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Miss Adeline's Match
Miss Adeline Hayes is the perfect lady's companion: pleasant, conversational, and unceasingly proper. But when her closest friend, Charity Edgeworth, breaks off her arranged marriage without explanation, even Adeline's superior skills are put to the test. Charity's father banishes the two young women to the country, sending Adeline with a charge to find Charity a husband or suffer dire consequences.
As Adeline takes on the role of reluctant matchmaker, she discovers more than one obstacle in her path. Not only does Charity prefer escaping in books to socializing, but Adeline soon finds her own attentions distracted by the standoffish—and irritatingly handsome—Mr. Evan Whitfield. Amidst an eventful foxhunt and the unexpected arrival of Charity's former betrothed, Adeline simply doesn't have time for a battle of wits with Evan. But the two are continually drawn together until Adeline begins to question her tightly guarded convictions about love and marriage.
However, when secrets are revealed and truths made known, Adeline must face her most fearsome obstacle yet: herself.
As Adeline takes on the role of reluctant matchmaker, she discovers more than one obstacle in her path. Not only does Charity prefer escaping in books to socializing, but Adeline soon finds her own attentions distracted by the standoffish—and irritatingly handsome—Mr. Evan Whitfield. Amidst an eventful foxhunt and the unexpected arrival of Charity's former betrothed, Adeline simply doesn't have time for a battle of wits with Evan. But the two are continually drawn together until Adeline begins to question her tightly guarded convictions about love and marriage.
However, when secrets are revealed and truths made known, Adeline must face her most fearsome obstacle yet: herself.
263 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2019
135 people are currently reading
1383 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Barker
14 books1,295 followersJoanna Barker firmly believes that romance makes everything better, which is why she has fallen in love with writing Regency romances. When she’s not typing away on her next book, you’ll find her listening to podcasts, eating her secret stash of chocolate, or adding things to her Amazon cart. Joanna thinks being an author is the second-best job in the world—right after being a mom. She is just a little crazy about her husband and three wild-but-lovable kids.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 365 reviews
April 6, 2019
Dang that was a well written regency proper romance. I loved it. Stayed up way too late to finish but it was worth it! What a great ending:} The book was so well rounded. The development of the story was excellent. This had some great characters. It felt a little Elizabeth and Darcy esque:} Adeline was complex and I loved reading her story. The author did a great job with Evan, deep and brooding with all the right reasons. With this book Barker has gone to my top author list. This has no religion and is very chaste with a friggen amazing kiss that is worth the wait.
June 6, 2019
OH MY HEART! Yes, I used all caps on purpose! I absolutely adored this book and the characters within. This is going to be a book I return to again and again and recommend to my friends.
I loved Adeline and Charity's friendship. Especially with the opening scene and Adeline coming to Charity's rescue. But, beware not to make Charity's father upset. Oh, my. No, no, no! Because once he is upset, you might be banished. Yep. That's what happened to Charity and Adeline. But never fear, it turns out to be a good thing for them.
Escapades, secrets, matchmaking, stories, chess, family, the great outdoors, apple trees, winter storms, brooding strangers, London society, doctors, friends, gowns, balls, wit and humor, swoon worthy heroes, mistakes, sorrow, heartaches, new friends, healing, love, forgiveness, sickness, love, and love...and so much more awaits you in this book.
I'm just grinning from ear to ear thinking about this book. Especially the last part of the story. *happy, happy sigh* I love when characters make mistakes, even when they think they're doing the right thing. Only to learn that their thoughts and choices weren't the right thing. Then to watch them have to live with those consequences. And hoping that they make the right choice and work towards fixing their choices and actions. This was one that was so well written and one I can't recommend enough!
Grab it and fall in love with the characters and this story. *another happy sigh*
Content: Clean. Some moments of very mild peril.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I loved Adeline and Charity's friendship. Especially with the opening scene and Adeline coming to Charity's rescue. But, beware not to make Charity's father upset. Oh, my. No, no, no! Because once he is upset, you might be banished. Yep. That's what happened to Charity and Adeline. But never fear, it turns out to be a good thing for them.
Escapades, secrets, matchmaking, stories, chess, family, the great outdoors, apple trees, winter storms, brooding strangers, London society, doctors, friends, gowns, balls, wit and humor, swoon worthy heroes, mistakes, sorrow, heartaches, new friends, healing, love, forgiveness, sickness, love, and love...and so much more awaits you in this book.
I'm just grinning from ear to ear thinking about this book. Especially the last part of the story. *happy, happy sigh* I love when characters make mistakes, even when they think they're doing the right thing. Only to learn that their thoughts and choices weren't the right thing. Then to watch them have to live with those consequences. And hoping that they make the right choice and work towards fixing their choices and actions. This was one that was so well written and one I can't recommend enough!
Grab it and fall in love with the characters and this story. *another happy sigh*
Content: Clean. Some moments of very mild peril.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
April 3, 2019
***4.5 stars***
"Oh what a tangled web we weave.." (Walter Scott)
Adeline Hayes and Charity Edgeworth have been friends since they were children. There is really nothing that Adeline wouldn't do for charity, including shielding her from heartache and the gossip of society. Adeline has other people in her life that she is trying to protect, her ailing father and sister.
This book explores relationships. When does protecting someone become interfering? This book is written in a way that explores the moral dilemma and anguish in decisions. Joanna Barker does a wonderful job at describing the emotions and then the ramifications that follow. There are all aspects of society in this book. I loved how the characters seamlessly went from the ballroom to the shack to help out a family in need.
This book is Adeline and Evan's story, but in the process, it is also Charity and George's story. You get two romances for the price of one!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It is clean with kissing.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Covenant Communications. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
"Oh what a tangled web we weave.." (Walter Scott)
Adeline Hayes and Charity Edgeworth have been friends since they were children. There is really nothing that Adeline wouldn't do for charity, including shielding her from heartache and the gossip of society. Adeline has other people in her life that she is trying to protect, her ailing father and sister.
This book explores relationships. When does protecting someone become interfering? This book is written in a way that explores the moral dilemma and anguish in decisions. Joanna Barker does a wonderful job at describing the emotions and then the ramifications that follow. There are all aspects of society in this book. I loved how the characters seamlessly went from the ballroom to the shack to help out a family in need.
This book is Adeline and Evan's story, but in the process, it is also Charity and George's story. You get two romances for the price of one!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It is clean with kissing.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Covenant Communications. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
June 15, 2025
Very entertaining although I found it a bit predictable because the plot took the easy route.
Still quite enjoyable, the characters were lovely and I loved the descriptions.
Still quite enjoyable, the characters were lovely and I loved the descriptions.
April 1, 2019
Wow, I am so happy to have discovered this new author awhile back! I smiled all the way through her first book and this second one was just as enjoyable. I'm always on the lookout for sweet, entertaining and well-written regencies...and this one was all three. I especially appreciate how wonderfully the author writes in first-person. This is a charmingly romantic story with nice depth, too!
May 7, 2019
I liked this book. A Lot! It’s nice to read a book that shows how we are all flawed and we all feel like we are not enough and how we learn to overcome our own imperfections and how we can forgive others and find great joy in life! The characters in this book have their own challenges, and just about every character in this book has challenges and I loved to read how they coped. I loved the dynamics of the friends and family and I really want to go back in time and live with this group of people! I wouldn’t last long without my air conditioning though!
Anyway, Miss Adeline Hayes and Charity have been best friends since childhood. So when Adeline’s family circumstances leave it that they need money, it was perfect for Charity to have a lady’s companion. But Charity recently broke up with her intended and no one knows why. Miss Hayes is a little hurt that Charity didn’t tell her why. So when Charity’s father sends them off to his sister’s home in the country, he makes it clear to Adeline that she find someone for Charity to marry or her family will be forced into dire circumstances. Adeline does not share the threat with Charity and begins to play matchmaker.
Things seem going well and even Adeline is finding it hard to resist the unsmiling handsome irritating man that is Mr. Evan Whitfield. But as they get to know more about each other’s character, they see each other in a different light.
When Mr. George Henley makes an appearance, Charity is beside herself. She is still in love with him and no one's the wiser of why she broke off the engagement. As always, time tells all and things are said and done and more secrets and lies are told. And when everything comes to a head, it is awful. I had to put the book down. I was invested and loved all these characters and when everything is found out, it is awful and I had no idea how the issues would be resolved. But that is where forgiveness and mercy come into play and Ugh! I couldn’t get enough of them! I wanted to jump into the book and hug them all!
If you like books that show how we all feel inadequate at times, forgiveness, apples, little boys who are selfless, little baby girls, snow storms, horse riding, charades, dancing, dementia, loving families, unloving families, and finding love and happiness than this might be for you! As for me, it will always be a book to reread over and over!
Anyway, Miss Adeline Hayes and Charity have been best friends since childhood. So when Adeline’s family circumstances leave it that they need money, it was perfect for Charity to have a lady’s companion. But Charity recently broke up with her intended and no one knows why. Miss Hayes is a little hurt that Charity didn’t tell her why. So when Charity’s father sends them off to his sister’s home in the country, he makes it clear to Adeline that she find someone for Charity to marry or her family will be forced into dire circumstances. Adeline does not share the threat with Charity and begins to play matchmaker.
Things seem going well and even Adeline is finding it hard to resist the unsmiling handsome irritating man that is Mr. Evan Whitfield. But as they get to know more about each other’s character, they see each other in a different light.
When Mr. George Henley makes an appearance, Charity is beside herself. She is still in love with him and no one's the wiser of why she broke off the engagement. As always, time tells all and things are said and done and more secrets and lies are told. And when everything comes to a head, it is awful. I had to put the book down. I was invested and loved all these characters and when everything is found out, it is awful and I had no idea how the issues would be resolved. But that is where forgiveness and mercy come into play and Ugh! I couldn’t get enough of them! I wanted to jump into the book and hug them all!
“Happiness does not equal perfection,” Mrs. Beckett said softly. “And neither do you need to be perfect to achieve happiness. There will always be difficulties in life, and we will always make mistakes. But happiness is what makes life worthwhile, what makes it bearable. We must find joy in the everyday things. “
We were forced to part ways for a minute, following the dance, and when we met once again, his face had regained more of his normal thoughtfulness. As I circled about him in formation with the other women, he traced my every movement. I knew I was a good dancer, my lines graceful, my feet light, but with him watching me, I felt like so much more. I was beautiful. I was alive.
I was loved.
If you like books that show how we all feel inadequate at times, forgiveness, apples, little boys who are selfless, little baby girls, snow storms, horse riding, charades, dancing, dementia, loving families, unloving families, and finding love and happiness than this might be for you! As for me, it will always be a book to reread over and over!
June 23, 2019
Oh. My. Goodness. this book put me through so many emotions--happy, sad, worried, you name it. Adeline and Charity have been friends since they were children, and now she's Charity's paid companion. Because of their friendship Adeline is very protective of Charity's feelings especially when the tongues of Society start wagging about her recently broken engagement. When Charity's father sends them away to her Aunt Caroline's in the country, it's the best thing that could've happened to them (I would've gone just to get away from her rampaging father).
I'm so happy that most of the book takes place at the country house. There are other guests and so much is going on--dances, musical nights, a fox hunt, apple picking, chess matches, and of course Adeline's matchmaking attempts for Charity. I loved Adeline and Mr. Whitfield's chess matches!! Who knew playing chess could be so flirty?! Adeline is quite outgoing and Charity would rather be in her room or the library reading so Adeline had her work cut out for her in finding Charity a suitor. With Charity's father's threats to her family, she's got a lot riding on accomplishing that.
I was glad that Adeline and Mr. Whitfield (Evan) didn't stay at odds with each other for long. I don't like when authors drag out the "enemies to friends to lovers" trope for most of the book. I knew the moment Adeline put the letter intended for Charity in the desk drawer that it would come back to haunt her. I told her so, but she didn't listen--book characters never listen to me. I found the consequences of Adeline's actions were heartwrenching for everyone, but it made her truly consider why she did what she did. Was she just thinking of Charity or maybe more about herself? I love the thought she has when she finds herself having a selfish thought Changing one's thoughts and reactions was not so very simple a thing. I had a long way to go yet. I loved the scene at the inn at the end of the book because there's not one, but two happy endings--Charity and George, and Adeline and Evan!
This book isn't just a love story, it's a story about being a true friend, doing what's right when it's hard, helping those less fortunate, repentance and forgiveness. This a clean romance with just kisses.
Thank you to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for my copy of the book. All thoughts expressed in my review are my own.
I'm so happy that most of the book takes place at the country house. There are other guests and so much is going on--dances, musical nights, a fox hunt, apple picking, chess matches, and of course Adeline's matchmaking attempts for Charity. I loved Adeline and Mr. Whitfield's chess matches!! Who knew playing chess could be so flirty?! Adeline is quite outgoing and Charity would rather be in her room or the library reading so Adeline had her work cut out for her in finding Charity a suitor. With Charity's father's threats to her family, she's got a lot riding on accomplishing that.
I was glad that Adeline and Mr. Whitfield (Evan) didn't stay at odds with each other for long. I don't like when authors drag out the "enemies to friends to lovers" trope for most of the book. I knew the moment Adeline put the letter intended for Charity in the desk drawer that it would come back to haunt her. I told her so, but she didn't listen--book characters never listen to me. I found the consequences of Adeline's actions were heartwrenching for everyone, but it made her truly consider why she did what she did. Was she just thinking of Charity or maybe more about herself? I love the thought she has when she finds herself having a selfish thought Changing one's thoughts and reactions was not so very simple a thing. I had a long way to go yet. I loved the scene at the inn at the end of the book because there's not one, but two happy endings--Charity and George, and Adeline and Evan!
This book isn't just a love story, it's a story about being a true friend, doing what's right when it's hard, helping those less fortunate, repentance and forgiveness. This a clean romance with just kisses.
Thank you to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for my copy of the book. All thoughts expressed in my review are my own.
April 4, 2019
Such a moody vibe in this Regency romance, and I think much of it has to do with the winter setting! I felt transported and could practically feel the chill of the snow and wind. Adeline is an interesting character, unlike any lady's companion I've read in other stories- she is better at navigating Society than her charge/friend, Charity, and has a confidence that doesn't reflect her lower standing. I appreciated her witty retorts to the gossipy ladies who made Charity uncomfortable with their remarks. She also knew when it was prudent to rein herself or Charity in. She has a flaw of becoming manipulative, justifying that she's doing it because she sincerely wants what's best for Charity... but there are some personal motivations influencing her as well and her social juggling is bound to come crashing down. She and Evan (love that name) don't have the best first impression of one another, which makes it all the better as they get to know and fall in love with each other. I truly enjoyed seeing Evan's personality open up from a dour Mr. Darcy to an enchanted Mr. Knightley. There is plenty of emotion and angst as heartbreak, loyalty, secrets, and rejection play a role in each character coming to a place of understanding and forgiveness. Loved it and looking forward to more from this author!
(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)
April 12, 2019
Wow, I just finished and Joanna Barker nailed the slow burn on this one. Evan Whitfield was pretty much the smoldering hero we are all hoping for. I loved watching the characters grow and face their own personal demons, but mostly I just sat back and enjoyed the love story unfold. I definitely recommend this to any regency romance lovers out there. Joanna captures all the thing we love about the time period. Customs, clothing, and most of all, how a simple touch of a hand or a look from across the room can convey so much.
April 4, 2019
Adeline will do almost anything for her closest friend, Charity, but she almost takes things too far in her matchmaking attempts. Addie seems slightly selfish in her efforts to thwart a former suitor, yet she's completely selfless in helping a young boy and his family. It's safe to say that her loyalties lie deep and she'll stop at nothing to help those she's loyal to.
Maybe it's even safe to say that Adeline's emotions run deep. Her intense dislike, and undeniable attraction, to Mr. Whitfield is quite apparent from the first encounter. The romance is a slow-to-grow type, which is good in this tangled up tale of secrets.
This is a classic case of an enemies-to-lovers romance and leans more towards enemies for a good chunk of the first half. I always wonder what a couple thinks when they look back on their first interactions.
I loved the secondary cast of characters and the way Adeline was able to form connections with some of them. The foxhunt and other activities that draws this group together were entertaining and made this story delightfully charming.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Maybe it's even safe to say that Adeline's emotions run deep. Her intense dislike, and undeniable attraction, to Mr. Whitfield is quite apparent from the first encounter. The romance is a slow-to-grow type, which is good in this tangled up tale of secrets.
This is a classic case of an enemies-to-lovers romance and leans more towards enemies for a good chunk of the first half. I always wonder what a couple thinks when they look back on their first interactions.
I loved the secondary cast of characters and the way Adeline was able to form connections with some of them. The foxhunt and other activities that draws this group together were entertaining and made this story delightfully charming.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
April 4, 2019
I loved this book! Addie was a strong woman who does her best to care for those around her (but of course makes a mess of things in the process), and Evan is a hero with a haunted past. I also loved Charity and George; their love story is one of the best secondary storylines I've read in a long while. Highly recommend this sweet read.
June 15, 2019
I really enjoyed this one. This is my first book by and Barker and I was really impressed. I look forward to reading more of her books. Full review to come.
Content: Clean
Content: Clean
March 13, 2019
Oh boy! So much love! For a brand new author, I couldn’t quite believe it when I finished Joanna’s first book. Anxiously awaiting the hopes another was coming, I was so excited to see the cover of this one. What an absolute stunner it is. Evans profile with Addie in the middle - genius. In fact it completely compliments his character, and you’ll know why when you begin reading...
I have to say I’m not ‘usually’ a fan of the first person narrative, but the mystery that shrouds the hero, is all the better because we just don’t know what he’s thinking. Ever. Adeline Hayes finds herself quite in a bind, and out of naive loyalty doesn’t make the best decisions along the way. Evan is such a brooding Mr Darcy type, I loved him from the get-go. Their relationship development is engaging and pushes the page turning. I could not put this book down!
There’s a right mess of things, and Adeline does not endear herself at all to the reader. In fact at one point I wondered if I’d ever get past it. The conflicts presented are perfect and enrich this book in just the right way.
There were a few things that don’t ever get resolved or addressed by the end, that didn’t add up. I’m not sure that I might have missed something in my haste to read it, or whether it’s just been missed by editing? However, they are small enough to let go.
The tender way in which both the men in Adeline’s life conclude this story was lovely. I lost my own mum to Alzheimer’s way too young in her life. It can be hard to read these plot lines. I can handle it when it’s portrayed in minor scenes, which this one does. Tenderly and accurately done. Thank you.
I was so giddy when I saw this on the shelf at our store, I bought it immediately and then wanted to quit work, go home and read it!!! You never know if an author you read before will remain consistent or whether they just had one great story to tell (it happens). I was not disappointed. Joanna’s writing almost mirrors that of the regency classics. Just so beautifully and expertly penned. Can’t wait to see what’s next!
I have to say I’m not ‘usually’ a fan of the first person narrative, but the mystery that shrouds the hero, is all the better because we just don’t know what he’s thinking. Ever. Adeline Hayes finds herself quite in a bind, and out of naive loyalty doesn’t make the best decisions along the way. Evan is such a brooding Mr Darcy type, I loved him from the get-go. Their relationship development is engaging and pushes the page turning. I could not put this book down!
There’s a right mess of things, and Adeline does not endear herself at all to the reader. In fact at one point I wondered if I’d ever get past it. The conflicts presented are perfect and enrich this book in just the right way.
There were a few things that don’t ever get resolved or addressed by the end, that didn’t add up. I’m not sure that I might have missed something in my haste to read it, or whether it’s just been missed by editing? However, they are small enough to let go.
The tender way in which both the men in Adeline’s life conclude this story was lovely. I lost my own mum to Alzheimer’s way too young in her life. It can be hard to read these plot lines. I can handle it when it’s portrayed in minor scenes, which this one does. Tenderly and accurately done. Thank you.
I was so giddy when I saw this on the shelf at our store, I bought it immediately and then wanted to quit work, go home and read it!!! You never know if an author you read before will remain consistent or whether they just had one great story to tell (it happens). I was not disappointed. Joanna’s writing almost mirrors that of the regency classics. Just so beautifully and expertly penned. Can’t wait to see what’s next!
April 1, 2019
I love the cover of this book! Don’t you love the way it differs from all the other Regency romance books you’ve ever seen?
And the story inside…oh my! Joanna Barker has done it again. I love the way she writes. Her characters almost seem to step off the pages for me.
This one features Adeline Hayes. I was a bit confused at the beginning, because Addie is the lady’s companion to Miss Charity Edgeworth. Normally Regency romances are from the lady’s perspective, not her companion. But Addie is the perfect character to have seen this story through.
One thing that really made me love this book was that there is not just one romance in it. There are a couple. There’s Addie’s story, but you also get Charity’s. I loved the uniqueness of that.
Addie is the only character that you get to “know” in this book. I loved the way she saw herself. She knows that she is the only person that Charity trusts to help her though things. And, at first, she does things with Charity in mind. But as the story goes on, that changes. Addie doesn’t become selfish, really, but she doesn’t have Charity’s best interests at heart. So she messes up several times.
Then there’s the mess she makes of her own love story. I loved her love story. The way it takes so long to get everything to work out and the mess she had to go through taught Addie so many lessons about life, love, others, and herself. I loved that! And the sweet scene with her dad, it brought me to tears.
You really need to read this one! I loved everything about it!
And the story inside…oh my! Joanna Barker has done it again. I love the way she writes. Her characters almost seem to step off the pages for me.
This one features Adeline Hayes. I was a bit confused at the beginning, because Addie is the lady’s companion to Miss Charity Edgeworth. Normally Regency romances are from the lady’s perspective, not her companion. But Addie is the perfect character to have seen this story through.
One thing that really made me love this book was that there is not just one romance in it. There are a couple. There’s Addie’s story, but you also get Charity’s. I loved the uniqueness of that.
Addie is the only character that you get to “know” in this book. I loved the way she saw herself. She knows that she is the only person that Charity trusts to help her though things. And, at first, she does things with Charity in mind. But as the story goes on, that changes. Addie doesn’t become selfish, really, but she doesn’t have Charity’s best interests at heart. So she messes up several times.
Then there’s the mess she makes of her own love story. I loved her love story. The way it takes so long to get everything to work out and the mess she had to go through taught Addie so many lessons about life, love, others, and herself. I loved that! And the sweet scene with her dad, it brought me to tears.
You really need to read this one! I loved everything about it!
April 2, 2019
I really enjoyed this clean Regency Romance! Great characters, interesting story line, and good steady pace.
I especially liked Adeline and Evan's friendship and banter back and forth, which is surprising for that time period (and I loved it!). I laughed and I cried along with the characters in this book. Once I started reading I didn't want to put it down! I wanted to keep reading so I could figure out what happened to Charity's past relationship and whether Adeline would change her mind about marriage as well.
I especially liked reading about the fox hunt. The author did a wonderful job with being descriptive with the setting-I felt like I was right there with Adeline, Charity, Ethan and the others.
I truly can't say enough good things about this book! I plan on keeping it on my bookshelf so I can read it again!
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
I especially liked Adeline and Evan's friendship and banter back and forth, which is surprising for that time period (and I loved it!). I laughed and I cried along with the characters in this book. Once I started reading I didn't want to put it down! I wanted to keep reading so I could figure out what happened to Charity's past relationship and whether Adeline would change her mind about marriage as well.
I especially liked reading about the fox hunt. The author did a wonderful job with being descriptive with the setting-I felt like I was right there with Adeline, Charity, Ethan and the others.
I truly can't say enough good things about this book! I plan on keeping it on my bookshelf so I can read it again!
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
May 29, 2020
So... I have some thoughts. Unlike most other "proper romance" books, I'm not rating this 3 stars simply because the plot was super unoriginal and the book was cheesy cheese cheese. Because like actually the plot was pretty unique and the story didn't just center on the romantic couple, but also on their friendships, and honestly I was really digging it until halfway through the book when the main character *SPOILER ALERT* does something really, really mean to her BEST FRIEND for NO REASON. And she wasn't mean before this event... and it just... didn't make sense. And it made me not like her? And then she is redeemed by doing something that actually shows she didn't change at all? Idk it was just weird and confusing and... I just can't get past it. But I am curious to read more books by Joanna Barker because I think her writing is original and has a lot of potential!
October 18, 2025
GREAT FOR FALL.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
I feel like the mention of apple orchards automatically has me feeling a fall vibe so I loved that I picked this one up in October. I am now caught up on all of Joanna Barker’s full story back list!! Gosh I love her books.
This was a charming read. I loved the forced proximity based setting and the growth in Adeline’s character. She had to make up for some big mistakes and I’m glad she found her way in the end.
I do think the Charity plot took up way too much of the book and overwhelmed the romance. I wanted more of Adeline and Evan, less of everything else.
Overall audience notes:
- Regency Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
I feel like the mention of apple orchards automatically has me feeling a fall vibe so I loved that I picked this one up in October. I am now caught up on all of Joanna Barker’s full story back list!! Gosh I love her books.
This was a charming read. I loved the forced proximity based setting and the growth in Adeline’s character. She had to make up for some big mistakes and I’m glad she found her way in the end.
I do think the Charity plot took up way too much of the book and overwhelmed the romance. I wanted more of Adeline and Evan, less of everything else.
Overall audience notes:
- Regency Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
March 26, 2019
'Miss Adeline’s Match' is a beautifully written novel. Joanna Barker’s vivid description, complex characters, and poetic turn-of-phrase are reminiscent of Jane Austen’s style of writing, and Adeline’s difficult journey of self-discovery will resonate with fans of Austen’s beloved character, Emma. With its poignant lessons in loyalty and love, this book is undoubtedly destined to become a favorite amongst Regency romance readers.
January 22, 2020
EVAN. EVAN. EVAN! <3
I absolutely adored this book!
It takes place over a month or so spent at a hunting lodge but you get the gist from the summary.
Evan is the man of my dreams! He is opinionated but he has his reasons for being so (not going to spoil!). The slow burn between him and Addie is absolutely to die for and when all goes up in flames at one point, you're holding on so strongly to the hope that they rekindle.
The writing was well done, and though not as studious or of the era as Georgette Heyer, it is one of those Regencies that do well though it be written in this time period.
I absolutely adored this book!
It takes place over a month or so spent at a hunting lodge but you get the gist from the summary.
Evan is the man of my dreams! He is opinionated but he has his reasons for being so (not going to spoil!). The slow burn between him and Addie is absolutely to die for and when all goes up in flames at one point, you're holding on so strongly to the hope that they rekindle.
The writing was well done, and though not as studious or of the era as Georgette Heyer, it is one of those Regencies that do well though it be written in this time period.
August 2, 2023
Sweet story with laughs and heartache. I cried, as anyone with a parent with dementia may. Also mentioned is infertility. I am really enjoying getting to know Joanna Barkers books.
Addie and Charity are great friends though Adeline also serves as a paid companion. Charity, after a scandal, is sent to spend time with her aunt and Addie goes with. I love the Barkers and Peter and the Reeves and all the things that happen that show us the kind of people were reading about. Clean romance. Definitely a reread book.
Addie and Charity are great friends though Adeline also serves as a paid companion. Charity, after a scandal, is sent to spend time with her aunt and Addie goes with. I love the Barkers and Peter and the Reeves and all the things that happen that show us the kind of people were reading about. Clean romance. Definitely a reread book.
November 4, 2019
Perhaps it was because we learn many of the back stories quite late in the book, but I often did not feel like there was sufficient reason for how the characters were behaving, and almost lost patience with it and gave up. However, I liked the characters in this book and I liked the ultimate message that you can love someone even when they make mistakes.
November 9, 2019
I just adored this book! I stayed up late to finish this page-turner. Joanna Barker is one of my favorite new authors. I love her writing style!
March 23, 2019
Joanna Barker has written a fantastic tale of love, family devotion, and friendship. Barker wrote a compelling, well developed, and novel plot. The characters pulled me in; I cared about them and felt invested in them, and I wanted them to get the happiness that they deserved. Joanna Barker gifted us with main characters that were good people, and they were easy to root for! I knew where I wanted the story to go, but I was unable to guess where the author was taking the story, and that made it a real page turner. The banter between the sexes was smart and fun, and the attraction between the couples was believable. It didn’t hurt that Mr. Whitfield was swoon worthy – think Mr. Darcy or Mr. Thornton. When I was done reading, it passed the true test of a good novel --- I wished there was more. Warning: You might need a hanky or two. It was also a clean read!
Adeline Hayes is a paid companion to her best friend Charity Edgeworth. After three seasons in London, Charity has fallen in love and is betrothed to George Henley, but she breaks the engagement when she believes that Henry is marrying her for her dowry, not for love. Scandal ensues when the engagement is broken, and Charity’s father banishes Charity and Adeline to the country estate of his sister Caroline, who is hosting a house party. Charity’s father charges Adeline to make a match for Charity at the house party, or she will lose her position and her family will lose the home they are living – they are behind in rent to Charity’s father. Will Adeline be able to steer Charity to a match and find love again? There is so much more to this story, but I don’t want to give anything away; I urge you to pick it up and read and be prepared to lose some sleep because you won’t want to put it down until you are done!
I received an ARC copy of this book from Net Galley and this is my honest review.
#Netgalley
#
Adeline Hayes is a paid companion to her best friend Charity Edgeworth. After three seasons in London, Charity has fallen in love and is betrothed to George Henley, but she breaks the engagement when she believes that Henry is marrying her for her dowry, not for love. Scandal ensues when the engagement is broken, and Charity’s father banishes Charity and Adeline to the country estate of his sister Caroline, who is hosting a house party. Charity’s father charges Adeline to make a match for Charity at the house party, or she will lose her position and her family will lose the home they are living – they are behind in rent to Charity’s father. Will Adeline be able to steer Charity to a match and find love again? There is so much more to this story, but I don’t want to give anything away; I urge you to pick it up and read and be prepared to lose some sleep because you won’t want to put it down until you are done!
I received an ARC copy of this book from Net Galley and this is my honest review.
#Netgalley
#
March 28, 2019
I loved this book!
I didn’t love this authors debut novel as much as others did, but I was excited to give her another try.
This book was so good! So good In fact that I stayed up way too late finishing it last night! You get to a point in this book that it makes it impossible to stop.
Addie was an interesting character. I always like when the main characters start out hating each other.
Both of the main characters had flaws and made mistakes which makes the story so much better! We all make mistakes and sometimes I get sick of that perfect character.
Clean romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley but all opinions are my own.
I didn’t love this authors debut novel as much as others did, but I was excited to give her another try.
This book was so good! So good In fact that I stayed up way too late finishing it last night! You get to a point in this book that it makes it impossible to stop.
Addie was an interesting character. I always like when the main characters start out hating each other.
Both of the main characters had flaws and made mistakes which makes the story so much better! We all make mistakes and sometimes I get sick of that perfect character.
Clean romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley but all opinions are my own.
September 14, 2025
This book was going so well. I got sucked in, it was really hard to put down, and I experienced so many heart flutters. But then the FMC had to make a super stupid choice. The book went from 5 to 3 starts right there for me. Luckily, she redeemed herself, and I enjoyed the ending. It has 4 starts because I feel like the FMC’s stupidity was unnecessary. There was still enough conflict to resolve we didn’t need to add that to it. And I always want to adore the FMC, but I couldn’t after that. 🤷🏼♀️
February 11, 2025
3.5 stars
March 17, 2019
Adeline and Charity are two friends as close as sisters. I really enjoyed the bond they had. So wrong of Charity's father to threaten Adeline into finding a match for her friend or risk losing her income. Adeline sorely needs it as her father's health is deteriorating.
They both are forced to the country to Charity's Aunt's house to "find a new match" for Charity after a broken engagement. There we meet Evan who is quite brash to Adeline at first. I enjoyed the progression of their relationship.
The snow storm scene was very scary and I'm glad it didn't turn out worse.
They both are forced to the country to Charity's Aunt's house to "find a new match" for Charity after a broken engagement. There we meet Evan who is quite brash to Adeline at first. I enjoyed the progression of their relationship.
The snow storm scene was very scary and I'm glad it didn't turn out worse.
March 24, 2019
I found this book to be very relatable. It didn't have the normal feel of regency because it had several darker themes. Still loved the story and found the heroine to be good without being perfect.
December 20, 2019
This was a beautiful regency escape. I loved it!
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