Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Devoted Hearts #6

Courting the Vicar's Daughter

Rate this book
A gentleman lacking direction and a vicar's daughter full of conviction have little in common. But as their friendship grows, so do deeper feelings.

Harry Devon, son of a wealthy gentleman who cared more for money than his family, has returned to the family estate at last. Without direction, and lacking the knowledge necessary to run his estate, Harry is prepared to leave it to others to make the difficult decisions. Until he meets the vicar's daughter.

Augusta Ames, who much prefers the childhood nickname Daisy, is preparing to open a school for daughters of poor tenant farmers. In the habit of serving others, Daisy determines to help Harry find his path and place in their community. When he embraces her plan with enthusiasm, their friendship begins to blossom into something more.

But the Devon legacy is regarded with suspicion, thanks to the greed and cruelty of Harry's late father. When the neighborhood finds reason to turn on Harry, will Daisy trust her heart enough to love him still?

233 pages, ebook

First published March 26, 2019

831 people are currently reading
453 people want to read

About the author

Sally Britton

47 books1,259 followers
Sally Britton is sixth generation Texan, received her BA in English forever ago, and reads voraciously. She started her writing journey at the tender age of fourteen on an electric typewriter, and she’s never looked back.

Sally lives in Oklahoma with her husband, four children, and their overly energetic Australian Shepherds, cat, and snake named Nancy. She loves researching, hiking, and eating too much chocolate.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
682 (46%)
4 stars
524 (35%)
3 stars
223 (15%)
2 stars
39 (2%)
1 star
3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
Profile Image for Jacob Proffitt.
3,311 reviews2,151 followers
July 16, 2019
This is sixth in a series, though a bit distant from the others (mainly in time). Harry was young in the other stories and this picks up with him grown and come into his estate. His family figures into this story, but not greatly. So you could probably read this on its own and be fine. Still, the backstories are good ones so I recommend reading in order.

So I finished this literally months ago. And I meant to say some really profound things about how well this works and what a great capstone it is on the series. I loved these two and how important they became to one another. And the author does a fantastic job depicting the preoccupation with reputation and community standing and making it potent (without making it silly). Harry could have easily disrupted Augusta's life just by showing her too much attention and he quickly realizes that he doesn't want that, even though she has pricked his pride more than a little. And I love that Harry took opportunities to change and I love that Augusta is so straightforward. And I love how important the role of the bible is on their discussions and how true to the period that felt.

And I really wish I could recall more detail of my reaction. I just remember that I loved it and finished with that great-book-afterglow and I had to digest a little before committing to a review. Sadly, I overshot my window and now we're left with this weak-sauce as a result.

A note about Chaste: Like the others in the series, this one is completely chaste.
Profile Image for Lu.
756 reviews25 followers
January 2, 2021
Harry is such a sweetheart!

It was finally time to read Harry’s story. The young brother of the Devon sisters was finally out of his father’s power, and I was curious to see what he would make of it.
Daisy was the perfect match for him. Her maturity and compassion stirred him in the right direction. I love their friendship.
As with other books from this series, I really enjoy the fact that the characters are always willing to face the misunderstandings straight on. It is so refreshing not to have them dragging the plot.
Sweet read!
Profile Image for Melissa.
2,542 reviews267 followers
March 26, 2019
The end of a series....so bittersweet. This was a great end. Harry finally got his story. I loved it. It was simple and beautiful. Sally is a wonderful story teller and can create characters to cheer for. This is a simpler story then the others but I was so invested I didn't care. I can't wait to go back and read the whole series, you get to see them all in this one for a bit. So for those that are new to Britton's writing go back and start at the beginning, you will not regret it.
Profile Image for Lori.
171 reviews6 followers
April 26, 2019
A happy ending to a great series! I have read all of the books in Sally Britton’s series and have thoroughly enjoyed everyone. She never disappoints! I was so glad to see Harry get his happy ending. Although I will miss reading about the Devon family, I can’t wait to see what Britton comes up with next.
Profile Image for Pamela Aidan.
Author 12 books394 followers
May 9, 2022
I was quite disappointed with this installment of the Branches of Love series. The potential for breakthrough in tired tropes was enormous but the shorthand they provided was too tempting, I suppose. No more Britton for me.
Profile Image for B. D. Mann.
664 reviews21 followers
March 14, 2020
I am a fan of Sally Britton when it comes to clean Regency Romance. Having read over a dozen of her offerings, I have yet to award fewer than five-stars. I enjoyed reading about a son who overcomes the sins of the father. Kudos to Sally for constructing a clean and enjoyable story.
Profile Image for Karen Thornell.
Author 10 books323 followers
July 29, 2019
Sally is quickly becoming a favorite regency author of mine! I've enjoyed the branches of love series, and especially loved this one. It has been fun to watch Harry grow up through the other books, and it was especially fun to revisit a few former characters in this book. Two of my favorite parts of this book were: 1. Harry was far from perfect. He was floundering and in need of direction and guidance. His arc was believable and enjoyable. 2. Daisy was not interested in Harry. She had her own plan for her life and love was not currently a part of it! One small annoyance I had was that her nickname was SO far from her name and I do not believe it was ever fully explained. But I found it cute that both MCs possessed names they did not feel fit them.
This was a true love story. Minor hiccups created a fun roller coaster, but overall the reader was just able to enjoy watching two people fall in love and carve out their future. Definitely recommend!
Profile Image for Elizabeth Reid.
1,209 reviews15 followers
April 11, 2020
Evidentially I pair a pandemic with regency romances. Hmmm, I guess I'm trying to escape reality?

This was a cute story. But do you mean to tell me that, while his sisters were obviously greatly affected by their father's treatment of them, Harry escaped any kind of mental injuries? That aspect was pretty far-fetched for even a regency romance lover, like myself.
Profile Image for Jessica Tracy.
709 reviews
November 3, 2024
For me, this book ranks about the same as the previous book in the series (Miss Devon's Choice). I really enjoyed it! I love that the male and female leads grow during their time together and that neither is "the perfect one" even thought it might appear that at times. I also appreciate elements in this book such as what gossip, asking for forgiveness, and being communicative and kind can do. Another excellent addition to this series!

Content Warnings: only mild kissing. I would personally allow a 16+ to read this book.
Profile Image for MaryEllen.
2,893 reviews29 followers
March 24, 2019
Daisy prides herself on never listening, nor passing on gossip. She was encouraged from childhood to help others.

Harry wants to be nothing like his father was, but that doesn't tell him what he does want to do.

These two young adults cross paths and... they challenge the other to be better, to want more... and in the process come to care for one another.

When a misunderstanding reveals a lack of trust, can there be forgiveness?
Profile Image for Charity Jacob.
460 reviews2 followers
February 26, 2021
Book six of the Branches of Love Series by Sally Britton was delightful. It was fun to get to know Harry and Daisy has Harry tried to court her. If you like books that connect to other books and that are full of romance and wittiness then this book and series is for you.
Profile Image for Megan.
590 reviews16 followers
November 17, 2022
Sweet and gentle romance. Maybe not that swoony, but the relationship feels like it has a fairly solid basis despite developing over just a few months.
2,636 reviews
September 4, 2021
The pace of this story rivals the first one on slowness. I need a break from this author as only one of six stories measured up to its potential. A second one came close but enough is enough.
Profile Image for Camille.
Author 34 books559 followers
June 1, 2020
I’ve really enjoyed Sally Britton’s Branches of Love series that I’ve read so far. Harry Devon was a secondary character I’ve always liked whenever he appeared in the books that featured each of his sisters, and I was quite eager for him to finally get his own love story, which was quite a charming read.

Harry was a charming hero, his love interest, Daisy, extremely sweet, and their interactions together adorable. The plot, while simple, unfolded at a gentle pace, with a focus on the characters’ growth while Harry learns to take responsibility, and Daisy overcomes the obstacles in the way of her desire to start a school. They fall in love quickly and must work together to overcome the hurdles standing between them and their happily ever after, their growth, and their goals. I was quite invested in both characters, and their lovely scenes together as their romance developed compelled me to keep reading. I also loved the appearances of several characters from previous books, particularly Rebecca, Christian, and their growing family.

Overall I enjoyed my time reading Courting the Vicar’s Daughter and am please Harry finally got his story. Even though I’m sad to say goodbye to this series, I’m eager to read Sally Britton’s upcoming Inglewood books. I love her writing style; she’s a wonderful author.
Profile Image for Karen.
735 reviews7 followers
March 24, 2019
This is my first book by Sally Britton. And it is a little odd to start on the last book (book 6) of branches of love. It isn’t designed to be a stand alone per se but I found that I really didn’t need to read the other books to be able to enjoy this one. Lots of characters were discussed and I assume they all had their own story. But enough detail is given to understand who they are and what role the play in Harry’s life. It was a bit slow for me the first half of the book. There is some wittiness but since the heroine doesn’t want the hero to flirt with her things seem to go slow. Not that it is bad dialogue but perhaps if I was already more invested in the characters I would have been more invested in the storyline. But after about half of the book more of the angst is entered into and I became more emotionally invested in the story. I didn’t feel a spark with the characters until about that time. But I think you as a reader will feel as I do that Harry and Daisy are cute characters with a depth to them and deserve to find a HEA.
Profile Image for Melissa.
1,191 reviews15 followers
March 27, 2019
Knowing this book was coming out soon, I binged on the series over the last couple weeks. I am so glad I did, because this was a wonderful series. I loved getting to know the Gilberts, Devons and Calverts. Harry being the youngest of them all had some growing up to do and finding his place in the world. Luckily he found an outspoken lady who was willing to help guide him. I loved Daisy from the very beginning. She is such a wonderful woman going about helping others and following her dreams. I love that they brought out the best in each other. This book made me laugh and cry, but I really enjoyed it. I loved Lord Annesbury's ball and seeing the family all together again. A perfect ending to the series.
Profile Image for Crystal.
442 reviews
June 21, 2020
Some typos

The final book in this series about the Devon family was predictable, though sweet. It was a good ending to the series. There were some typos throughout.

Some things I noticed about the author and her writing:
She describes how everyone smells.
She uses the phrase “she wrapped her arms around her waist” several times in each book.
She does a good job with characterization. You can get a feel for each characters personality. They don’t all feel like the same person.
The historical setting is interesting and she often ties in current events, such as the war with France, colonization, etc.
Profile Image for Stacey.
321 reviews5 followers
April 1, 2020
Sally has done it again! I loved this story - in fact I thoroughly enjoyed this entire series. I’m rather sad that it’s come to an end but I am eagerly looking forward to her next book.
Each story in this series leaves you feeling happy and content, with the content being clean and wholesome.
I would definitely recommend these books to anyone who enjoys reading novels set in the Regency Era. I also highly recommend that your read the series in the proper sequence, as there are characters from previous books mentioned in each of the books that follow on.
Happy reading!
Profile Image for M.L. Keller.
Author 1 book4 followers
April 24, 2019
This was clearly rushed as there were typos everywhere. If the story had been better, I might have overlooked many of them, but the complete lack of dramatic tension between the two left me skimming and hoping for a quick ending
Profile Image for Patty .
270 reviews12 followers
June 12, 2019
Great conclusion

This was a great conclusion to the Branches of Love series by Sally Britton. I think I downloaded the first in the series for free, but enjoyed it so much I purchased several of the subsequent stories. Great series!
Profile Image for Jenn.
785 reviews13 followers
June 24, 2020
This fell flat for me. Harry is such a fun and lively character and deserved a better love interest. It was dry and disappointing.
Profile Image for Frances.
1,704 reviews6 followers
May 3, 2021
I could never figure out what he saw in her. She was a self righteous prig.
Profile Image for Julie Carpenter.
1,887 reviews239 followers
April 20, 2020
What a charming story. I'll admit that I haven't read all of the books in this series. I started with Miss Devon's Choice and then this one. But I've been eyeing this series since the first book came out. I have almost all of them and am looking forward to going back and reading about these characters. After Miss Devon's Choice and reading about her younger brother Harry, I've been wondering about his story and was very excited when I learned that this was his book. I listened to the audiobook while I was doing projects around the house. My children are home and I have to say that my older ones were following me around while I was working because they wanted to hear the story and were hooked by it just like me.

This was a great coming of age story. Harry and Daisy have very different backgrounds. But they have several commonalities. They both desire to help others. I loved their characters. They are both so good. Even through their misunderstandings and mistakes I loved watching them accept their mistakes and try to fix them.

I really loved Harry's family. The more I think about the little glimpses that I've had of them has me wanting to go devour their stories now. Fabulous characters, great settings and the lessons that are shared through Sally Britton's writing is well worth the time. I've read/listened to several of her books now and really love her writing style. She's an author that I highly recommend if you're looking for a new author.

There were so many sweet moments in this book. As well as humorous and emotionally touching moments. I thoroughly enjoyed them all. I laughed and smiled a lot during this book. Finally being able to immerse myself into Harry's story satisfied my expectations for his story. He needed someone who was just a gentle and kind as himself and Daisy was definitely that and so much more. I loved how Harry struggled to find what he should do and Daisy was able to offer support and guidance in ways that she didn't realize. Harry wasn't afraid to step up and fix what needed fixing even through the frustration of the townspeople jumping to conclusions about his character. Good job Harry in persevering and showing them who you truly are!

Content: Clean

I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!
Profile Image for Laura B.
245 reviews3 followers
May 17, 2025
This book is the sequel to Miss Devon's Choice. Courting the Vicar's Daughter is Harry's story; the youngest sibling of the Devon family, the older ones are all sisters. This story was actually a disappointment compared to Rebecca’s romance in Miss Devon's Choice IMO.

Harry inherits the estate upon his father’s death from a riding accident, and the vast wealth of his cold father astonishes him. In his grief he travels to see all his sisters leaving the country estate to be run by the same steward as his late father, a man who Harry learns is as heartless as his father was. He comes to the country to escape the Society of London, and doesn’t know what to do with himself. He is reacquainted with the vicar’s daughter and she challenges him to become better than his father. Harry’s conscious encourages him to do so.

As the relationship develops between the vicar’s daughter and he, feelings increase between the both of them, and they learn they complement one another. Slowly romantic feelings build, and they learn they do not want to be away from each other.

The biggest problem I had with this novel was it relied upon chance meetings to occur in order for them to get to know each other better and interact with one another. I just found that all too convenient to base a story upon. The other problem was how could chance meetings develop a relationship enough for romance to occur? It was all too easy.

This wasn’t my favorite Regency Romance I’ve read so far, but it was passable. However, I did find myself skipping paragraphs in order to turn the page to get through the novel. I really cannot recommend this too much. 2**½*
2,535 reviews46 followers
March 25, 2019
A lovely ending to this series. I'm glad Harry got his story too. I love the way the sisters bonded together to give Harry the opportunity to not become like his father. The sibling bond with them is wonderful. Without his siblings, he would likely have turned out as awful as his father.

I loved Daisy and her outspokenness. I'm not sure she was that frank with other people in her village but she was willing to dish it out to Harry to show him how to be a good landowner and person. Harry was lost in life before Daisy gave him a purpose. And I loved how Harry was willing to take it all on. Once he was shown what was needed he was all in. They make a wonderful team and the ending of the book hints at even greater things in their future. I was a bit amused that in a world where women are required to sit back and let their husbands run everything, that Daisy lead out in everything including their personal relationship. She was quite bold for a woman in her time. I love that.

I also liked that though Mr. Haskett was not the man of Daisy's dreams he was still a good man. He was willing to speak of his own mistakes before the entire congregation and in so doing righted a huge wrong. I kept waiting for him to suddenly be shown to be a bad person or at least an unbending chauvinist but nope. He was a good man. Just not Daisy's man.

I've enjoyed this series and I'm sorry to say good-bye to these characters.

No sex, language or violence
Profile Image for Lorraine.
165 reviews6 followers
March 26, 2019
YAY for Sally Britton and yay for KU! I have greatly enjoyed the stories of the Devon family and this was a grand finale. Clean and sweet but with humor. Harry is finally all grown up and looking for who he wants to be and what he wants to do with his life. He'd had a terrible example in his deceased father but wonderful guides in the form of his older sisters and their husbands. Visiting his various sisters, he is staying with the only sister who settled in the neighborhood. While on a walk, he has a "meet-cute" with a young woman he was aquatinted with in childhood.
Harry is a good but direction-less man, Daisy is an earnest young woman with a wicked sense of humor and an extreme distaste for gossip. Watching them grow and learn from each other was very enjoyable. Sally Britton writes very human characters with real humor, foibles, and faults so seeing the growth in her book people is entertaining. Of course the path of true love doesn't run smooth, but the way is made easier because we know that eventually we will reach the hea. It was fun to meet with those characters I enjoyed from the previous books but they didn't take the spotlight from Harry and Daisy, and reading their books first wasn't necessary because enough detail was provided for supporting characters.
Love this series and loved this book.
Profile Image for Elda.
1,203 reviews6 followers
August 26, 2021
What’s a poor little rich boy to do?

Harry had a dilemma. How to overcome the reputation his father left behind and show the community he was nothing like his father. Miss Ames, the vicar’s daughter, inspired him to “be an example of kindness, of gentility, to this neighborhood.” Everything he did was because of her. But once he was away from his estate for only a few days, rumors began to fly and the town believed him to be just like his father. Miss Ames also believed them of Harry without hearing his side of it. This made me very sad because no one really knew how despicable Harry’s father really was, and any reader who has read any of the previous books in this series would know how much Harry had supported his sisters through their suffering under the hands of his father. Harry was deflated to think that in spite of their previous relationship, Miss Ames would believe the gossips especially when she had spoken of her disdain of gossiping. Happily, they eventually figured things out and overcame it. This book is part of The Branches of Love collection but can be read on its own. Enough of the backstory is included here for the reader to get the picture. However, I would recommend reading the others first in order to appreciate the characters more highly, especially Harry’s. Well done Ms Britton.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.