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Valiant Love #1
The Perfect Lady
She is willing to give up her love for his honor …
He is willing to give up his honor for her love …
Lady Beatrix Gillingham ran from her duty years ago…
Giving up her family’s status and childhood dreams.
No one would suspect the barmaid is an earl’s daughter.
She’s learned to work hard and make her heart even harder.
But … in one night, everything changes.
She saves a life.
Who knew that life would be the son of one of the oldest titles and most honorable homes in England?
The Curbains
And to a man who’s just as valiant as his name suggests.
General Hero Curbain has fought England’s greatest enemies.
As the son of a duke, he’s faced his own challenges but never had he expected the challenge of Lady Beatrix.
In thanks for her kindness, he offers her the chance of a
1- One Season.
2- One opportunity to restore her name.
3- One chance to find love.
However …
As secrets spill and the truth of Beatrix’s past is revealed, she’ll have to decide the best course of action.
Fight for the man she loves or run away from her dreams once again?
What happens when Hero discovers Beatrix is not the perfect lady he envisioned?
Can love live in a society founded on duty?
He is willing to give up his honor for her love …
Lady Beatrix Gillingham ran from her duty years ago…
Giving up her family’s status and childhood dreams.
No one would suspect the barmaid is an earl’s daughter.
She’s learned to work hard and make her heart even harder.
But … in one night, everything changes.
She saves a life.
Who knew that life would be the son of one of the oldest titles and most honorable homes in England?
The Curbains
And to a man who’s just as valiant as his name suggests.
General Hero Curbain has fought England’s greatest enemies.
As the son of a duke, he’s faced his own challenges but never had he expected the challenge of Lady Beatrix.
In thanks for her kindness, he offers her the chance of a
1- One Season.
2- One opportunity to restore her name.
3- One chance to find love.
However …
As secrets spill and the truth of Beatrix’s past is revealed, she’ll have to decide the best course of action.
Fight for the man she loves or run away from her dreams once again?
What happens when Hero discovers Beatrix is not the perfect lady he envisioned?
Can love live in a society founded on duty?
512 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 15, 2018
497 people are currently reading
166 people want to read
About the author
Deborah Wilson
29 books56 followersLibrarian's note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
October 18, 2018
*I received a copy of this book to have honestly reviewed*
So good! I absolutely loved the characters, especially Valiant and Beatrix. Strong women and a well written tale always get to me. The men all stayed true to their character, and I simply loved them all! I admit, I have a little crush on Lore lol.
The little details, such as the names and the reasoning for them, really added to the tale. If you like regency, I highly recommend this one!
Bob says: 4 Platypires!
So good! I absolutely loved the characters, especially Valiant and Beatrix. Strong women and a well written tale always get to me. The men all stayed true to their character, and I simply loved them all! I admit, I have a little crush on Lore lol.
The little details, such as the names and the reasoning for them, really added to the tale. If you like regency, I highly recommend this one!
Bob says: 4 Platypires!
January 19, 2020
First thoughts: Did a good job of introducing the family, yet still focusing on the couple, Hero and Beatrix. Great characters. Solid family. Story was interesting with twists and turns not typically seen in Regency romances, more depth. Get book 2...
October 24, 2018
Let me just start by saying this is my first book by Miss Wilson and I am impressed. I must say I loved it.
This story kept me engaged from page one, and it kept me captivated until the end!
The plot is engaging and has twists and complications that keep you reading. The characters are likeable and relatable. I liked how their relationship grows throughout the story.
I highly recommend this book.
This story kept me engaged from page one, and it kept me captivated until the end!
The plot is engaging and has twists and complications that keep you reading. The characters are likeable and relatable. I liked how their relationship grows throughout the story.
I highly recommend this book.
October 27, 2018
Not impressed
Not worth the time. This book had major plot problems, poor grammar and so many wrong words (like while instead of white) that it was annoying to read. There is no substitute for a good editor and picky proof readers.
Not worth the time. This book had major plot problems, poor grammar and so many wrong words (like while instead of white) that it was annoying to read. There is no substitute for a good editor and picky proof readers.
October 18, 2018
(sigh) I was emotionally moved reading this story. My heart ached for the characters in the book. They were all so intrinsic to the telling of it. Even though there was a HEA there was great sadness around it. I was impressed by the H and h of the story. They had to go through such lengths and pain to be together. This is a different type of regency romance. It is very realistic as to what can happen between the members of a family. Desperation breeds drastic measures.
Lady Beatrix/Betty/Bee Gillingham is currently twenty and five. For the last five years she has been estranged from her brother Benedict, the current Earl of Dalewell. She grew up with her father and her twin brother. Her father was impoverished and Beatrix knew how to make do with very little. When she left the home of her brother it was under duress by his actions. Beatrix never told anyone why she really left but she had no choice and she never regretted it. At the tender age of twenty she was alone and had to find her own way in the world. She ended up working as a barmaid at The Swinging Door Inn and Tavern on the docks. In order to avoid the advances of the owner Mr. Thump, she invented the story that she was married and her husband was a soldier fighting in the war and she was waiting for his return. Later, John was working at the theatre and saw Mr. Gillett but found out that he was really the son of the Duke of Ayers and was General Hero Curbain. Because of John's gossip, Mr. Thump was enraged that Beatrix/Betty had lied to him. He threatened to fire her unless she slept with him. She left and with the money that Hero had left her she would be able to procure a room and food for a few weeks while she looked for work. Hero went back to the tavern looking for Betty. John told him that she left and told him it was his fault. John told him where to look for Betty. After searching all morning, he finally located her in a very poor and dangerous section of London. Originally, he wanted to approach Betty about becoming his mistress. After talking with Betty, he found out she was Lady Beatrix Gillingham daughter of the deceased Earl of Dalewell. This changed things for Hero, he found himself honor bound to protect Beatrix. So, he offered her a season of her own to find a husband. He would fund everything, including an entire wardrobe and a handsome dowry. Hero got his sister Valiant/Val, Lady Beaumont to let Beatrix stay at a home on her property. Beatrix was overwhelmed but took him up on his offer. Val was excited to help prepare Beatrix integration back into society. No one knew the truth about Hero sponsoring Beatrix except the three of them. Eventually, Hero could no longer deny his feeling for Beatrix but he refused himself because he was returning back to war in India. Hero did not want a wife that he would leave for long periods of time. So he tried to put Beatrix out of his mind. Beatrix was presented to the queen. Afterwards she ran into former friends of her family. Word got around that Beatrix was in town for the season and her and Val received many invitations for different events. After this point of the story things become more complicated and fearful for Beatrix. Things became harder for Hero as well. Hero's father the Duke of Ayers, was dying. The Duke had sent Hero and his brothers on a mission to find his beloved dog Hatcher. With Beatrix's help, Hero was on the trail of finding Hatcher for his father. Hatcher was the last gift the Duchess had given the Duke and he wanted to see him before he died. in the meantime, Beatrix's popularity was growing and Hero was becoming irrational around Beatrix. In truth he was jealous of the men surrounding her including his younger brother Laurel called Lore. The tension escalates with the return of Beatrix brother Benedict, the current Earl of Dalewell. He brought along his friend Anthony Balfour, the Duke of Cartell. Beatrix despised Anthony. Hero wanted to know what was going on with Beatrix but she would not explain. Benedict threatened her way of life. He knew that Beatrix lied about her dowry coming from the death of their aunt. He assumed that Beatrix was Val's husband, Lord Beaumont's mistress. Beatrix assured him that was not so, but she could not tell him the truth about Hero. Then her brother put her on a guilt trip reminding her of her duty. He arranged for her to marry Anthony Balfour. Benedict stated that even though she had been compromised Anthony would still accept her. Beatrix pleaded with Benedict and told him she was already secretly engaged to Hero. Benedict forced her hand by telling her if she did not scandal would follow her and disgrace not only their family but Hero's family as well. Benedict kept everyone away from Beatrix but Hero was not having it. Then all heck breaks loose. This is such an exciting book. From page one until the end it kept me glued to the page. I highly recommend this book. I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lady Beatrix/Betty/Bee Gillingham is currently twenty and five. For the last five years she has been estranged from her brother Benedict, the current Earl of Dalewell. She grew up with her father and her twin brother. Her father was impoverished and Beatrix knew how to make do with very little. When she left the home of her brother it was under duress by his actions. Beatrix never told anyone why she really left but she had no choice and she never regretted it. At the tender age of twenty she was alone and had to find her own way in the world. She ended up working as a barmaid at The Swinging Door Inn and Tavern on the docks. In order to avoid the advances of the owner Mr. Thump, she invented the story that she was married and her husband was a soldier fighting in the war and she was waiting for his return. Later, John was working at the theatre and saw Mr. Gillett but found out that he was really the son of the Duke of Ayers and was General Hero Curbain. Because of John's gossip, Mr. Thump was enraged that Beatrix/Betty had lied to him. He threatened to fire her unless she slept with him. She left and with the money that Hero had left her she would be able to procure a room and food for a few weeks while she looked for work. Hero went back to the tavern looking for Betty. John told him that she left and told him it was his fault. John told him where to look for Betty. After searching all morning, he finally located her in a very poor and dangerous section of London. Originally, he wanted to approach Betty about becoming his mistress. After talking with Betty, he found out she was Lady Beatrix Gillingham daughter of the deceased Earl of Dalewell. This changed things for Hero, he found himself honor bound to protect Beatrix. So, he offered her a season of her own to find a husband. He would fund everything, including an entire wardrobe and a handsome dowry. Hero got his sister Valiant/Val, Lady Beaumont to let Beatrix stay at a home on her property. Beatrix was overwhelmed but took him up on his offer. Val was excited to help prepare Beatrix integration back into society. No one knew the truth about Hero sponsoring Beatrix except the three of them. Eventually, Hero could no longer deny his feeling for Beatrix but he refused himself because he was returning back to war in India. Hero did not want a wife that he would leave for long periods of time. So he tried to put Beatrix out of his mind. Beatrix was presented to the queen. Afterwards she ran into former friends of her family. Word got around that Beatrix was in town for the season and her and Val received many invitations for different events. After this point of the story things become more complicated and fearful for Beatrix. Things became harder for Hero as well. Hero's father the Duke of Ayers, was dying. The Duke had sent Hero and his brothers on a mission to find his beloved dog Hatcher. With Beatrix's help, Hero was on the trail of finding Hatcher for his father. Hatcher was the last gift the Duchess had given the Duke and he wanted to see him before he died. in the meantime, Beatrix's popularity was growing and Hero was becoming irrational around Beatrix. In truth he was jealous of the men surrounding her including his younger brother Laurel called Lore. The tension escalates with the return of Beatrix brother Benedict, the current Earl of Dalewell. He brought along his friend Anthony Balfour, the Duke of Cartell. Beatrix despised Anthony. Hero wanted to know what was going on with Beatrix but she would not explain. Benedict threatened her way of life. He knew that Beatrix lied about her dowry coming from the death of their aunt. He assumed that Beatrix was Val's husband, Lord Beaumont's mistress. Beatrix assured him that was not so, but she could not tell him the truth about Hero. Then her brother put her on a guilt trip reminding her of her duty. He arranged for her to marry Anthony Balfour. Benedict stated that even though she had been compromised Anthony would still accept her. Beatrix pleaded with Benedict and told him she was already secretly engaged to Hero. Benedict forced her hand by telling her if she did not scandal would follow her and disgrace not only their family but Hero's family as well. Benedict kept everyone away from Beatrix but Hero was not having it. Then all heck breaks loose. This is such an exciting book. From page one until the end it kept me glued to the page. I highly recommend this book. I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 17, 2018
Lady Beatrix Gillingham, daughter of an earl but now a barmaid known as Betty Gillett, was standing in the semi-darkness when the tavern door flew open, shattering on the brick wall it encountered. An apparently drunken man staggered in. As she told him the tavern was closed, he moved his hand and she saw he was seriously injured. It looked as though he had lost much blood already. She called John from the kitchen to help her get him to her own room since the tavern was fully occupied. Then she sent John for the doctor while she assessed the wound. The man told her it was not as bad as it looked, and she told him to remain quiet so he didn’t make it worse. But he was right. He had bled because he kept moving rather than stay still and call for help. She was irritated with him for being so foolish.
General Hero Curbain, second son to a dukedom, watched as she cared for his wound. He had noticed that she didn’t move or speak like a working class woman but more like a duchess. She called him “Aristocrat” and scolded him for being out on the docks alone at this hour. He liked her bravery in speaking like that to him. He asked if she wanted to know his name, but she refused since once they were introduced, then she would have to put down the cloth she used to clean him and curtsy. She preferred to remain as she was instead. He laughed at that, enjoying their game of wit. But when he asked about her, she became serious.
Her boss, Mr. Thump, was furious when he, the doctor, and John entered her room. He told her she knew the rules about men unless he was her husband . . . Hero immediately said he was! Betty regained her composure and introduced him as her husband who would be heading out to Asia as soon as he left the next morning – so Betty could keep working at the tavern. Hero gave her coins to take a hack and get a comfortable room for the night since he still needed to rest in her bed. When she returned to her room, he had gone but left a large purse behind for her troubles. He wanted to see her again, but they were from different worlds and he knew he couldn’t. When he went to the theatre that evening to join his family, he hardly noticed when a footman greeted him as Mr. Gillett – because that is the name John had met him under when Betty introduced them at the tavern.
Unknown to Betty, John had excitedly told his tavern friends that Mr. Gillett was actually General Hero Curbain, the second son of a duke! And Mr. Trump heard him. He was in a rage when Betty came to work and he called her a liar. She was stunned that a general, a duke’s son, had been in her bed! She couldn’t stay here now, but Mr. Trump looked at her in a way that frightened her. It was why she had told him she was married, so he would not try anything. Now he knew that was not true. He demanded she sleep in his bed that night or she did not have a job. She would have to start her life all over again. Could she? Would she ever see Hero again? She hadn’t had a chance to thank him, and his coin was the only thing that made a new life possible for her.
This was such a great story! Having the female character stand up for herself and find the strength to get out of a bad situation was so refreshing. The book was well written and the story line moves at a good pace. There is so much more to this book! I highly recommend it and you need to see how it all plays out in the end!
General Hero Curbain, second son to a dukedom, watched as she cared for his wound. He had noticed that she didn’t move or speak like a working class woman but more like a duchess. She called him “Aristocrat” and scolded him for being out on the docks alone at this hour. He liked her bravery in speaking like that to him. He asked if she wanted to know his name, but she refused since once they were introduced, then she would have to put down the cloth she used to clean him and curtsy. She preferred to remain as she was instead. He laughed at that, enjoying their game of wit. But when he asked about her, she became serious.
Her boss, Mr. Thump, was furious when he, the doctor, and John entered her room. He told her she knew the rules about men unless he was her husband . . . Hero immediately said he was! Betty regained her composure and introduced him as her husband who would be heading out to Asia as soon as he left the next morning – so Betty could keep working at the tavern. Hero gave her coins to take a hack and get a comfortable room for the night since he still needed to rest in her bed. When she returned to her room, he had gone but left a large purse behind for her troubles. He wanted to see her again, but they were from different worlds and he knew he couldn’t. When he went to the theatre that evening to join his family, he hardly noticed when a footman greeted him as Mr. Gillett – because that is the name John had met him under when Betty introduced them at the tavern.
Unknown to Betty, John had excitedly told his tavern friends that Mr. Gillett was actually General Hero Curbain, the second son of a duke! And Mr. Trump heard him. He was in a rage when Betty came to work and he called her a liar. She was stunned that a general, a duke’s son, had been in her bed! She couldn’t stay here now, but Mr. Trump looked at her in a way that frightened her. It was why she had told him she was married, so he would not try anything. Now he knew that was not true. He demanded she sleep in his bed that night or she did not have a job. She would have to start her life all over again. Could she? Would she ever see Hero again? She hadn’t had a chance to thank him, and his coin was the only thing that made a new life possible for her.
This was such a great story! Having the female character stand up for herself and find the strength to get out of a bad situation was so refreshing. The book was well written and the story line moves at a good pace. There is so much more to this book! I highly recommend it and you need to see how it all plays out in the end!
October 21, 2018
From the first crash of the splintering tavern door to the last page, this book captures the reader’s attention and does not let go!
PLOT: A wounded ‘aristocrat’ tumbled against the door, and “Betty” discovers he is injured and bleeding. As the inn is full, she has John, another servant, help her take the injured man to her own bed and run for the doctor. This kindness on her part is well rewarded by the gentleman, who, as it later turns out, is a General and the second son of a Duke.
How “Betty” came to be working in such a place, when her speech and conduct both indicate a woman of some breeding, is a mystery the General intends to solve. When Betty reveals to him she is really Lady Beatrix Gillingham, daughter of a deceased earl who had lost his fortune prior to his death, the General imposed upon his sister to sponsor Beatrix for a season so Beatrix might find a suitable husband and be relieved of the nightmare her life had become after her father’s death.
We watch as the General, Hero Curbain, tries to be supportive of Beatrix without putting himself forward as a potential suitor, as he fully intends to leave for India. He feels certain he will attain Field Marshall status, a goal towards which he had been working. However, as Beatrix is transformed from a simple barmaid to a Lady of substance taking her first season, it becomes more difficult for Hero to put aside his admiration of and developing feelings for Beatrix.
Complications arise to dampen the happiness of the couple: Hero’s father is dying, with the death expected shortly; Beatrix’s brother and his “friend” who had stabbed him in a bizarre attempt to make Beatrix marry HIM (Anthony) was years ago, suddenly appear in London and coerce Beatrix into thinking she has no option but to give in to Anthony’s extortion and marry him.
Will Beatrix be forced to marry Anthony? Will Hero’s father die before any of his sons marry and present him with an heir? Will Hero leave for India and leave Beatrix to face a future with a man she is afraid of and has not respect for? Will Hero continue to place his military career ahead of everything else and leave his family as soon as his father dies? This delicate love story faces peril after peril. The strength of character of Beatrix, Hero, Hero’s father and brothers help all to face these trials with courage and ultimately prevail.
CRITIQUE: This clean story is well written. The story, although unique, was believable, and most touching at times. The precarious state of a pretty unmarried woman in Regency London was well portrayed. As “Betty”, Beatrix pretended to be married to a soldier fighting on the continent to stave off unwanted advances, most especially from her employer. Being a working girl in a tavern meant she constantly had to watch the customers and escape unsavory situations involving them as well. Yet, Beatrix did not give in to self pity, nor did she use her “assets” for material gain thus risking the loss of her self-respect. I would LIKE to think that any young woman could survive as did “Betty”, but realistically, that was likely rare. Nevertheless, it is a good example for young people to look to, as to how to conduct themselves when facing difficult life situations. The HEA ending gives a satisfying finish to this story, which will linger in your thoughts.
PLOT: A wounded ‘aristocrat’ tumbled against the door, and “Betty” discovers he is injured and bleeding. As the inn is full, she has John, another servant, help her take the injured man to her own bed and run for the doctor. This kindness on her part is well rewarded by the gentleman, who, as it later turns out, is a General and the second son of a Duke.
How “Betty” came to be working in such a place, when her speech and conduct both indicate a woman of some breeding, is a mystery the General intends to solve. When Betty reveals to him she is really Lady Beatrix Gillingham, daughter of a deceased earl who had lost his fortune prior to his death, the General imposed upon his sister to sponsor Beatrix for a season so Beatrix might find a suitable husband and be relieved of the nightmare her life had become after her father’s death.
We watch as the General, Hero Curbain, tries to be supportive of Beatrix without putting himself forward as a potential suitor, as he fully intends to leave for India. He feels certain he will attain Field Marshall status, a goal towards which he had been working. However, as Beatrix is transformed from a simple barmaid to a Lady of substance taking her first season, it becomes more difficult for Hero to put aside his admiration of and developing feelings for Beatrix.
Complications arise to dampen the happiness of the couple: Hero’s father is dying, with the death expected shortly; Beatrix’s brother and his “friend” who had stabbed him in a bizarre attempt to make Beatrix marry HIM (Anthony) was years ago, suddenly appear in London and coerce Beatrix into thinking she has no option but to give in to Anthony’s extortion and marry him.
Will Beatrix be forced to marry Anthony? Will Hero’s father die before any of his sons marry and present him with an heir? Will Hero leave for India and leave Beatrix to face a future with a man she is afraid of and has not respect for? Will Hero continue to place his military career ahead of everything else and leave his family as soon as his father dies? This delicate love story faces peril after peril. The strength of character of Beatrix, Hero, Hero’s father and brothers help all to face these trials with courage and ultimately prevail.
CRITIQUE: This clean story is well written. The story, although unique, was believable, and most touching at times. The precarious state of a pretty unmarried woman in Regency London was well portrayed. As “Betty”, Beatrix pretended to be married to a soldier fighting on the continent to stave off unwanted advances, most especially from her employer. Being a working girl in a tavern meant she constantly had to watch the customers and escape unsavory situations involving them as well. Yet, Beatrix did not give in to self pity, nor did she use her “assets” for material gain thus risking the loss of her self-respect. I would LIKE to think that any young woman could survive as did “Betty”, but realistically, that was likely rare. Nevertheless, it is a good example for young people to look to, as to how to conduct themselves when facing difficult life situations. The HEA ending gives a satisfying finish to this story, which will linger in your thoughts.
October 21, 2018
From the first crash of the splintering tavern door to the last page, this book captures the reader’s attention and does not let go!
PLOT: A wounded ‘aristocrat’ tumbled against the door, and “Betty” discovers he is injured and bleeding. As the inn is full, she has John, another servant, help her take the injured man to her own bed and run for the doctor. This kindness on her part is well rewarded by the gentleman, who, as it later turns out, is a General and the second son of a Duke.
How “Betty” came to be working in such a place, when her speech and conduct both indicate a woman of some breeding, is a mystery the General intends to solve. When Betty reveals to him she is really Lady Beatrix Gillingham, daughter of a deceased earl who had lost his fortune prior to his death, the General imposed upon his sister to sponsor Beatrix for a season so Beatrix might find a suitable husband and be relieved of the nightmare her life had become after her father’s death.
We watch as the General, Hero Curbain, tries to be supportive of Beatrix without putting himself forward as a potential suitor, as he fully intends to leave for India. He feels certain he will attain Field Marshall status, a goal towards which he had been working. However, as Beatrix is transformed from a simple barmaid to a Lady of substance taking her first season, it becomes more difficult for Hero to put aside his admiration of and developing feelings for Beatrix.
Complications arise to dampen the happiness of the couple: Hero’s father is dying, with the death expected shortly; Beatrix’s brother and his “friend” who had stabbed him in a bizarre attempt to make Beatrix marry HIM (Anthony) was years ago, suddenly appear in London and coerce Beatrix into thinking she has no option but to give in to Anthony’s extortion and marry him.
Will Beatrix be forced to marry Anthony? Will Hero’s father die before any of his sons marry and present him with an heir? Will Hero leave for India and leave Beatrix to face a future with a man she is afraid of and has not respect for? Will Hero continue to place his military career ahead of everything else and leave his family as soon as his father dies? This delicate love story faces peril after peril. The strength of character of Beatrix, Hero, Hero’s father and brothers help all to face these trials with courage and ultimately prevail.
CRITIQUE: This clean story is well written. The story, although unique, was believable, and most touching at times. The precarious state of a pretty unmarried woman in Regency London was well portrayed. As “Betty”, Beatrix pretended to be married to a soldier fighting on the continent to stave off unwanted advances, most especially from her employer. Being a working girl in a tavern meant she constantly had to watch the customers and escape unsavory situations involving them as well. Yet, Beatrix did not give in to self pity, nor did she use her “assets” for material gain thus risking the loss of her self-respect. I would LIKE to think that any young woman could survive as did “Betty”, but realistically, that was likely rare. Nevertheless, it is a good example for young people to look to, as to how to conduct themselves when facing difficult life situations. The HEA ending gives a satisfying finish to this story, which will linger in your thoughts.
PLOT: A wounded ‘aristocrat’ tumbled against the door, and “Betty” discovers he is injured and bleeding. As the inn is full, she has John, another servant, help her take the injured man to her own bed and run for the doctor. This kindness on her part is well rewarded by the gentleman, who, as it later turns out, is a General and the second son of a Duke.
How “Betty” came to be working in such a place, when her speech and conduct both indicate a woman of some breeding, is a mystery the General intends to solve. When Betty reveals to him she is really Lady Beatrix Gillingham, daughter of a deceased earl who had lost his fortune prior to his death, the General imposed upon his sister to sponsor Beatrix for a season so Beatrix might find a suitable husband and be relieved of the nightmare her life had become after her father’s death.
We watch as the General, Hero Curbain, tries to be supportive of Beatrix without putting himself forward as a potential suitor, as he fully intends to leave for India. He feels certain he will attain Field Marshall status, a goal towards which he had been working. However, as Beatrix is transformed from a simple barmaid to a Lady of substance taking her first season, it becomes more difficult for Hero to put aside his admiration of and developing feelings for Beatrix.
Complications arise to dampen the happiness of the couple: Hero’s father is dying, with the death expected shortly; Beatrix’s brother and his “friend” who had stabbed him in a bizarre attempt to make Beatrix marry HIM (Anthony) was years ago, suddenly appear in London and coerce Beatrix into thinking she has no option but to give in to Anthony’s extortion and marry him.
Will Beatrix be forced to marry Anthony? Will Hero’s father die before any of his sons marry and present him with an heir? Will Hero leave for India and leave Beatrix to face a future with a man she is afraid of and has not respect for? Will Hero continue to place his military career ahead of everything else and leave his family as soon as his father dies? This delicate love story faces peril after peril. The strength of character of Beatrix, Hero, Hero’s father and brothers help all to face these trials with courage and ultimately prevail.
CRITIQUE: This clean story is well written. The story, although unique, was believable, and most touching at times. The precarious state of a pretty unmarried woman in Regency London was well portrayed. As “Betty”, Beatrix pretended to be married to a soldier fighting on the continent to stave off unwanted advances, most especially from her employer. Being a working girl in a tavern meant she constantly had to watch the customers and escape unsavory situations involving them as well. Yet, Beatrix did not give in to self pity, nor did she use her “assets” for material gain thus risking the loss of her self-respect. I would LIKE to think that any young woman could survive as did “Betty”, but realistically, that was likely rare. Nevertheless, it is a good example for young people to look to, as to how to conduct themselves when facing difficult life situations. The HEA ending gives a satisfying finish to this story, which will linger in your thoughts.
October 11, 2018
This is not my usual genre of read and it has been a very long time since I would entertain a romance novel but the blurb sounded interesting and I am very glad that I gave this a chance. A well written books, with good imagery and vivid descriptions, credible and interesting storyline, well defined characters that you can identify with and a plot that is intriguing and keeps you reading. The fact that she has fleshed out the rest of the family makes the story all the more interesting. I do like the rest of Hero's family and their friends and this made the book all the better for it. I also liked the fact that the main characters were prepared to come clean about their feelings and intentions, often romances can carry on about miscommunicated and misunderstood ideas and assumptions so much so that you feel like giving them a hard slap to get real and wake up.
An impoverished lady, determined to make her way in the world rather than succumb to a marriage arranged for her by her brother to a man who she did not like or trust, ending up working in a tavern as a serving girl. A chance encounter with an injured man, who turns out to be the son of a duke, and one of the oldest families in England, gives her the once chance to recover her position in society.
Thank you Deborah for the ARC, much enjoyed. This is my honest review.
An impoverished lady, determined to make her way in the world rather than succumb to a marriage arranged for her by her brother to a man who she did not like or trust, ending up working in a tavern as a serving girl. A chance encounter with an injured man, who turns out to be the son of a duke, and one of the oldest families in England, gives her the once chance to recover her position in society.
Thank you Deborah for the ARC, much enjoyed. This is my honest review.
October 16, 2018
I haven't read a lot of regency romances, but it is fast becoming a favoured genre and The Perfect Lady adds itself to my list of enjoyed books. There's something intriguing and tenderly romantic about this story. We meet Beatrix working in disguise in a tavern when our injured hero Hero staggers in. This chance meeting between the two sets of a chain of events that will change both their lives. Oh I wish I could meet a man like Hero. There is something in Beatrix's past that has left her homeless and fallen out with her brother, throughout the story we slowly uncover what it was that has brought her to the circumstances we first find her. I liked the slow development of the relationship between them. The protocols back in those days really must have made it hard to get to know a person of the opposite sex, especially if you were in the upper classes. There are a lot of different personalities in this story a few not so nice ones, but plenty of very likeable ones, I especially enjoyed Hero's sister Valiant and his brother Lorne. I look forward to Lorne's story in the next book. Despite the knowledge that the story will, or hopefully will have a happy ending I still found myself on edge when bad things started happening for Beatrix hoping desperately things would work out. A really good read, thank you to Deborah Wilson for a copy in return for an honest review.
November 3, 2018
Let me just start by saying this is my first book by Miss Wilson and I am impressed. It's a Regency story that was surprisingly good. it has been a while since I read a Regency on a regular basis let alone read one that was interesting enough for me to read in the course of a day. I was greatly impressed by the characters and the storyline introduced by the author. I love the fact that this book was not overly girly, giggly, overly dramatic in the actor portrayal of their characters.
Beatrix is a strong character she is 25 years old with the will of iron and the fortitude to strike out on her own and survive without compromise. She never once lost her ladylike upbringing and still manage to make friends among the common class.
Now let's talk about Hero what a name for a male character. His family exudes honor Above All Else and it is a model to live by. Hero will have to make some tough choices in the story and I love the fact that sometimes he has to go against his inclination in order to come out ahead in a good way. Love the characters of his family Valiant, Lore and Asher even their father was a great addition to this book.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series. Kudos to the author you made me enjoy reading Regency again.
Beatrix is a strong character she is 25 years old with the will of iron and the fortitude to strike out on her own and survive without compromise. She never once lost her ladylike upbringing and still manage to make friends among the common class.
Now let's talk about Hero what a name for a male character. His family exudes honor Above All Else and it is a model to live by. Hero will have to make some tough choices in the story and I love the fact that sometimes he has to go against his inclination in order to come out ahead in a good way. Love the characters of his family Valiant, Lore and Asher even their father was a great addition to this book.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series. Kudos to the author you made me enjoy reading Regency again.
May 23, 2022
Ok, so I read this in one day! I could not put it down. I became so invested in these characters I had to know what happened! This is the first book of the series and is Beatrix and Hero’s story.
So let’s be honest, with a name like Hero how does he not become one from the start? He is galant, stubborn, honorable and very dreamy. He is drawn to Beatrix from the start and can’t seem to keep himself from falling for her.
Beatrix is a Lady who was forced to leave the life she once knew to start over as a commoner. She has had a rough go of it, but she is a strong and confident woman. She has no idea that a chance encounter with a handsome general changes her life for the better.
These two start as friends, but quickly their feelings for each other change. They spend time together planning her future, but Hero starts to believe that she is his future. They are fantastic together and their story was enjoyable to read. At times their denial was exhausting, but it was worked into the story appropriately. The secondary characters were great too. Some I really liked, some I did not! Now I didn’t feel like it kept to the feeling of the time period throughout the book, but if you are not a die hard for keeping to the genre you may just enjoy this book. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So let’s be honest, with a name like Hero how does he not become one from the start? He is galant, stubborn, honorable and very dreamy. He is drawn to Beatrix from the start and can’t seem to keep himself from falling for her.
Beatrix is a Lady who was forced to leave the life she once knew to start over as a commoner. She has had a rough go of it, but she is a strong and confident woman. She has no idea that a chance encounter with a handsome general changes her life for the better.
These two start as friends, but quickly their feelings for each other change. They spend time together planning her future, but Hero starts to believe that she is his future. They are fantastic together and their story was enjoyable to read. At times their denial was exhausting, but it was worked into the story appropriately. The secondary characters were great too. Some I really liked, some I did not! Now I didn’t feel like it kept to the feeling of the time period throughout the book, but if you are not a die hard for keeping to the genre you may just enjoy this book. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 15, 2019
Quick Info
Standalone/Cliffhanger?: Standalone
Part of a Series?: Yes
----------------------------------
Meeting the Characters
Hero
Beatrix
----------------------------------
What happens?
Hero is rescued by Lady Beatrix, she brings him into her room and calls for a doctor as he has been stabbed. Due to the time, they pretend to be married so as not to ruin her and are only ousted when the landlord of the room she rents finds out Hero's real surname and thus figures out they are not married.
When Hero returns to the Tavern in hopes of making her his mistress and finds out she is no longer there he goes in search of her. Finding a very different woman and she is in fact a lady so not suitable to be his mistress. Determined to find her a husband he supports her season and eventually finds himself in love with her and wanting to marry her himself.
Final thoughts
This was so sweet. I really loved this romance. I thought Beatrix was a good character and strong. Her brother annoyed me but that was to be expected honestly.
Would I read again?: Yes
Would I read this author again?: Yes
Standalone/Cliffhanger?: Standalone
Part of a Series?: Yes
----------------------------------
Meeting the Characters
Hero
Beatrix
----------------------------------
What happens?
Hero is rescued by Lady Beatrix, she brings him into her room and calls for a doctor as he has been stabbed. Due to the time, they pretend to be married so as not to ruin her and are only ousted when the landlord of the room she rents finds out Hero's real surname and thus figures out they are not married.
When Hero returns to the Tavern in hopes of making her his mistress and finds out she is no longer there he goes in search of her. Finding a very different woman and she is in fact a lady so not suitable to be his mistress. Determined to find her a husband he supports her season and eventually finds himself in love with her and wanting to marry her himself.
Final thoughts
This was so sweet. I really loved this romance. I thought Beatrix was a good character and strong. Her brother annoyed me but that was to be expected honestly.
Would I read again?: Yes
Would I read this author again?: Yes
October 18, 2018
Lady Beatrix Gillingham, left her family and her title years before because of an arraignment her brother made for her to marry someone she didn’t like and didn’t trust. She now works as a barmaid known as “Betty Gillett”.
One night she saves General Hero Curbain, second son of a Duke that stumbled into the bar and is accused of being in a “compromising position”. To help her, he offers to pose as her husband off to war. Later, when her boss finds out the falsehood, he demands she sleep with him or lose her job! Curbain left her with some money for her help with his wound but could she really begin again?
This is my first, but not my last, book by the author. Regency romances are often fairly predictable but even knowing that, Deborah Wilson has written a cracking good read that lays a believable groundwork that she builds the story on. I ran a gambit of emotions before this book ended and would highly recommended this book and this author.5/5
[disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it]
One night she saves General Hero Curbain, second son of a Duke that stumbled into the bar and is accused of being in a “compromising position”. To help her, he offers to pose as her husband off to war. Later, when her boss finds out the falsehood, he demands she sleep with him or lose her job! Curbain left her with some money for her help with his wound but could she really begin again?
This is my first, but not my last, book by the author. Regency romances are often fairly predictable but even knowing that, Deborah Wilson has written a cracking good read that lays a believable groundwork that she builds the story on. I ran a gambit of emotions before this book ended and would highly recommended this book and this author.5/5
[disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it]
October 18, 2018
This is a clean Regency era romance. What a refreshing change of pace. Pull up a comfy reading nook, a warm throw, a cup of tea, and prepare to enjoy. She rescued him. He then rescued her. It has enough twist surprises to keep you wondering if they will have their HEA. The character are likable and the challenges are realistic. The cover is inaccurate, but that's not the author's fault. (Sorry-it's a pet peeve). The leading lady is strong, but vulnerable.; used to standing on her own feet. She wasn't just sitting on her hands waiting for someone to rescue her. She'd had a rough time of it, when he came into her life. He treated her with respect and gentleness. His family is filled with delightful characters. I really enjoyed reading this story and am looking forward to the next installment in the series.
October 19, 2018
An act of kindness leads to opening the way to a wonderful new life with opportunities that Beatrix never thought she would see again. General Hero Curbain is smitten with the beauty that saved his life, but has no intention of settling down as he is planning to go off soldiering after his leave is over. As Beatrix rediscovers her way in genteel society she also finds her heart longing for Hero. Unfortunately, secrets can never be kept indefinitely and her past comes back to haunt her. Hero is a wonderful man and one that any woman could fall in love with. Beatrix, whilst being grateful for all he is doing for her, does not take anything for granted. This is a charming and clean story set in an era where women were bargaining chips with very little choice over their destiny. The book is well written with an easy style, and can be read by most age groups.
December 7, 2018
Deborah Wilson was looking for reviewers and I was between reads. I have been reading a number of paranormal and urban fantasy romances over the past two years. However, I wasn't sure I would be that interested in a romance set in the Regency period. Until lately, romances were simply not my cup of tea. So the review copy of The Perfect Lady was my first exposure to Regency romance. I don't believe I have figured out the nuances of the genre and it's sub-genres but I do enjoy reading historical Regency romances, thanks to Deborah Wilson. She is an excellent story teller and she knows how to set a scene and bring her characters to life. The three books in this series are all great reads and thoroughly enjoyable. Deborah Wilson has other series but I want more books in the Valiant Love series! I love the extended family of the Duke of Ayers.
October 10, 2018
An interesting book but seemed to lack in depth emotions of love and relationships. Not that I was looking for sexual encounter but depth to what was going on between Hero and Beatrix. They really were lacking in many ways communication and in depth emotion. For someone who was twenty five she acting much younger. Not standing up for herself and she should have to lad her brother to take a hike. The past was past and over move on and live her own life by being a wimp/ pushover.
A bit of a mystery about her relationship with her brother Benedict but eventually most of it came out. The story was lacking to me.
Did I enjoy it not really. I have read other books of the same nature but they had more depth and did not seem lacking. Even the ending was off.
A bit of a mystery about her relationship with her brother Benedict but eventually most of it came out. The story was lacking to me.
Did I enjoy it not really. I have read other books of the same nature but they had more depth and did not seem lacking. Even the ending was off.
October 13, 2018
I received this book as an arc, and was quite excited to read it, I hadn’t read many regency romances but the ones I had I enjoyed. This book didn’t disappoint it kept me captivated from the very beginning, I struggled to put it down. It was well written and engaging, with detail about the finer points and background that gave the story authenticity and made it that much nicer to read and follow along with the characters from beginning to end. Whilst it was obvious as to how the romance would end at the end of the book it was still so engaging to Ollie the path as it wasn’t predictable in the larger sense as the smaller details and changes in story kept it from being to predictable.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this first book in a new series and can’t wait to read the next one.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this first book in a new series and can’t wait to read the next one.
October 26, 2018
Romance is a genre that I either love or hate. Thankfully this was one I loved. I loved the characters and the sweet CLEAN story. You rarely find a clean romance with a good story. In fact, I loved it so much I am on Ms. Wilson's ARC team and have already previewed the second book in this series and loved it as well. What I loved most was that typically in such novels the main character is so weak she tends to just run away from anything hard instead of just being honest. Normally I'd like to smack such characters. However, even though there was a tad of this in The Perfect Lady, I didn't want to smack anyone. I actually felt she had a good reason to let go of the guy. lol
Just read it. I was clean, fun, sweet and exciting.
Just read it. I was clean, fun, sweet and exciting.
November 6, 2018
The Perfect Lady by Deborah Wilson is an amazing beginning to a new series. Ms. Wilson has created a world with likeable characters, an intriguing plot and romance. A great combination!
General Hero Curbain truly lives up to his name! He is a hero on and off the battlefield. But sometimes even heroes needs rescuing and he finds that in more ways than one in Lady Beatrix Gillingham.
Beatrix is running from her past and a loveless marriage when an injured Hero stumbles into her life. He returns the favor and rescues her right back when he offers her the opportunity of a season she never received, but soon he finds himself at war with his own feelings!
The Perfect Lady is a great read! Hero and Beatrix’s journey to love is filled with obstacles, but love truly conquers all!
General Hero Curbain truly lives up to his name! He is a hero on and off the battlefield. But sometimes even heroes needs rescuing and he finds that in more ways than one in Lady Beatrix Gillingham.
Beatrix is running from her past and a loveless marriage when an injured Hero stumbles into her life. He returns the favor and rescues her right back when he offers her the opportunity of a season she never received, but soon he finds himself at war with his own feelings!
The Perfect Lady is a great read! Hero and Beatrix’s journey to love is filled with obstacles, but love truly conquers all!
December 7, 2018
Omg what a fabulous book! You find love with hero, Beatrix, valiant, lore, Esther, Ayers and reddington.
Beatrix working in the tavern after leaving her home helps a man who stumbles in stabbed. Then loses her job because her boss expects favors.
Is she is seen much in her short life most of which she should’ve never been in a position to see.
When here Agosta think you’re in pain so she’s lost her position he goes to help and one thing leads to another.
I love these characters play such important roles in the storyline but I won’t give away the story completely as it is too good and must be read in its entire tea!
I can’t wait to read more from this author as this book was one of the best I’ve read in a very very long time! I highly recommend it
Beatrix working in the tavern after leaving her home helps a man who stumbles in stabbed. Then loses her job because her boss expects favors.
Is she is seen much in her short life most of which she should’ve never been in a position to see.
When here Agosta think you’re in pain so she’s lost her position he goes to help and one thing leads to another.
I love these characters play such important roles in the storyline but I won’t give away the story completely as it is too good and must be read in its entire tea!
I can’t wait to read more from this author as this book was one of the best I’ve read in a very very long time! I highly recommend it
October 15, 2018
This is the first book from Deborah Wilson that I have read and I was offered an ARC. I was pleasantly surprised and I really enjoyed it. This was an intriguing story of a woman who gave up the ton and was discovered by a man who wanted to bring her back. Naturally, they fell in love. The tension was high enough at one point that I started to feel a bit nauseous. What can I say? I get a bit caught up when the characters are well-written. Anyway, villains are not always the ones we expect them to be, which added a great twist to this story. I highly recommend this book and I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
November 25, 2019
This is the second book of the series I have read (unwittingly read book 11 first). I enjoy the story, the characters and pacing of these books, although it often feels like there are scenes where things happen that are not in the book...scenes that move the relationships forward. Scenes that could have added greatly to the development of the relationships.
The books are generally predictable but enjoyable. They definitely need an editor! There are a lot off odd wordings that would make you think of autocorrect issues in your text messages.
So, a relaxing read overall...I will read more of these.
The books are generally predictable but enjoyable. They definitely need an editor! There are a lot off odd wordings that would make you think of autocorrect issues in your text messages.
So, a relaxing read overall...I will read more of these.
October 8, 2018
I finished The Perfect Lady & I really loved it! I enjoyed Hero & Bea ( General Hero Curbain and Lady Beatrix Gillingham) as a couple & all the struggles they encountered & I loved the ending (I did shed a few tears)! The story wasn't just a great romance but it had love at first sight, mystery, intrigue & greed. The secondary characters were wonderful & brought a lot to the story that pulled you in even more. I highly recommend this book as it is a real winner & I can't wait to read Lore's story.
October 9, 2018
Rengency romance...19th century England
Wow, a fantastic story of the upper class of England. Discover how honesty, kindness,love and forgiveness play a part in this historical tale. 1 family is separated because of greed. Can they ever come together again and make things right? Can Beatrice find love and a good life after her father died and she has to find her own way in life. Lots of twists and turns make this an exciting page turner. I purchased this book and all the words in this review are strictly my own. I recommend this to mature teens,and adults.
Wow, a fantastic story of the upper class of England. Discover how honesty, kindness,love and forgiveness play a part in this historical tale. 1 family is separated because of greed. Can they ever come together again and make things right? Can Beatrice find love and a good life after her father died and she has to find her own way in life. Lots of twists and turns make this an exciting page turner. I purchased this book and all the words in this review are strictly my own. I recommend this to mature teens,and adults.
October 15, 2018
A fortunate encounter brought Beatrix and Hero together. She saved his life and he wanted to compensate her with a better life. But he had an additional motive for taking care of her. He had fallen for her. It was all Beatrix could think of after helping him. She wanted to stay in his protective care. She had fallen for him. But of course there are setbacks and secrets. A few twists and turns in the plot keeps this story interesting and ‘unputdownable’. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would highly recommended this book to all lovers of regency romance. And a wonderful HEA!
October 17, 2018
This is my first book by Deborah Wilson, and it is GREAT, loved it from beginning to end. Characters are Beatrix and Hero, you will fall in love with them as you read, and she does well on growing them throughout the book.
Beatrix is strong, knows what she wants and does everything she can to get it. Hero is honorable, comes from an honorable family and tries to keep that as he journies through.
If you have not read anything from this lady, start with this one, if you have then you know how good she really is. Get this book.
Beatrix is strong, knows what she wants and does everything she can to get it. Hero is honorable, comes from an honorable family and tries to keep that as he journies through.
If you have not read anything from this lady, start with this one, if you have then you know how good she really is. Get this book.
October 18, 2018
Pretty good book
Though it's a typical historical romance clean and sweet it had its momenys.
I do so love that honor and love are described in union and found that to be the highlight....I only wish at the end there was that spot of humor with "aristocrat"...you'll have to read it to figure out that part... and though the ending be sad and a tiny bit to me a cliff hanger it was a stand alone novel with strong characters.
I definitely will read more from this author in the future.
Though it's a typical historical romance clean and sweet it had its momenys.
I do so love that honor and love are described in union and found that to be the highlight....I only wish at the end there was that spot of humor with "aristocrat"...you'll have to read it to figure out that part... and though the ending be sad and a tiny bit to me a cliff hanger it was a stand alone novel with strong characters.
I definitely will read more from this author in the future.
October 19, 2018
This is the first book in the series and has caught my attention from the beginning. The story is very well written, with well-developed characters and a plot full of intrigue and romance.
Beatrix is running from her past and now works as a barmaid.
When General Hero Curbain appears injured in front of Beatrix, she immediately saves him. And to reward her, he offers her the chance for a season she never received, but soon both find themselves with stronger feelings toward each other.
When secrets of her past reappear, will they be able to overcome them, or will it drive them away forever?
Beatrix is running from her past and now works as a barmaid.
When General Hero Curbain appears injured in front of Beatrix, she immediately saves him. And to reward her, he offers her the chance for a season she never received, but soon both find themselves with stronger feelings toward each other.
When secrets of her past reappear, will they be able to overcome them, or will it drive them away forever?
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