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Pennyroyal Today #1
Malcolm & Isabel
Their story began in the Epilogue of THE LEGEND OF LYON REDMOND...
In Pennyroyal Green, the past is very much alive...but the present has a power—and a magic—all its own.
Isabel Redmond never anticipated that the echoes of a legendary love will reverberate through her own life. Or that answers she's long sought might be between the pages of Olivia Eversea's diary.
Until she goes in search of her roots...and meets her tall, dark destiny under a famous pair of entwined trees.
One look into Isabel's heart-stopping blue eyes and town doctor Malcolm Coburn knows 1) getting involved will be risky; and 2) their chemistry will be scorching. But as they retrace Olivia and Lyon's footsteps in Pennyroyal Green, a tender, fiery intimacy emerges...and old wounds are laid bare. Will two people who guard their hearts as fiercely as their freedom repeat the mistakes of a pair of long-ago lovers...or will they let love alter the course of their lives?
In Pennyroyal Green, the past is very much alive...but the present has a power—and a magic—all its own.
Isabel Redmond never anticipated that the echoes of a legendary love will reverberate through her own life. Or that answers she's long sought might be between the pages of Olivia Eversea's diary.
Until she goes in search of her roots...and meets her tall, dark destiny under a famous pair of entwined trees.
One look into Isabel's heart-stopping blue eyes and town doctor Malcolm Coburn knows 1) getting involved will be risky; and 2) their chemistry will be scorching. But as they retrace Olivia and Lyon's footsteps in Pennyroyal Green, a tender, fiery intimacy emerges...and old wounds are laid bare. Will two people who guard their hearts as fiercely as their freedom repeat the mistakes of a pair of long-ago lovers...or will they let love alter the course of their lives?
ebook
First published October 15, 2018
66 people are currently reading
435 people want to read
About the author
Julie Anne Long
39 books2,967 followersWell, where should I start? I've lived in San Francisco for more than a decade, usually with at least one cat. I won the school spelling bee when I was in 7th grade; the word that clinched it was 'ukulele.' I originally set out to be a rock star when I grew up (I had a Bono fixation, but who didn't?), and I have the guitars and the questionable wardrobe stuffed in the back of my closet to prove it.
But writing was always my first love.
I was editor of my elementary school paper (believe it or not, Mrs. Little's fifth grade class at Glenmoor Elementary did have one); my high school paper (along with my best high school bud, Cindy Jorgenson); and my college paper, where our long-suffering typesetter finally forced me to learn how to typeset because my articles were usually late (and thus I probably have him to thank for all the desktop publishing jobs that ensued over the years).
Won a couple of random awards along the way: the Bank of America English Award in High School (which basically just amounted to a fancy plaque saying that I was really, really good at English); and an award for best Sports Feature article in a College Newspaper (and anyone who knows me well understands how deeply ironic that is). I began my academic career as a Journalism major; I switched to Creative Writing, which was a more comfortable fit for my freewheeling imagination and overdeveloped sense of whimsy. I dreamed of being a novelist.
But most of us, I think, tend to take for granted the things that come easily to us. I loved writing and all indications were that I was pretty good at it, but I, thank you very much, wanted to be a rock star. Which turned out to be ever-so-slightly harder to do than writing. A lot more equipment was involved, that's for sure. Heavy things, with knobs. It also involved late nights, fetid, graffiti-sprayed practice rooms, gorgeous flakey boys, bizarre gigs, in-fighting—what's not to love?
But my dream of being a published writer never faded. When the charm (ahem) of playing to four people in a tiny club at midnight on a Wednesday finally wore thin, however, I realized I could incorporate all the best things about being in a band — namely, drama, passion, and men with unruly hair — into novels, while at the same time indulging my love of history and research.
So I wrote The Runaway Duke, sent it to a literary agent (see the story here), who sold it to Warner Books a few months after that...which made 2003 one of the most extraordinary, head-spinning years I've ever had.
Why romance? Well, like most people, I read across many genres, but I've been an avid romance reader since I got in trouble for sneaking a Rosemary Rogers novel out of my mom's nightstand drawer (I think it was Sweet Savage Love). Rosemary Rogers, Kathleen Woodiwiss, Laurie McBain...I cut my romance teeth on those ladies. And in general, I take a visceral sort of pleasure in creating a hero and a heroine, putting them through their emotional paces, and watching their relationship develop on the page. And of course, there's much to be said for the happy ending. :)
And why Regency Historicals? Well, for starters, I think we can blame Jane Austen. Her inimitable wit, compassion and vision brought the Regency vividly to life for generations of readers. If Jane Austen had written romances about Incas, for instance, I think, we'd have racks and racks of Inca romances in bookstores all over the country, and Warner Forever would be the Inca Romance line.
But I'm a history FREAK, in general. I read more history, to be perfectly honest, than fiction (when I have time to read!) these days. When we were little, my sister and I used to play "Littl
But writing was always my first love.
I was editor of my elementary school paper (believe it or not, Mrs. Little's fifth grade class at Glenmoor Elementary did have one); my high school paper (along with my best high school bud, Cindy Jorgenson); and my college paper, where our long-suffering typesetter finally forced me to learn how to typeset because my articles were usually late (and thus I probably have him to thank for all the desktop publishing jobs that ensued over the years).
Won a couple of random awards along the way: the Bank of America English Award in High School (which basically just amounted to a fancy plaque saying that I was really, really good at English); and an award for best Sports Feature article in a College Newspaper (and anyone who knows me well understands how deeply ironic that is). I began my academic career as a Journalism major; I switched to Creative Writing, which was a more comfortable fit for my freewheeling imagination and overdeveloped sense of whimsy. I dreamed of being a novelist.
But most of us, I think, tend to take for granted the things that come easily to us. I loved writing and all indications were that I was pretty good at it, but I, thank you very much, wanted to be a rock star. Which turned out to be ever-so-slightly harder to do than writing. A lot more equipment was involved, that's for sure. Heavy things, with knobs. It also involved late nights, fetid, graffiti-sprayed practice rooms, gorgeous flakey boys, bizarre gigs, in-fighting—what's not to love?
But my dream of being a published writer never faded. When the charm (ahem) of playing to four people in a tiny club at midnight on a Wednesday finally wore thin, however, I realized I could incorporate all the best things about being in a band — namely, drama, passion, and men with unruly hair — into novels, while at the same time indulging my love of history and research.
So I wrote The Runaway Duke, sent it to a literary agent (see the story here), who sold it to Warner Books a few months after that...which made 2003 one of the most extraordinary, head-spinning years I've ever had.
Why romance? Well, like most people, I read across many genres, but I've been an avid romance reader since I got in trouble for sneaking a Rosemary Rogers novel out of my mom's nightstand drawer (I think it was Sweet Savage Love). Rosemary Rogers, Kathleen Woodiwiss, Laurie McBain...I cut my romance teeth on those ladies. And in general, I take a visceral sort of pleasure in creating a hero and a heroine, putting them through their emotional paces, and watching their relationship develop on the page. And of course, there's much to be said for the happy ending. :)
And why Regency Historicals? Well, for starters, I think we can blame Jane Austen. Her inimitable wit, compassion and vision brought the Regency vividly to life for generations of readers. If Jane Austen had written romances about Incas, for instance, I think, we'd have racks and racks of Inca romances in bookstores all over the country, and Warner Forever would be the Inca Romance line.
But I'm a history FREAK, in general. I read more history, to be perfectly honest, than fiction (when I have time to read!) these days. When we were little, my sister and I used to play "Littl
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
October 26, 2024
I enjoyed this good long novella that follows on (in the PRESENT DAY!) from the Pennyroyal Green HR series. I would recommend reading at least one of that series before reading this, and also the epilogue to the last book, The Legend of Lyon Redmond. That way you'll connect more with this story and IMO enjoy it more.
Malcolm is a lovely English doctor who rides a motor bike. Isabel is visiting from the USA. She's only recently found out she's descended from the Redmonds of Pennyroyal Green, and is drawn to visit the ancestral site. When the two meet, the attraction is clearly there from the beginning. Long does a good job of showing their real and genuine connection.
I liked the length of this book. It's long enough to get to know the characters a little, and for some plot developments to occur. But it's still a novella, and things happened pretty quickly.
There were some great secondary characters, and I'm sure many readers, like me, hope Ms Long will give Finn and Duggan their own books. Here's hoping!
Malcolm is a lovely English doctor who rides a motor bike. Isabel is visiting from the USA. She's only recently found out she's descended from the Redmonds of Pennyroyal Green, and is drawn to visit the ancestral site. When the two meet, the attraction is clearly there from the beginning. Long does a good job of showing their real and genuine connection.
I liked the length of this book. It's long enough to get to know the characters a little, and for some plot developments to occur. But it's still a novella, and things happened pretty quickly.
There were some great secondary characters, and I'm sure many readers, like me, hope Ms Long will give Finn and Duggan their own books. Here's hoping!
October 21, 2018
This was a fun and fairly succinct entry into the Pennyroyal Green series. It's generally a good year when Julie Anne Long puts out two books, and so I was grateful to read it and to revisit the lovely, bucolic town of Pennyroyal Green. Was it just me though or did Pennyroyal Green seem slightly less rural in this book? London seemed much closer, geographically and philosophically, and the town felt more like urban sprawl than its own bucolic place. Nevertheless, the best part of this book is the new cast of characters that place us firmly in the 21st century while still reminiscing about the people of the past and their legacy and impact.
As a romance, which this novella is at its heart, I was a little less entranced. I think mostly the length of this book impeded my investment in Isabel and Malcolm, though both are good characters in their own right. Basically though, not enough time is spent watching them fall in love. They share a few scenes together and we are asked to believe that love happens very quickly for them for no clear reason other than that time requires them to act quickly.
Isabel is an American jewelry designer vacationing in modern-day Pennyroyal Green to research her relationship to the Redmond family. She was raised in foster care and has only the most ephemeral ties to Redmond ancestors, but she is quite keen to learn something of her biological past and forge an identity and sense of belonging. Malcolm is the resident doctor at a free clinic in town doing good work for his community. He has family and strong ties to the town and that combined with his charm and good looks draws Isabel to him instantly. They flirt a bit and feel an attraction and then they are madly in love. Alas, it felt rushed and so I never really moved beyond mild interest in their affair.
I keep coming back to the notion of future books because there are open ended hints about other couples. I could well imagine JAL creating an entirely new series based on the characters she creates for this story. I'm not sure she's going to do that, but she has a good foundation here, and I would sign up to read the stories of any number of these people.
As a romance, which this novella is at its heart, I was a little less entranced. I think mostly the length of this book impeded my investment in Isabel and Malcolm, though both are good characters in their own right. Basically though, not enough time is spent watching them fall in love. They share a few scenes together and we are asked to believe that love happens very quickly for them for no clear reason other than that time requires them to act quickly.
Isabel is an American jewelry designer vacationing in modern-day Pennyroyal Green to research her relationship to the Redmond family. She was raised in foster care and has only the most ephemeral ties to Redmond ancestors, but she is quite keen to learn something of her biological past and forge an identity and sense of belonging. Malcolm is the resident doctor at a free clinic in town doing good work for his community. He has family and strong ties to the town and that combined with his charm and good looks draws Isabel to him instantly. They flirt a bit and feel an attraction and then they are madly in love. Alas, it felt rushed and so I never really moved beyond mild interest in their affair.
I keep coming back to the notion of future books because there are open ended hints about other couples. I could well imagine JAL creating an entirely new series based on the characters she creates for this story. I'm not sure she's going to do that, but she has a good foundation here, and I would sign up to read the stories of any number of these people.
October 7, 2019
Oof, so much cheese. Heavily relies on Olivia's and Lyon's story, which added to the cheese and sap.
I didn't mind. It's still JAL. Its still got its moments. But it is...not good?
I didn't mind. It's still JAL. Its still got its moments. But it is...not good?
August 21, 2023
"Our story begins right where the Epilogue of The Legend of Lyon Redmond ends . . . "
FINAL DECISION: Passionate, optimistic, emotional and funny this was a book that made me smile, sigh and just feel better about the world. Thankfully, Malcolm & Isabel's story lived up to the promise in THE LEGEND OF LYON REDMOND.
THE STORY: Isabel Redmond, raised in a series of foster homes, comes to Pennyroyal Green having discovered a long family history centered in this English town . Under the historic trees that have seen centuries of lives in Pennyroyal Green, Isabel meets Doctor Malcolm Coburn. Instantly there is something between them that could change both their lives if they are willing to take the chance.
OPINION: The epilogue of historical THE LEGEND OF LYON REDMOND jumps again centuries and introduces readers to the contemporary world of Pennyroyal Green. Centuries after the events of the Pennyroyal Green series, readers are introduced to Isabel and Malcolm. Readers got to see their first meeting and that moment which changes everything. Reading reviews of the book some readers were confused by the epilogue, but I have always believed it is part of the greatness of THE LEGEND OF LYON REDMOND. A promise that the love that Lyon and Olivia not only is a "they lived happily ever after" but still resonates through the centuries. And that moment that occurred centuries before -- two people who see one another and just KNOW still happens. To me the epilogue said, the lives and loves of the characters in the Pennyroyal Green series mattered and continue to matter.
This story picks up EXACTLY after the end of the epilogue. Isabel and Malcolm have met and this book tells their story.
This story reminds me of the famous Faulkner quote: "The past is never dead. It's not even past." The history of Pennyroyal Green lives in these contemporary characters. Not that they don't have their own paths, but there is something incredibly comforting thinking that all the lives of those who have gone before have significance in the present.
Isabel, an American, has arrived in the English town Pennyroyal Green after discovering her own heritage. She is a thoroughly modern woman who designs jewelry and likes music. She seems well adjusted but definitely has abandonment issues. Isabel doesn't connect deeply easily.
Malcolm is a doctor who has been around the world but come to build his life in a town which is home to him. (He also happens to like the same type of music Isabel does!) He is dedicated to his profession and to the town. He feels solid and committed to his profession, but he remains disconnected from any romantic attachments.
I really liked Isabel and Malcolm. Their connection is palpable, sweet and geeky in the best of ways. Anyone who has had the experience of meeting a person and immediately wanting to talk the night away, will recognize these characters closeness.
This is not a story about external obstacles. There are some small difficulties which arise, but the real obstacles for these characters are their own emotional lives. Can a chance meeting change your life? Are you willing to risk pain and rejection to take a chance on that possibility of something more? These characters can't be safe and take things slowly and carefully. Life demands these characters take big risks and open themselves up to pain and rejection. In this shorter novel, the obstacles they have are more than enough to fill the pages.
Like the characters, this novel is big and open about the emotions. I really enjoy Long's writing style which often feel like an ode to love. As a result, the story feels eternal and big and important. I left this book warm and happy and just smiling more about the world.
I read this book through at a rapid pace, and then immediately went back to my favorite sections. And even as I write this, I'm tempted back into Isabel and Malcolm's story. I know this will be a story I return to over and over again.
WORTH MENTIONING: Please, oh please, Julie Anne Long write the stories of the other characters in Pennyroyal today. I have hopes that there will be more since this book is billed as Pennyroyal Today. I want to know about Finn and Poppy and Liam (the new dishy vicar) and the current owner of Eversea House, and the "very private" head of Redmond Worldwide. Long has a knack of writing a community of characters who are intriguing and have complexity.
CONNECTED BOOKS: MALCOLM & ISABEL should be read after the epilogue of THE LEGEND OF LYON REDMOND. It is certainly possible to read this book after reading only the epilogue, but why not treat yourself and read the amazing Pennyroyal Green series?
STAR RATING: I give this book 5 stars.
This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
FINAL DECISION: Passionate, optimistic, emotional and funny this was a book that made me smile, sigh and just feel better about the world. Thankfully, Malcolm & Isabel's story lived up to the promise in THE LEGEND OF LYON REDMOND.
THE STORY: Isabel Redmond, raised in a series of foster homes, comes to Pennyroyal Green having discovered a long family history centered in this English town . Under the historic trees that have seen centuries of lives in Pennyroyal Green, Isabel meets Doctor Malcolm Coburn. Instantly there is something between them that could change both their lives if they are willing to take the chance.
OPINION: The epilogue of historical THE LEGEND OF LYON REDMOND jumps again centuries and introduces readers to the contemporary world of Pennyroyal Green. Centuries after the events of the Pennyroyal Green series, readers are introduced to Isabel and Malcolm. Readers got to see their first meeting and that moment which changes everything. Reading reviews of the book some readers were confused by the epilogue, but I have always believed it is part of the greatness of THE LEGEND OF LYON REDMOND. A promise that the love that Lyon and Olivia not only is a "they lived happily ever after" but still resonates through the centuries. And that moment that occurred centuries before -- two people who see one another and just KNOW still happens. To me the epilogue said, the lives and loves of the characters in the Pennyroyal Green series mattered and continue to matter.
This story picks up EXACTLY after the end of the epilogue. Isabel and Malcolm have met and this book tells their story.
This story reminds me of the famous Faulkner quote: "The past is never dead. It's not even past." The history of Pennyroyal Green lives in these contemporary characters. Not that they don't have their own paths, but there is something incredibly comforting thinking that all the lives of those who have gone before have significance in the present.
Isabel, an American, has arrived in the English town Pennyroyal Green after discovering her own heritage. She is a thoroughly modern woman who designs jewelry and likes music. She seems well adjusted but definitely has abandonment issues. Isabel doesn't connect deeply easily.
Malcolm is a doctor who has been around the world but come to build his life in a town which is home to him. (He also happens to like the same type of music Isabel does!) He is dedicated to his profession and to the town. He feels solid and committed to his profession, but he remains disconnected from any romantic attachments.
I really liked Isabel and Malcolm. Their connection is palpable, sweet and geeky in the best of ways. Anyone who has had the experience of meeting a person and immediately wanting to talk the night away, will recognize these characters closeness.
This is not a story about external obstacles. There are some small difficulties which arise, but the real obstacles for these characters are their own emotional lives. Can a chance meeting change your life? Are you willing to risk pain and rejection to take a chance on that possibility of something more? These characters can't be safe and take things slowly and carefully. Life demands these characters take big risks and open themselves up to pain and rejection. In this shorter novel, the obstacles they have are more than enough to fill the pages.
Like the characters, this novel is big and open about the emotions. I really enjoy Long's writing style which often feel like an ode to love. As a result, the story feels eternal and big and important. I left this book warm and happy and just smiling more about the world.
I read this book through at a rapid pace, and then immediately went back to my favorite sections. And even as I write this, I'm tempted back into Isabel and Malcolm's story. I know this will be a story I return to over and over again.
WORTH MENTIONING: Please, oh please, Julie Anne Long write the stories of the other characters in Pennyroyal today. I have hopes that there will be more since this book is billed as Pennyroyal Today. I want to know about Finn and Poppy and Liam (the new dishy vicar) and the current owner of Eversea House, and the "very private" head of Redmond Worldwide. Long has a knack of writing a community of characters who are intriguing and have complexity.
CONNECTED BOOKS: MALCOLM & ISABEL should be read after the epilogue of THE LEGEND OF LYON REDMOND. It is certainly possible to read this book after reading only the epilogue, but why not treat yourself and read the amazing Pennyroyal Green series?
STAR RATING: I give this book 5 stars.
This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
November 1, 2024
Ah, what a treat to any fan of the Pennyroyal Green series, which I am most definitely. So many familiar names, and an in-depth revisit to Lyon and Olivia in particular, so many familiar locations. I reveled in it like a pig in a muddy pen.
Apart from the joy of hearing those familiar names and places mentioned, this works very well as a contemporary novella. It’s harder to build a romance from scratch in the novella format than to pick up a pre-existing relationship of some sort, but JAL made me a believer while avoiding the “L” word until the end. She utilizes “insta-connection,” which IMHO is the very best way to start a romance. This is how Malcolm explains it to himself:
It wasn’t so much that he knew about her. He just...well, he felt he just knew her. Like his lungs knew to breathe, and the sun knew to rise. Possibly a delusion resulting from being shag-drunk.
This is Isabel’s take:
The answer, and I feared to give it, was that it wasn’t love at first sight. Or rather, it had little to do with sight. It was like opening a window and discovering the sun for the first time. Our love always was, and just waited our discovery. I knew instantly.
It wasn’t a smooth path, of course, and the reader got treated to a little Lyon/Olivia-style angst before this story concluded, and the ending felt a little pat but was still satisfying.
I probably would have given this 5 stars in spite of that pat ending if it were not for one thing: this ebook was riddled with so many errors that it came close to spoiling my enjoyment. Missing words, repeated words, wrong words, words out of order, punctuation errors. I almost needed a translator. Ms. Long, you are far too talented a writer to allow your voice to be so bastardized in the publishing of it.
Apart from the joy of hearing those familiar names and places mentioned, this works very well as a contemporary novella. It’s harder to build a romance from scratch in the novella format than to pick up a pre-existing relationship of some sort, but JAL made me a believer while avoiding the “L” word until the end. She utilizes “insta-connection,” which IMHO is the very best way to start a romance. This is how Malcolm explains it to himself:
It wasn’t so much that he knew about her. He just...well, he felt he just knew her. Like his lungs knew to breathe, and the sun knew to rise. Possibly a delusion resulting from being shag-drunk.
This is Isabel’s take:
The answer, and I feared to give it, was that it wasn’t love at first sight. Or rather, it had little to do with sight. It was like opening a window and discovering the sun for the first time. Our love always was, and just waited our discovery. I knew instantly.
It wasn’t a smooth path, of course, and the reader got treated to a little Lyon/Olivia-style angst before this story concluded, and the ending felt a little pat but was still satisfying.
I probably would have given this 5 stars in spite of that pat ending if it were not for one thing: this ebook was riddled with so many errors that it came close to spoiling my enjoyment. Missing words, repeated words, wrong words, words out of order, punctuation errors. I almost needed a translator. Ms. Long, you are far too talented a writer to allow your voice to be so bastardized in the publishing of it.
November 23, 2018
Lovely story about Nowadays Pennyroyal Green
As a fan of the Historical Romance Pennyroyal Green Series, it was wonderful to meet the descendants of Olivia and Lyon Redmond. I hope Mrs. Long will soon also write the stories of Flin and Declan. Specially Declan. Lovely short read with a touch of Rock and Roll.
As a fan of the Historical Romance Pennyroyal Green Series, it was wonderful to meet the descendants of Olivia and Lyon Redmond. I hope Mrs. Long will soon also write the stories of Flin and Declan. Specially Declan. Lovely short read with a touch of Rock and Roll.
Read
September 3, 2024Perfect story to sneak read at my desk. Though a bit clunky and claustrophobic at times with all the characters, it felt amazing to be in modern Pennyroyal Green.
Oh and I LOVE that Malcolm is a Jack Fountain descendant! JAL gave that special young man a wonderful lineage.
Oh and I LOVE that Malcolm is a Jack Fountain descendant! JAL gave that special young man a wonderful lineage.
October 15, 2018
I loved this last (?) look at Pennyroyal Green and I think most readers will too.
October 16, 2018
Happiness is having a new Julie Anne Long book to read. I've been enjoying her contemporary romances, and I've alway loved her Regency Pennyroyal Green series, so when I saw this new novella that combines both, I sat up all night and read.
Malcolm & Isabel starts where the last Pennyroyal Green book ends, albeit a few hundred years later. Isabel is a descendent of Olivia Eversea and Lyon Redmond. She has Olivia's journal and has come to Pennyroyal Green on holiday. She meets Malcolm, the resident hunky doctor, when her phone flies out onto the road in front of his motorcycle.
The two reenact the romance of Isabel's ancestors with some twists; she's learned from Olivia's example. It's a quick read, novella-length, but combines the best of Ms. Long's contemporaries with quick wit and banter, and the Regencies with longing romance.
Here's a quote I loved (among many): He could have said the other true thing, which was, “you know and I know how good it will be. Do you feel that? Like the beginning of a lightning storm? Why are we wasting time?” He decided he would say, “it’s good to see you.”
It's a lovely story, and I'm hoping we may see more books from today's Pennyroyal Green.
Malcolm & Isabel starts where the last Pennyroyal Green book ends, albeit a few hundred years later. Isabel is a descendent of Olivia Eversea and Lyon Redmond. She has Olivia's journal and has come to Pennyroyal Green on holiday. She meets Malcolm, the resident hunky doctor, when her phone flies out onto the road in front of his motorcycle.
The two reenact the romance of Isabel's ancestors with some twists; she's learned from Olivia's example. It's a quick read, novella-length, but combines the best of Ms. Long's contemporaries with quick wit and banter, and the Regencies with longing romance.
Here's a quote I loved (among many): He could have said the other true thing, which was, “you know and I know how good it will be. Do you feel that? Like the beginning of a lightning storm? Why are we wasting time?” He decided he would say, “it’s good to see you.”
It's a lovely story, and I'm hoping we may see more books from today's Pennyroyal Green.
October 15, 2018
This story pushed every single one of my happy buttons. At 145 pages (not including the epilogue in The Legend of Lyon Redmond, where Isabel and Malcolm's story begins), it's longer than most novellas but short enough to be an easy one-day read, though, if you're like me, you'll want to take your time and savor each perfectly placed word. Julie Anne Long is brilliant at evoking emotion while bringing stories and characters to vivid life through the imagery created by her beautiful mastery of words.
Featuring descendants of Long's historical Pennyroyal Green characters, this humorous, emotional, and sexy contemporary tale is a sweet treat for fans of the the historical series but also a great starting point for readers new to her books. In addition to Isabel and Malcolm, Long introduces readers to a plethora of new characters all deserving of stories of their own. Whether you're a fan of Long's previous books or a brand new reader, this is a story that will have you begging for more.
Full review is posted at theromancedish.com.
Featuring descendants of Long's historical Pennyroyal Green characters, this humorous, emotional, and sexy contemporary tale is a sweet treat for fans of the the historical series but also a great starting point for readers new to her books. In addition to Isabel and Malcolm, Long introduces readers to a plethora of new characters all deserving of stories of their own. Whether you're a fan of Long's previous books or a brand new reader, this is a story that will have you begging for more.
Full review is posted at theromancedish.com.
October 30, 2018
How did I like it? More. More. More!
May 18, 2022
There is nothing like such a poorly self-published novella to remind you of the value of great editors, copy editing, and the critical thinking of publishers (or at least friends who will truth up to you). I really liked the Pennyroyal Green series (#TeamEversea) and love the stories that our family histories tell, so I was slapped by deep disappointment in this book.
The story has good bones, and should get a whole do-over, to
- give cardboard characters more depth (and get their names straight);
- grow up Isabel at least enough to be a convincing Oliva/Lyon descendent (her immaturity borders on YA, and so do many of the glib scenes and dialogue, entirely off-key from the story);
- replace the ridiculously elementary caricature of a “grand gesture.”
At minimum, publish an update that cleans up the copy, for your poor readers’ sake.
(Yes, I got the ebook update, and yes, almost all of the errors are still there.)
An idea I loved: Long’s expressed theory of feelings that echo through time, in some imperceptible but affecting way, like Marconi’s theory of radio broadcast, which gets quieter and quieter, beneath our conscious hearing, but never completely disappears.
Try again.
The story has good bones, and should get a whole do-over, to
- give cardboard characters more depth (and get their names straight);
- grow up Isabel at least enough to be a convincing Oliva/Lyon descendent (her immaturity borders on YA, and so do many of the glib scenes and dialogue, entirely off-key from the story);
- replace the ridiculously elementary caricature of a “grand gesture.”
At minimum, publish an update that cleans up the copy, for your poor readers’ sake.
(Yes, I got the ebook update, and yes, almost all of the errors are still there.)
An idea I loved: Long’s expressed theory of feelings that echo through time, in some imperceptible but affecting way, like Marconi’s theory of radio broadcast, which gets quieter and quieter, beneath our conscious hearing, but never completely disappears.
Try again.
January 19, 2024
What a strange little postquel novella. Having never used the term postquel, I did look it up and it is fitting.
This occurs a couple centuries following the end of the Pennyroyal Green series. It is filled with references from the series and I don’t think think it would stand well on its own. Because it relied so heavy on PG lore, I don’t know that the characters were enough on their own or that I was ever specifically rooting for them. I kept looking for the PG parallels.
I did think the attraction well written, but I enjoy most of her other stories more because they stand on their own and you get immersed in their story, which doesn’t happen here. I think the point of this one is to show how the events from the PGseries would influence modern day and to convince the readers fate is really real (which is probably the point of any JAL romance — she leans heavy into that theme).
I finally read this because I recently said that I have read all of JAL books but remembered that I still had this one, so it is retroactively meant to make me not liar 🤥 😂
This occurs a couple centuries following the end of the Pennyroyal Green series. It is filled with references from the series and I don’t think think it would stand well on its own. Because it relied so heavy on PG lore, I don’t know that the characters were enough on their own or that I was ever specifically rooting for them. I kept looking for the PG parallels.
I did think the attraction well written, but I enjoy most of her other stories more because they stand on their own and you get immersed in their story, which doesn’t happen here. I think the point of this one is to show how the events from the PGseries would influence modern day and to convince the readers fate is really real (which is probably the point of any JAL romance — she leans heavy into that theme).
I finally read this because I recently said that I have read all of JAL books but remembered that I still had this one, so it is retroactively meant to make me not liar 🤥 😂
March 23, 2021
This book was a great ending to the Pennyroyal Green series. So fitting. Short and sweet. You have to read the Legend of Lyon Redmond to read the beginning of their story. This is like a very long epilogue that takes place generations later. Both characters were lovely and their romance a whirlwind. Also, I kind of hoped Heliotrope would be a real band that I would hear and love, but sadly just fiction as well. So the book was not amazing in and of itself, but as I said a nice conclusion to the series which I thoroughly enjoyed.
December 25, 2019
I usually dont read much novels set in current time, but this one I had to read! The epilogue in Lyon and Olivia's book got me. And the story is nice, we always wonder what happened after the HEA so this one delivers it and with so much Easter eggs that I'm certain that I missed some correlations with characters from previous books. But it's great, the couple have this chemistry that is always sparkling and the end was so cutie that I was smiling throughout the last two chapters.
February 13, 2019
I found myself getting emotionally involved in this story. Some things would probably have made more sense if I had read the whole series, even though the other books are historical and this is contemporary. I did read the epilogue to the legend of Lyle Redmond, which you absolutely should read before this book. The descriptions, particularly of the characters' reactions and feelings about music are very intense and beautiful, and the tie that binds Malcolm and Isabel to each other. They are some friends I hope get their own stories.
October 18, 2018
Not enough words
I loved The Legend of Lyon Redmond- heartbreak, yearning, sweeping love...and Ms. Long has done it again with Malcolm & Isabel. I yelled, sighed, squealed, and as I just finished it, I'm typing this with tears streaming. Now I want to read the Pennyroyal Green series again!
I loved The Legend of Lyon Redmond- heartbreak, yearning, sweeping love...and Ms. Long has done it again with Malcolm & Isabel. I yelled, sighed, squealed, and as I just finished it, I'm typing this with tears streaming. Now I want to read the Pennyroyal Green series again!
October 21, 2018
Loved the story but there were so many errors it was distracting
October 17, 2018
Good story but lots of editing errors
I love this author's books. Too bad there were so many editing errors that it disturbed the flow whilst reading. Once corrections are done I would reread.
I love this author's books. Too bad there were so many editing errors that it disturbed the flow whilst reading. Once corrections are done I would reread.
January 12, 2019
It Was A Stretch To Connect The Contemporary Couple to the Historical.
Julie pulled it off but left me wanting more of her HR and less contemporary.
February 21, 2022
I find this a bit off - Honestly the only book I have liked in the series is “What I did for the Duke” the MC Genevieve & Falconbridge are both more interesting & the story too is beautiful . I wish JAL a had written her contemporary on their descendants
July 19, 2022
Not proofread or edited. An attempt to make the Lyon and Olivia romance stronger but What I did for a Duke still reigns supreme in the Pennyroyal Green series.
November 13, 2018
I have no idea if she intends to write anymore in this series but this does take care of that thread she left open in the last historical romance Pennyroyal Green series. While those books were pretty unforgettable this followup was great also but for reasons I can't exactly put my finger on it will not be as memorable as those original series books were for me. I don't read tons of historical romance but I do read much more of it these days precisely because of that original series and the Victorian Rebels series by Kerrigan Byrne , these 2 series convinced me that historical fiction/romance could be well written and very entertaining.
Our couple Malcolm & Isabel were made for each other and their dance around each other was done well if not a wee bit rushed in some ways but at the end I was happy with the book and hope she may use some of those other characters she introduced us to for further adventures in the timeless village.
Sadly this effort although great entertainment and a wonderful story was poorly edited (which is actually not as bad as "horribly" edited) but since it looks to be the first effort by her to self publish I can be forgiving about such things since I loved the story but she needs to find an editor.
Our couple Malcolm & Isabel were made for each other and their dance around each other was done well if not a wee bit rushed in some ways but at the end I was happy with the book and hope she may use some of those other characters she introduced us to for further adventures in the timeless village.
Sadly this effort although great entertainment and a wonderful story was poorly edited (which is actually not as bad as "horribly" edited) but since it looks to be the first effort by her to self publish I can be forgiving about such things since I loved the story but she needs to find an editor.
December 13, 2019
Isabel and Malcolm love story. CR about two people who all in love instantly. Malcolm has a friend with benefits that he does not mention until he has to. Isabel has an ex boyfriend (they have been on and of throughout their relationship). Currently they are broken up. This time she will be able to not go back with him when he sends her flowers because she fell in love with Malcolm. Romance is quick to sex and both the hero and heroine tries to be edgy really are not.
Lots of ancestry tree stuff about the Redmonds and Everseas. In my opinion: The most shocking news was that it is said that Isaiah Redmond's death might have been due to Jacob Eversea. The most sweet news was that Ruby (Violet and Asher's daughter) to John/Jack (Elise son and Philippe's adopted son). Also, it was fun seeing the Elm and Oak trees still lived.
To me the romance part was just okay. The best parts for me was the Redmond and Eversea history lessons.
Lots of ancestry tree stuff about the Redmonds and Everseas. In my opinion: The most shocking news was that it is said that Isaiah Redmond's death might have been due to Jacob Eversea. The most sweet news was that Ruby (Violet and Asher's daughter) to John/Jack (Elise son and Philippe's adopted son). Also, it was fun seeing the Elm and Oak trees still lived.
To me the romance part was just okay. The best parts for me was the Redmond and Eversea history lessons.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2021
This book was a huge disappointment. I love the series up until now. This book was not at all up to the standard of the previous books. The characters weren't written as well, the dialog wasn't as good, although I enjoyed the plot. Did she have someone else ghost write this book? It seemed more amateurish than the previous. For example, the similes that were everywhere, and were immature and stupid at times. Do not ruin the series for yourself and read this book.
And the Kindle version of the book needed proofreading very badly. There were typos on almost every other page. Extra words, missing words, words duplicated, sentences that started and never ended, etc. It even made a couple of parts of the book hard to understand. When they first talk about the tattoos, you can't tell who is talking and what is happening, due to the errors. Someone needs to fix it badly. It occurred so often that it ruined the book for me.
And the Kindle version of the book needed proofreading very badly. There were typos on almost every other page. Extra words, missing words, words duplicated, sentences that started and never ended, etc. It even made a couple of parts of the book hard to understand. When they first talk about the tattoos, you can't tell who is talking and what is happening, due to the errors. Someone needs to fix it badly. It occurred so often that it ruined the book for me.
May 8, 2020
A bad JAL book is still better than most
At the end of the book, Ms. Long thanks her editor and proofreader. After reading this book, I can find no evidence that either was done to this novella. From misspelling the word "mane" to spelling a character's name inconsistentl to random half sentences that are incomplete, the proofreading is atrocious. The editing wasn't much better, with vague backstory and unsubstantiated character development. Despite the last names sprinkled throughout, it just didn't feel like we were in Pennyroyal Green. But the dialogue was decent and the minor characters really shone in this novella. 2.5 stars and I guess I'll round up because I did manage to finish it.
At the end of the book, Ms. Long thanks her editor and proofreader. After reading this book, I can find no evidence that either was done to this novella. From misspelling the word "mane" to spelling a character's name inconsistentl to random half sentences that are incomplete, the proofreading is atrocious. The editing wasn't much better, with vague backstory and unsubstantiated character development. Despite the last names sprinkled throughout, it just didn't feel like we were in Pennyroyal Green. But the dialogue was decent and the minor characters really shone in this novella. 2.5 stars and I guess I'll round up because I did manage to finish it.
August 17, 2023
This was a delightful and nice and long for a novella, and I devoured it in a single sitting. The characters are well-drawn, and JAL does such a great job at showing us the legacy of the different characters from the Pennyroyal Green series which I loved so much. Olivia’s diary gave us glimpses into the lives of Olivia and Lyon after their wedding and shows us an intricate family tree that grew in the generations that followed. I loved the meticulous way JAL worked through that for us. I also really liked Isabel and Malcolm’s story and seeing the changes that happened to Sussex in the many decades following the PH series.I’m sure a reader could read this as a standalone, but it’s really a gift for those who’ve read the series.
January 15, 2019
Awful. I read the epilogue of "The Legend of Lyon Redmond" and was charmed by the idea of this story. The execution was terribly lacking, from the numerous copy errors in my e-book (duplicated words, extra words, a cut off sentence) to the story itself. I don't recall any scene in which Malcolm had a conversation with Jemima about not being in a relationship anymore, which makes him a cad in my eyes. He needed to make the end of things clear to her, but apparently it wasn't a big deal that he got involved with Isabel since it wasn't discussed? And then the ending, freaking Clive ex machina... the entire story was unbelievable. I was so disappointed.
September 21, 2022
I'm satisfied, sorta. I just want more descendants' stories. Like Violet's daughter... And what happened with Argosy... Ever the secondary character... With a line of douchebag descendants... And Seamus Duggan... How did he afford to keep a home for unwed mothers?! Anyway this is all about Malcolm and Isabel... Again the pull of fate felt magical... Electric... Or is it electronic? It was a whirlwind romance as one would expect with a lot of family tree tidbits and a lot of rock and roll... The new royalty so to speak. Perfect for those not ready to say bye to Pennyroyal Green.
Steam: 🔥🔥
Heart Flutters: ❤️❤️
Steam: 🔥🔥
Heart Flutters: ❤️❤️
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October 27, 2024This novel is something of an oddment: a modern day epilogue to a historical romance series with something like 8 books. Many of the characters are descendants of the characters of the original series -- something that can get kinda eye-rolly -- and the setting is the town which gives name to the series. I kinda of can't think of another book like this? Set in a series but so far removed in important ways?
Anyway, blah blah. This was fine. I felt like there were some weird choices, things that didn't work, like an opening which opens a chapter after it should, which isn't great. The bigger problem is that the story seemed a weird mix of overcooked and underbaked?
Anyway, blah blah. This was fine. I felt like there were some weird choices, things that didn't work, like an opening which opens a chapter after it should, which isn't great. The bigger problem is that the story seemed a weird mix of overcooked and underbaked?
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