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Adventures of Lady Ellen Montagu #1
Lady Ellen
J.G. MacLeod's new historical-romance series, The Adventures of Lady Ellen Montagu, is sure to capture the hearts and minds of readers looking for memorable characters set in the breathtaking landscapes of Connemara and Inis Mor, Ireland in the 1840s.
Lady Ellen tells the story of nineteen-year-old Ellen Montagu, an aristocratic young woman new to the alluring social scene that exposes her to extravagant balls and the rituals of courting. She soon falls in love with Lord Cormac Guinness of Ardilaun, but her father has other plans for her. When Lady Ellen refuses to marry a man whom she does not love, she is exiled to live with her aunt on the Aran Islands.
J.G. MacLeod tells the tale of an intelligent, beautiful and artistically gifted young woman who faces her isolation with courage, meeting memorable people who help support and challenge her as she grows.
If you like romance, Irish travel and history then this is the series for you. The unforgettable characters will tug at your heart strings and leave you wanting to read the next novel in this series.
Lady Ellen tells the story of nineteen-year-old Ellen Montagu, an aristocratic young woman new to the alluring social scene that exposes her to extravagant balls and the rituals of courting. She soon falls in love with Lord Cormac Guinness of Ardilaun, but her father has other plans for her. When Lady Ellen refuses to marry a man whom she does not love, she is exiled to live with her aunt on the Aran Islands.
J.G. MacLeod tells the tale of an intelligent, beautiful and artistically gifted young woman who faces her isolation with courage, meeting memorable people who help support and challenge her as she grows.
If you like romance, Irish travel and history then this is the series for you. The unforgettable characters will tug at your heart strings and leave you wanting to read the next novel in this series.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2018
23 people are currently reading
412 people want to read
About the author
J.G. MacLeod
9 books168 followersJ.G. MacLeod is an award-winning, Canadian author who earned a university degree in Honors English and history with a focus on 19th-century British studies. Her novel, Lady Ellen, which is set in Ireland in the 1840s, won the 2018 Breakthrough Novel Award for Historical Fiction, and a Readers' Favorite Book Award (2019). https://mybook.to/LadyEllenBoxset The Future Bride & The Past Love were both named 'Finalist' in the Independent Author Network Book of the Year Awards for 'Romance' (2020 & 2021). https://mybook.to/MacLeodTimeTravelRom
J.G. MacLeod also possesses a university degree in Education with twenty-two years of teaching experience, including creative writing, English literature, literary theory, psychology, and counselling. Her novel Abalone won the 2018 Online Book Club Book of the Year Award for 'Other Fiction', & is a gritty, psychological novel for readers who loved Gone Girl, Safe Haven, & The Lucky One. https://mybook.to/Abalone
J.G. has been writing extensively for years, everything from essays, to short fiction, novels, and biographies. She is a proud supporter of the online Writing Community and has several gigs on Fiverr, including professional book marketing for X (Twitter), proofreading, and beta reading.
J.G. has three young children and resides in southwestern Ontario where she enjoys cottage country, hiking, gardening, and photography.
X (Twitter)
https://x.com/jgmacleodauthor
Author Website
https://www.jgmacleod.com/
Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/stores/J.-G.-M...
Blog
https://www.jgmacleod.com/blog
Fiverr
https://www.fiverr.com/jgmacleod?up_r...
J.G. MacLeod also possesses a university degree in Education with twenty-two years of teaching experience, including creative writing, English literature, literary theory, psychology, and counselling. Her novel Abalone won the 2018 Online Book Club Book of the Year Award for 'Other Fiction', & is a gritty, psychological novel for readers who loved Gone Girl, Safe Haven, & The Lucky One. https://mybook.to/Abalone
J.G. has been writing extensively for years, everything from essays, to short fiction, novels, and biographies. She is a proud supporter of the online Writing Community and has several gigs on Fiverr, including professional book marketing for X (Twitter), proofreading, and beta reading.
J.G. has three young children and resides in southwestern Ontario where she enjoys cottage country, hiking, gardening, and photography.
X (Twitter)
https://x.com/jgmacleodauthor
Author Website
https://www.jgmacleod.com/
Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/stores/J.-G.-M...
Blog
https://www.jgmacleod.com/blog
Fiverr
https://www.fiverr.com/jgmacleod?up_r...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 4, 2019
'Lady Ellen' and 'Two Paths' are the first two books of J.G. MacLeod's historical-romance series relating the life and adventures of Lady Ellen Montagu, a young aristocratic woman whose life was turned upside down when she refused to marry a man she didn't love and fled.
Although it takes place in the 1840s, Ellen Montagu embodies the modern woman: she's both very feminine and a woman of character; she's passionate, clever, sweet and energetic. That is what makes her so endearing to the reader. I personally felt very close to her!
However, this does not prevent the reader to feel completely engulfed, enamoured and enchanted by the charm of Victorian era. This is due to the literary quality of the writing, and to the very nature of the story which is much much more than a romantic story! Indeed, the Adventures of Ellen Montagu provide a sharp analysis of the Victorian society.
Therefore, in my humble opinion, J.G. MacLeod stands comparison with classical writers such as Jane Austen or Charlotte Brontë. I loved every page, every sentence; I shared Ellen's emotions; I suffered and loved with her... and now, I'm desperately waiting for the third book in Ellen Montagu's series!
Yes! It is definitely a five star!
Although it takes place in the 1840s, Ellen Montagu embodies the modern woman: she's both very feminine and a woman of character; she's passionate, clever, sweet and energetic. That is what makes her so endearing to the reader. I personally felt very close to her!
However, this does not prevent the reader to feel completely engulfed, enamoured and enchanted by the charm of Victorian era. This is due to the literary quality of the writing, and to the very nature of the story which is much much more than a romantic story! Indeed, the Adventures of Ellen Montagu provide a sharp analysis of the Victorian society.
Therefore, in my humble opinion, J.G. MacLeod stands comparison with classical writers such as Jane Austen or Charlotte Brontë. I loved every page, every sentence; I shared Ellen's emotions; I suffered and loved with her... and now, I'm desperately waiting for the third book in Ellen Montagu's series!
Yes! It is definitely a five star!
January 15, 2021
"Lady Ellen" is a slow-burn romance set on a charming island in Ireland. The author does a lovely job of giving it an authentic Irish feel, even going so far as to use several phrases in Gaelic. While this might have been confusing, there were also embedded footnotes you could click on for an immediate translation.
The heroine of the story is the likeable daughter of a duke, who exiles her to the tiny island village for reasons I won't mention (spoilers). She not only takes a few hearts along with her when she goes, but she manages to (unintentionally) garner a few more upon her arrival, creating a bit of a reverse harem feel. I found her initial romance is a little lackluster but was drawn in more as the story evolved and new characters were introduced. Let's just say I had a clear favorite when it came to potential love interests.
Once it picks up, there are several small twists and turns and exciting bits that keep the story interesting, and, in general, I found it quite entertaining. It was, perhaps, a bit overly long for my taste, but, again, that's merely personal preference. Overall, it was a pretty good read.
The heroine of the story is the likeable daughter of a duke, who exiles her to the tiny island village for reasons I won't mention (spoilers). She not only takes a few hearts along with her when she goes, but she manages to (unintentionally) garner a few more upon her arrival, creating a bit of a reverse harem feel. I found her initial romance is a little lackluster but was drawn in more as the story evolved and new characters were introduced. Let's just say I had a clear favorite when it came to potential love interests.
Once it picks up, there are several small twists and turns and exciting bits that keep the story interesting, and, in general, I found it quite entertaining. It was, perhaps, a bit overly long for my taste, but, again, that's merely personal preference. Overall, it was a pretty good read.
December 8, 2018
I really do not like writing reviews about books I don't like. This was a giveaway I won, and the book sounded intriguing, plus it offered a new writer for me to read, which I always look forward to. I'm not usually this disappointed. Maybe with time the author will mature a bit more. Actually, a lot more.
There are too many unresolved issues. The heroine promised her fiance Cormac to write to her brother Alexander about a troubling issue, but she never does, and there is no explanation why she doesn't. Instead, she writes to her father, but he never answers her and she never questions it. She writes to her loving sister once, but her loving sister never writes to her. Her aunt is supposed to write her brother at one point, the heroine's father, but you never know if he ever writes her back. The mother is totally lost in any idea of correspondence. This is during a time when everyone wrote letters, almost every day. Telephones didn't exist then. You know this, even if you don't the exact date this is all transpiring.
I am a member of the Writers Guild of America West. I have written scripts and some of them have been produced for television. One rule that I have always lived by is: do not leave your audience with questions that are never answered. This book is fraught with unanswered questions; so many that I found it aggravating.
The romance(s) became an adolescent daydream, with heroes who are totally unbelievable, including the villain, who is so obsessed with his infatuation of Ellen, that he fails to exist in reality. A father who must be in such terrible debt to him he has offered his daughter in marriage and the family estate to him; disregarding the line of inheritance to two older sons, and the fact that Ellen is engaged to Cormac. And, the two sons, Ellen's brothers, remain in some distant fog that never clears, so we don't know what's really happening with them, or why they wouldn't try to rescue their sister from being sent to an island off the coast of Galway to live with their aunt. The father never asks his sister first if it's alright with her if he sends Ellen and her lady's maid to live with her. No, he just has them put on a boat and delivered with no explanation or permission.
I can't continue with the problems of Cormac or Grady without spoilers, so I will leave those totally fantastical romantic individuals alone. Anything to do with Grady I found to be very predictable.
If you like romances that are not based in reality, are full of unresolved problems and unanswered questions that you might have, then perhaps you would enjoy this book.
I do apologize for this rant, but there are so many problems with this novel. In addition, there is too much Gaelic dialogue with no translation. I am half Irish. Though I do not speak Gaelic, I have two Gaelic dictionaries, and I can tell you that it became extremely irritating to stop and try to translate what is being said.
Oh, and this book is not the end. There is a sequel.
There are too many unresolved issues. The heroine promised her fiance Cormac to write to her brother Alexander about a troubling issue, but she never does, and there is no explanation why she doesn't. Instead, she writes to her father, but he never answers her and she never questions it. She writes to her loving sister once, but her loving sister never writes to her. Her aunt is supposed to write her brother at one point, the heroine's father, but you never know if he ever writes her back. The mother is totally lost in any idea of correspondence. This is during a time when everyone wrote letters, almost every day. Telephones didn't exist then. You know this, even if you don't the exact date this is all transpiring.
I am a member of the Writers Guild of America West. I have written scripts and some of them have been produced for television. One rule that I have always lived by is: do not leave your audience with questions that are never answered. This book is fraught with unanswered questions; so many that I found it aggravating.
The romance(s) became an adolescent daydream, with heroes who are totally unbelievable, including the villain, who is so obsessed with his infatuation of Ellen, that he fails to exist in reality. A father who must be in such terrible debt to him he has offered his daughter in marriage and the family estate to him; disregarding the line of inheritance to two older sons, and the fact that Ellen is engaged to Cormac. And, the two sons, Ellen's brothers, remain in some distant fog that never clears, so we don't know what's really happening with them, or why they wouldn't try to rescue their sister from being sent to an island off the coast of Galway to live with their aunt. The father never asks his sister first if it's alright with her if he sends Ellen and her lady's maid to live with her. No, he just has them put on a boat and delivered with no explanation or permission.
I can't continue with the problems of Cormac or Grady without spoilers, so I will leave those totally fantastical romantic individuals alone. Anything to do with Grady I found to be very predictable.
If you like romances that are not based in reality, are full of unresolved problems and unanswered questions that you might have, then perhaps you would enjoy this book.
I do apologize for this rant, but there are so many problems with this novel. In addition, there is too much Gaelic dialogue with no translation. I am half Irish. Though I do not speak Gaelic, I have two Gaelic dictionaries, and I can tell you that it became extremely irritating to stop and try to translate what is being said.
Oh, and this book is not the end. There is a sequel.
April 5, 2021
Relatable characters
Definitely more steamy than I'm used to. I enjoyed the characters. Ellen is very relatable. The descriptions are well done. I have to admit I was not fond of the ending, though reading the whole trilogy might solve that problem.
Definitely more steamy than I'm used to. I enjoyed the characters. Ellen is very relatable. The descriptions are well done. I have to admit I was not fond of the ending, though reading the whole trilogy might solve that problem.
October 19, 2019
Lady Ellen (Adventures of Lady Ellen Montagu #1) by J.G. Macleod begins with the harsh reality of infidelity but soon drifts into a dreamy fairy tale romance between Ellie and Cormac. The story is set in 1840; the eternal love triangle dominates this book yet it is a fine study into the demeanor of people of that era. Only later in the story could I understand the significance of such a shocking beginning.
Since it is told from the perspective of an eighteen-year-old daughter of a Duke, the story focuses on the emotions and feelings of a young girl who looks forward to marrying a handsome young man of her choice but fate has something else in store for her. I happened to read this book after a murder mystery and it seemed like treading on petals, such is the language and the style of MacLeod. She opens the doors of adventurous trails slowly, charming the reader with her sensitive portrayal of characters.
Cormac is a fine gentleman, well versed with the courtesies of an aristocratic society. He even apologizes for touching Lady Ellen without her permission. A character driven plot, it is quite predictable with her peculiar outbursts yet she evolves into a kind woman who could understand nuances of life, knows what she wants and refuses to be pushed around by men who try to dominate her. Grady remains an enigma till the end. The ending is a little startling, probably to let the story go forward into another book!
If you are fond of soft and breezy romances, this is the book for you. I always thought that I have grown out of romantic novels but this book has reignited that flame.
Since it is told from the perspective of an eighteen-year-old daughter of a Duke, the story focuses on the emotions and feelings of a young girl who looks forward to marrying a handsome young man of her choice but fate has something else in store for her. I happened to read this book after a murder mystery and it seemed like treading on petals, such is the language and the style of MacLeod. She opens the doors of adventurous trails slowly, charming the reader with her sensitive portrayal of characters.
Cormac is a fine gentleman, well versed with the courtesies of an aristocratic society. He even apologizes for touching Lady Ellen without her permission. A character driven plot, it is quite predictable with her peculiar outbursts yet she evolves into a kind woman who could understand nuances of life, knows what she wants and refuses to be pushed around by men who try to dominate her. Grady remains an enigma till the end. The ending is a little startling, probably to let the story go forward into another book!
If you are fond of soft and breezy romances, this is the book for you. I always thought that I have grown out of romantic novels but this book has reignited that flame.
August 3, 2021
Excellent!
July 19, 2020
Being a lover of both historical fiction and the beautiful country of Ireland, I was thrilled to get a chance to read this, and let me tell you I was not at all disappointed!
Since this is based in Ireland, it's already pretty easy to picture the surroundings but with the way the author describes everything in a very clear and concise manner with plenty of details, you easily find yourself immersed in 19th century Ireland. It genuinely felt at times like being transported back into this time period and location.
I personally fell immediately in love with the relationship between Lady Ellen and Cormac. It was nice that Ellen wasn't just 'some Duke's daughter' and that she actually had a personality of her own, and was very vocal about her opinions that she maybe shouldn't have had, being a Duke's daughter. Cormac, a Lord who is courting Lady Ellen, was also a very well written character right off the bat. It was interesting to see the nuances between how the wealthy (both 'well-bred' and 'ill-bred') characters differed back in that time.
When I was reading the main conflict of the book, mostly the chapters about a young man named Grady, I'll admit that I did not like him at all at first. That, of course, was my own personal bias because he is also an extremely lovely and well rounded character. I was just hardcore team Cormac all the way...well, most of the way. Ahem. The more we learn about Grady though, the more interesting the story starts to become - as he may not be entirely who he let's people on to believe.
Throughout the story, Lady Ellen goes through quite a bit of character development, which is always fantastic to see. I loved seeing her grow as a character with her perspective on things changing, while still keeping those feisty traits that made her who she was.
The author also sprinkled a good amount of Irish Gaelic in this book, which was a lovely surprise and a very nice historical touch. It of course comes with translations, in both the physical book and e-book.
Overall, I absolutely adored this book and would recommend it to anyone who loves historical romances, Ireland, love triangles, or female main characters that aren't entirely just two dimensional.
www.bookishfawn.com
Since this is based in Ireland, it's already pretty easy to picture the surroundings but with the way the author describes everything in a very clear and concise manner with plenty of details, you easily find yourself immersed in 19th century Ireland. It genuinely felt at times like being transported back into this time period and location.
I personally fell immediately in love with the relationship between Lady Ellen and Cormac. It was nice that Ellen wasn't just 'some Duke's daughter' and that she actually had a personality of her own, and was very vocal about her opinions that she maybe shouldn't have had, being a Duke's daughter. Cormac, a Lord who is courting Lady Ellen, was also a very well written character right off the bat. It was interesting to see the nuances between how the wealthy (both 'well-bred' and 'ill-bred') characters differed back in that time.
When I was reading the main conflict of the book, mostly the chapters about a young man named Grady, I'll admit that I did not like him at all at first. That, of course, was my own personal bias because he is also an extremely lovely and well rounded character. I was just hardcore team Cormac all the way...well, most of the way. Ahem. The more we learn about Grady though, the more interesting the story starts to become - as he may not be entirely who he let's people on to believe.
Throughout the story, Lady Ellen goes through quite a bit of character development, which is always fantastic to see. I loved seeing her grow as a character with her perspective on things changing, while still keeping those feisty traits that made her who she was.
The author also sprinkled a good amount of Irish Gaelic in this book, which was a lovely surprise and a very nice historical touch. It of course comes with translations, in both the physical book and e-book.
Overall, I absolutely adored this book and would recommend it to anyone who loves historical romances, Ireland, love triangles, or female main characters that aren't entirely just two dimensional.
www.bookishfawn.com
May 11, 2020
Lady Ellen: The Adventures of Lady Ellen Montagu by Author J.G. MacLeod
Book I in Lady Ellen: The Adventures of Lady Ellen Montagu is my first encounter with Author J.G. Macleod and I doubt it will be my last. This historical romantic novel captured my attention from the first page to the last. It is well-researched, beautifully descriptive, and mesmerizing. It is very easy to envision each scene that is so vividly described. I consider it to be a fine work of literature.
The story of Lady Ellen and the challenges she faces is most enjoyable. Her father is less than admirable and banishes her to a remote island to live with her spinster Aunt Jacqueline for refusing to marry the man of his choice. Lady Ellen prefers to marry Cormac, the man she loves, rather than consent to her father's unreasonable request.
Grady is sent to pick up both her and Mara, her lady's maid, and cross the waters to the sparsely populated island where a simple life style exists. Grady plays a huge role in helping her adjust to her new and challenging situation. With many twists and turns, Lady Ellen is educated in life, love, rivalries, and near death experiences.
I hope to read Book 2 in this well-written series as Book 1 left me with an unsettling feeling between Grady and Lady Ellen. I know this lovely tale is left unfinished and there is much yet to unfold...
Inspirational Author ~ Dolores Ayotte
https://www.amazon.com/Dolores-Ayotte...
Book I in Lady Ellen: The Adventures of Lady Ellen Montagu is my first encounter with Author J.G. Macleod and I doubt it will be my last. This historical romantic novel captured my attention from the first page to the last. It is well-researched, beautifully descriptive, and mesmerizing. It is very easy to envision each scene that is so vividly described. I consider it to be a fine work of literature.
The story of Lady Ellen and the challenges she faces is most enjoyable. Her father is less than admirable and banishes her to a remote island to live with her spinster Aunt Jacqueline for refusing to marry the man of his choice. Lady Ellen prefers to marry Cormac, the man she loves, rather than consent to her father's unreasonable request.
Grady is sent to pick up both her and Mara, her lady's maid, and cross the waters to the sparsely populated island where a simple life style exists. Grady plays a huge role in helping her adjust to her new and challenging situation. With many twists and turns, Lady Ellen is educated in life, love, rivalries, and near death experiences.
I hope to read Book 2 in this well-written series as Book 1 left me with an unsettling feeling between Grady and Lady Ellen. I know this lovely tale is left unfinished and there is much yet to unfold...
Inspirational Author ~ Dolores Ayotte
https://www.amazon.com/Dolores-Ayotte...
March 16, 2019
Set in Victorian Ireland,we are taken on a journey of self-discovery,hardships faced along the way,a domineering,less than ideal father, and finding and losing love. JG manages to capture the essence of the emerald isle through beautifully crafted imagery.Her characters,especially, Lady Ellen, are bigger than life and endearing.Obeying her father's demands forces Lady Ellen into a very heartbreaking decision! A page turning wonderment into the lives and times of early Ireland, where,like other societies during this era,a woman's rights/wishes/desires are negated and,unfortunately, future happiness is relegated to the domineering,sometimes,brutality of the 'master' of the household! Right from the VERY first page, I found myself completely engaged,my interest peaked,and my emotional connection to Lady Ellen,most specifically,solidified!A must read for anyone/everyone who believes in love at first sight and magnificently capturedand detailed imagesof Ireland. Fall in LOVE! I did!
February 15, 2019
This book was something I am not used to reading, but I am glad I decided to read it. It caught my attention from beginning to the end. Beautifully written and I love how the author took the time to add the scenery pictures in her story. You fall in love with the characters, and become so involved in reading the story, it's almost like you are actually there. Loved it. I would love to read more from this author. Highly recommend this book. It is worth the read.
December 24, 2019
Some of my favorite romance is historical, I think because I'm someone who also falls in love with historical settings as much as the characters. I recalled my time on vacation in Ireland as I followed the MC on her journey. I found the protagonist engaging once the book took off, and I recommend this book for fans of period romance.
January 16, 2020
Lovely romance
This is outside the genres I typically read, but it was a nice adventure into another time and place. The story has a depth and complexity I wasn’t expecting and the characters and setting are done well. The villain is horrid and I fell in love with the other characters.
This is outside the genres I typically read, but it was a nice adventure into another time and place. The story has a depth and complexity I wasn’t expecting and the characters and setting are done well. The villain is horrid and I fell in love with the other characters.
July 17, 2020
Exceptionally well written.
I seldom read romance novels but "Lady Ellen" is a welcome change of pace. The characters draw you in and the descriptions of the places and events paint a vivid picture of a bygone era. J.G. MaCLeod writes a well paced and thorough tale of greed, hope and intrigue, complete with many twists and turns as the story unfolds.
I seldom read romance novels but "Lady Ellen" is a welcome change of pace. The characters draw you in and the descriptions of the places and events paint a vivid picture of a bygone era. J.G. MaCLeod writes a well paced and thorough tale of greed, hope and intrigue, complete with many twists and turns as the story unfolds.
November 9, 2018
A delightful distraction! There were times I had trouble with the main characters naivete but as I read and the writer added anecdotes and scenes that helped explain why this would be the case, it became more endearing for me. I did see some of the twists coming, but the book wasn't entirely without it's surprises. Simple, and adorable.
August 16, 2020
Another Gem!
I am in love with this author! I can barely write a review for wanting to read book two! I've been enchanted and fascinated by this story. So many intricate parts and beautiful descriptions with raw issues and real characters! Another must-read!
I am in love with this author! I can barely write a review for wanting to read book two! I've been enchanted and fascinated by this story. So many intricate parts and beautiful descriptions with raw issues and real characters! Another must-read!
October 30, 2018
Great read
November 8, 2018
OMG!!! Amazing young writer J.G.MACLOAD surprised me with this extraordinary read. Brilliant language and well written. 5 stars all the way! This book will be a best seller! I’m impressed.
July 26, 2020
The storyline in Lady Ellen by J.G. MacLeod is captivating; I couldn’t put it down. The main character’s strong values are perfect for that era. Lady Ellen is charming, intelligent, and amusing. I found myself holding my breath on more than one occasion.
If you enjoy historical romances; this one will not disappoint.
I can’t wait to read what happens next.
If you enjoy historical romances; this one will not disappoint.
I can’t wait to read what happens next.
July 26, 2020
Choices
Following young Lady Ellen’s story, we find ourselves banished to the island of Inis Mor. It is there I fell in love with J. G. Macleod’s description of the ocean and its breezes, the small community, and ancient ruins. Curling up, I spent an afternoon content in this world.
However, it was Lady Ellen who kept me reading into the night. Her demand for independent choices, in a country struggling for its own, successfully created the adventure promised. Her youth, blinding her to how many choices there actually are, created a story I am looking forward to following in Two Paths. Lady Ellen has made her choice for now...but what of the future?
Following young Lady Ellen’s story, we find ourselves banished to the island of Inis Mor. It is there I fell in love with J. G. Macleod’s description of the ocean and its breezes, the small community, and ancient ruins. Curling up, I spent an afternoon content in this world.
However, it was Lady Ellen who kept me reading into the night. Her demand for independent choices, in a country struggling for its own, successfully created the adventure promised. Her youth, blinding her to how many choices there actually are, created a story I am looking forward to following in Two Paths. Lady Ellen has made her choice for now...but what of the future?
June 27, 2020
Plenty to like
Great characters, especially the demure yet indomitable Lady Ellen. Lots of intrigue, a villain or two, and a lovely romance with its fair share of conflict. The ending came as a bit of a shock, though. Read it if you like a historical setting with a good plot and good writing
Great characters, especially the demure yet indomitable Lady Ellen. Lots of intrigue, a villain or two, and a lovely romance with its fair share of conflict. The ending came as a bit of a shock, though. Read it if you like a historical setting with a good plot and good writing
September 7, 2022
"Lady Ellen" is one of those stories that feels real enough for me to miss it while I'm not reading.
I've been hooked on the story from the first few chapters. Everything was absolutely fascinating. I have loved historical fiction, but I believe this is the first book I have read in this genre (I have only watched TV shows and movies before). The descriptions of the settings were quite interesting, and I could definitely imagine everything. The author - being totally familiar with the setting - took us back in time to introduce Lady Ellen. A wonderful character who seems to be quite spirited and forward-thinking compared to other ladies in her time. She enjoys discussing politics and is quite open about her views. I also admired how smart she was! I have to say I was annoyed with some of her reactions and decisions. She is a very overdramatic character, but her confusion and many emotional outbursts made it clear what she was quarreling about.
The ending got me screaming for more. The romance was so sweet and felt genuine. I loved reading each moment as she slowly fell in love, but I still believe Lady Ellen has a lot more to learn about love as she seems bound more towards honor and responsibility than this sentiment. I am excited to continue reading her story to find out what happens.
I've been hooked on the story from the first few chapters. Everything was absolutely fascinating. I have loved historical fiction, but I believe this is the first book I have read in this genre (I have only watched TV shows and movies before). The descriptions of the settings were quite interesting, and I could definitely imagine everything. The author - being totally familiar with the setting - took us back in time to introduce Lady Ellen. A wonderful character who seems to be quite spirited and forward-thinking compared to other ladies in her time. She enjoys discussing politics and is quite open about her views. I also admired how smart she was! I have to say I was annoyed with some of her reactions and decisions. She is a very overdramatic character, but her confusion and many emotional outbursts made it clear what she was quarreling about.
The ending got me screaming for more. The romance was so sweet and felt genuine. I loved reading each moment as she slowly fell in love, but I still believe Lady Ellen has a lot more to learn about love as she seems bound more towards honor and responsibility than this sentiment. I am excited to continue reading her story to find out what happens.
October 27, 2020
I absolutely loved this book! It had romance, a little drama, a twist and more. I'm looking forward to the next one!
September 15, 2024
I couldn't put this book down!
This is the first book I have read by J.G. Macleod but as soon as I finish this review I will be starting the next book in this series! I have been completely captivated by these characters and storyline! Her writing style is wonderful and I LOVE not knowing what to expect next! Very well done!
This is the first book I have read by J.G. Macleod but as soon as I finish this review I will be starting the next book in this series! I have been completely captivated by these characters and storyline! Her writing style is wonderful and I LOVE not knowing what to expect next! Very well done!
February 20, 2019
Giving this 4 stars because I believe in supporting the efforts of indie writers.
The next book in the series (excerpted at the end of this one) seems to show an increasing maturity/progression in the writing skills of the author.
This is a sweet romance, with a naive/innocent heroine.
The next book in the series (excerpted at the end of this one) seems to show an increasing maturity/progression in the writing skills of the author.
This is a sweet romance, with a naive/innocent heroine.
May 31, 2019
Entertaining
It's an easy read nd fairly entertaining. It lacked a.little more plot and even though the end was somewhat expected it leaves you wanting to read the second book.
It's an easy read nd fairly entertaining. It lacked a.little more plot and even though the end was somewhat expected it leaves you wanting to read the second book.
April 23, 2022
I started reading the historical romance trilogy “Adventures of Lady Ellen Montagu” by J.G. MacLeod from the last book, “New London”. I loved the setting – the 19th century Canada – and I was intrigued by the characters' relationship dynamics and references to the setting of the previous two books. I knew even before I finished reading that I’d return to reading about Lady Ellen’s adventures.
I was absolutely charmed by Inis Mor, the Irish island, where the beauty of nature competes with the capricious climate. It reminded me of the island I spent the most turbulent and at the same time, romantic, time of my life: Isle of Portland in South West England.
Lady Ellen is naïve and stubborn. She is used to all her needs being taken care of by other people. When she wants to try to do something that is servants’ duty, she expects her whims to be respected, and, as I felt it, to be admired for her progressive views. She is a product of her time and upbringing. I like it when characters are portrayed in this way. It feels awkward when 19th-century women behave as if they already have voting rights.
Lady Ellen is torn between two men. She is young and inexperienced in love matters, so she can’t make the decisions a more mature – and modern – woman might have made in similar situations. Besides, the pressure put on her by her father who wants her to marry the man she not only doesn’t love but detests unsettles her emotions even more. After having led a protected and comfortable life in her father’s castle, she is thrown into the whirlwind of new places, being forced to interact with people from lower classes whom she wouldn’t have otherwise met.
There is a steamy touch to the romantic plotlines in the book.
I am now reading the second book of the trilogy “Two Paths”, and I don’t want the story to end, even though I do know how it ends. It is a deeply satisfying read that transports me to the gallant era – with ladies in exquisite gowns, luxurious castles, perfectly manicured lawns – every time I swipe open my Kindle.
I was absolutely charmed by Inis Mor, the Irish island, where the beauty of nature competes with the capricious climate. It reminded me of the island I spent the most turbulent and at the same time, romantic, time of my life: Isle of Portland in South West England.
Lady Ellen is naïve and stubborn. She is used to all her needs being taken care of by other people. When she wants to try to do something that is servants’ duty, she expects her whims to be respected, and, as I felt it, to be admired for her progressive views. She is a product of her time and upbringing. I like it when characters are portrayed in this way. It feels awkward when 19th-century women behave as if they already have voting rights.
Lady Ellen is torn between two men. She is young and inexperienced in love matters, so she can’t make the decisions a more mature – and modern – woman might have made in similar situations. Besides, the pressure put on her by her father who wants her to marry the man she not only doesn’t love but detests unsettles her emotions even more. After having led a protected and comfortable life in her father’s castle, she is thrown into the whirlwind of new places, being forced to interact with people from lower classes whom she wouldn’t have otherwise met.
There is a steamy touch to the romantic plotlines in the book.
I am now reading the second book of the trilogy “Two Paths”, and I don’t want the story to end, even though I do know how it ends. It is a deeply satisfying read that transports me to the gallant era – with ladies in exquisite gowns, luxurious castles, perfectly manicured lawns – every time I swipe open my Kindle.
November 26, 2021
Sensual romance that tugged at my heartstrings.
I bought this book at the recommendation of my co-worker. She said that it captured the places in Ireland she had visited. I wasn't disappointed. The settings are rich and detailed. For example, Kylemore Castle is described the way it was in the 1840s. The gardens, flowers, food, clothing, music, paintings, and natural views were all mentioned, making me feel as if I was actually there.
The other thing I enjoyed was how Lady Ellen begins as a naive, young woman who has just been presented to suitors, to a more mature woman with confused feelings of love and duty by the end of the book.
This book ended fairly abruptly, but it is only the first in a trilogy, and will obviously pick up where this one left off. The Kindle copy actually contained a preview of the next book in the series, and it started the very next day after this book ended.
I will definitely read the rest of the series, as my friend said that the third book is actually the best in the trilogy.
Recommend for people who like slower starts where the female lead grows over time, as well as mild sensuality and Victorian manners.
I bought this book at the recommendation of my co-worker. She said that it captured the places in Ireland she had visited. I wasn't disappointed. The settings are rich and detailed. For example, Kylemore Castle is described the way it was in the 1840s. The gardens, flowers, food, clothing, music, paintings, and natural views were all mentioned, making me feel as if I was actually there.
The other thing I enjoyed was how Lady Ellen begins as a naive, young woman who has just been presented to suitors, to a more mature woman with confused feelings of love and duty by the end of the book.
This book ended fairly abruptly, but it is only the first in a trilogy, and will obviously pick up where this one left off. The Kindle copy actually contained a preview of the next book in the series, and it started the very next day after this book ended.
I will definitely read the rest of the series, as my friend said that the third book is actually the best in the trilogy.
Recommend for people who like slower starts where the female lead grows over time, as well as mild sensuality and Victorian manners.
February 5, 2023
life is not always a bed of roses…
Lady Ellen’s life is thrown off when her father decides that 6r man she has chosen and agreed to marry is unsuitable. Instead he wants her to spend the rest of her life with a drunken indecent man. When she doesn’t agree, he dispatches her to a maroon island. But love always finds a way… and so does life.
I didn’t care much for her father. Who would give their daughter to such a scoundrel unless he owes him a debt. Grady is the most mysterious character and I like Ellen a lot. She reminded me of characters from Brighton and pride and prejudice… which portrayed women in a time with limited options.
Romance readers will love this book.
Lady Ellen’s life is thrown off when her father decides that 6r man she has chosen and agreed to marry is unsuitable. Instead he wants her to spend the rest of her life with a drunken indecent man. When she doesn’t agree, he dispatches her to a maroon island. But love always finds a way… and so does life.
I didn’t care much for her father. Who would give their daughter to such a scoundrel unless he owes him a debt. Grady is the most mysterious character and I like Ellen a lot. She reminded me of characters from Brighton and pride and prejudice… which portrayed women in a time with limited options.
Romance readers will love this book.
January 10, 2020
So disappointed!
So disappointed. This book was to have Victorian type of romance but it did not!! It became far to intimate. I do not like books that tell me that in kissing that the male explores her mouth when kissing her! Far to much close body contact. This is not what readers who want clean reading want to read. So sorry I bought this book and the sequels to it. So disappointed!!! Story line is not realistic either and I did not finish reading! Her family offers her no help in bad situation. Just very unrealistic!
So disappointed. This book was to have Victorian type of romance but it did not!! It became far to intimate. I do not like books that tell me that in kissing that the male explores her mouth when kissing her! Far to much close body contact. This is not what readers who want clean reading want to read. So sorry I bought this book and the sequels to it. So disappointed!!! Story line is not realistic either and I did not finish reading! Her family offers her no help in bad situation. Just very unrealistic!
December 28, 2019
Book was ok
The writing style was good and I finished it because I wanted to know what happened but honestly I have hated few characters the way I do Lady Ellen. I will not be reading anymore of the series because I can't stand her whining, self centered, babified attitude
The writing style was good and I finished it because I wanted to know what happened but honestly I have hated few characters the way I do Lady Ellen. I will not be reading anymore of the series because I can't stand her whining, self centered, babified attitude
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