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A Guarded Heart
Three years after a shocking scandal destroyed her family and forced her into isolation, Eleanor Hayward finally has an opportunity to put her painful history and dashed hopes behind her. But reentering society is no simple task. In her cousin's glittering ballroom, Eleanor is stunned when she comes face-to-face with the man who broke her heart those years before. Edmund Fletcher thought he had laid the past to rest until he unexpectedly encounters the woman who so nearly became his wife. Soon to be engaged to another, Edmund knows he must let go of the complicated feelings he harbors for Eleanor. However, when the Hayward scandal resurfaces and the truth behind their parting is revealed, Eleanor and Edmund are left reeling. Tormented by thoughts of what could have been, they realize it is impossible to rewrite history. But is there a future in which they might both find happiness—and true love?
232 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 269 reviews
May 23, 2019
It's no secret if you've read other reviews of mine, that I love Regency romances. I get so easily swept up in them, the manners, the society, the clothing, the language, the propriety, the balls...everything. I just love it all! Another non secret is this...I loved this book. I was hooked!
This book focuses on Eleanor and the scandal from three years ago. The author alternates the chapters between Eleanor's present time and three years in the past. I absolutely loved it. I loved seeing who she was currently and then going back in time and seeing who she was previously. It was so well written with the different times as well as having the point of view of Edmund, the man Eleanor loved and has come face to face with again. They are not the same people, and yet they are. But time and scandal and broken hearts have shaped their decisions and future.
I loved it and found that I wanted to just stop everything so that I could discover what was going to happen between these two. I wanted to know what the scandal was and I wanted to know what their previous love story had been. This book was so sweet and I loved that we got to read about their first love story as well as seeing their hearts soften, allowing them to have a second love story as well.
Isn't that a wonderful bonus? Two love stories in one? I thought so. And very cleverly written. This was the second story that I've read by Heidi Kimball and I have to say that she has earned another reading fan in me. I'm really looking forward to what she has in store for us readers next.
Grab a copy, and clear your schedules so you can be swept away in the sweet love stories of this book. I will warn you though, you won't want to put it down, and you might shed a few tears. So grab some tissues and enjoy!
Content: Clean. Nothing more than a few sweet kisses.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
This book focuses on Eleanor and the scandal from three years ago. The author alternates the chapters between Eleanor's present time and three years in the past. I absolutely loved it. I loved seeing who she was currently and then going back in time and seeing who she was previously. It was so well written with the different times as well as having the point of view of Edmund, the man Eleanor loved and has come face to face with again. They are not the same people, and yet they are. But time and scandal and broken hearts have shaped their decisions and future.
I loved it and found that I wanted to just stop everything so that I could discover what was going to happen between these two. I wanted to know what the scandal was and I wanted to know what their previous love story had been. This book was so sweet and I loved that we got to read about their first love story as well as seeing their hearts soften, allowing them to have a second love story as well.
Isn't that a wonderful bonus? Two love stories in one? I thought so. And very cleverly written. This was the second story that I've read by Heidi Kimball and I have to say that she has earned another reading fan in me. I'm really looking forward to what she has in store for us readers next.
Grab a copy, and clear your schedules so you can be swept away in the sweet love stories of this book. I will warn you though, you won't want to put it down, and you might shed a few tears. So grab some tissues and enjoy!
Content: Clean. Nothing more than a few sweet kisses.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
March 24, 2019
This was a nice slow moving regency romance. Think Persuasion or Sense and Sensibility. I appreciated the very slow story telling but never felt like I was given too much inner dialog or too much nonsense. This could have been a real story much like Jane Austen's books. It was heart breaking and lovely. I think this writer will do well. This is a proper romance with no religion. My one issue with this book was how sad it was, I was in the mood for a happier love story, so just have that in mind when you pick it up.
August 16, 2022
Beautiful writing style✨✨
But the story dragged a bit in my opinion, you saw the misunderstanding a mile away and then it wasn’t enough to keep it interesting, although the last 30% was great!
But the story dragged a bit in my opinion, you saw the misunderstanding a mile away and then it wasn’t enough to keep it interesting, although the last 30% was great!
March 18, 2019
4.25 Stars
A clean historical romance that is not focused on the the usual burning passion for both main characters.
It dwells on the love between two people separated by misunderstanding but their feelings remained strong despite everything. Even if they both tried to deny it. Their love were mostly shown through actions, not by words. I love Edmund's sweet gesture without taking any credit from it. I love that this story doesn't involve any lust. At all. It felt pure.. if you know what I mean.
It also gives us a bigger picture on how the people look down on someone that is not of their standard. How one scandal can easily destroy your family's reputation.
Warning though, possible trigger
Even if I love Edmund's character, I was disappointed to know that
I snipped 3/4 of a star because of the many Miss and Mr. in the story. To be honest, I'm having a hard time grasping who is who. 😂My fault.
Overall, it was a great read.
A clean historical romance that is not focused on the the usual burning passion for both main characters.
It dwells on the love between two people separated by misunderstanding but their feelings remained strong despite everything. Even if they both tried to deny it. Their love were mostly shown through actions, not by words. I love Edmund's sweet gesture without taking any credit from it. I love that this story doesn't involve any lust. At all. It felt pure.. if you know what I mean.
It also gives us a bigger picture on how the people look down on someone that is not of their standard. How one scandal can easily destroy your family's reputation.
Warning though, possible trigger
Even if I love Edmund's character, I was disappointed to know that
I snipped 3/4 of a star because of the many Miss and Mr. in the story. To be honest, I'm having a hard time grasping who is who. 😂My fault.
Overall, it was a great read.
March 7, 2019
A GUARDED HEART is such a sweet and tender story. Told from the perspectives of both Edmund and Eleanor, each chapter progresses towards unfolding the story in its entirety. The chapters alternate between the current time and just three years earlier and I wasn't sure about that format, as I'm used to having a longer past to flash back to. Three years just didn't seem long enough....at first. But as the heartbreak and hurts were revealed, I realized how perfect that was and to have the wrongs gradually disclosed. It made for a more engaging tale and allowed the reader to really get to know these characters, their emotions, and their hopes, although it was frustrating at time to be yanked to a time period that you weren't ready to leave yet.
Both Edmund and Eleanor are great characters, with many facets to their personalities, which makes them seem real. Their tragic love story tugs on the heartstrings and brings the reader right into the plot. I loved Eleanor's gentleness and quiet strength and the swoon worthy humor and charm that Edmund possessed.
This was a treat to read and to immerse myself in for a time.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given. No review was required.*
Both Edmund and Eleanor are great characters, with many facets to their personalities, which makes them seem real. Their tragic love story tugs on the heartstrings and brings the reader right into the plot. I loved Eleanor's gentleness and quiet strength and the swoon worthy humor and charm that Edmund possessed.
This was a treat to read and to immerse myself in for a time.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given. No review was required.*
March 24, 2019
I loved the creative storytelling in this bittersweet Regency romance, with alternating perspectives of Eleanor and Edward, and also the past and present. It allowed details to unfold gradually and added elements of suspense and anticipation to the plot. Conflict due to misunderstanding isn't my favorite, but the characters were complex and well-developed, drawing me into their world and emotions. The relationship between Eleanor and Edmund was a pleasure to read, and it was gratifying to see them have a second chance at love after everything went so wrong. So happy to have a new Regency author to follow and read!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
March 4, 2019
This book is sweet and heart-wrenching at the same time.
Three years prior to the beginning of this book Eleanor Hayward and Edmund Fletcher met and fell in love. They parted on bad terms and both carry anger and regrets.
A second chance comes around as Eleanor is a guest staying with extended family at the neighboring estate from Edmunds newly inherited home. Time has passed and not treated Eleanor kindly. They are thrown together often but Edmund is about the become engaged to another woman.
This book is told from two time periods and perspectives. I enjoyed the flashbacks to their courtship and falling in love. It added depth to the hurt they are experiencing and how the misconceptions led to their parting. The societal expectations are explained and how one can fall from grace and be shunned by society. It was refreshing to read about characters who do not follow all of the rules of etiquette and reach out a hand to someone who has been ostracized.
This book is well done. I enjoyed every moment of reading it.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Three years prior to the beginning of this book Eleanor Hayward and Edmund Fletcher met and fell in love. They parted on bad terms and both carry anger and regrets.
A second chance comes around as Eleanor is a guest staying with extended family at the neighboring estate from Edmunds newly inherited home. Time has passed and not treated Eleanor kindly. They are thrown together often but Edmund is about the become engaged to another woman.
This book is told from two time periods and perspectives. I enjoyed the flashbacks to their courtship and falling in love. It added depth to the hurt they are experiencing and how the misconceptions led to their parting. The societal expectations are explained and how one can fall from grace and be shunned by society. It was refreshing to read about characters who do not follow all of the rules of etiquette and reach out a hand to someone who has been ostracized.
This book is well done. I enjoyed every moment of reading it.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
March 7, 2019
What a beautifully written story with engaging, endearing characters. My heart was so sad so often for Eleanor. Her story is just, for lack of a better word, sad. And yet, her heart is gentle, soft and kind. I cannot even tell you how desperately I wanted good things to happen for Eleanor. I was so invested in her.
This book is told from alternating views belonging to Eleanor and Edmund. It also switches back and forth in time so we gradually get the backstory that led Eleanor and Edmund to the place they are now. I was grateful for those flashback moments because they were the light and hope to an otherwise sad tale. It gave me a better understanding and view of both Edmund and Eleanor, who are both fantastic characters. There is also a great cast of secondary characters.
I really loved this story. It captured my heart and my emotions.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
This book is told from alternating views belonging to Eleanor and Edmund. It also switches back and forth in time so we gradually get the backstory that led Eleanor and Edmund to the place they are now. I was grateful for those flashback moments because they were the light and hope to an otherwise sad tale. It gave me a better understanding and view of both Edmund and Eleanor, who are both fantastic characters. There is also a great cast of secondary characters.
I really loved this story. It captured my heart and my emotions.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 3, 2022
Reunion Romance lovers alert -- this one is an exquisite example of all that is heartrending and hopeful about the trope. I was seriously gutted, reduced to swallowing down that infernal lump in my throat and even broke into an ugly cry once or twice during this read (listen).
In many ways, the plot of A Guarded Heart meandered along the path I thought it would...until unexpectedly swerving in unknown directions! I loved both the predictable parts and the unpredictable ones and Kimball's expert wordsmithing weaves it all together to create sublime readerly satisfaction.
This one has left me gobsmacked so I'm not sure what else I can say except: if you love emotionally engaging stories with characters you can relate to and the kind of seemingly hopeless romantical tension that makes your heart both ache and soar, look no further, have I got a book recommendation for you!
In many ways, the plot of A Guarded Heart meandered along the path I thought it would...until unexpectedly swerving in unknown directions! I loved both the predictable parts and the unpredictable ones and Kimball's expert wordsmithing weaves it all together to create sublime readerly satisfaction.
This one has left me gobsmacked so I'm not sure what else I can say except: if you love emotionally engaging stories with characters you can relate to and the kind of seemingly hopeless romantical tension that makes your heart both ache and soar, look no further, have I got a book recommendation for you!
March 8, 2019
I loved this story although there was so much heartbreak in it. The story starts with Eleanor's cousin's family "easing" her back into society 3 years after her family suffered a scandal. At the party she sees Edmund who gives the impression (to others) he's meeting her for the first time.
Each chapter gives both Eleanor's and Edmund's points of view and the chapters alternate between the present and 3 years earlier when Eleanor and Edmund met at a house party and fell in love. We know something happened but don't find out what that is until about half way into the story. Their history is revealed in the flashback chapters and we get to know the characters and see how they fell in love. These parts are lighter than the present because "scandal" hasn't occurred yet. Of course once the incident that caused them to part in anger is revealed, we know it was just a big misunderstanding.
I liked both of the main characters. Eleanor suffers a great deal, and much of it is because of choices made by her family. The scandal that shamed her family from society had nothing to do with anything Eleanor did. She was far stronger than I would've been had I lost my brother and my mother, and my father turned to drinking and pretty much ignored me.
Edmund is a wonderful man. He cares about Eleanor even when he felt obligated to marry Miss Coombs. I loved when he made arrangements to have something done for Eleanor but wanted his part in it kept secret--he knew she wouldn't want to accept it if it came from him. One of my favorite parts is when Edmund decides he's going to marry Miss Coombs--There, finally, he would propose to Miss Coombs. The prospect was about as enticing as sitting down to go over the estate's ledgers. A duty to be completed, but one he took no pleasure in. You can tell he's just thrilled to be marrying her. LOL. Thankfully both he and Eleanor come to their senses.
I love how the end isn't rushed or forced but just comes together so well. This is a lovely second-chance-at-love story and I think it's an unusual one because we get to see the characters fall in love both times. This is a clean romance.
Thank you to Covenant Communications and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are mine.
Each chapter gives both Eleanor's and Edmund's points of view and the chapters alternate between the present and 3 years earlier when Eleanor and Edmund met at a house party and fell in love. We know something happened but don't find out what that is until about half way into the story. Their history is revealed in the flashback chapters and we get to know the characters and see how they fell in love. These parts are lighter than the present because "scandal" hasn't occurred yet. Of course once the incident that caused them to part in anger is revealed, we know it was just a big misunderstanding.
I liked both of the main characters. Eleanor suffers a great deal, and much of it is because of choices made by her family. The scandal that shamed her family from society had nothing to do with anything Eleanor did. She was far stronger than I would've been had I lost my brother and my mother, and my father turned to drinking and pretty much ignored me.
Edmund is a wonderful man. He cares about Eleanor even when he felt obligated to marry Miss Coombs. I loved when he made arrangements to have something done for Eleanor but wanted his part in it kept secret--he knew she wouldn't want to accept it if it came from him. One of my favorite parts is when Edmund decides he's going to marry Miss Coombs--There, finally, he would propose to Miss Coombs. The prospect was about as enticing as sitting down to go over the estate's ledgers. A duty to be completed, but one he took no pleasure in. You can tell he's just thrilled to be marrying her. LOL. Thankfully both he and Eleanor come to their senses.
I love how the end isn't rushed or forced but just comes together so well. This is a lovely second-chance-at-love story and I think it's an unusual one because we get to see the characters fall in love both times. This is a clean romance.
Thank you to Covenant Communications and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are mine.
February 26, 2019
If you are looking for your next romance, look no further. Author Heidi Kimball has written a gorgeous story of love, forgiveness, and second chances, woven through with historical details and incredible emotion. The unique structure of the book (with flashbacks to the past) engaged me immediately, and kept me riveted until the end. I adored Eleanor and Edmund; they were so real and so well-rounded, that I related to them throughout the book. I loved watching them grow as they learned more about themselves and each other, and of course I loved the beautiful romance and the sigh-worthy happy ending. This is what Regency is all about! A stunning debut.
March 4, 2019
I enjoy reading a good Regency romance. And this one is great!
I loved the way the author did this one. The reader knows from both Eleanor and Edmund’s points of views that something happened between them prior to the start of the story. But it’s not revealed until later in the book quite what. And – as is often the case – neither of them had the full story. But the reader gets the full story because the reader gets to see things through both characters eyes. I really loved the plot of this one for that.
There are so many things I loved about Eleanor in this one. I especially loved her loyalty to her family. And her strength. Eleanor went through a lot of hard times due to some choices that some of her family made. And through it all she kept her head held high and she knew her own value. That’s really important.
Then there’s Edmund. I really liked him for the most part. When the reader sees the whole story, they really can’t blame him for the choices he made. He did what he thought he had to when his heart broke. That didn’t make things easier on himself or on Eleanor. But he was true to himself through the story. And he was a true gentleman. There are parts later in the story that he does things so out of his way for Eleanor. And those parts were especially touching for me.
There are so many great things about this one! I loved it and can’t wait for more books by this author!
I loved the way the author did this one. The reader knows from both Eleanor and Edmund’s points of views that something happened between them prior to the start of the story. But it’s not revealed until later in the book quite what. And – as is often the case – neither of them had the full story. But the reader gets the full story because the reader gets to see things through both characters eyes. I really loved the plot of this one for that.
There are so many things I loved about Eleanor in this one. I especially loved her loyalty to her family. And her strength. Eleanor went through a lot of hard times due to some choices that some of her family made. And through it all she kept her head held high and she knew her own value. That’s really important.
Then there’s Edmund. I really liked him for the most part. When the reader sees the whole story, they really can’t blame him for the choices he made. He did what he thought he had to when his heart broke. That didn’t make things easier on himself or on Eleanor. But he was true to himself through the story. And he was a true gentleman. There are parts later in the story that he does things so out of his way for Eleanor. And those parts were especially touching for me.
There are so many great things about this one! I loved it and can’t wait for more books by this author!
May 4, 2020
Lovely Regency romance.
Thanks to author Rachel Fordham for recommending this novel.
Thanks to author Rachel Fordham for recommending this novel.
January 29, 2019
Heidi Kimball creates a unique story from the first page. Initially altering between events of Eleanor's past and her current situation, Kimball artfully weaves a story of intrigue. She gives just enough details to keep us wanting more, while moving the story forward and letting us fall in love for our HEA. Great debut with Covenant Communications!
March 1, 2019
It is not often you get to live a romance twice, but in A Guarded Heart, that is exactly what you get. In alternating timelines we see a sweet romance develop between young Eleanor and Edmund, and then also their second chance, which, this time around heartbreaking but also exhilarating. The conclusion was delicious, and the romance a real treat. A great read for Regency lovers.
February 11, 2024
I have a goal this year, and that is to read books already on my bookshelves. A Guarded Heart by Heidi Kimball has been on my bookshelf since 2020. Why haven’t I read it yet? Well, it just wasn’t time to read this book until now. And I am really glad that I did. A Guarded Heart is a good story. As far as pacing goes, A Guarded Heart is on the slower side but that is OK. I didn’t find the unhurried nature a detraction from my enjoyment of the storyline at all. In fact, I felt like I could savor every minute. As far as characters go, Kimball’s are realistic and relatable. Eleanor made my heart hurt. It’s like the world believes she’s their personal punching bag. Every time she pulls herself up from being knocked down, someone or something knocks her back down. I wanted to reach in to the book and make the ugly people and situations stop. But Eleanor doesn’t need me. She’s the kind of character who never gives up. She gets sad. She gets frustrated. She gets angry. But she doesn’t get hopeless and she doesn’t lose her sense of self. I love the undercurrent of strength that flows through Eleanor throughout the entire story. I also appreciate how much she genuinely cares for others. Eleanor is an all-around good person, and I really cheered for her. I wanted her to get her happily ever after. My feelings about Edmund are slightly conflicted. I really do get why he is the way he is. When one has demanding parents who judge you based on the actions and reputation of their favored child, trusting that someone chooses you and sees the true value of you is not an easy thing to do. So I do get Edmund’s cynicism and his constant state of waiting for the other shoe to drop. But he made me sad for a good chunk of the story. Edmund is an assumer. He assumes things based on his insecurities and then acts upon those assumptions. This really hurts people. He doesn’t mean to hurt people. His heart is not evil or anything like that. Quite honestly, his heart is super big and he feels deeply. He just doesn’t think through things, and that costs him and others so much. What I do love about him, though, is that when Edmund realizes he’s made an error, he takes responsibility, asks for forgiveness, and does all he can to repair relationships. I love this about him because it is they way we all should behave once we realize an error we’ve made towards someone else.
A Guarded Heart packs a lot of story into 216 pages. This review barely touches the surface of all that takes place. There is a lot of heart and a lot of depth, and I am really glad I finally got around to reading this really well-done Regency Romance. If you’ve not yet read this book and you’re a fan of well-written Historical Romances, then I highly recommend A Guarded Heart.
I purchased a copy of this novel in eBook form from Amazon.com on November 29, 2020, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
A Guarded Heart packs a lot of story into 216 pages. This review barely touches the surface of all that takes place. There is a lot of heart and a lot of depth, and I am really glad I finally got around to reading this really well-done Regency Romance. If you’ve not yet read this book and you’re a fan of well-written Historical Romances, then I highly recommend A Guarded Heart.
I purchased a copy of this novel in eBook form from Amazon.com on November 29, 2020, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
February 28, 2019
This Regency romance was divine. I really loved the characters, Edmund Fletcher and Eleanor Hayward. Three years ago, these two met, and grew in love during a month long party at their friends’ house. But something happened, something that sent Edmund running that last night they were together…and Eleanor has never figured out what she did wrong to earn his spite. When they meet again, Edmund is irritated that Eleanor still fascinates him. She broke his heart all those years ago, and he will never be taken in by her again. And Eleanor is guarding her heart more than ever after all she has suffered for the past three years. She doesn’t know what she ever did to Mr. Fletcher, but she won’t let him crush her again. Yet, time and time again, they are thrown together, as the past weaves into the present, and the misunderstanding comes to light eventually. This book had the perfect amount of romantic suspense. Once I started it, I could hardly put it down. The angst, the heart-tugging, the suspense. It was all done so, so well. This is truly a literary feast, with a simple plot written magnificently so that it came to life as I read it and became the most important story to me in the world until I figured out what had happened to these two broken souls, and how in the heck the author was going to get them back together again and give me my happily-ever-after I crave. I believe this is Heidi Kimball’s debut book, and all I have to say is—Write more!!! Please!!!
March 9, 2019
*Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of the book
This was historical romance book told in dual POV and chapters change telling story from what happened three years a go and in present.
We learn early on that something happened between lead characters what left them both angry with each other. And that something is product of misunderstanding.
Add to that mix family problems of the heroine and hero's girlfriend and you get very interesting plot line.
I read this in one sitting.
The writing is amazing and I would love to read more books by this author.
But overall I found this just an okay book.
The cover of the book is really beautiful
This was historical romance book told in dual POV and chapters change telling story from what happened three years a go and in present.
We learn early on that something happened between lead characters what left them both angry with each other. And that something is product of misunderstanding.
Add to that mix family problems of the heroine and hero's girlfriend and you get very interesting plot line.
I read this in one sitting.
The writing is amazing and I would love to read more books by this author.
But overall I found this just an okay book.
The cover of the book is really beautiful
March 5, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. The story is beautifully written and the characters are lovely. Edmund and Eleanor are wonderful, each having their heart broken but not knowing why. Not all of the characters are worthy of praise but the author wrote the not so pleasant ones well too. I thoroughly enjoyed how this story is told. The is POV changes between Edmund and Eleanor, switching from present and past was unique and done well. It was a wonderful way to tell their backstory. The truth about Eleanor's brother was heartbreaking, but well done. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough, all while not wanting the book to end. Very well done.
March 13, 2019
It was okay.
I didn't like the every other chapter back and forth between the present and three years before. It kept pulling me from the main narrative.
I also didn't like that the main conflict between Eleanor and Edmund could have been resolved if he'd confronted her.
Too many times the characters discussed issues in conversation that I'm pretty sure real people back in those didn't, especially with someone who wasn't a close friend or family (finances, dowries, etc).
It got a little better towards the ending once the dual timeline was done.
Also the word resumé (it needs the accent, by the way) is a word used in the US. In Europe, in the 19th century, the term would have been curriculum vitae, but it was mainly used in academia, not in every day conversation.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
I didn't like the every other chapter back and forth between the present and three years before. It kept pulling me from the main narrative.
I also didn't like that the main conflict between Eleanor and Edmund could have been resolved if he'd confronted her.
Too many times the characters discussed issues in conversation that I'm pretty sure real people back in those didn't, especially with someone who wasn't a close friend or family (finances, dowries, etc).
It got a little better towards the ending once the dual timeline was done.
Also the word resumé (it needs the accent, by the way) is a word used in the US. In Europe, in the 19th century, the term would have been curriculum vitae, but it was mainly used in academia, not in every day conversation.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
January 31, 2019
This is an engrossing Regency romance that hits all the buttons. Two wonderful main characters with soul deep wounds. The imagery and emotional beats are spot on. Another winner for Heidi Kimball.
March 2, 2019
This book was full of heart-wrenching moments, and yet I couldn’t put it down. I HAD to know what would happen to Edmund and Eleanor!
I really enjoyed the way the author switched back and forth each chapter. The first chapter starts out in the present, and then the next goes back three years so we can learn firsthand about our two main characters. At first I was frustrated with it, because right when I was really getting into the chapter I was reading, it would switch, but I found that I actually really liked the way it built up the story.
Eleanor was a good protagonist- kind and resilient, she tried to not let the world tear her down despite insurmountable obstacles. There were some tender moments between her and Edmund that had me sighing in delight, and a depth to this book that I did not expect, with a great cast of supporting characters.
The ending was wonderful, although there were some discrepancies I wish could have made more sense or I understood better. Still a great clean regency romance, and I will definitely be on the lookout for more by this author!
I really enjoyed the way the author switched back and forth each chapter. The first chapter starts out in the present, and then the next goes back three years so we can learn firsthand about our two main characters. At first I was frustrated with it, because right when I was really getting into the chapter I was reading, it would switch, but I found that I actually really liked the way it built up the story.
Eleanor was a good protagonist- kind and resilient, she tried to not let the world tear her down despite insurmountable obstacles. There were some tender moments between her and Edmund that had me sighing in delight, and a depth to this book that I did not expect, with a great cast of supporting characters.
The ending was wonderful, although there were some discrepancies I wish could have made more sense or I understood better. Still a great clean regency romance, and I will definitely be on the lookout for more by this author!
March 20, 2019
Such a fantastic plot, and so full of substance. Both Edmund and Eleanor are loveable and connect emotionally to the reader. Proof that misunderstandings can lead to serious consequences. The heart breaks for Samuel too, who through an act of honour has ended up with a price on his head. So many tragedies abound in this story, and sometimes you wonder how on earth Eleanor manages to get out of bed in the morning. Three years later and she not only is the social pariah, and has to face what she lost all over again. To top it all off, the nasty Miss Coombs is in her face at every event.
One thing that made this a difficult read for the first half of the book at least is all the chopping back and forth between 1813 & 1816, with a bit of 1814 in between. Sometimes that works, but it really didn't here. Far too much of it, and just when you are getting a grasp of whats going on, you're thrown back 3 years - again. It would have been better if we had only the night of the ball, where the misunderstanding took place. I can understand keeping that until later, because thats the big mystery - why they are not together in the first place. But there was just too much switching back and forth.
That aside, the plot was fantastic - a great mix of characters, even though there's quite a few of them. Loved the scenes in Folkstone, they were so tenderly written. Eleanor totally took my heart!
I received a complimentary eARC from Netgalley, but also bought my own paperback. This is my honest review.
One thing that made this a difficult read for the first half of the book at least is all the chopping back and forth between 1813 & 1816, with a bit of 1814 in between. Sometimes that works, but it really didn't here. Far too much of it, and just when you are getting a grasp of whats going on, you're thrown back 3 years - again. It would have been better if we had only the night of the ball, where the misunderstanding took place. I can understand keeping that until later, because thats the big mystery - why they are not together in the first place. But there was just too much switching back and forth.
That aside, the plot was fantastic - a great mix of characters, even though there's quite a few of them. Loved the scenes in Folkstone, they were so tenderly written. Eleanor totally took my heart!
I received a complimentary eARC from Netgalley, but also bought my own paperback. This is my honest review.
March 6, 2019
4.5 Stars
A GUARDED HEART is everything sweet romance fans hope for. With complex main characters, well developed side characters, plenty of tension (both in the plot and in the romance), and a bittersweet story that will pull on readers heart, this is definitely a story well worth picking up.
I really loved these characters! Eleanor was a mix of sweetness, grace, intelligence, and a history that has made her older than her years. She also came across as very genuine. I especially loved her scenes with the children and all the mishaps she falls into. Edmund was a mix of gentlemanly charm, strength, and humor. I appreciated how the author allowed me to feel his struggle between anger, betrayal, doing his duty, and his heart. Then there were these other characters that were also well drawn. I particularly enjoyed Edmond's cousin, Marianne. Eleanor and Edmund had plenty of good scenes, some more serious, some lighter, and some with some excellent banter. Their romance was beautiful and heartbreaking as they each face their past and deal with the struggles of their future.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I loved just about every minute of this story. If you enjoy sweet romance with plenty of characters to fall in love with and a heartfelt story, then definitely pick this one up!
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review nor affect it in any way.
A GUARDED HEART is everything sweet romance fans hope for. With complex main characters, well developed side characters, plenty of tension (both in the plot and in the romance), and a bittersweet story that will pull on readers heart, this is definitely a story well worth picking up.
I really loved these characters! Eleanor was a mix of sweetness, grace, intelligence, and a history that has made her older than her years. She also came across as very genuine. I especially loved her scenes with the children and all the mishaps she falls into. Edmund was a mix of gentlemanly charm, strength, and humor. I appreciated how the author allowed me to feel his struggle between anger, betrayal, doing his duty, and his heart. Then there were these other characters that were also well drawn. I particularly enjoyed Edmond's cousin, Marianne. Eleanor and Edmund had plenty of good scenes, some more serious, some lighter, and some with some excellent banter. Their romance was beautiful and heartbreaking as they each face their past and deal with the struggles of their future.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I loved just about every minute of this story. If you enjoy sweet romance with plenty of characters to fall in love with and a heartfelt story, then definitely pick this one up!
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review nor affect it in any way.
May 26, 2020
A beautifully written book about forgiveness! Throughout the book, my heart was breaking for Eleanor. She endured so much cruelty, heartache, and pain. Society during that time period was harsh, but I was glad that Edmund took up for her. I was also happy to see Eleanor work past her pain and offer forgiveness.
March 5, 2019
I found this read really interesting. At first I didn't think I'd like the fact that each chapter was written three years apart, but the farther into the book the more I realized how I appreciated it. It allows the reader to really get to know Eleanor and Edmund. When the time lines merge you really have such a grasp on how they are feeling, how they got there and there's true empathy for both sides. It is a fantastic story that I highly recommend to any and everyone.
March 7, 2019
Heidi Kimball’s first full length novel A Guarded Heart is an enjoyable and heart-warming story of rediscovering what was thought to be a lost love. Although a bit confusing in the beginning with the switch back and forth between the current time and three years earlier, along with everything else that is going on in the story, once readers catch on, they will thoroughly enjoy it. Kimball’s story is heart-wrenching, as well as sweet and her characters are engaging, endearing, and delightful. This story is also about overcoming past hurts and falling in love all over again. An enchanting, light, and easy read, this is perfect book curl up with on a stormy day.
Genre: historical, regency
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: March 1, 2019
Number of pages: 232
A review copy of this book was provided by Covenant Communications. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Genre: historical, regency
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: March 1, 2019
Number of pages: 232
A review copy of this book was provided by Covenant Communications. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
December 4, 2019
I was initially really excited to read A Guarded Heart…until I read many reviews warning about how heartbreaking the story is. I checked it out from the library five times before I was finally able to brace myself for the emotional journey I knew it would take me on. And what a journey it was.
There were many beautiful things about this story, it was indeed very sad in many parts. I thoroughly enjoyed the first part of the novel. I loved alternating between the past and present so that we were able to see how Eleanor and Edmund first fell in love, as well as being able to experience their reunion three years later, two love stories in one. I loved both watching Eleanor and Edmund’s blossoming love in the past and their healing relationship in the present. It was a unique and lovely way to tell their story.
However, after the revelation of the event that tore our hero and heroine apart, I found myself disappointed with how the remainder of the story unfolded. When the truth is revealed, the plot takes a drastic and depressing turn, and very little action is made by our hero and heroine to come back together; instead, they’re tormented by thoughts of what could have been between them, rather than actively fighting for a future together. I felt they gave up too easily, particularly Edmund, who was willing to let Eleanor go all over again, simply for the sake of duty to a woman he didn’t even love.
Still, both Eleanor and Edmund are fantastic characters with so much depth. I particularly loved Eleanor—she was so sweet, genuine, and full of life, who faced her difficulties with remarkable inner strength. And despite his hurt, Edmund was such a gentleman, even though I spent most of the book frustrated with him, especially that his love for Eleanor was so easily dismissed by a ridiculous misunderstanding that could have been resolved if he’d simply confronted her. I did love how he showed his love for Eleanor in all the countless ways he served her during her trial, even if he didn’t think he could be with her, but it would have been nice if he’d been willing to fight for her rather than being willing to let her go for the sake of honor.
Rather than the second half of the story being solely focused on I would have much preferred for Eleanor and Edmund to have spent more time working through the heartache of their past so we could have seen them healing from it, growing back together, and deepening their love. Despite my disappointment in that area of the plot, I did like how both Eleanor and Edmund experience a lot of growth, and this growth allows them to finally come back together as a much stronger couple. And although I didn’t like everything about their journey, their romance was still beautiful and heartbreaking as they each face their past in order to deal with the struggles of their future.
Overall, A Guarded Heart is extremely well written and is the perfect second chance romance for those who love depth and more serious love stories, but it’s definitely not a light read. I’ve been going back and forth between three and four stars for this story, but ultimately Eleanor and Edmund’s love story is too tragic and full of heartache before they find their happily ever after, and I prefer much lighter reads.
There were many beautiful things about this story, it was indeed very sad in many parts. I thoroughly enjoyed the first part of the novel. I loved alternating between the past and present so that we were able to see how Eleanor and Edmund first fell in love, as well as being able to experience their reunion three years later, two love stories in one. I loved both watching Eleanor and Edmund’s blossoming love in the past and their healing relationship in the present. It was a unique and lovely way to tell their story.
However, after the revelation of the event that tore our hero and heroine apart, I found myself disappointed with how the remainder of the story unfolded. When the truth is revealed, the plot takes a drastic and depressing turn, and very little action is made by our hero and heroine to come back together; instead, they’re tormented by thoughts of what could have been between them, rather than actively fighting for a future together. I felt they gave up too easily, particularly Edmund, who was willing to let Eleanor go all over again, simply for the sake of duty to a woman he didn’t even love.
Still, both Eleanor and Edmund are fantastic characters with so much depth. I particularly loved Eleanor—she was so sweet, genuine, and full of life, who faced her difficulties with remarkable inner strength. And despite his hurt, Edmund was such a gentleman, even though I spent most of the book frustrated with him, especially that his love for Eleanor was so easily dismissed by a ridiculous misunderstanding that could have been resolved if he’d simply confronted her. I did love how he showed his love for Eleanor in all the countless ways he served her during her trial, even if he didn’t think he could be with her, but it would have been nice if he’d been willing to fight for her rather than being willing to let her go for the sake of honor.
Rather than the second half of the story being solely focused on I would have much preferred for Eleanor and Edmund to have spent more time working through the heartache of their past so we could have seen them healing from it, growing back together, and deepening their love. Despite my disappointment in that area of the plot, I did like how both Eleanor and Edmund experience a lot of growth, and this growth allows them to finally come back together as a much stronger couple. And although I didn’t like everything about their journey, their romance was still beautiful and heartbreaking as they each face their past in order to deal with the struggles of their future.
Overall, A Guarded Heart is extremely well written and is the perfect second chance romance for those who love depth and more serious love stories, but it’s definitely not a light read. I’ve been going back and forth between three and four stars for this story, but ultimately Eleanor and Edmund’s love story is too tragic and full of heartache before they find their happily ever after, and I prefer much lighter reads.
March 14, 2019
This was a really nice example of Regency romance. The writing was beautiful, and there was emotional depth to it.
Anyone who reads many of my reviews will know that I am not a fan of the plot that hinges on avoidable misunderstandings or stubborn lack of communication. That is what drives the plot for half of this book. Edmund and Eleanor fell in love with each other three years ago, and he was on the point of proposing when he happened to see her in the arms of another man. Crushed and convinced of her fickleness, Edmund storms off without a word. After all this time has passed, they are thrown into one another's company again, and the old wounds have not healed. Their affection is still alive, but it's tormented.
For at least the first half, the book alternates between chapters of their original romance and falling-out, and their current reunion. Even though I found their breakup frustrating, as I always do when a simple conversation could clear things up, after the halfway point I was more satisfied with the direction the characters are heading. It becomes at least a little understandable why Edmund was so sensitive all those years ago, and his emotions upon realizing his mistake are strong enough to be gratifying to the reader. His subsequent attempts to help Eleanor, even without the hope of marrying her, really go a long ways toward redeeming his major error. And, as mentioned, the writing is very lovely.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Thanks to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for this digital review copy.
Anyone who reads many of my reviews will know that I am not a fan of the plot that hinges on avoidable misunderstandings or stubborn lack of communication. That is what drives the plot for half of this book. Edmund and Eleanor fell in love with each other three years ago, and he was on the point of proposing when he happened to see her in the arms of another man. Crushed and convinced of her fickleness, Edmund storms off without a word. After all this time has passed, they are thrown into one another's company again, and the old wounds have not healed. Their affection is still alive, but it's tormented.
For at least the first half, the book alternates between chapters of their original romance and falling-out, and their current reunion. Even though I found their breakup frustrating, as I always do when a simple conversation could clear things up, after the halfway point I was more satisfied with the direction the characters are heading. It becomes at least a little understandable why Edmund was so sensitive all those years ago, and his emotions upon realizing his mistake are strong enough to be gratifying to the reader. His subsequent attempts to help Eleanor, even without the hope of marrying her, really go a long ways toward redeeming his major error. And, as mentioned, the writing is very lovely.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Thanks to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for this digital review copy.
March 1, 2021
Sweet. I have been binge reading all of Ms. Kimball's books because I have just enjoyed them so much! This probably isn't my favorite of the bunch, but it was a sweet, pleasant read. Here's the thing, its totally a personal preference, but I am just not a big fan of flashbacks. I was also hoping for a different outcome for her brother . Overall, Ms. Kimball is still a great writer and storyteller, I just didn't connect with this book personally. Worth the read though.
Content G-PG
Clean romance, no language, no violence
Content G-PG
Clean romance, no language, no violence
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