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The Returned Lords of Grosvenor Square #3
The Duke's Saving Grace
Deborah would gladly spend her life saving others. It could be though that the one she wants to save the most is one that is beyond her reach.Through the war, Deborah found her purpose. With the abbey she was raised in opened up to the wounded, she found no shortage of need for her calming smile, quick mind, and skill at tending to the sick and injured. She couldn’t imagine that with the war winding down, her life wouldn’t just continue in the abbey as she gets ready to take her vows and become a nun.Before this happens though, someone from the wealthy Duke of Harksbury’s estate calls for someone from the abbey to tend to him. Having returned from the war himself in need of healing, Lord Edward Abernathy needs help, but Deborah will soon find out that his wounds go much deeper than the physical harm he endured. Deborah just might be the only one who can heal him body and soul, but even she might not be enough.This is the 3rd book in the Returned Lords of Grosvenor Square series. Get your copy today!
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2019
654 people are currently reading
200 people want to read
About the author
Rose Pearson
177 books1,010 followersRose has read her way through countless romances over the years, “borrowing” them from her older sisters, and hiding them from her mother.
She has a special love for Regency romances and when she began writing, the Regency period was a natural place to start. The ton, the wealthy families, the Season, the dilemmas, and yes, the marriages, have always fascinated her.
She loves a happy ever after! Now she is happy to bring this passion to her stories and share it with her readers.
On a personal note, Rose lives in North Carolina, is married, and has a terrier that barks too much. She enjoys taking him for walks to tire him out!
She has a special love for Regency romances and when she began writing, the Regency period was a natural place to start. The ton, the wealthy families, the Season, the dilemmas, and yes, the marriages, have always fascinated her.
She loves a happy ever after! Now she is happy to bring this passion to her stories and share it with her readers.
On a personal note, Rose lives in North Carolina, is married, and has a terrier that barks too much. She enjoys taking him for walks to tire him out!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
May 26, 2021
Once again, my biggest pet peeve with authors who write historical novels rears its ugly head. If an author is going to write anything about history, they should know their material and subject before putting pen to paper. Dukes and Duchesses are NOT EVER addressed as "Lord" or "Lady". They are addressed as "Your Grace", "His Grace" or "Her Grace". The author made a point in having Mother Superior comment on Deborah's education and the fact that she knew how to address her superiors. Why, then, did Deborah NOT speak of the Duke properly? Even the servants should have known better. Not to mention it makes it difficult for the reader who knows better and therefore mentally has to replace the wrong form of address with the proper one.
With that out of the way, this book was a mixture of The Sound of Music Meets Beauty and the Beast, which was a bit of a disappointment as it lacked being anywhere near an original story at all. While both movies were great in their own right, to mix the two into one story should never have been attempted. It wreaked of desperation in one who wants to present their own work but has no confidence in so doing.
There was no chemistry or passion between the two main characters. While the Duke was, understandably, struggling with his war injuries and Deborah was a calm, passionless novice awaiting to take her vows as a nun, the most interaction they had between them was when she would tend to the Duke's injuries. There was a bit of drama, some angst on the part of the Duke, but there was no humor to alleviate the more depressing parts of the story. In other words, it was a pretty dull read.
It was nice to see the HEA for the two main characters, as expected However, the story was just too boring and too similar to the two movies mentioned before to ever be able to truly enjoy it for its own purpose. If it hadn't taken such a creative license from others, it might have had a chance. Therefore this book did in no way merit its place amongst the Keeper for the Shelves books.
With that out of the way, this book was a mixture of The Sound of Music Meets Beauty and the Beast, which was a bit of a disappointment as it lacked being anywhere near an original story at all. While both movies were great in their own right, to mix the two into one story should never have been attempted. It wreaked of desperation in one who wants to present their own work but has no confidence in so doing.
There was no chemistry or passion between the two main characters. While the Duke was, understandably, struggling with his war injuries and Deborah was a calm, passionless novice awaiting to take her vows as a nun, the most interaction they had between them was when she would tend to the Duke's injuries. There was a bit of drama, some angst on the part of the Duke, but there was no humor to alleviate the more depressing parts of the story. In other words, it was a pretty dull read.
It was nice to see the HEA for the two main characters, as expected However, the story was just too boring and too similar to the two movies mentioned before to ever be able to truly enjoy it for its own purpose. If it hadn't taken such a creative license from others, it might have had a chance. Therefore this book did in no way merit its place amongst the Keeper for the Shelves books.
January 18, 2022
This Regency romance seemed to follow some of the plot of The Sound of Music. Young woman without family, raised by the nuns in an abbey and ready to take vows herself, is sent to help a peer/soldier recover from his war wounds. When she realizes she is falling in love with him, she runs back to the abbey so Mother Superior can deliver a “Climb Every Mountain” speech.
It’s an okay book but many parts didn’t make sense to me. The heroine begins falling in love with the duke without any reason or build up. She realizes her feelings early on, when he’s still treating her like dirt. In one scene the Duke is raging and violently throws open the door to the room where the heroine is waiting, knocking her backwards to the floor. Both the duke’s sister and the butler make a big fuss about helping her up, asking if she’s injured, and making sure she’s okay, but the Duke ignores it all. He doesn’t even turn around to see what they’re talking about or acknowledge what he did to her. Yet the heroine loves him all the more.
There were quite a few inaccuracies, especially use of first names, incorrect use of titles and address (a duke is “his grace” not “my lord”) that I found irritating. The author also uses a lot of modern phrases and terms that have no business in a Regency (or any historical novel). I enjoy light, sweet stories, but this one was too simplistic, too full of errors, and much too predictable.
It’s an okay book but many parts didn’t make sense to me. The heroine begins falling in love with the duke without any reason or build up. She realizes her feelings early on, when he’s still treating her like dirt. In one scene the Duke is raging and violently throws open the door to the room where the heroine is waiting, knocking her backwards to the floor. Both the duke’s sister and the butler make a big fuss about helping her up, asking if she’s injured, and making sure she’s okay, but the Duke ignores it all. He doesn’t even turn around to see what they’re talking about or acknowledge what he did to her. Yet the heroine loves him all the more.
There were quite a few inaccuracies, especially use of first names, incorrect use of titles and address (a duke is “his grace” not “my lord”) that I found irritating. The author also uses a lot of modern phrases and terms that have no business in a Regency (or any historical novel). I enjoy light, sweet stories, but this one was too simplistic, too full of errors, and much too predictable.
March 25, 2019
Deborah Harland was an orphan who had been brought up by the nuns at an abbey. She was a very caring person and spent her time caring for wounded soldiers. When she was asked to tend to a duke at his home, she came into contact with Lord Abernathy. He was suffering, not only from his wounds but also mentally. Abernathy had a terrible temper and it took all Deborah’s strength to confront him. They developed a close relationship but Deborah knew they were from completely different backgrounds and nothing could come of it. In addition, there is a previously courted lady in the background. This was an engaging read that is a sweet romance but also has a religious connotation. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 24, 2022
2.5 ⭐️ As others have said, this starts off with a nod to The Sound of Music, then quickly morphs into a pallid version of Beauty and the Beast. Also, expect more fairy tale than historical romance. The lack of period realism and the proper use of honorifics were irksome although YMMV.
Any chemistry between the MCs never went beyond the superficial. A few additional scenes showing how the hero truly fell in love with the heroine would have wiped away my doubts that he wasn't infatuated with her because she was his nurse, or he chose a commoner to avoid an imagined direct cut from the ton due to his scars.
Rose Pearson's books aren't for me.
Any chemistry between the MCs never went beyond the superficial. A few additional scenes showing how the hero truly fell in love with the heroine would have wiped away my doubts that he wasn't infatuated with her because she was his nurse, or he chose a commoner to avoid an imagined direct cut from the ton due to his scars.
Rose Pearson's books aren't for me.
October 13, 2021
This is set during the Napoleonic Wars. Deborah, on the verge of being a nun, has been nursing men to health. Mother Superior gets a letter from the Duke of Abernathy's sister seeking assistance with the care of her brother. He has lost two fingers, his face is severely wounded, and he's lost the function of one of his eyes. He's broken physically, mentally, and spiritually. And to say he's grumpy about it would be an understatement.
I so enjoyed watching Abernathy heal physically while growing in character. He was a little bit violent at times, but I couldn't help but love him.
4.5 Stars
I so enjoyed watching Abernathy heal physically while growing in character. He was a little bit violent at times, but I couldn't help but love him.
4.5 Stars
April 1, 2019
one of the best books i read this year
November 28, 2021
I did not like that the hero hurt the heroin physically, twice. I did not like the heroin constant crying. I did not like that we did not know the hero's thoughts.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2022
Although I did not mind some historical inaccuracies, I had hoped that the book would follow a bit more closely the etiquette of the time, especially since we are talking about the regency era.
I also hoped we could see the hero's perspective, mostly in the beginning when his wounds (physical and mental) are still fresh.
However I thought it quite enjoyable quick read.
I also hoped we could see the hero's perspective, mostly in the beginning when his wounds (physical and mental) are still fresh.
However I thought it quite enjoyable quick read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2021
Too preachy For my taste
A nice premise for the story , but I found it too preachy. I would have liked more complex thoughts from Deborah.
A nice premise for the story , but I found it too preachy. I would have liked more complex thoughts from Deborah.
April 4, 2019
I honestly couldn't put this one down. This is one of Ms. Pearson's best.
Deborah was raised in an abbey. While she was waiting to be able to take her orders, the abbey received a request from the sister of the Duke of Harksbury to send someone to help heal his body and soul. He was seriously wounded in the war. He lost some fingers on one hand and one side of his face was badly damaged. But even worse, he was in a very dark place. He needed someone to help him get back to being the good man he had always been. This is where the heart of the story begins.
There are sparks and fireworks and periods of calm. Sometimes there seems to be progress and then a relapse. This is a real page turner. Can't wait to see what happens next!
Do yourself a favor and get comfy in your favorite reading spot with your comfy drink and settle in and read this engaging story!
I volunteered to provide this review.
Deborah was raised in an abbey. While she was waiting to be able to take her orders, the abbey received a request from the sister of the Duke of Harksbury to send someone to help heal his body and soul. He was seriously wounded in the war. He lost some fingers on one hand and one side of his face was badly damaged. But even worse, he was in a very dark place. He needed someone to help him get back to being the good man he had always been. This is where the heart of the story begins.
There are sparks and fireworks and periods of calm. Sometimes there seems to be progress and then a relapse. This is a real page turner. Can't wait to see what happens next!
Do yourself a favor and get comfy in your favorite reading spot with your comfy drink and settle in and read this engaging story!
I volunteered to provide this review.
March 26, 2019
Will she become a nun?
This was such a heartwarming romance of a wounded soldier and an orphan lady. Deborah an orphan who had been brought up by the nuns wanted to take her vows. Mother Superior has asked if she would honor a request by a Lady Markham. Her brother Lord Abernathy had been badly injured not only in the body but also the soul. Deborah had been nursing the injured so had experience with what must be done. The book is written so well with a wonderful plot and
This was such a heartwarming romance of a wounded soldier and an orphan lady. Deborah an orphan who had been brought up by the nuns wanted to take her vows. Mother Superior has asked if she would honor a request by a Lady Markham. Her brother Lord Abernathy had been badly injured not only in the body but also the soul. Deborah had been nursing the injured so had experience with what must be done. The book is written so well with a wonderful plot and
April 7, 2019
Just marvelous. Intense read you will love.
A book of good length and very well written. Nice storyline and plot. Characters are well described and they develop nicely through the story
My free opinion. Thanks.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A book of good length and very well written. Nice storyline and plot. Characters are well described and they develop nicely through the story
My free opinion. Thanks.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 8, 2020
4.5 stars. My favourite of Roses novels so far.
Deborah has grown up inside the Abbey, an orphan cared for by nuns. She has grown up nursing those returned from the wars and has become good at it. Whilst she is desperate to fulfil her dream of becoming a nun the Mother Superior asks her to do one more job before she take her vows. Her job is to care for one Lord Abernathy - a man who doesn’t want help but desperately needs it.
Lord Abernathy was once a handsome gentleman rogue of the ton. He woo’d ladies and danced the night away as only a duke could. However when he comes back from the war he is disfigured and suffering both physically and mentally. For he believes he has lost his good looks, the use of an eye and several fingers but also has become a monster. He rages at the world.
So when Deborah finally meets the angry lord Abernathy, everything comes crashing down. Only Deborahs stubbornness and persistence is able to call his lordship out of his black rages. But draw him out she does.
Then when feelings start getting involved Deborah has to choose between letting go of her life’s dream of being a nun and potentially loving someone who couldn’t love her back. Because how could Abernathy, a duke, feel for an orphan with no societal experience and no social standing.
Deborah is straight shooting, determined and kind. She is everything the the duke has ever needed and more than he ever asked for. She is a great character that shows women don’t have to be weak to be feminine. Who show us that you can be scared and yet determined to make a difference. Who shows us that tears can be healing as well as awakening. She epitomises the analogy that life sometimes throws you a curve ball.
Abernathy is violent, lashes out & intimidates to get his way at the beginning. He is not a MMC that I cared for greatly even though I know that Deborah does. His anger and frustration are understandable and relatable even if I was frustrated at how quickly Deborah fell for him even when he was an ass. He did grow with Deborahs ministrations but he has several returns to his first aggressive impression. But he is finally redeemed.
All in all this story is filled with breakables, determination, dark curtains, bandages, horse riding, friendship, nuns, compassion, warriors, broken soldiers, wedding proposals, calls to service, prayer and books. I enjoyed the book a lot.
Deborah has grown up inside the Abbey, an orphan cared for by nuns. She has grown up nursing those returned from the wars and has become good at it. Whilst she is desperate to fulfil her dream of becoming a nun the Mother Superior asks her to do one more job before she take her vows. Her job is to care for one Lord Abernathy - a man who doesn’t want help but desperately needs it.
Lord Abernathy was once a handsome gentleman rogue of the ton. He woo’d ladies and danced the night away as only a duke could. However when he comes back from the war he is disfigured and suffering both physically and mentally. For he believes he has lost his good looks, the use of an eye and several fingers but also has become a monster. He rages at the world.
So when Deborah finally meets the angry lord Abernathy, everything comes crashing down. Only Deborahs stubbornness and persistence is able to call his lordship out of his black rages. But draw him out she does.
Then when feelings start getting involved Deborah has to choose between letting go of her life’s dream of being a nun and potentially loving someone who couldn’t love her back. Because how could Abernathy, a duke, feel for an orphan with no societal experience and no social standing.
Deborah is straight shooting, determined and kind. She is everything the the duke has ever needed and more than he ever asked for. She is a great character that shows women don’t have to be weak to be feminine. Who show us that you can be scared and yet determined to make a difference. Who shows us that tears can be healing as well as awakening. She epitomises the analogy that life sometimes throws you a curve ball.
Abernathy is violent, lashes out & intimidates to get his way at the beginning. He is not a MMC that I cared for greatly even though I know that Deborah does. His anger and frustration are understandable and relatable even if I was frustrated at how quickly Deborah fell for him even when he was an ass. He did grow with Deborahs ministrations but he has several returns to his first aggressive impression. But he is finally redeemed.
All in all this story is filled with breakables, determination, dark curtains, bandages, horse riding, friendship, nuns, compassion, warriors, broken soldiers, wedding proposals, calls to service, prayer and books. I enjoyed the book a lot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2023
Sound of Music, but instead of a nanny, a nurse?
I have enjoyed Rose Pearson's sweet Regency romances very much. I love her characters and the settings.
But with The Duke's Saving Grace, I was disappointed. I liked the story of an orphan raised in a convent, nursing wounded soldiers. I found the Duke, to be ungrateful, selfish, whiny, jerk. Most of the book was repetitive, the same ideas being used over and over, to fill up pages. The sudden metamorphosis into a man who could see beyond the trappings of society a bit unbelievable at first.
It was then I realized that this novel reminded me of the Sound of Music. The musical was one of my all time favorites. I watched the movie version whenever I had a chance. I saw the play both on and off Broadway, and in both amatuer and professional productions. I even read the many books about the Von Trapp Family singers. And then one evening I watched a live on television version of the musical. Before the intermission I was so bored I had to turn it off. I realized my reaction to The Luke's Saving Grace was similar to my reaction to The Sound of Music. I found myself mentally screaming at the characters in Rose Pearson's book, "Oh, come on! Even a blind man can see what is happening here! STOP YOUR WHINING!"
You can depend on Rose Pearson to deliver a happy ending and The Duke's Saving Grace ends happily. But this time, Rose narrative picks up speed, rolling downhill like a boulder and then runs out of steam when it reaches the bottom. From then on Rose rushes to wrap everything up in a neat little bow. It is too drawn out at first and then it is too predictable in the end. Definitely not her best work!
I have enjoyed Rose Pearson's sweet Regency romances very much. I love her characters and the settings.
But with The Duke's Saving Grace, I was disappointed. I liked the story of an orphan raised in a convent, nursing wounded soldiers. I found the Duke, to be ungrateful, selfish, whiny, jerk. Most of the book was repetitive, the same ideas being used over and over, to fill up pages. The sudden metamorphosis into a man who could see beyond the trappings of society a bit unbelievable at first.
It was then I realized that this novel reminded me of the Sound of Music. The musical was one of my all time favorites. I watched the movie version whenever I had a chance. I saw the play both on and off Broadway, and in both amatuer and professional productions. I even read the many books about the Von Trapp Family singers. And then one evening I watched a live on television version of the musical. Before the intermission I was so bored I had to turn it off. I realized my reaction to The Luke's Saving Grace was similar to my reaction to The Sound of Music. I found myself mentally screaming at the characters in Rose Pearson's book, "Oh, come on! Even a blind man can see what is happening here! STOP YOUR WHINING!"
You can depend on Rose Pearson to deliver a happy ending and The Duke's Saving Grace ends happily. But this time, Rose narrative picks up speed, rolling downhill like a boulder and then runs out of steam when it reaches the bottom. From then on Rose rushes to wrap everything up in a neat little bow. It is too drawn out at first and then it is too predictable in the end. Definitely not her best work!
April 1, 2019
The Sound of Music sans The Alps
Remember Maria in the Sound of Music. She too was ready to take her vows and become a nun. However, the wise Mother Superior had other plans for her and she was sent to Captain Von Trapp's mansion to be a governess.
Instead of a pre-WWII setting, this tale is set in Regency London during the Napoleonic war. Instead of Maria, our heroine is Deborah, an orphan raised in the abbey by the nuns. She has been treating wounded soldiers at the abbey, and she too wants to take her vows. Enter the wise Mother Superior who receives a letter requesting aid and decides to send Deborah to the Duke of Abernathy's mansion to nurse him back to health from his severe war injuries. I'm sure you're getting the picture.
Thankfully, I'm a huge fan of The Sound of Music, so I actually enjoyed this adaptation, which had many similarities to the movie, but also had a twist or two as the tried but true romantic tale played out. Like with Maria, I loved Deborah's character, but like with the Captain, the Duke's character had to evolve into the man he needed to become.
This is a clean and very sweet tale of faith, hope and love. It is more than suitable for any age reader who just wants an uplifting read that is both romantic and spiritual.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author via BookSprout. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
FYI: I also posted my review on Amazon (as Rural Reader).
Remember Maria in the Sound of Music. She too was ready to take her vows and become a nun. However, the wise Mother Superior had other plans for her and she was sent to Captain Von Trapp's mansion to be a governess.
Instead of a pre-WWII setting, this tale is set in Regency London during the Napoleonic war. Instead of Maria, our heroine is Deborah, an orphan raised in the abbey by the nuns. She has been treating wounded soldiers at the abbey, and she too wants to take her vows. Enter the wise Mother Superior who receives a letter requesting aid and decides to send Deborah to the Duke of Abernathy's mansion to nurse him back to health from his severe war injuries. I'm sure you're getting the picture.
Thankfully, I'm a huge fan of The Sound of Music, so I actually enjoyed this adaptation, which had many similarities to the movie, but also had a twist or two as the tried but true romantic tale played out. Like with Maria, I loved Deborah's character, but like with the Captain, the Duke's character had to evolve into the man he needed to become.
This is a clean and very sweet tale of faith, hope and love. It is more than suitable for any age reader who just wants an uplifting read that is both romantic and spiritual.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author via BookSprout. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
FYI: I also posted my review on Amazon (as Rural Reader).
April 23, 2019
Deborah has always lived within the walls of an abbey where she was abandoned when she was still a baby. Because of the war, she has been taking care of the soldiers injured.
Lord Abernathy has been badly injured in the war. His good character has changed a lot and he doesn’t permit anybody to take care of him. His injuries run deeper than just physically.
Sometimes we set a path in life but then suddenly life itself comes along and changes everything. However, every change has a purpose in life. If Lord Abernathy hadn’t been injured, he wouldn’t have met Deborah.
The first thing we always see in a person is the appearance but for Deborah, that is not important at all. She is able to see what it is inside that tortured soul and brings him back from the dark place he is in.
A lovely, sweet romance.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book.
Lord Abernathy has been badly injured in the war. His good character has changed a lot and he doesn’t permit anybody to take care of him. His injuries run deeper than just physically.
Sometimes we set a path in life but then suddenly life itself comes along and changes everything. However, every change has a purpose in life. If Lord Abernathy hadn’t been injured, he wouldn’t have met Deborah.
The first thing we always see in a person is the appearance but for Deborah, that is not important at all. She is able to see what it is inside that tortured soul and brings him back from the dark place he is in.
A lovely, sweet romance.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book.
March 31, 2019
Miss Deborah Harland worked in the abbey caring for injured soldiers. She was kind, light-hearted, and teased with those who were feeling a little better. She had come here as an orphan and one of the nuns who had been a lady of quality and wealth educated and trained her to always act with decorum. Deborah thought that she would become a nun as well when the time was right. Hearing that the war with Napoleon may be ending within a matter of days, she just may be ready to take her vows! Only Mother Superior was holding her back from this, although she didn’t know why -- she just trusted that it was for her good.
After tending to the men in her care and feeding soup to those too weak to feed themselves, she achingly climbed the stairs to her room. Before she got there, Mother Superior called to her to join her – she had something to discuss with her. She told Deborah that she saw how tirelessly she worked with the men, being the light and the hope they needed, caring for both their injuries and their souls. Now a gentleman, the Duke of Harksbury, needs help and his sister, Lady Markham, wrote to the abbey to ask that someone tend to his needs. Lord Edward Abernathy had insisted on fighting in the war and, in addition to his disfigured face, had lost a couple of fingers. His sister now hardly knows him and is fearful that his mind is entering a darkness from which he may not recover. Knowing Deborah’s fear of leaving her only home, Mother Superior reassured her that this was Deborah’s path since she had been educated properly to fit comfortably in the Duke’s world. The brightness in her heart she shares with others may be the only thing to pull him out of his darkness and give him hope. When she returns to the abbey, she would be allowed to take her vows.
Though fearful, Deborah consented to the month that Lady Markham asked of her. A stern butler, Mr. Morris, met her at the servants’ area. He warned her that Lord Abernathy did not know she was coming and would have no gratitude at seeing her. The staff was struggling, not knowing how to help him. The Duke made it clear that with his brokenness, he would be better off in the grave. This was only a small indication of what Deborah would have to help him overcome. The physical wounds were severe, but the agony in his mind would be the most difficult of all to reach. Could she do it? Could she find a way to bring back the man he used to be?
This was a very emotional story that will pull the reader in immediately. A brave man, destroyed by the horrors of war he felt were insurmountable, has to find trust and hope again. The characters are excellently developed and Deborah’s strength and determination are admirable. Grab your copy and immerse yourself in this powerful book. You will definitely feel a reaction, and I think this story will stay with you for some time.
Merged review:
Miss Deborah Harland worked in the abbey caring for injured soldiers. She was kind, light-hearted, and teased with those who were feeling a little better. She had come here as an orphan and one of the nuns who had been a lady of quality and wealth educated and trained her to always act with decorum. Deborah thought that she would become a nun as well when the time was right. Hearing that the war with Napoleon may be ending within a matter of days, she just may be ready to take her vows! Only Mother Superior was holding her back from this, although she didn’t know why -- she just trusted that it was for her good.
After tending to the men in her care and feeding soup to those too weak to feed themselves, she achingly climbed the stairs to her room. Before she got there, Mother Superior called to her to join her – she had something to discuss with her. She told Deborah that she saw how tirelessly she worked with the men, being the light and the hope they needed, caring for both their injuries and their souls. Now a gentleman, the Duke of Harksbury, needs help and his sister, Lady Markham, wrote to the abbey to ask that someone tend to his needs. Lord Edward Abernathy had insisted on fighting in the war and, in addition to his disfigured face, had lost a couple of fingers. His sister now hardly knows him and is fearful that his mind is entering a darkness from which he may not recover. Knowing Deborah’s fear of leaving her only home, Mother Superior reassured her that this was Deborah’s path since she had been educated properly to fit comfortably in the Duke’s world. The brightness in her heart she shares with others may be the only thing to pull him out of his darkness and give him hope. When she returns to the abbey, she would be allowed to take her vows.
Though fearful, Deborah consented to the month that Lady Markham asked of her. A stern butler, Mr. Morris, met her at the servants’ area. He warned her that Lord Abernathy did not know she was coming and would have no gratitude at seeing her. The staff was struggling, not knowing how to help him. The Duke made it clear that with his brokenness, he would be better off in the grave. This was only a small indication of what Deborah would have to help him overcome. The physical wounds were severe, but the agony in his mind would be the most difficult of all to reach. Could she do it? Could she find a way to bring back the man he used to be?
This was a very emotional story that will pull the reader in immediately. A brave man, destroyed by the horrors of war he felt were insurmountable, has to find trust and hope again. The characters are excellently developed and Deborah’s strength and determination are admirable. Grab your copy and immerse yourself in this powerful book. You will definitely feel a reaction, and I think this story will stay with you for some time.
After tending to the men in her care and feeding soup to those too weak to feed themselves, she achingly climbed the stairs to her room. Before she got there, Mother Superior called to her to join her – she had something to discuss with her. She told Deborah that she saw how tirelessly she worked with the men, being the light and the hope they needed, caring for both their injuries and their souls. Now a gentleman, the Duke of Harksbury, needs help and his sister, Lady Markham, wrote to the abbey to ask that someone tend to his needs. Lord Edward Abernathy had insisted on fighting in the war and, in addition to his disfigured face, had lost a couple of fingers. His sister now hardly knows him and is fearful that his mind is entering a darkness from which he may not recover. Knowing Deborah’s fear of leaving her only home, Mother Superior reassured her that this was Deborah’s path since she had been educated properly to fit comfortably in the Duke’s world. The brightness in her heart she shares with others may be the only thing to pull him out of his darkness and give him hope. When she returns to the abbey, she would be allowed to take her vows.
Though fearful, Deborah consented to the month that Lady Markham asked of her. A stern butler, Mr. Morris, met her at the servants’ area. He warned her that Lord Abernathy did not know she was coming and would have no gratitude at seeing her. The staff was struggling, not knowing how to help him. The Duke made it clear that with his brokenness, he would be better off in the grave. This was only a small indication of what Deborah would have to help him overcome. The physical wounds were severe, but the agony in his mind would be the most difficult of all to reach. Could she do it? Could she find a way to bring back the man he used to be?
This was a very emotional story that will pull the reader in immediately. A brave man, destroyed by the horrors of war he felt were insurmountable, has to find trust and hope again. The characters are excellently developed and Deborah’s strength and determination are admirable. Grab your copy and immerse yourself in this powerful book. You will definitely feel a reaction, and I think this story will stay with you for some time.
Merged review:
Miss Deborah Harland worked in the abbey caring for injured soldiers. She was kind, light-hearted, and teased with those who were feeling a little better. She had come here as an orphan and one of the nuns who had been a lady of quality and wealth educated and trained her to always act with decorum. Deborah thought that she would become a nun as well when the time was right. Hearing that the war with Napoleon may be ending within a matter of days, she just may be ready to take her vows! Only Mother Superior was holding her back from this, although she didn’t know why -- she just trusted that it was for her good.
After tending to the men in her care and feeding soup to those too weak to feed themselves, she achingly climbed the stairs to her room. Before she got there, Mother Superior called to her to join her – she had something to discuss with her. She told Deborah that she saw how tirelessly she worked with the men, being the light and the hope they needed, caring for both their injuries and their souls. Now a gentleman, the Duke of Harksbury, needs help and his sister, Lady Markham, wrote to the abbey to ask that someone tend to his needs. Lord Edward Abernathy had insisted on fighting in the war and, in addition to his disfigured face, had lost a couple of fingers. His sister now hardly knows him and is fearful that his mind is entering a darkness from which he may not recover. Knowing Deborah’s fear of leaving her only home, Mother Superior reassured her that this was Deborah’s path since she had been educated properly to fit comfortably in the Duke’s world. The brightness in her heart she shares with others may be the only thing to pull him out of his darkness and give him hope. When she returns to the abbey, she would be allowed to take her vows.
Though fearful, Deborah consented to the month that Lady Markham asked of her. A stern butler, Mr. Morris, met her at the servants’ area. He warned her that Lord Abernathy did not know she was coming and would have no gratitude at seeing her. The staff was struggling, not knowing how to help him. The Duke made it clear that with his brokenness, he would be better off in the grave. This was only a small indication of what Deborah would have to help him overcome. The physical wounds were severe, but the agony in his mind would be the most difficult of all to reach. Could she do it? Could she find a way to bring back the man he used to be?
This was a very emotional story that will pull the reader in immediately. A brave man, destroyed by the horrors of war he felt were insurmountable, has to find trust and hope again. The characters are excellently developed and Deborah’s strength and determination are admirable. Grab your copy and immerse yourself in this powerful book. You will definitely feel a reaction, and I think this story will stay with you for some time.
September 10, 2020
Loved this third book in the Returned Lords of Grosvenor Square! This book is a combo of Sound of Music and Beauty and the Beast. In this story, Lord Abernathy has returned from the war with severe injuries. He is angry and bitter. His sister sends for one of the nuns at the abbey where injured soldiers have been treated. Deborah is a orphan who has grown up in the abbey and has a talent for caring for the injured soldiers who have come to the abbey. Before she takes her vows to become a nun, Mother Superior sends her on a mission away from all she has known to care for Lord Abernathy.
Loved the characters in this book, even the acerbic Lord Abernathy. Great story to read on a very windy, stormy day! Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Loved the characters in this book, even the acerbic Lord Abernathy. Great story to read on a very windy, stormy day! Looking forward to the next book in the series.
June 18, 2021
The Sound of Music meets Jane Eyre with no music and no children.
I honestly decided I was not going to finish this book about halfway through, but then I finished it anyway. The plot was extremely predictable and the romance eminently unlikely. Yep, the heroine is a novice anxious to take her vows and become a nun. Yep, the hero is a wounded war veteran who needs a firm but loving caretaker. And, yep, there's the ex fiancee who really wants to marry the wealth and title despite his disfigurement while our heroine could care less about society, titles or wealth.
The characters are likable enough and the writing is adequate (not great, not terrible), but the plot is pretty ridiculous. There's very little real accuracy in terms of it being a "regency" romance.
I honestly decided I was not going to finish this book about halfway through, but then I finished it anyway. The plot was extremely predictable and the romance eminently unlikely. Yep, the heroine is a novice anxious to take her vows and become a nun. Yep, the hero is a wounded war veteran who needs a firm but loving caretaker. And, yep, there's the ex fiancee who really wants to marry the wealth and title despite his disfigurement while our heroine could care less about society, titles or wealth.
The characters are likable enough and the writing is adequate (not great, not terrible), but the plot is pretty ridiculous. There's very little real accuracy in terms of it being a "regency" romance.
June 10, 2021
A DUKE IN DARKNESS
As an orphan living in the abbey, Deborah's always assumed she would take her vows and never leave. Her experience tending the wounded has given her enough experience for Mother Superior to send her to help a wounded Duke. Not only physical wounds but of the mind and heart. As Deborah tends to his wounds, she fights to keep him from darkness never giving up. Falling in love with the Duke puts her heart in jeopardy and her original path to be a nun. It's hard to read with tears in my eyes so much emotional turmoil. What do a Duke and an orphan have in common? Love! A sweet clean romance.
As an orphan living in the abbey, Deborah's always assumed she would take her vows and never leave. Her experience tending the wounded has given her enough experience for Mother Superior to send her to help a wounded Duke. Not only physical wounds but of the mind and heart. As Deborah tends to his wounds, she fights to keep him from darkness never giving up. Falling in love with the Duke puts her heart in jeopardy and her original path to be a nun. It's hard to read with tears in my eyes so much emotional turmoil. What do a Duke and an orphan have in common? Love! A sweet clean romance.
April 1, 2019
Angel of Mercy
Another excellent read from Rose Pearson. This is a tale of extraordinary fortitude and courage. Deborah has served her entire life, praying and nursing. Her administrations to the victims of war have been met with courage, thankfulness, and Grace. Until now. She is sent to nurse a severely wound Peer of the Realm who would rather just waste away and die. She just wants to take her vows and never leave the security of the Abbey she has lived in,her entire life. Will she be brave enough? Can she make a difference?
Another excellent read from Rose Pearson. This is a tale of extraordinary fortitude and courage. Deborah has served her entire life, praying and nursing. Her administrations to the victims of war have been met with courage, thankfulness, and Grace. Until now. She is sent to nurse a severely wound Peer of the Realm who would rather just waste away and die. She just wants to take her vows and never leave the security of the Abbey she has lived in,her entire life. Will she be brave enough? Can she make a difference?
April 2, 2019
What a beautiful story of a young woman who comes to help a man in his darkest hours. This is the third book in The Returned Lords of Grosvenor Square series. Deborah has been in the Abby for quite sometime and she is about to take he vows when she gets sent to the Duke of Harksbury’s estate to look after Lord Edward Abernathy. I liked reading how these two come together even if there is some misunderstanding between them. I want to read the next book in this series. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2019
Deborah was raised in the abbey because she was an orphan. With the war, she tended to the wounded with great skill. As the war ended, she was ready to take her vows. However, she was called upon to help Lord Abernathy. He was badly injured and was in a deep depression. She was not welcomed by the angry Duke, but he calmed down as she persisted in caring for him with patience and skill. As he recovers and his personality starts to return, Deborah starts to fall for him. A commoner and a Duke? A fantastic, historical must read!
May 25, 2019
I've read many of her books, and this is my favorite! It was quite a page turner! I loved the story and I loved the characters.
Deborah Harland, an orphan raised in the Abbey, worked caring for injured soldiers. One of the nuns who had been a rich lady of quality educated and trained her how to act and speak. Deborah wanted to become a nun.
Mother Superior told Deborah she noticed her great work with the men and thought she could help a gentleman, the Duke of Harksbury, to heal from his wounds, as well. His sister, Lady Markham, wrote to the abbey to ask for someone to help. Lord Edward Abernathy, the Duke, had insisted on fighting in the war. He had a disfigured face, lost a couple of fingers, and lost sight in one eye. He became very bitter and dark.
Deborah accepts the assignment with the understanding that when she returns to the abbey, she would be allowed to take her vows. When faced with the angry, brooding Duke, Deborah learns that she has fortitude and courage she didn't know she possessed. She's not afraid of him, as so many others are, which makes her perfect for the job! The staff is in awe of this miracle working nun. Clean Regency romance with a great storyline!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Deborah Harland, an orphan raised in the Abbey, worked caring for injured soldiers. One of the nuns who had been a rich lady of quality educated and trained her how to act and speak. Deborah wanted to become a nun.
Mother Superior told Deborah she noticed her great work with the men and thought she could help a gentleman, the Duke of Harksbury, to heal from his wounds, as well. His sister, Lady Markham, wrote to the abbey to ask for someone to help. Lord Edward Abernathy, the Duke, had insisted on fighting in the war. He had a disfigured face, lost a couple of fingers, and lost sight in one eye. He became very bitter and dark.
Deborah accepts the assignment with the understanding that when she returns to the abbey, she would be allowed to take her vows. When faced with the angry, brooding Duke, Deborah learns that she has fortitude and courage she didn't know she possessed. She's not afraid of him, as so many others are, which makes her perfect for the job! The staff is in awe of this miracle working nun. Clean Regency romance with a great storyline!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 26, 2020
Healing Sweet Historical
Really enjoyed another wonderful novel by Rose Grace, a orphan girl who worked as a caretaker for the nuns taking care of the wounded , as the war was announced to be over, her next job was sent to a home of a broken Earl filled with anger and wishing to die. His face left with deep wounds, loss of eye, and fingers. her job was to heal his wounds, and his heart, giving him the hope of a bright future, through new eyes of a new beginning, love is to be had. A must read!
Really enjoyed another wonderful novel by Rose Grace, a orphan girl who worked as a caretaker for the nuns taking care of the wounded , as the war was announced to be over, her next job was sent to a home of a broken Earl filled with anger and wishing to die. His face left with deep wounds, loss of eye, and fingers. her job was to heal his wounds, and his heart, giving him the hope of a bright future, through new eyes of a new beginning, love is to be had. A must read!
June 11, 2021
Painfully chaste
... and it seemed very, very odd that this should revolve around a catholic girl, as though religion was not an issue.
Maybe my dislike for the story is more because it kept making me flash on my über-catholic cousins, who were so heavily indoctrinated (i.e. brainwashed) that they were always freaking out because god was on the roof passing judgement on them as they slept, or bizarrely interjecting religious claptrap into regular conversation. Just not a great basis for a romance.
... and it seemed very, very odd that this should revolve around a catholic girl, as though religion was not an issue.
Maybe my dislike for the story is more because it kept making me flash on my über-catholic cousins, who were so heavily indoctrinated (i.e. brainwashed) that they were always freaking out because god was on the roof passing judgement on them as they slept, or bizarrely interjecting religious claptrap into regular conversation. Just not a great basis for a romance.
February 11, 2022
Favorite
This is my favorite book of Rose Pearson's. I enjoy reading her books when I want an especially light and quick read but this book had more depth to it with the main character being raised in a convent. I enjoyed the little sentences about praying. It wasn't preachy or have tons of bible verses quoted which has a tendency to feel to contrived and out to make a point. Of all of Rose's books, I thought these characters had the best romantic tension. Thoroughly enjoyed this read!
This is my favorite book of Rose Pearson's. I enjoy reading her books when I want an especially light and quick read but this book had more depth to it with the main character being raised in a convent. I enjoyed the little sentences about praying. It wasn't preachy or have tons of bible verses quoted which has a tendency to feel to contrived and out to make a point. Of all of Rose's books, I thought these characters had the best romantic tension. Thoroughly enjoyed this read!
April 6, 2019
A fantastic Regency romance
I'll admit that nothing makes me feel better than a good, old-fashioned clean romance. This romance between Deborah and Lord Abernathy got me from the beginning. It is so heartwarming, so filled with emotion - from despair, to hope, to love - that it is like slipping into conversation with a long lost, favorite friend. It just touched me in all the right places from beginning to end. I'll probably read it time and time again.
I'll admit that nothing makes me feel better than a good, old-fashioned clean romance. This romance between Deborah and Lord Abernathy got me from the beginning. It is so heartwarming, so filled with emotion - from despair, to hope, to love - that it is like slipping into conversation with a long lost, favorite friend. It just touched me in all the right places from beginning to end. I'll probably read it time and time again.
September 27, 2020
Move beyond pain
Physical and emotional pain can be overwhelming as Lord Abernathy has learned! Deborah is a sensitive soul almost ready to take her vow for a nun! She is not meant for this life but has chosen it! Deborah has nursed many soldiers but none quite as desperate as Abernathy! Their feelings are engaged after she literally saves his life with will to live! But another of his station would be his Duchess! Will Abernathy choose wisely?
Physical and emotional pain can be overwhelming as Lord Abernathy has learned! Deborah is a sensitive soul almost ready to take her vow for a nun! She is not meant for this life but has chosen it! Deborah has nursed many soldiers but none quite as desperate as Abernathy! Their feelings are engaged after she literally saves his life with will to live! But another of his station would be his Duchess! Will Abernathy choose wisely?
May 21, 2022
It was a sweet read that gave me a tiny feel of the Sound of Music in parts. Orphaned Deborah was raised by the nuns and now feels ready to become one herself. But she's sent to help an injured soldier. The Duke has been severely injured in the Napoleonic Wars and needs help to recover, physically and mentally.
It was well-written and moved along at a good pace. One thing that was a bit weird was that through the entire book, the ladies call each other by their first names and the Duke calls her Deborah at times but not once do we learn the Duke of Abernathy. Even his own sister refers to him as Abernathy, which seems odd. But overall, the book was good.
It was well-written and moved along at a good pace. One thing that was a bit weird was that through the entire book, the ladies call each other by their first names and the Duke calls her Deborah at times but not once do we learn the Duke of Abernathy. Even his own sister refers to him as Abernathy, which seems odd. But overall, the book was good.
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