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The Spinster Chronicles #2
The Spinster and I
Poor, unfortunate Spinster...
Prudence Westfall, spinster, has unexpectedly had the greatest misfortune of she has inherited a fortune, and is now an heiress. But as a Spinster, and a stammering shy one, nothing could be worse than having a bevy of suitors pay her attention. Opportunity strikes at a house party when the most unlikely person offers the perfect solution.
Camden Vale is no gentleman, and he’s not prone to saving anyone, but something about Prue changes all that. When his offer to befriend her extends beyond the house party, and his feelings extend beyond expectation, no one is more surprised than he. Except, perhaps, for the other Spinsters, and they have much to say on the subject.
Prudence Westfall, spinster, has unexpectedly had the greatest misfortune of she has inherited a fortune, and is now an heiress. But as a Spinster, and a stammering shy one, nothing could be worse than having a bevy of suitors pay her attention. Opportunity strikes at a house party when the most unlikely person offers the perfect solution.
Camden Vale is no gentleman, and he’s not prone to saving anyone, but something about Prue changes all that. When his offer to befriend her extends beyond the house party, and his feelings extend beyond expectation, no one is more surprised than he. Except, perhaps, for the other Spinsters, and they have much to say on the subject.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2018
275 people are currently reading
735 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Connolly
86 books1,231 followersI was born once upon a time, and I started making up stories right away. Eventually, I started writing them down, and never stopped! I have a day job, which gets in the way of my writing, but it pays the bills so I CAN write, so I guess that's okay! I am a bookworm, which I think is key to being a writer, and I am always looking for inspiration! I live in Indiana, am obsessed with hot chocolate, and I am on track to be the best aunt in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
November 4, 2018
LOVED! Camden may be my favorite of Rebecca's heroes. I could absolutely feel Prue's frustration when she had so much that she wants to say but she just couldn't get it out. Their interactions were adorable and I was cheering them on the entire time.
October 16, 2018
I love the way Rebecca writes a romance. Her men are such amazing men:} This book had a lot of characters in it from other books. It was fun to see them all again. Camden is a great complicated leading man. I loved how he rescued Prue without being overbearing. He had this great balance of letting her lead and hoping she would help herself before he had to get there. I'm going to be honest, Prue was hard for me. I have an overbearing mother I have had to stand up to more times then I can count. I stayed quiet for years to keep the peace but all that did was allow her to turn into more of a monster. Prue wasn't just shy she was an abused victim of a life time of hurt. It was hard to read. I wanted her to stand up and scream and demand better treatment! To dump her mother in an alley and walk away. It would not be true to who Prue was but it would have left me feeling better. I think the author wrote this in the only way to stay true to who Prue and others like her are. It took me till I was 30 to stand up to my mom and it might take Prue longer. I am hoping that in the course of this series we see just a little more of her confidence rise. So this was not my favorite Spinster story but that has nothing to do with how Rebecca writes. She makes me laugh and with this one cry a little. She gets me emotional involved and I can't put her books down! I also love to go back and read them again. Can not wait to see what more she has in store for these characters:} This is a chaste novel with some of the sweetest kisses! There is a bit of violence, some punching and slapping.
November 12, 2018
I love the dialogue in this book! Rebecca Connolly is able to convey the emotions and thoughts of her characters eloquently. I felt empathy and compassion for them as they struggled through Regency society.
Prue is a wallflower. She is happy to remain in the shadows. Her mother is overbearing, and frankly, not a nice woman. To me, it the way that Prue acts in society is indicative of social anxiety. Her mother shows no compassion, only ridicule as her daughter struggles. The mother is only thinking of her own societal gain and reputation.
Camden is a hero, even if he doesn't realize it. He befriends Prue, knowing that she the help he can give in making it through social engagements. He knows how to calm her. I love it when friends realize that there is more to their relationship. I married my best friend. It brings back fond memories as to when I thought of my husband as more than just my friend.
Prue also has an amazing set of friends. We all need people in our lives who help and uplift.
This is a book that I wouldn't mind re-reading. In fact, last night I ordered a couple of more of her books for my kindle! I am looking forward to spending more time with the imagination and writing of Rebecca Connolly.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own
Prue is a wallflower. She is happy to remain in the shadows. Her mother is overbearing, and frankly, not a nice woman. To me, it the way that Prue acts in society is indicative of social anxiety. Her mother shows no compassion, only ridicule as her daughter struggles. The mother is only thinking of her own societal gain and reputation.
Camden is a hero, even if he doesn't realize it. He befriends Prue, knowing that she the help he can give in making it through social engagements. He knows how to calm her. I love it when friends realize that there is more to their relationship. I married my best friend. It brings back fond memories as to when I thought of my husband as more than just my friend.
Prue also has an amazing set of friends. We all need people in our lives who help and uplift.
This is a book that I wouldn't mind re-reading. In fact, last night I ordered a couple of more of her books for my kindle! I am looking forward to spending more time with the imagination and writing of Rebecca Connolly.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own
June 5, 2019
This grabbed me from the start and I had a hard time putting it down. Thoroughly enjoyed our h/H and their chemistry together. Great read. Full review to come.
Content: Clean
Content: Clean
November 10, 2018
I loved Prue! She is so sweet and unassuming, and I couldn't help but root for her as she deals with her new circumstances- a status that puts her in the spotlight of society and the focus of fortune hunters, and a formerly neglectful mother who now takes too much interest and the verbal abuse that comes with it. The support of her friends is invaluable and essential to her journey of independence and self-confidence. The personalities of the Spinsters are each distinct and vibrant, and I loved coming back to the dynamics of their group. Camden is so charming, but in a likeable way- not over the top. He sees past Prue's stammering for who she truly is, and their friendship and developing romance was a pleasure to read. Another lovely Regency romance from Rebecca Connolly!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
November 18, 2018
I really am enjoying these books, but I would love them even more if they didn't have this flaw...the romantic timing is all out of whack. In a Regency novel, I think it should be taken for granted that if two people are in an OFFICIAL courtship, marriage is the end-game. Like, it shouldn't be a revelation that one or both of them might want to get married. Also, all the kissing and romantic interludes should come with those commitment strings attached. That's why it's always such a big plot point in Regency novels that someone might get "compromised." Because it was *not* acceptable to be all lovey-dovey if you were not clearly heading for the altar.
In this novel, all that stuff was skewed much closer to the way modern dating often works, and it was all wrong.
HOWEVER, other than that stuff, which didn't bother me until very near the end, it was a good read. All the ladies from the first book are back. Prudence is the second Spinster-with-a-capital-S to fall in love, and it's all very sweet. She has crippling anxiety, panic attacks, a stutter, and an abusive mother, so she exists within a shell. When Cameron, a gentleman of dubious reputation but good heart, is in the right place at the right time, he manages to "rescue" her from an anxiety-causing situation. They gradually become friends and he becomes Prue's biggest protector and champion.
I enjoyed all that, although Prue's frequent panic attacks could get a bit exhausting for a reader. I guess that means they're realistically written.
Interestingly, although I spotted quite a bit of anachronistic dialogue, it didn't bother me at all here. Maybe because I got the feeling that it was on purpose. It felt like it opened up the novel to be extra funny and accessible. These books would make really entertaining TV.
In this novel, all that stuff was skewed much closer to the way modern dating often works, and it was all wrong.
HOWEVER, other than that stuff, which didn't bother me until very near the end, it was a good read. All the ladies from the first book are back. Prudence is the second Spinster-with-a-capital-S to fall in love, and it's all very sweet. She has crippling anxiety, panic attacks, a stutter, and an abusive mother, so she exists within a shell. When Cameron, a gentleman of dubious reputation but good heart, is in the right place at the right time, he manages to "rescue" her from an anxiety-causing situation. They gradually become friends and he becomes Prue's biggest protector and champion.
I enjoyed all that, although Prue's frequent panic attacks could get a bit exhausting for a reader. I guess that means they're realistically written.
Interestingly, although I spotted quite a bit of anachronistic dialogue, it didn't bother me at all here. Maybe because I got the feeling that it was on purpose. It felt like it opened up the novel to be extra funny and accessible. These books would make really entertaining TV.
May 29, 2019
Regency England.
Prudence was shy & stuttered. Her widowed mother, the
mother from hell, thought Prue simple-minded. And
called Prue stupid & barked at her don't be shy/ talk/
stutter/ avoid others (@house party). And cous Eliza
tormented her. To make matters worse, Prue learned
she inherited a small fortune & men who never noticed
her before, falsely flattered her now.
Cam met Prue @a house party, understood her anxiety,
& her stuttering issue (which his late cousin had). Prue
made friends w/ The Spinster Chronicles ladies (& wrote
for them). Cam re-connected with his friends he insulted
and vice versa and decided to change his character. His
rep did not fully reflect his actions or thoughts.
Prue had some heart-wrenching anxiety after some folks
mocked her or treated her less than she deserved. And this
played on her insecurities. But she made her needs known
more than in times past. She clearly told Cam not to finish
sentences for her. But Prue felt safe with Cam.
A witchy character lied publicly RE he H+ h. I felt the author
missed a key opportunity for Prue to experience a catharsis,
by Prue briefly disputing these lies. But alas, Prue shrank
away. This couple clicked, but Cam did something heartless
before the last few chapters. Why?
Revised.
Prudence was shy & stuttered. Her widowed mother, the
mother from hell, thought Prue simple-minded. And
called Prue stupid & barked at her don't be shy/ talk/
stutter/ avoid others (@house party). And cous Eliza
tormented her. To make matters worse, Prue learned
she inherited a small fortune & men who never noticed
her before, falsely flattered her now.
Cam met Prue @a house party, understood her anxiety,
& her stuttering issue (which his late cousin had). Prue
made friends w/ The Spinster Chronicles ladies (& wrote
for them). Cam re-connected with his friends he insulted
and vice versa and decided to change his character. His
rep did not fully reflect his actions or thoughts.
Prue had some heart-wrenching anxiety after some folks
mocked her or treated her less than she deserved. And this
played on her insecurities. But she made her needs known
more than in times past. She clearly told Cam not to finish
sentences for her. But Prue felt safe with Cam.
A witchy character lied publicly RE he H+ h. I felt the author
missed a key opportunity for Prue to experience a catharsis,
by Prue briefly disputing these lies. But alas, Prue shrank
away. This couple clicked, but Cam did something heartless
before the last few chapters. Why?
Revised.
December 22, 2018
The Spinster and I is another win for Rebecca Connolly. I absolutely love how she writes. There is wit, charm, and perfectly timed banter on each page. I loved how there were so many beloved characters that made appearances in this book, it was like a family reunion. Especially Tony. Prue is one of my all-time favorite characters. My heart breaks for her at times with what she has to endure from her overbearing mother and cruel cousin. Prue is a kind, timid girl who just needed someone to understand her and listen to what she wants. I instantly loved Camden, he is a mystery and I loved how he was written. I appreciated how he paid attention to her needs and guided her. He is the perfect hero. And of course the Spinsters. They are just perfect. I love each of them. Charlotte, Izzy, they all bring a smile to my face.
5 out of 5 stars. Rebecca Connolly is a talented author, whose books I will always enjoy.
5 out of 5 stars. Rebecca Connolly is a talented author, whose books I will always enjoy.
November 9, 2018
I love a good Regency Romance! And i’ts always a bonus when the good Regency Romance is part of a series the way this one is! Make sure you check out my review of The Merry Lives of Spinsters from yesterday to learn about the start of this series.
The Spinster and I is the story of Prudence, or Prue. She’s a member of the Spinsters group. I loved the way Prudence’s character is flawed. She’s not perfect, because she tends to stutter when she’s in an unfamiliar environment or with a large group of people. That becomes fairly obvious almost immediately in this book. Prue is, at her mother’s insistence, at a house party trying to find a man to marry. There are plenty of opportunities for everything to go wrong for her. And they do…until she meets Camden.
Camden is a young man with a suspicious reputation. What’s interesting is that as the reader gets to know him, the reader realizes that he’s more a gentleman than even he knows. I loved the way Camden saves Prue time after time. He makes her comfortable with him. And Prue is finally able to be herself in his company.
I loved that the Spinsters are in this book. They are so clever! I loved the way there are snippets from their articles at the beginning of each chapter. They made me smile every time.
I did not like Prue’s mom. At. All! It was obvious from The Merry Lives of Spinsters that she was terrible. But seeing her through Prue’s eyes showed me that she was even worse than I thought. Yikes!
I loved the plot of this one. It’s clever, romantic and there’s tons of things going on to keep the reader interested. Make sure to get yourself a copy!
The Spinster and I is the story of Prudence, or Prue. She’s a member of the Spinsters group. I loved the way Prudence’s character is flawed. She’s not perfect, because she tends to stutter when she’s in an unfamiliar environment or with a large group of people. That becomes fairly obvious almost immediately in this book. Prue is, at her mother’s insistence, at a house party trying to find a man to marry. There are plenty of opportunities for everything to go wrong for her. And they do…until she meets Camden.
Camden is a young man with a suspicious reputation. What’s interesting is that as the reader gets to know him, the reader realizes that he’s more a gentleman than even he knows. I loved the way Camden saves Prue time after time. He makes her comfortable with him. And Prue is finally able to be herself in his company.
I loved that the Spinsters are in this book. They are so clever! I loved the way there are snippets from their articles at the beginning of each chapter. They made me smile every time.
I did not like Prue’s mom. At. All! It was obvious from The Merry Lives of Spinsters that she was terrible. But seeing her through Prue’s eyes showed me that she was even worse than I thought. Yikes!
I loved the plot of this one. It’s clever, romantic and there’s tons of things going on to keep the reader interested. Make sure to get yourself a copy!
February 22, 2023
This is the second book in the series Spinster Chronicles with a capital S.
The h is Prudence Westfall recent heiress inheriting from her Aunt on her father’s side. The H is Camden Vale a gentleman with a questionable reputation not approved by her Spinster friends at first. Pru went to a house party with her mother who doesn’t understand her and has no patience and thinks her daughter simple. She tries to marry her off to a Mr Davies but Pru isn’t interested in some fortune hunters. Camden rescues her at this house party and has patience and understands how to help her calm down and to breath. She is shy and her emotions overwhelm her making her stuttering worse. If she is with close friends she trusts she can communicate without stuttering.
All the girls:
Georgie and Tony Sterling “Merry Lives of Spinsters”
Izzy( Isobel) Lambert and Sebastian Morton “Spinster and Spice”
Prudence (Pru) Westfall and Camden Vale “ The Spinster and I”
Grace Morledge
Charlotte Wright (heiress)
Lady Edith Leveson (Scottish widow)
Elinor Ashely (18) adopted by the Spinsters. She is the younger sister of Emma a former Spinster.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The h is Prudence Westfall recent heiress inheriting from her Aunt on her father’s side. The H is Camden Vale a gentleman with a questionable reputation not approved by her Spinster friends at first. Pru went to a house party with her mother who doesn’t understand her and has no patience and thinks her daughter simple. She tries to marry her off to a Mr Davies but Pru isn’t interested in some fortune hunters. Camden rescues her at this house party and has patience and understands how to help her calm down and to breath. She is shy and her emotions overwhelm her making her stuttering worse. If she is with close friends she trusts she can communicate without stuttering.
All the girls:
Georgie and Tony Sterling “Merry Lives of Spinsters”
Izzy( Isobel) Lambert and Sebastian Morton “Spinster and Spice”
Prudence (Pru) Westfall and Camden Vale “ The Spinster and I”
Grace Morledge
Charlotte Wright (heiress)
Lady Edith Leveson (Scottish widow)
Elinor Ashely (18) adopted by the Spinsters. She is the younger sister of Emma a former Spinster.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
February 24, 2023
It's OK, the h suffers from intense shyness in public situations, she stutters, blushes so her mother bullies her as do others. The H was great with the h but I didn't understand the H. He's a gentleman, not socially acceptable but kind to the h. It has a HEA but I didn't like it.
November 6, 2018
Clever and Achingly Sweet
Prue Westfall is unbelievably shy. She’s probably the only woman in London who would be disappointed to receive an inheritance, but she is. She hates the attention, the false praise, and the increase in criticisms from her mother.
Then Prue meets Camden Dale. He is sweet, patient, and funny. He calms her anxieties, and helps the real vibrant Prue come out. I absolutely adored him. I loved how he won over the other Spinsters, and how good he was to and for Prue.
I loved the wit, and the strong women. There are so many characters in this series that I can’t wait to see more of!
Content: clean (some kissing, mild violence)
Prue Westfall is unbelievably shy. She’s probably the only woman in London who would be disappointed to receive an inheritance, but she is. She hates the attention, the false praise, and the increase in criticisms from her mother.
Then Prue meets Camden Dale. He is sweet, patient, and funny. He calms her anxieties, and helps the real vibrant Prue come out. I absolutely adored him. I loved how he won over the other Spinsters, and how good he was to and for Prue.
I loved the wit, and the strong women. There are so many characters in this series that I can’t wait to see more of!
Content: clean (some kissing, mild violence)
October 29, 2018
This is a new author for me. I had never heard of her until Singing librarian offered this book for review.
Wow and wow!! I can relate to so many things in this book.
Prue's mother for one. Reminds too much of my mother in law and my Dad especially with the name calling. ( That was my dad).
What Pru came in to. Everyone wanted to be my friend and they came out of the woodworks too!!
I loved the beautiful cover on the book and truth be told that is what made me want to read it.
The author has done a wonderful job in making these characters come alive. She has offered hope and love to those who crave it.
Prue is an amazing lady. She is so very much like me. There are people that I just can't stand and there are people who I just love to be around.
I admire Prue especially when I watched her bloom and grow into the person I knew she could be with God's help and some very good friends
I liked Cam too. He's sort of like me. Especially when he gets in one of his moods. I am going to claim him as my hero. If I had a brother I'd want him to be just like Cam. He kind, gentle and I can imagine him being very good looking too!
Wow and wow!! I can relate to so many things in this book.
Prue's mother for one. Reminds too much of my mother in law and my Dad especially with the name calling. ( That was my dad).
What Pru came in to. Everyone wanted to be my friend and they came out of the woodworks too!!
I loved the beautiful cover on the book and truth be told that is what made me want to read it.
The author has done a wonderful job in making these characters come alive. She has offered hope and love to those who crave it.
Prue is an amazing lady. She is so very much like me. There are people that I just can't stand and there are people who I just love to be around.
I admire Prue especially when I watched her bloom and grow into the person I knew she could be with God's help and some very good friends
I liked Cam too. He's sort of like me. Especially when he gets in one of his moods. I am going to claim him as my hero. If I had a brother I'd want him to be just like Cam. He kind, gentle and I can imagine him being very good looking too!
April 13, 2019
Another entertaining read by Rebecca Connolly. I really liked Prue from the first story, so I was glad to read her story. I felt so bad for her paralyzing shyness, but Camden was perfect for her. He was so kind, understanding, and always coming to Prue’s rescue. He may be my favorite hero from all of Connolly’s books.
April 6, 2019
More
A delightful romance. I just wish for more revenge! I am looking forward to the rest of the spinsters finding their happily ever afters.
A delightful romance. I just wish for more revenge! I am looking forward to the rest of the spinsters finding their happily ever afters.
July 20, 2021
Prudence’s mother and cousin Eliza are the most villainous characters I’ve ever read about. They were absolutely horrible and I hated the way they neglected and bullied Prue.
Camden, on the other hand was a darling and I love how he was able to make Prue feel so at ease. They had amazing chemistry. I was so happy that this wasn’t an insta-love story, not even an insta-attraction. Rather, the story follows two complete strangers getting to know each other, becoming friends then falling in love. Super sweet and romantic 😍
Prue starts off being extremely shy and overly anxious about everything (poor darling) but as she spends time with Camden, she became bolder and more outspoken. I would have liked to see her stand up to her mother or cousin though. It just felt like she never got to show them her newfound courage…or that she was no longer under their control.
Regardless, I loved this story and I really enjoyed learning about the other members of the spinster club. They all made for a very interesting and humorous story. Will definitely be reading from this author again.
Favorite Quotes:
Nothing quite sets us up to fail as much as an assumption. And nothing surprises us more than being mistaken.
“I don’t think I can leave you alone.” He stared at her for a long moment, his hand stilled on her back, and added, “I know I can’t.” Her head tilted in a question. “Why not?” “Because I see you,” he admitted with a rawness she did not anticipate. “And I like what I see.”
When a man treats a woman kindly and with gentleness and patience when there is absolutely nothing to be gained by it, it ought to say something about the true nature of the man.
His was the voice she wanted to hear when she needed to find her way, when all else was lost, when she could not manage on her own. His was the voice she wanted calling out to her, calling her back, and leading her home.
Content: Clean, swoony kisses
Camden, on the other hand was a darling and I love how he was able to make Prue feel so at ease. They had amazing chemistry. I was so happy that this wasn’t an insta-love story, not even an insta-attraction. Rather, the story follows two complete strangers getting to know each other, becoming friends then falling in love. Super sweet and romantic 😍
Prue starts off being extremely shy and overly anxious about everything (poor darling) but as she spends time with Camden, she became bolder and more outspoken. I would have liked to see her stand up to her mother or cousin though. It just felt like she never got to show them her newfound courage…or that she was no longer under their control.
Regardless, I loved this story and I really enjoyed learning about the other members of the spinster club. They all made for a very interesting and humorous story. Will definitely be reading from this author again.
Favorite Quotes:
Nothing quite sets us up to fail as much as an assumption. And nothing surprises us more than being mistaken.
“I don’t think I can leave you alone.” He stared at her for a long moment, his hand stilled on her back, and added, “I know I can’t.” Her head tilted in a question. “Why not?” “Because I see you,” he admitted with a rawness she did not anticipate. “And I like what I see.”
When a man treats a woman kindly and with gentleness and patience when there is absolutely nothing to be gained by it, it ought to say something about the true nature of the man.
His was the voice she wanted to hear when she needed to find her way, when all else was lost, when she could not manage on her own. His was the voice she wanted calling out to her, calling her back, and leading her home.
Content: Clean, swoony kisses
December 27, 2021
2.5 rounded down.
This was an extremely unpleasant book to read. All the characters are rude and nasty without any explanation to why they are so. Why is her mother so unpleasant with Prue?
It was also extremely tedious and I had to resort to rapid reading and even more rapid skipping of pages. Nothing happens, only long winding self pitying soliloquies.
I'm very disappointed since I really like the underdog tropes. Unfortunately, this one doesn't redeem itself anywhere. I must admit the author's extremely intelligent - lots of premises in the plot that really never happen.
Recommended : 👎
This was an extremely unpleasant book to read. All the characters are rude and nasty without any explanation to why they are so. Why is her mother so unpleasant with Prue?
It was also extremely tedious and I had to resort to rapid reading and even more rapid skipping of pages. Nothing happens, only long winding self pitying soliloquies.
I'm very disappointed since I really like the underdog tropes. Unfortunately, this one doesn't redeem itself anywhere. I must admit the author's extremely intelligent - lots of premises in the plot that really never happen.
Recommended : 👎
December 7, 2018
I got so close to finishing... Characters didn't grab me and some plot developments had me rolling my eyes. I am clearly not the audience for this one. or maybe just in a bad mood? In any case I need to remember that me and this author just aren't compatible
February 27, 2019
4.5 stars
I thought this book was better than the first one and it leaves me excited to read the next one. I never get enough time with the Spinsters though they popped up as a group through out the book.
Camden was a wonderful hero. Mostly because he was honest enough to not believe himself a hero. I loved him until he became a darn fool. I guess I'll never understand the logic of a regency era man that thinks this is the best way to love his miss. But of course he doesn't stay a darn fool so its all good. I love that he was so quick to be able to see the real Prue. He was witty and enjoyable to be around. He recognized his faults and didn't bother to correct false assumptions about him if it helped others for him to take the fall. He really is a good guy. And maybe he enjoyed having a reputation just a bit even though he really isn't wicked.
I liked that in discussing Camden's reputation there was the subtle lesson that gossip is full of half truths and full out lies and not to be believed straight out.
I also loved Prue. It is obvious that she is a strong person. No one could stand there and take every injustice she did without inner strength. People who should have loved her were so cruel to her and encouraged others to do so as well. Her anxiety might have been easier to handle had she had a loving family to assist.
I felt the anguish of the characters all through the book. I felt Camden's confusion about his desire to help someone when there was absolutely nothing in it to benefit him, or so he thought. I felt the trauma of the panic attacks Prue experienced and the anguish she felt at the mistreatment she received.
My only complaint about this book, which isn't really a complaint at all, is that I sooooo wanted to see Prue be able to get over the debilitating anxiety even for just a moment to stand up for herself. I kept envisioning all sorts of upcoming scenes where she stood up to her mother, told her she was done being mistreated and if she didn't like it she was on her own because Prue was financially independent, could hire a companion to be proper and go live her life however she wanted. Perhaps even one of the less fortunate Spinsters would like to live with her. Or in a very public setting Prue could stand up for herself when Eliza was weaving her lies and point out that a lie was even part of E-LI-za's name as well as show that she could speak without stuttering. She could point out that Eliza had gone after Davies only because she thought Prue wanted him, even though it was really her mother that wanted him and that even though she wasn't hurt by their marriage in and of itself, Davies, being a good man, didn't deserve such a fate. Oh, how I wanted to see a scene like this play out. But there is a reason that I am not a writer. I have a difficult time tolerating injustices yet they are a part of life. It would have wrapped everything up a bit too neatly to have Prue suddenly cured of anxiety by the love of self and a good man. Anxiety is real and isn't likely to just disappear though one may learn skills to deal better. Prue's anxiety seemed so severe that her father's method may be the only way for her to cope. So thank heavens for Mariah to physically do what I wanted Prue to figuratively (or literally) do. Just a little justice made me feel a little better.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Read it in a day and felt full annoyed anytime there was an interruption to my reading. I would have loved it to go on longer.
Sex: no, some kisses and a little innuendo
Language: a little-mild
Violence: some physical abuse, a lot of verbal abuse, and well deserved punch in the nose (though violence is never the answer right?)
I thought this book was better than the first one and it leaves me excited to read the next one. I never get enough time with the Spinsters though they popped up as a group through out the book.
Camden was a wonderful hero. Mostly because he was honest enough to not believe himself a hero. I loved him until he became a darn fool. I guess I'll never understand the logic of a regency era man that thinks this is the best way to love his miss. But of course he doesn't stay a darn fool so its all good. I love that he was so quick to be able to see the real Prue. He was witty and enjoyable to be around. He recognized his faults and didn't bother to correct false assumptions about him if it helped others for him to take the fall. He really is a good guy. And maybe he enjoyed having a reputation just a bit even though he really isn't wicked.
I liked that in discussing Camden's reputation there was the subtle lesson that gossip is full of half truths and full out lies and not to be believed straight out.
I also loved Prue. It is obvious that she is a strong person. No one could stand there and take every injustice she did without inner strength. People who should have loved her were so cruel to her and encouraged others to do so as well. Her anxiety might have been easier to handle had she had a loving family to assist.
I felt the anguish of the characters all through the book. I felt Camden's confusion about his desire to help someone when there was absolutely nothing in it to benefit him, or so he thought. I felt the trauma of the panic attacks Prue experienced and the anguish she felt at the mistreatment she received.
My only complaint about this book, which isn't really a complaint at all, is that I sooooo wanted to see Prue be able to get over the debilitating anxiety even for just a moment to stand up for herself. I kept envisioning all sorts of upcoming scenes where she stood up to her mother, told her she was done being mistreated and if she didn't like it she was on her own because Prue was financially independent, could hire a companion to be proper and go live her life however she wanted. Perhaps even one of the less fortunate Spinsters would like to live with her. Or in a very public setting Prue could stand up for herself when Eliza was weaving her lies and point out that a lie was even part of E-LI-za's name as well as show that she could speak without stuttering. She could point out that Eliza had gone after Davies only because she thought Prue wanted him, even though it was really her mother that wanted him and that even though she wasn't hurt by their marriage in and of itself, Davies, being a good man, didn't deserve such a fate. Oh, how I wanted to see a scene like this play out. But there is a reason that I am not a writer. I have a difficult time tolerating injustices yet they are a part of life. It would have wrapped everything up a bit too neatly to have Prue suddenly cured of anxiety by the love of self and a good man. Anxiety is real and isn't likely to just disappear though one may learn skills to deal better. Prue's anxiety seemed so severe that her father's method may be the only way for her to cope. So thank heavens for Mariah to physically do what I wanted Prue to figuratively (or literally) do. Just a little justice made me feel a little better.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Read it in a day and felt full annoyed anytime there was an interruption to my reading. I would have loved it to go on longer.
Sex: no, some kisses and a little innuendo
Language: a little-mild
Violence: some physical abuse, a lot of verbal abuse, and well deserved punch in the nose (though violence is never the answer right?)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2019
This is book two in this spinster series. Prudence had been an active member, with an overbearing, hateful mother. Then She received an inheritance of a country estate, and land, and money. Her mother was bound and determined that she would marry this season. Pru hated to be in the limelight, and it made her studdering more pronounced, and her panic attacks increase as well. She could not stand the constant barage of flattery , and attention, where none had been for years, and she was stuck with her mother at a country estate for a week or more. Her mother cut her in every way possible, taking every bit of confidence from her, and treating her like a dim whit. During one of these episodes Camden Vale came to her rescue, and took her out of her mother's reach, and others notice. Soon they became fast friends. She counted on him, in so many ways. When she returned to London the barage started back up again, but once again Cam was there to calm her. It is a tender romance about a young man with a reputation, and a woman that had not even kissed. The ups and downs, have a lot in common, with a spiteful cousin, who treats her horribly. She pretends in public, to be concerned, but does it in an awful cutting way meant to hurt. She causes much trouble for Pru, and Camden, with lies to cover her lack of character, and purity. The ending was lovely, and the spinster help save the reputation of Cam , with their news column. It was a joy to watch Pru grow, and learn to believe in herself, and the man she has chosen for her own. 5 Happy stars.
November 9, 2018
What a delightful tale The Spinster and I was. This is the story of Prue, who is a 25-year old spinster who has suddenly become very wealthy. However, that does not change who she is- a very timid and shy young woman who embarrasses easily and stutters when highly emotional. Enter Camden her rogue hero who sees her for who she is and has no other designs on her except to rescue her and to be her friend.
I liked watching these two strangers becoming friends and really not expecting anything else from each other, no romantic interests especially. I think it made them much more comfortable with each other and truly knocked down any walls that would have made them less than honest. Neither hid their faults from one another and that was a refreshing read. It was an interesting love story to watch unfold.
This is my first book I have read by author Connolly and I hope to rectify that soon. This story was filled with characters from other stories it seems, but even though I had not read them yet this one was still enjoyable. I like the idea of having a spinster like club, and I look forward to future stories as each one finds her one true match.
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
I liked watching these two strangers becoming friends and really not expecting anything else from each other, no romantic interests especially. I think it made them much more comfortable with each other and truly knocked down any walls that would have made them less than honest. Neither hid their faults from one another and that was a refreshing read. It was an interesting love story to watch unfold.
This is my first book I have read by author Connolly and I hope to rectify that soon. This story was filled with characters from other stories it seems, but even though I had not read them yet this one was still enjoyable. I like the idea of having a spinster like club, and I look forward to future stories as each one finds her one true match.
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
April 18, 2020
Really enjoyed this one! I loved how the two met and j loves our their relationship grew. I’m just over the insta love or the insta attraction. This was friendship that grew into something real. And I loved how protective Cam was. It gave me the feels.
I couldn’t however stand the Mother. She made my stomach turn and all I wanted was for Prue to stand up for herself! For heavens sake. That was the only part missing for me.
Over-all I really liked it!
I couldn’t however stand the Mother. She made my stomach turn and all I wanted was for Prue to stand up for herself! For heavens sake. That was the only part missing for me.
Over-all I really liked it!
June 27, 2025
3.5 rounded down. This would have been a four like the last, and I love Pru…but I do NOT love referring to women as “creatures.” It was, perhaps, consistent with the parlance of the time, but it can be so overused. Certainly the case here. Additionally, the last premise that kept our too leads apart was a bit of a stretch. I wish more of the series was on audible, but I think the whole series is available in Kindle Unlimited. Would like to read about the rest of the Spinsters!
July 29, 2019
Clean romance. I loved seeing Prue's growth in the story and all the characters are developing wonderfully. This is the second book in the series but they are stand alones. Prue's mother and cousin were not handled harshly enough... Ugh really, really did not like their characters. Highly recommended. Love this author's works! Can't wait to start the next
August 17, 2019
I liked this more than I expected to. Not terribly angsty, just a nice tale of a girl with social anxiety and her unintentional white knight. I really only read historical romances that cater to my favored tropes, but I do wish I had read book one in this series first. Still, for a sweet, clean romance, I liked this quite a bit (3.5 stars)
July 22, 2019
This book was hard for me to rate. There were several people in the book who were amazing and I really liked them. Then there were a few people in the book who were terrible and they kind of ruined the book for me.
March 14, 2020
Prue is adorably fun. Thoroughly enjoyed this one! Review to come
October 15, 2020
It is very difficult for me to review this book as it touches a very difficult subject. Our heroine is shy and sufferers from social anxiety (I assume). However, her anxiety and shyness happens even when she is among her best friends or family.
What I liked about this book: the romance develops very slowly and is very sweet and endearing. The Hero is kind, gentle and very protective towards the heroine without being domineering and controlling.I loved him.
What I did not like: well the heroine...she suffers from crippling anxiety and stammering. I could absolutely sympathized with her at the beginning and could understand her. I liked her immensely when she was with the hero, but the moment he was not next to her, she would start stammering and turn into a helpless woman which was completely understandable at the beginning.The problem is that her character did not develop through the book. She was still the same stammering and helpless woman in the last chapter. I understand her problems would not magically disappear but I would have loved to see some changes within her and I would have loved to see her to at least stand to her vicious cousin and mother, but still someone else had to appear and save the day...
Another aspect that I did not appreciate in the book was that there were so many secondary characters which was sometimes difficult to keep track of. I understand that this book is part of a series and author likes to keep us informed about the previous characters or introduce the characters from the future books, but it can be overwhelming for someone who have not read the previous books or might not be interested in the next books in the series.
Altogether a pleasant read.
What I liked about this book: the romance develops very slowly and is very sweet and endearing. The Hero is kind, gentle and very protective towards the heroine without being domineering and controlling.I loved him.
What I did not like: well the heroine...she suffers from crippling anxiety and stammering. I could absolutely sympathized with her at the beginning and could understand her. I liked her immensely when she was with the hero, but the moment he was not next to her, she would start stammering and turn into a helpless woman which was completely understandable at the beginning.The problem is that her character did not develop through the book. She was still the same stammering and helpless woman in the last chapter. I understand her problems would not magically disappear but I would have loved to see some changes within her and I would have loved to see her to at least stand to her vicious cousin and mother, but still someone else had to appear and save the day...
Another aspect that I did not appreciate in the book was that there were so many secondary characters which was sometimes difficult to keep track of. I understand that this book is part of a series and author likes to keep us informed about the previous characters or introduce the characters from the future books, but it can be overwhelming for someone who have not read the previous books or might not be interested in the next books in the series.
Altogether a pleasant read.
October 2, 2022
This was ok (maybe a 2,5 ?)
Tbh i know nothing about Prue beside that she has anxiety
and she can read upside down) i dont know it felt like
she had no personality than « being anxious »
Cam kept saving her, her friends kept saving her and
comforting and reassuring her .. i do feel like an asshole
saying that but it became really tedious reading about yet
another mortifying situation and oh what should i do ???
i was really hoping she would have her moment but oh well
And cam kept saying shit like omg she's sooo different than
the other girls but i was like HOW ?? WHERE ??
Anyway beside that there was no tension whatsoever
This is definitely the kind of story where i just dont
understand how or why they ended up together ? And there was no sexual tension at all so its not even a case of instalust .. It was just bland
Tbh i know nothing about Prue beside that she has anxiety
and she can read upside down) i dont know it felt like
she had no personality than « being anxious »
Cam kept saving her, her friends kept saving her and
comforting and reassuring her .. i do feel like an asshole
saying that but it became really tedious reading about yet
another mortifying situation and oh what should i do ???
i was really hoping she would have her moment but oh well
And cam kept saying shit like omg she's sooo different than
the other girls but i was like HOW ?? WHERE ??
Anyway beside that there was no tension whatsoever
This is definitely the kind of story where i just dont
understand how or why they ended up together ? And there was no sexual tension at all so its not even a case of instalust .. It was just bland
December 4, 2018
Loved it!
I didn’t want to put this book down. I adored the interactions between all of the friends but especially between Pru & Cam. I am loving this series & so looking forward to the next one!
I didn’t want to put this book down. I adored the interactions between all of the friends but especially between Pru & Cam. I am loving this series & so looking forward to the next one!
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