspiring and warmhearted young lady who knows her own mind and what she wants to do with her life.
"No he was not the sort of gentleman to trot around behind a lady hoping for her to smile at him or laugh at his jokes. He danced; he flirted and he stole kisses. He did not become attached." (quote from the book)
I strongly recommend that you read "Henry: To Prove Himself Worthy (Other Pens, Mansfield Park Episode 1)", as we are first introduced to Charles and Evelyn in that book. Things happen there that impact this story. Charles pursues Evelyn so he can steal a kiss...but what will the consequences be? It was fun seeing Henry, Constance, Linton and Mrs. Kendrick again, along with some other favourite characters. Besides, I just loved Charles' thoughts on 'toads'!
So if you ever need to relax and unwind, I highly recommend you read a book by Leenie Brown.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book with no expectation of a review.
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April 13, 2023
This is the second book of a 5~book series that introduces some new characters that are really quite enjoyable. It picks up directly from where the first book Henry~To Prove Himself Worthy, leaves off. The main character, Charles Edwards, is a rich, single, handsome man with a rather horrible reputation for being a rake, not only with the married ladies looking for excitement to ease their boredom in a loveless marriage, but also with the single ladies participating in the London Season. That is until he meets Miss Evelyn Barrett. For some reason he cannot fathom, he feels he wants to change from his dissolute lifestyle and become a better man worthy of a unique and caring woman. Will he be able to change enough to win said lady's admiration?
I read this series long ago when first published in 2018 and forgot how delightful it is. Ms. Brown has a talent for creating new characters to blend in seamlessly with those that are already known by the JAFF audience. If I have one criticism of this book it is that the plot is very similar to the first book of the series in that both of the main characters are set to improve themselves to win the lady they have fallen in love with. Still, it is a worthy read.
I received this book for free from BookSprout in exhange for a fair and honest review.
I read this series long ago when first published in 2018 and forgot how delightful it is. Ms. Brown has a talent for creating new characters to blend in seamlessly with those that are already known by the JAFF audience. If I have one criticism of this book it is that the plot is very similar to the first book of the series in that both of the main characters are set to improve themselves to win the lady they have fallen in love with. Still, it is a worthy read.
I received this book for free from BookSprout in exhange for a fair and honest review.
August 23, 2018
Charles Edwards, can think of no other purpose then to live a careless free life, is friend to Henry Crawford. The now reformed Crawford of Mansfield Park. Charles has no reason to reform until he meets Evelyn Barrett and begins to wonder if his life could have a purpose after all.
A delightful romance and a good read. I like that it has connections to the seemingly less popular book by Austen and hope for more of them.
Received an ARC
A delightful romance and a good read. I like that it has connections to the seemingly less popular book by Austen and hope for more of them.
Received an ARC
August 24, 2022
Secondo libro della serie Other Pens, Mansfield Park, che qui c'entra ben poco se non per la sporadica presenza di Henry e Mary Crawford (la protagonista è la più cara amica di Constance Linton, ormai fidanzata con il riformato Henry Crawford, e anche Charles è un buon amico di Henry), e che, anzi, vede la presenza di Darcy ed Elizabeth e degli zii Gardiner.
Si tratta di un ottimo romance, però, motivo per le mie 4 stelle, con una protagonista super-impegnata e femminista e un eroe tanto innamorato di lei da non volerla cambiare, come invece fa il suo più assiduo corteggiatore, Mr. Marsh.
Si tratta di un ottimo romance, però, motivo per le mie 4 stelle, con una protagonista super-impegnata e femminista e un eroe tanto innamorato di lei da non volerla cambiare, come invece fa il suo più assiduo corteggiatore, Mr. Marsh.
August 24, 2020
I won a free copy in an Austen Author's website giveaway.
This book picks up shortly after Henry's Story ended and is about Henry's friend Charles Edwards as well as Constance's friend Evelyn Barrett. I really enjoyed reading their story as well as the fact that this story tied Two Days Before Christmas: A Pride and Prejudice Novella in by mentioning Mrs. Verity's as well as Introducing Charles Edwards to the Darcy's and the Gardiner's. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
This book picks up shortly after Henry's Story ended and is about Henry's friend Charles Edwards as well as Constance's friend Evelyn Barrett. I really enjoyed reading their story as well as the fact that this story tied Two Days Before Christmas: A Pride and Prejudice Novella in by mentioning Mrs. Verity's as well as Introducing Charles Edwards to the Darcy's and the Gardiner's. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
April 30, 2023
Well-Written JAFF, Telling of a Side Character’s Redemption and HEA
As I've said in reviews before, I came back to reading as an adult because of a love and appreciation for well-written Jane Austen fanfiction. This author is among those I first read then. I've only read her Pride and Prejudice fanfiction until now. Lately, I've been reading more contemporary romance, and far too often contemporary self-published stories lack good writing quality. Some contemporary romances may have excellent plots, interesting characters, natural-sounding dialogue, and just the right amount of narrative—but too many books only have one or two of these elements (or none!). Too many books may suffer from poor/wrong word choice, uneven tone, all characters sounding alike, and/or issues with grammar, punctuation, or usage. Add to this that contemporary romance is so trope driven these days—even with courses that teach specifically how to write or hire out that kind of writing—that often a book’s title is just a bunch of tropes strung together. It all starts to blend and seems so much the same. Seriously, how many “grumpy/sunshine alpha male billionaire one-stand resulting in a surprise pregnancy” stories can you read without your eyes glazing over? Much to my chagrin, I've seen trope-centric writing starting to creep into historical romance as well.
I write all this as prologue to say that, within the first chapter, I was reminded how much simple pleasure you can get from well-written historical romance, and for me, particularly Jane Austen fanfiction. I love it when an author takes me by the metaphorical hand and leads me through a great story. By the way, the author has a brief note to the reader where she explains the meaning of the series' name, Other Pens. In Mansfield, Jane Austen said that other pens may take up the stories of particular characters who are not shown at their best, shall we say, and tell their story. That's why this series will feature some rogues, rakes, and perhaps even villains, showing their path to redemption and an HEA. I think that's a great idea for a series! The series’ first book features Henry Crawford from Mansfield Park; this book is his rakish friend’s story, that of Charles Edwards.
Back to this book. While some might call the initial part of the first chapter an info or data dump, the author does this so artfully that you are not only drawn into the story, but within a few pages, you understand much about the hero's character. Then when more characters were introduced, including the heroine of the story, I began fangirling anew! Even in that first scene, their interaction was witty and fun to watch, and his thoughts about her and his circumstances made me chuckle. From that point, I knew I was in for an excellent read, and I'm happy to say that it was so. I found it a pure delight. I love how the hero was determined to hold on to his rakish ways, even though the heroine is trying to reform and redeem him, until he realizes that this is not just the game he envisioned; he's falling for her. Then the zebra wants to change his stripes for the woman he's come to care very deeply for. His initial character and the change seem truly organic as we watch it unfold, which I absolutely adored.
The author states that to best appreciate this story you should read the first one in the series. I did not—though I am certainly tempted to—so I can say that this book can be read as a standalone and not cause any confusion, though undoubtedly, the reading experience would be richer to have a deeper understanding of this world the author has created. I highly recommend this book and this author.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
As I've said in reviews before, I came back to reading as an adult because of a love and appreciation for well-written Jane Austen fanfiction. This author is among those I first read then. I've only read her Pride and Prejudice fanfiction until now. Lately, I've been reading more contemporary romance, and far too often contemporary self-published stories lack good writing quality. Some contemporary romances may have excellent plots, interesting characters, natural-sounding dialogue, and just the right amount of narrative—but too many books only have one or two of these elements (or none!). Too many books may suffer from poor/wrong word choice, uneven tone, all characters sounding alike, and/or issues with grammar, punctuation, or usage. Add to this that contemporary romance is so trope driven these days—even with courses that teach specifically how to write or hire out that kind of writing—that often a book’s title is just a bunch of tropes strung together. It all starts to blend and seems so much the same. Seriously, how many “grumpy/sunshine alpha male billionaire one-stand resulting in a surprise pregnancy” stories can you read without your eyes glazing over? Much to my chagrin, I've seen trope-centric writing starting to creep into historical romance as well.
I write all this as prologue to say that, within the first chapter, I was reminded how much simple pleasure you can get from well-written historical romance, and for me, particularly Jane Austen fanfiction. I love it when an author takes me by the metaphorical hand and leads me through a great story. By the way, the author has a brief note to the reader where she explains the meaning of the series' name, Other Pens. In Mansfield, Jane Austen said that other pens may take up the stories of particular characters who are not shown at their best, shall we say, and tell their story. That's why this series will feature some rogues, rakes, and perhaps even villains, showing their path to redemption and an HEA. I think that's a great idea for a series! The series’ first book features Henry Crawford from Mansfield Park; this book is his rakish friend’s story, that of Charles Edwards.
Back to this book. While some might call the initial part of the first chapter an info or data dump, the author does this so artfully that you are not only drawn into the story, but within a few pages, you understand much about the hero's character. Then when more characters were introduced, including the heroine of the story, I began fangirling anew! Even in that first scene, their interaction was witty and fun to watch, and his thoughts about her and his circumstances made me chuckle. From that point, I knew I was in for an excellent read, and I'm happy to say that it was so. I found it a pure delight. I love how the hero was determined to hold on to his rakish ways, even though the heroine is trying to reform and redeem him, until he realizes that this is not just the game he envisioned; he's falling for her. Then the zebra wants to change his stripes for the woman he's come to care very deeply for. His initial character and the change seem truly organic as we watch it unfold, which I absolutely adored.
The author states that to best appreciate this story you should read the first one in the series. I did not—though I am certainly tempted to—so I can say that this book can be read as a standalone and not cause any confusion, though undoubtedly, the reading experience would be richer to have a deeper understanding of this world the author has created. I highly recommend this book and this author.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
March 18, 2023
Lets start with Charles on the cover...Swoon! So very handsome. It gives understanding as to why so many women were attracted to him. Combine that with his charm and he is indeed swoony. However, he is a rake with which no proper young lady should associate. It was fun to watch his redemption take place.
Evelyn is a good hearted, caring and lovely young lady. She not only cares but puts her words into action to help those around her. Her work with the poor is admirable and her desire to action is what starts Charles moving toward a different direction in life.
I loved that Charles could see his own flaws and then desired to not only change himself but also desired to teach the kids to avoid those flaws as well. Truly Charles needed to discover his purpose in life to become a better person. What a delight to watch him do it.
I found Evelyn's mother's response to learning Evelyn's heart very surprising. It was a nice surprise.
It is fun to read a book that is based on Mansfield Park since it is less common but we also got some P&P characters mixed in a bit.
I enjoyed this story and while I look forward to the next in the series, I'm also dreading it because, well, I so dislike Mary that I almost don't want to see her redeemed. But I also felt that way about Henry in the first book and the author made me believe it could happen so I've no doubt that I will like Mary by the end of the next one too.
Enjoyable read...
Sex: references to past
Language: no
Violence: no
*I received a complimentary copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it
Evelyn is a good hearted, caring and lovely young lady. She not only cares but puts her words into action to help those around her. Her work with the poor is admirable and her desire to action is what starts Charles moving toward a different direction in life.
I loved that Charles could see his own flaws and then desired to not only change himself but also desired to teach the kids to avoid those flaws as well. Truly Charles needed to discover his purpose in life to become a better person. What a delight to watch him do it.
I found Evelyn's mother's response to learning Evelyn's heart very surprising. It was a nice surprise.
It is fun to read a book that is based on Mansfield Park since it is less common but we also got some P&P characters mixed in a bit.
I enjoyed this story and while I look forward to the next in the series, I'm also dreading it because, well, I so dislike Mary that I almost don't want to see her redeemed. But I also felt that way about Henry in the first book and the author made me believe it could happen so I've no doubt that I will like Mary by the end of the next one too.
Enjoyable read...
Sex: references to past
Language: no
Violence: no
*I received a complimentary copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it
April 10, 2023
Charles Edwards is a rake who does not particularly want responsibilities but his friend was just recently engaged to charming young lady and he finds himself curious about one of her friends, Miss Evelyn Barrett. She is being courted by a staid gentleman her mother approves of, and Charles is an undesirable connection to the mother. Despite her young age, Evelyn is quite involved in a number of charities and Charles takes an interest in them, hoping to earn Evelyn's attention.
This book is billed as a Mansfield Park continuation. Charles is Henry Crawford's friend and some Pride and Prejudice characters make a cameo appearance but the Austen connections are tenuous and with changed names this could easily have been an independent regency romance. There is some delightful dialogue and it's a quickly read, sweet, enjoyable story. There are some references to the events in Henry's story here so you might want to read that one first.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is billed as a Mansfield Park continuation. Charles is Henry Crawford's friend and some Pride and Prejudice characters make a cameo appearance but the Austen connections are tenuous and with changed names this could easily have been an independent regency romance. There is some delightful dialogue and it's a quickly read, sweet, enjoyable story. There are some references to the events in Henry's story here so you might want to read that one first.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 10, 2023
3.5* rounded up
This is a pleasant and very readable book. It is part of a series and is not stand-alone. This is an original character novel within the broad Mansfield Park genre and without the context of the previous book the basic plot premise would make less sense.
Ms Brown's writing style is always easy to read and is well edited. The new characters are likeable and the story moves steadily forward. It is clear from the start where it is going but the author takes the reader to the end point cleanly and smoothly.
I did feel that the book was a little long for the amount of plot and could perhaps be tightened up a little to avoid any hint of dragging. A small number of modern words or word usage have crept in along with rather too many split infinitives for my taste.
All in all this is an enjoyable book in an enjoyable series and will please readers of the genre.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a pleasant and very readable book. It is part of a series and is not stand-alone. This is an original character novel within the broad Mansfield Park genre and without the context of the previous book the basic plot premise would make less sense.
Ms Brown's writing style is always easy to read and is well edited. The new characters are likeable and the story moves steadily forward. It is clear from the start where it is going but the author takes the reader to the end point cleanly and smoothly.
I did feel that the book was a little long for the amount of plot and could perhaps be tightened up a little to avoid any hint of dragging. A small number of modern words or word usage have crept in along with rather too many split infinitives for my taste.
All in all this is an enjoyable book in an enjoyable series and will please readers of the genre.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 13, 2023
This book 2 in Leenie Brown's Other pens series; I read book one (Henry:to prove himself worthy) first and I think it is best to do so as quite a lot of this volume will not make a lot of sense otherwise.
Charles Edwards, the hero of this volume, is a close friend of Henry Crawford (from the novel Mansfield Park) and, like him, is a charming rake. He has never been in love and has no intention of that changing, regarding women as playthings to be used and discarded. Then he meets Miss Evelyn Barrett and everything starts to change. The novel charts his progress in 'discovering his purpose' and realising what is really important in life, although he comes periously close to losing everything through a moments stupidity.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Charles Edwards, the hero of this volume, is a close friend of Henry Crawford (from the novel Mansfield Park) and, like him, is a charming rake. He has never been in love and has no intention of that changing, regarding women as playthings to be used and discarded. Then he meets Miss Evelyn Barrett and everything starts to change. The novel charts his progress in 'discovering his purpose' and realising what is really important in life, although he comes periously close to losing everything through a moments stupidity.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 13, 2023
Well written, full of love, romance, drama and much needed changes with the help of others. Evelyn and Charles meet after he helps her and her friend Constance, which earns him a punch to the face leaving bruises to his eye and face. Evelyn asks him to attend the theater and then to work showing orphans what they would need to find find jobs with very good families or just donate to the charity that she helps with. So begins the sweet love to happen between them and he learns that what he really wants is her. Charles has made his changes and feelings known to Evelyn, making her aware of how he feels. All characters make this book a really good read. Would recommend this book to everyone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2018
I received an advanced copy/ebook from the author. A review was not required and all opinions are my own.
I love a good Regency story and have not yet been disappointed by any of this author’s works. This is a sequel of sorts to Henry Crawford’s story after Mansfield Park (Henry, to Prove Himself Worthy). Our hero this time is Charles Edwards, a man who is as much of an idle flirt and rogue as Henry ever was. Without setting out to do so, Charles finds himself wanting to improve himself and win the approval (and love) of a good woman. I liked this story just as much as Henry’s. The writing is engaging and the story flows perfectly.
I love a good Regency story and have not yet been disappointed by any of this author’s works. This is a sequel of sorts to Henry Crawford’s story after Mansfield Park (Henry, to Prove Himself Worthy). Our hero this time is Charles Edwards, a man who is as much of an idle flirt and rogue as Henry ever was. Without setting out to do so, Charles finds himself wanting to improve himself and win the approval (and love) of a good woman. I liked this story just as much as Henry’s. The writing is engaging and the story flows perfectly.
April 14, 2020
Another great Regency romance by this author...
This is my second book by Leenie Brown; I thoroughly enjoy her writing! It's crisp and clean with well developed characters and scenes. It is a clean Regency romance, as all Regency romances should be. Since I didn't read book one of this series, I was a bit lost in the beginning, getting the characters into my mind, but then it fell into place beautifully. This story carries two less than reputable characters from MP, but otherwise it's not really a variation. There were very few editting errors. A great read!
This is my second book by Leenie Brown; I thoroughly enjoy her writing! It's crisp and clean with well developed characters and scenes. It is a clean Regency romance, as all Regency romances should be. Since I didn't read book one of this series, I was a bit lost in the beginning, getting the characters into my mind, but then it fell into place beautifully. This story carries two less than reputable characters from MP, but otherwise it's not really a variation. There were very few editting errors. A great read!
February 19, 2019
I really enjoy Leenie Brown's work, especially her take on Austen characters that don't generally get much fan fiction action. I'm especially enjoying these Mansfield Park books as I have always been enamored of the Crawfords and always thought they got a particularly raw deal from Austen. It's fun to read what Ms. Brown envisions for them and her work is well written and easy to enjoy.
November 25, 2019
A kind-hearted sassy heroine and a hero not wanting to reform himself but ends up becoming the right kind of gentleman to marry her. The story almost takes off where book 1 ends and is an entertaining read without being overly dramatic or shallow.
December 6, 2024
A sweet and clean read with a hea ending
December 14, 2024
Was happy to read Charles story. With the help and love from Evelyn, Charles discovers his purpose in life is much more honorable than the rake he's been known for in the past.
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