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Brides of Brighton #5
An Unexpected Bride
A marriage of convenience, an honorable gentleman, and the secrets of a mysterious young lady…
Eleanor Claridge had it all. A family that loved her, a secret romance with a handsome soldier, and a beautiful home in the seaside town of Brighton. Although her father did not approve of her suitor, she found no fault in him. With respect to her father's wishes, she paused to examine his character.
But it was too late.
Abducted and taken to Scotland under the ruse of a happy elopement, Eleanor was forced to marry the wicked man she had once loved.
And now she has a chance to escape.
Widowed and alone, she flees on the first coach back to Brighton with her young son, vowing never to marry or trust another man again. But when her reputation and the safety of her child are questioned, she has no choice but to enter into a marriage of convenience with Mr. Henry Beaumont, whose kindness and inviting blue eyes leave her questioning if love is such a dreadful notion after all.
Eleanor Claridge had it all. A family that loved her, a secret romance with a handsome soldier, and a beautiful home in the seaside town of Brighton. Although her father did not approve of her suitor, she found no fault in him. With respect to her father's wishes, she paused to examine his character.
But it was too late.
Abducted and taken to Scotland under the ruse of a happy elopement, Eleanor was forced to marry the wicked man she had once loved.
And now she has a chance to escape.
Widowed and alone, she flees on the first coach back to Brighton with her young son, vowing never to marry or trust another man again. But when her reputation and the safety of her child are questioned, she has no choice but to enter into a marriage of convenience with Mr. Henry Beaumont, whose kindness and inviting blue eyes leave her questioning if love is such a dreadful notion after all.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 12, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
October 8, 2019
I’ve really enjoyed Ashtyn Newbold’s The Brides of Brighton series and am sad to see it end. While An Unexpected Bride was a satisfying conclusion, it was my least favorite of the series considering it was a rather dreary read; I prefer more lighthearted stories.
After finally being free from her unhappy marriage, Eleanor must marry again in order to keep her son. However, her lack of trust and the emotional damage she carries from her first marriage proves to be a hindrance to her happily ever after, even when married to someone as compassionate as Henry Beaumont.
I love a good marriage-of-convenience story, and while this was a sweet one, it was overshadowed by Eleanor’s dark past. Her constant fear and lack of mistrust not only cast a gloomy shadow over the entire book but eclipsed Eleanor's personality. Because of her guarded nature, I never felt I came to know who she really was, leaving me baffled as to how Henry was able to fall in love with her. Normally, I wouldn’t have minded the time it took for Eleanor to overcome her haunting past, but I didn't feel there were enough cute, lighthearted, or romantic scenes to balance how long it took for her to do so. With that and the rather dramatic climax, I was left a bit disappointed.
Still, despite not enjoying this book as much as this author's other work, it was still a lovely read, one that was well written and had characters I became invested in. While I never cared much for Eleanor, Henry was the perfect hero—so kind, sweet, and patient—and Arthur was adorable. I enjoyed watching them fall in love. It was a lovely way to spend the evening. I can’t wait to see what Ashtyn Newbold has in store for us next!
I received a complimentary copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After finally being free from her unhappy marriage, Eleanor must marry again in order to keep her son. However, her lack of trust and the emotional damage she carries from her first marriage proves to be a hindrance to her happily ever after, even when married to someone as compassionate as Henry Beaumont.
I love a good marriage-of-convenience story, and while this was a sweet one, it was overshadowed by Eleanor’s dark past. Her constant fear and lack of mistrust not only cast a gloomy shadow over the entire book but eclipsed Eleanor's personality. Because of her guarded nature, I never felt I came to know who she really was, leaving me baffled as to how Henry was able to fall in love with her. Normally, I wouldn’t have minded the time it took for Eleanor to overcome her haunting past, but I didn't feel there were enough cute, lighthearted, or romantic scenes to balance how long it took for her to do so. With that and the rather dramatic climax, I was left a bit disappointed.
Still, despite not enjoying this book as much as this author's other work, it was still a lovely read, one that was well written and had characters I became invested in. While I never cared much for Eleanor, Henry was the perfect hero—so kind, sweet, and patient—and Arthur was adorable. I enjoyed watching them fall in love. It was a lovely way to spend the evening. I can’t wait to see what Ashtyn Newbold has in store for us next!
I received a complimentary copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 9, 2019
This was such a sad book. I just couldn't believe much of it. For those two reasons I gave it 2 stars. I did finish it but really could not believe in so many of the reasons for peoples decisions. For whatever reason I wanted to care for the characters but just found myself annoyed more then anything. It might have just been me and my attitude. Just couldn't enjoy this one like I really wanted to.
October 14, 2024
It will leave you perfectly content…
Beautiful and swoon worthy in every way. Eleanor deserved the happy ending and what happened to Margaret and Lord Hove made me even happier. A wonderful finale to the beautiful series.
Beautiful and swoon worthy in every way. Eleanor deserved the happy ending and what happened to Margaret and Lord Hove made me even happier. A wonderful finale to the beautiful series.
June 13, 2019
Though I felt the plot had plausibility issues, who doesn't love a good marriage-of-convenience-turns-to-love story? As always, Ashtyn Newbold creates sweet characters that you root for and situations that give them a chance to shine.
In this installment of the Brides of Brighton series, Eleanor is returning home for the first time in five years. She is a widow with a young son, and a hefty amount of emotional damage from her unhappy marriage. The danger of losing custody of her son moves her to consider a quick remarriage, and Henry Beaumont offers to be her savior. She knows he has always wanted to marry for love, and he knows that she is too wounded to trust him. But, as one of their married friends points out, love can start with a choice.
This is a quick read. It's best read in order with the other books in the series. All the other couples from previous books make an appearance.
In this installment of the Brides of Brighton series, Eleanor is returning home for the first time in five years. She is a widow with a young son, and a hefty amount of emotional damage from her unhappy marriage. The danger of losing custody of her son moves her to consider a quick remarriage, and Henry Beaumont offers to be her savior. She knows he has always wanted to marry for love, and he knows that she is too wounded to trust him. But, as one of their married friends points out, love can start with a choice.
This is a quick read. It's best read in order with the other books in the series. All the other couples from previous books make an appearance.
July 8, 2019
Ashtyn Newbold has such a way with Regency period romance. I love the way she does her characters. And her plots are amazing. This author’s books really suck the reader into the story line!
There are so many great things about this one. I’m going to start with Eleanor. It was fun for me, as a reader, to get to read this book from Eleanor’s perspective. Eleanor is a character that went missing in A Convenient Engagement, and I wondered at the time what happened to her. I loved Eleanor. She has had to fight her way to where she is at the start of this book. It hasn’t been easy, but for her and her son, Arthur, it’s been necessary.
Then there’s Henry. Henry is a good man. He goes out of his way to marry Eleanor when there appears to be no way to protect her and Arthur from her late husband’s father. He is kind, and loving to both Arthur and Eleanor. I liked him from the very start when he rescued them from the rainstorm.
I liked the plot of this one. There is danger lurking around every corner from Arthur’s grandfather. The reader never knows when he will strike or who will be involved.
This is a great Regency romance, you’ll love reading!
I was sent an e-copy of An Unexpected Bride as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.
There are so many great things about this one. I’m going to start with Eleanor. It was fun for me, as a reader, to get to read this book from Eleanor’s perspective. Eleanor is a character that went missing in A Convenient Engagement, and I wondered at the time what happened to her. I loved Eleanor. She has had to fight her way to where she is at the start of this book. It hasn’t been easy, but for her and her son, Arthur, it’s been necessary.
Then there’s Henry. Henry is a good man. He goes out of his way to marry Eleanor when there appears to be no way to protect her and Arthur from her late husband’s father. He is kind, and loving to both Arthur and Eleanor. I liked him from the very start when he rescued them from the rainstorm.
I liked the plot of this one. There is danger lurking around every corner from Arthur’s grandfather. The reader never knows when he will strike or who will be involved.
This is a great Regency romance, you’ll love reading!
I was sent an e-copy of An Unexpected Bride as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.
March 31, 2020
DNF at 39%
This was going swimmingly until the child opened his mouth and said ‘I wike wooking at pictures of tigers. That’s all.’
I LOATHE children who lithp, ethpethiawwy children who can’t even lithp pwopewy. I thtopped weading at thith point.
Seriously though. I have never heard a child replacing the letter 'l' with a 'w'. There is no similarity between forming the two letters.
A 'w' and a 'r' yes, and the same for a 's' and a 'th' but to actually say WIKE WOOKING and THEN be able to annunciate 'that's all' beggars belief.
This was going swimmingly until the child opened his mouth and said ‘I wike wooking at pictures of tigers. That’s all.’
I LOATHE children who lithp, ethpethiawwy children who can’t even lithp pwopewy. I thtopped weading at thith point.
Seriously though. I have never heard a child replacing the letter 'l' with a 'w'. There is no similarity between forming the two letters.
A 'w' and a 'r' yes, and the same for a 's' and a 'th' but to actually say WIKE WOOKING and THEN be able to annunciate 'that's all' beggars belief.
June 20, 2020
I know when I pick up a book by Ms. Newbold, that I'm in for a treat.
The writing is solid, the conflict strong, the characters engaging, the pace perfect, and the romance sigh-worthy.
I kept looking for moments in my day when I could find a minutes to read a few pages, brushing my teeth or stretching my legs.
If you want a proper romance, then pick up any book by Ms. Newbold.
The writing is solid, the conflict strong, the characters engaging, the pace perfect, and the romance sigh-worthy.
I kept looking for moments in my day when I could find a minutes to read a few pages, brushing my teeth or stretching my legs.
If you want a proper romance, then pick up any book by Ms. Newbold.
June 15, 2019
The perfect ending to a great series! I have thoroughly enjoyed all five books in this series, and this one was no exception. Henry was the perfect hero and so sweet with Eleanor and Arthur. I also enjoyed getting a glimpse at many of the other characters from the other books.
April 4, 2020
I love this series! I love the characters and how they develop through the series. Its an easy read and very enjoyable, and clean! The reason I gave it 4 stars is because of the darker plot of this story, which gives it a sad overtone. All in all great series!
June 17, 2019
I love this author and she is on my must read list along with Jennifer Moore and Sarah Eden.
When I read book 1 in the Brides of Brighton series I didn’t like how it left Eleanor’s story, but that’s because her story wasn’t over!
Eleanor was very guarded. She had a hard time letting in Henry or anyone else and I don’t blame her for that. Henry was was the perfect gentleman for her because he was so kind and patient. He was a really a perfect gentleman in every way, even if that made him a little boring. I like a little but lots of a confident masculine type hero but they can’t all be like that!
I liked all of these Brides of Brighton books, but my two favorites from the series were #3 and #4. If you have not read them I recommend reading them in order because that’s always more fun!
Clean romance. Mild violence/talk of past violence.
When I read book 1 in the Brides of Brighton series I didn’t like how it left Eleanor’s story, but that’s because her story wasn’t over!
Eleanor was very guarded. She had a hard time letting in Henry or anyone else and I don’t blame her for that. Henry was was the perfect gentleman for her because he was so kind and patient. He was a really a perfect gentleman in every way, even if that made him a little boring. I like a little but lots of a confident masculine type hero but they can’t all be like that!
I liked all of these Brides of Brighton books, but my two favorites from the series were #3 and #4. If you have not read them I recommend reading them in order because that’s always more fun!
Clean romance. Mild violence/talk of past violence.
September 16, 2019
This is the story of what happened to Eleanor, who disappeared in an earlier book. This book explains that, and goes into her history. She flees back to Brighton to her brother Adam, but first gets help from Henry, when her carriage gets stuck. She has fled a violent drunk, who treats her, and their son with no kindness, and has wasted her dowry. This fifth book is the last ,in the series. I really enjoyed the story of Henry, Eleanor, and little Arthur. They start out as a marriage of convenience, yet it grows to be much more. It was fun watching little Arthur respond to kindness, and toys, and games. The evil of her first husband is just as bad, in his father, who tries to bully her into giving up her son, and the holdings he owns. The threat hangs over them, but she hopes for a happy life for her son, and herself. Henry goes out of his way to tutor Author, and teach him new games, and finds his feelings for both of them increasing. The ending of the book was very satisfying. The epilogue was very enjoyable. It is always fun to read a little bit of the future for your characters. This book contained all of the couple's from the previous book. It was a clean novel in all ways. My only fault is that it did not give us a length of time between the happening of the inn, and her walking in Brighton. It was written as if it was in the same week, but that would not have been possible. This oversight was at the end, and I just concluded proper time had unfolded.
October 8, 2024
Eleanor was taken by her beau to have a forced marriage. Turns out she didn’t go willingly, and her husband turned into a monster. Eleanor pushed him as it appeared he was about to hit their son, which caused him to fall down the stairs and die. She fled with her son, Arthur, back to Brighton. Her former FIL threatens prosecution if she doesn’t return her son to his custody. To prevent that she enters into a marriage with Henry. The father in law complies a maid to become Arthur’s nurse and one day she flees with him to an inn. Before, the father in law arrives, Henry and Eleanor arrive. Henry confronts the father in law who pulls a gun on him and then he is taken away for attempted murder. Henry has done a good job of giving attention and kindness to Arthur and Eleanor. She confesses she loves him and they have a baby girl a year later.
Liked: Henry, and Aunt Margaret finds love!
Disliked: kind of a crazy reason is given for why Henry would have agreed to marriage to a stranger (he likes helping people) there wasn’t enough development there for a satisfactory reason. The whole original kidnapping seemed haphazard. How did she convince the friends to lie for her if it wasn’t expected? I felt more development was needed there in my opinion. Based on the first book the friends seemed in on it. Lord Ramsbury’s role also seemed unexplained. Not my favorite of her series
Liked: Henry, and Aunt Margaret finds love!
Disliked: kind of a crazy reason is given for why Henry would have agreed to marriage to a stranger (he likes helping people) there wasn’t enough development there for a satisfactory reason. The whole original kidnapping seemed haphazard. How did she convince the friends to lie for her if it wasn’t expected? I felt more development was needed there in my opinion. Based on the first book the friends seemed in on it. Lord Ramsbury’s role also seemed unexplained. Not my favorite of her series
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2019
Satisfying conclusion to the series. Though Eleanor’s experiences added a more somber tone then the previous books/couples, it was done in a way that wasn’t unnecessarily depressing or detailed.
Eleanor and Henry were both very likable characters that made it easy to root for their happy ending.
Thank you to the author for providing a digital copy of this book.
Eleanor and Henry were both very likable characters that made it easy to root for their happy ending.
Thank you to the author for providing a digital copy of this book.
April 30, 2020
A Sweet Regency Romance with a Christian World View but not specifically Christian Fiction.
Eleanor and her small son, Arthur, flee to her childhood home village of Brighton, England after the death of her husband. Her father-in-law, a ruthless man, is after Arthur. She has qualms about a marriage of convenience to Henry Beaumont. But Henry is a patient and upstanding man.
It was a pleasure to see the affection unfold between Eleanor and Henry and the caring Henry showed toward Arthur. A nice, quick read.
*I purchased this ebook from Amazon. All opinions are my own.*
Eleanor and her small son, Arthur, flee to her childhood home village of Brighton, England after the death of her husband. Her father-in-law, a ruthless man, is after Arthur. She has qualms about a marriage of convenience to Henry Beaumont. But Henry is a patient and upstanding man.
It was a pleasure to see the affection unfold between Eleanor and Henry and the caring Henry showed toward Arthur. A nice, quick read.
*I purchased this ebook from Amazon. All opinions are my own.*
August 8, 2019
A Sweet Romance
I enjoyed this story with its mystery surrounding a scandal and a young woman forced to remarry quickly to protect her child. Good characters with believable fears and emotions. A must read for those who enjoy Recency romances.
I enjoyed this story with its mystery surrounding a scandal and a young woman forced to remarry quickly to protect her child. Good characters with believable fears and emotions. A must read for those who enjoy Recency romances.
July 12, 2019
I read this on #KindleUnlimited
April 4, 2020
I haven't read any of the other books in the "Brides of Brighton" series, but I got this for free and gave it a go. It stood alone just fine.
Overall I enjoyed the book. The main characters were nice, the romance sweet, and there was a good bit of danger thrown in. There were components that irritated me, though, so the star rating dropped.
Firstly, I get Eleanor's hesitation to say that she loves Henry until he said it to her. After that, I don't understand why she is still scared to admit it, except that it means we get the end where she finally says it.
Having everything happen on that one night was very far-fetched as well, and probably the most annoying bit of the story. I get the kidnapping of the boy on that night, while they are at the party, but the rest??? We have the brother turning up at the party, looking all worried and telling them that another letter arrived from the bad man. All good except that it arrived just after they were married. Which is over a month ago. If it really is a big deal, he could have ridden out to them at any stage or invited them over. Why save the news for a party over a month later when it is such a pressing concern?
And then we get this urgency of having Eleanor tell what happened the day her husband died. Again, we have waited over a month for this moment, but it can't wait until they are in the carriage heading home, or when they get home??? No, they have to find a pitiful excuse to leave the main party and have a conversation in the corridors. It is all so painfully set up.
Overall I enjoyed the book. The main characters were nice, the romance sweet, and there was a good bit of danger thrown in. There were components that irritated me, though, so the star rating dropped.
Firstly, I get Eleanor's hesitation to say that she loves Henry until he said it to her. After that, I don't understand why she is still scared to admit it, except that it means we get the end where she finally says it.
Having everything happen on that one night was very far-fetched as well, and probably the most annoying bit of the story. I get the kidnapping of the boy on that night, while they are at the party, but the rest??? We have the brother turning up at the party, looking all worried and telling them that another letter arrived from the bad man. All good except that it arrived just after they were married. Which is over a month ago. If it really is a big deal, he could have ridden out to them at any stage or invited them over. Why save the news for a party over a month later when it is such a pressing concern?
And then we get this urgency of having Eleanor tell what happened the day her husband died. Again, we have waited over a month for this moment, but it can't wait until they are in the carriage heading home, or when they get home??? No, they have to find a pitiful excuse to leave the main party and have a conversation in the corridors. It is all so painfully set up.
February 5, 2021
Stunning!
Wow! I was stunned! Even though the title gave a hint at what happens in this tale, nonetheless I was stunned with the realization of what was happening. This story deals with some hard sensitive issues. Spousal abuse has been around for a long time and yet it continually affects women in the same way. They are always fearful, shamed, cowed. They don’t know any way out from under their predicament. I believe Ms Ashtyn Newbold handled this topic with aplomb. My heart went out to Eleanor and her son Arthur. My own life experiences resurfaced while reading of her pain. I could not help the tears that fell down my face as I listened to her when she finally managed the courage to admit what happened to her. And what a wonderful man Henry is! He was so selfless, patient and kind. Just the man that a woman like Eleanor and a child like Arthur needed. His brother, Edward joked that he missed his calling, he should have become a vicar. Edward and Henry were so opposite each other as brothers and yet they still felt brotherly love. I also liked the women in this story. They couldn’t have been more supportive of one another aside from Henry’s snobby neighbor. The only criticism I have is that I would like to have read more detail about what happened to the bad guy and the girl who took care of Arthur. That aside, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and can easily recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical romance.
Wow! I was stunned! Even though the title gave a hint at what happens in this tale, nonetheless I was stunned with the realization of what was happening. This story deals with some hard sensitive issues. Spousal abuse has been around for a long time and yet it continually affects women in the same way. They are always fearful, shamed, cowed. They don’t know any way out from under their predicament. I believe Ms Ashtyn Newbold handled this topic with aplomb. My heart went out to Eleanor and her son Arthur. My own life experiences resurfaced while reading of her pain. I could not help the tears that fell down my face as I listened to her when she finally managed the courage to admit what happened to her. And what a wonderful man Henry is! He was so selfless, patient and kind. Just the man that a woman like Eleanor and a child like Arthur needed. His brother, Edward joked that he missed his calling, he should have become a vicar. Edward and Henry were so opposite each other as brothers and yet they still felt brotherly love. I also liked the women in this story. They couldn’t have been more supportive of one another aside from Henry’s snobby neighbor. The only criticism I have is that I would like to have read more detail about what happened to the bad guy and the girl who took care of Arthur. That aside, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and can easily recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical romance.
March 31, 2020
I enjoyed reading Ashley Newbold’s final book in the Brides of Brighton series entitled An Unexpected
Bride. As a Regency Romance novel, this book fit the basic elements of the genre: a sympathetic heroine, Eleanor Quinton; a strong irresistible hero, Henry Beaumont; emotional tension, an abused wife and son fleeing for freedom after the death of her husband; a believable plot, securing Eleanor and Arthur’s freedom and healing; and of course, the happily-ever-after ending.
I will refrain from providing a summary as I do not want to spoil it for the reader. Instead, I will focus on the literary style of the writer. Most definitely, this is a character-driven plot with wounded characters in need of healing and protection. Through the authors use of literary devices of dialog and descriptive language, catch glimpses of Eleanor and Arthur’s lives and allows us to understand the choices that our main character make. Unlike most Regency Romance tales, this one does dwell on depictions of social activities such as balls and dinner parties. The focus is on honorable conduct which is always a byproduct in this genre. This is what makes this tale outstanding. I congratulate Ms. Newbold on such an enjoyable concluding book in this series. I highly recommend it to Regency Romance fans.
Bride. As a Regency Romance novel, this book fit the basic elements of the genre: a sympathetic heroine, Eleanor Quinton; a strong irresistible hero, Henry Beaumont; emotional tension, an abused wife and son fleeing for freedom after the death of her husband; a believable plot, securing Eleanor and Arthur’s freedom and healing; and of course, the happily-ever-after ending.
I will refrain from providing a summary as I do not want to spoil it for the reader. Instead, I will focus on the literary style of the writer. Most definitely, this is a character-driven plot with wounded characters in need of healing and protection. Through the authors use of literary devices of dialog and descriptive language, catch glimpses of Eleanor and Arthur’s lives and allows us to understand the choices that our main character make. Unlike most Regency Romance tales, this one does dwell on depictions of social activities such as balls and dinner parties. The focus is on honorable conduct which is always a byproduct in this genre. This is what makes this tale outstanding. I congratulate Ms. Newbold on such an enjoyable concluding book in this series. I highly recommend it to Regency Romance fans.
December 10, 2020
First, I want to endorse the suggestion by the author that the Brides of Brighton series be read in sequence for a more meaningful reading experience. In this final book of the series we are blessed to revisit major players from the first book of the series, Namely, Eleanor and her aunt, Margaret, with Eleanor being the star in this work. This work provided answers to questions left unresolved in the opening book, namely, what happed to Eleanor who eloped and was never heard from again. Also, I so wanted for Eleanor’s aunt to find her HEA. These questions find resolution in this final book of the series. Like the other books in the series, Ms. Newbold’s writing is both interesting and entertaining with a variety of avenues involved. There is mystery, adventure, and suspense. The romantic element is handled with tact and gentility. The characters are believable and act like real human beings. Finally, I lose track of time because I am so involved until the very end. Finally, the manuscripts were well-edited and free of distracting editorial deficiencies. In short, Ms. Newbold achieved check marks for every item on my five-star checklist – not only for this final novel but for every book in the series.
June 12, 2019
Eleanor has been through a horrible 5 years...
Quote "Life had taken her mother, her father, her peace, her innocence, and even parts of her personality. She did not know how to receive."
Her experiences leave her full of worry and fear, both for herself and her young son Arthur. She was crippled emotionally and didn't know how to handle the unexpected gift of Henry.
Henry ~ the very best of men. Soft hearted, selfless, generous and humble... but definitely not a vicar...
He was Eleanor's light to a new life. She just had to let her guard down and trust ~ and let his light in.
I enjoyed this final book of the series. It was very well written, with good flow, great characters and dealt well with some hard issues. Characters from past books in the series make appearances with is fun. And as always with this author's books, the romance is clean and sweet.
I highly recommend this and all other books from Ashtyn Newbold. She has a wonderful gift of writing. Her books have continued to improve in both quality and content. I eagerly look forward to her future works!
Thank you Ashtyn for this clean sweet romance! 🌸
Quote "Life had taken her mother, her father, her peace, her innocence, and even parts of her personality. She did not know how to receive."
Her experiences leave her full of worry and fear, both for herself and her young son Arthur. She was crippled emotionally and didn't know how to handle the unexpected gift of Henry.
Henry ~ the very best of men. Soft hearted, selfless, generous and humble... but definitely not a vicar...
He was Eleanor's light to a new life. She just had to let her guard down and trust ~ and let his light in.
I enjoyed this final book of the series. It was very well written, with good flow, great characters and dealt well with some hard issues. Characters from past books in the series make appearances with is fun. And as always with this author's books, the romance is clean and sweet.
I highly recommend this and all other books from Ashtyn Newbold. She has a wonderful gift of writing. Her books have continued to improve in both quality and content. I eagerly look forward to her future works!
Thank you Ashtyn for this clean sweet romance! 🌸
June 13, 2023
When Eleanor got the chance, she scooped up her son and escaped from her abusive husband and headed back to her home and brother in Bath. It had been 5 years since she eloped with Mr. Quincy, but what love she once had for him was as dead as he was back in Northumberland.
As she neared her home, a storm detained them and they were obliged to dry out and warm up in Henry Beaumont's nearby home. His interest was piqued by this soft spoken woman who was obviously holding a secret.
As bits and pieces of her life came to light and threats from her demanding father in law were received, she was advised to marry quickly and move away, thus protecting herself and her son from danger. Henry stepped forward and an unexpected marriage of convenience was performed.
This was rather slow moving, clean and chaste to the point of almost antiseptically clean - two rather chaste kisses, that is all! The main characters were rather boring with too much internal talking and worrying than interesting conversation. Sadly, it was very predictable and I was happy to see the end come. 2.5 stars rounded up.
As she neared her home, a storm detained them and they were obliged to dry out and warm up in Henry Beaumont's nearby home. His interest was piqued by this soft spoken woman who was obviously holding a secret.
As bits and pieces of her life came to light and threats from her demanding father in law were received, she was advised to marry quickly and move away, thus protecting herself and her son from danger. Henry stepped forward and an unexpected marriage of convenience was performed.
This was rather slow moving, clean and chaste to the point of almost antiseptically clean - two rather chaste kisses, that is all! The main characters were rather boring with too much internal talking and worrying than interesting conversation. Sadly, it was very predictable and I was happy to see the end come. 2.5 stars rounded up.
October 15, 2019
I was glad to get an ending to Eleanor's story. I had a hard time believing that she eloped in the earlier book and was surprised that it wasn't resolved it that one. I thought we'd just never know what happened but here we are with the whole horrid story.
Henry was perfectly swoon worthy. He was so honestly caring and good. Some might wonder at the plausibility of marrying into the situation he did. I believe he was lonely and marrying might help with that but I think the actual reason he did it was simply that he is good.
Eleanor had so many problems the least of which was trust issues. It took a while for me to truly like her but eventually she began to move past the trials of her first marriage. And I felt that she and Henry would have a perfectly lovely happily ever after.
I did wonder if her associations with the upper crust in Brighton would help her get past the gossip and derision of her neighbors etc but that wasn't really addressed. Didn't seem to matter to her though. By the end she was happy with her life.
Sex: no
Language: no
Violence: yes
Henry was perfectly swoon worthy. He was so honestly caring and good. Some might wonder at the plausibility of marrying into the situation he did. I believe he was lonely and marrying might help with that but I think the actual reason he did it was simply that he is good.
Eleanor had so many problems the least of which was trust issues. It took a while for me to truly like her but eventually she began to move past the trials of her first marriage. And I felt that she and Henry would have a perfectly lovely happily ever after.
I did wonder if her associations with the upper crust in Brighton would help her get past the gossip and derision of her neighbors etc but that wasn't really addressed. Didn't seem to matter to her though. By the end she was happy with her life.
Sex: no
Language: no
Violence: yes
July 6, 2025
This is the fifth and final book of the Brides of Brighton series. Of the others in the series, I have read the first three, skipped the fourth, and then finished the series. Of the four I have read, this is my least favorite. I fear I will not even remember this book next week as to how unremarkable it is.
I know the plot is supposed to be predictable in terms of boy meets girl, they fall in love, they have a falling out, they come back together again, then the HEA. However, some action is to take place, and some form of twist is supposed to occur, especially considering the backdrop of a possible murder committed by the heroine, but the supposed twist coming up was not one at all. The climax of the action taking place was even done during a predictable time, resolved in a predictable format, and then everything fell neatly and conveniently into place. Too easy. Boring in fact. And there was no falling out at all between the two love birds. Disappointing.
Don’t think I can recommend. 2**½*
I know the plot is supposed to be predictable in terms of boy meets girl, they fall in love, they have a falling out, they come back together again, then the HEA. However, some action is to take place, and some form of twist is supposed to occur, especially considering the backdrop of a possible murder committed by the heroine, but the supposed twist coming up was not one at all. The climax of the action taking place was even done during a predictable time, resolved in a predictable format, and then everything fell neatly and conveniently into place. Too easy. Boring in fact. And there was no falling out at all between the two love birds. Disappointing.
Don’t think I can recommend. 2**½*
June 12, 2019
This is the lovely conclusion of Newbold's 5 book series, "Brides of Brighton". As Adam Claridge's sister, Eleanor plays a pivotal role in the very first novel, although she is entirely offscreen.
What we thought we knew about her is entirely incorrect. Henry Beaumont is quite different from his brother Lord Ramsbury (now Coventry) and he generously proposes marriage to save Eleanor and her son. What a great hero! He's patient, kind and selfless. Eleanor is fearful and untrusting for much of the book, although it's understandable. Characters from the earlier novels all make appearances.
Regency customs are accurately portrayed. Men have all the power and even get the wife's money, be it cash dowries or property. While the custom lasted many, many years, I'm thankful it no longer exists. Eleanor's dowry was huge, and it is hard for me to believe how it was completely spent.
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this sweet novel.
What we thought we knew about her is entirely incorrect. Henry Beaumont is quite different from his brother Lord Ramsbury (now Coventry) and he generously proposes marriage to save Eleanor and her son. What a great hero! He's patient, kind and selfless. Eleanor is fearful and untrusting for much of the book, although it's understandable. Characters from the earlier novels all make appearances.
Regency customs are accurately portrayed. Men have all the power and even get the wife's money, be it cash dowries or property. While the custom lasted many, many years, I'm thankful it no longer exists. Eleanor's dowry was huge, and it is hard for me to believe how it was completely spent.
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this sweet novel.
March 29, 2020
Mr. Henry Beaumont was as nice as could be. He tried to help and be good to all. He met Eleanor Quinton in a rain and her carriage stuck in the mud. He took them, Eleanor and her son Arthur, to his estate to have something to eat and to change their soaked clothes.
Eleanor had been kidnapped and forced to marry a cruel, drunken and just evil man. When something happened to him she grabbed her son and ran to her brother. It took a week to get there. She didn't want to tell Adam. her brother, the truth. She just knew he would throw her out.
I loved this story. I have heard of cruel men before and as frightening as it sounds it can happen. I thought it moved well, written to keep your attention and entertaining. It is a sober tale but you can see changes as you read along. The characters are full-bodied and easy to relate to. I highly recommend this book.
I received this ARC from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
Eleanor had been kidnapped and forced to marry a cruel, drunken and just evil man. When something happened to him she grabbed her son and ran to her brother. It took a week to get there. She didn't want to tell Adam. her brother, the truth. She just knew he would throw her out.
I loved this story. I have heard of cruel men before and as frightening as it sounds it can happen. I thought it moved well, written to keep your attention and entertaining. It is a sober tale but you can see changes as you read along. The characters are full-bodied and easy to relate to. I highly recommend this book.
I received this ARC from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
July 12, 2024
This is book 5 in the Brighton Brides series.
A beautiful woman is rescued by a handsome man who turns out to be Eleanor Claridge who left her home 5 years ago causing quite the scandal and she is the sister of Adam. She also has a four year son.
The rescuer is non other than the brother of Lord Ramsbury. Henry the sword champion.
Her circumstances and unhappy marriage forces her to return to her hometown after the death of her cruel and abusive husband who only married her for her dowry. His father is also very mean and her son is very afraid of him. She has built a wall around her hurt to protect her from his mean ways.
When her father in law threatens to take away her child, a marriage of convenience is offered. Kindness and patience are provided along with lessons in music and toys for her child.
All the couples from the previous books make an appearance and the story closes with all the loose ends tidied up.
A beautiful woman is rescued by a handsome man who turns out to be Eleanor Claridge who left her home 5 years ago causing quite the scandal and she is the sister of Adam. She also has a four year son.
The rescuer is non other than the brother of Lord Ramsbury. Henry the sword champion.
Her circumstances and unhappy marriage forces her to return to her hometown after the death of her cruel and abusive husband who only married her for her dowry. His father is also very mean and her son is very afraid of him. She has built a wall around her hurt to protect her from his mean ways.
When her father in law threatens to take away her child, a marriage of convenience is offered. Kindness and patience are provided along with lessons in music and toys for her child.
All the couples from the previous books make an appearance and the story closes with all the loose ends tidied up.
June 13, 2019
Clean regency romance
I have been an avid follower of this series, loving every single new installment. From the beginning of book one, I have wondered about Adam’s sister Eleanor, who was painted as somewhat heartless by her actions. Well now we find out her side of the story, and let me say it’s a doozy. The other books in this series dealt with much lighter themes than this one. Eleanor and her young son Arthur are both a shell of who they should be. Having at last escaped from a bad situation they find a place for them to heal with their family. Unfortunately they are still trying to out run the shadows of their past.
Henry probably is my favorite character in the book, I loved his decisiveness and kind nature. This was a more heavy drama theme with a love story.
All the books in this series are stand alone.
Rating: PG
I have been an avid follower of this series, loving every single new installment. From the beginning of book one, I have wondered about Adam’s sister Eleanor, who was painted as somewhat heartless by her actions. Well now we find out her side of the story, and let me say it’s a doozy. The other books in this series dealt with much lighter themes than this one. Eleanor and her young son Arthur are both a shell of who they should be. Having at last escaped from a bad situation they find a place for them to heal with their family. Unfortunately they are still trying to out run the shadows of their past.
Henry probably is my favorite character in the book, I loved his decisiveness and kind nature. This was a more heavy drama theme with a love story.
All the books in this series are stand alone.
Rating: PG
March 30, 2020
Love is a choice
On the run with her young son Arthur, Eleanor has vowed to never let any man near her again. There is a reason one should never make expansive vows about the future. What happens next is totally unexpected.
All alone in his manor, and tired of being compared to a vicar, Henry hopes to one day marry for love. What happens next is totally unexpected.
An Unexpected Bride by Ashtyn Newbold has it all. It is very well written as well as super clean and sweet. The emotionally engrossing plot is well woven and the ending is sigh-worthy. Eleanor is understandably damaged but with a kind heart. Henry is the epitome of goodness and patience. When thrown together Eleanor and Henry will need to stand together and fight for their desired happy-ever future.
Content 411: Although there is no swearing or sex, this book does deal with the subject of spousal abuse.
On the run with her young son Arthur, Eleanor has vowed to never let any man near her again. There is a reason one should never make expansive vows about the future. What happens next is totally unexpected.
All alone in his manor, and tired of being compared to a vicar, Henry hopes to one day marry for love. What happens next is totally unexpected.
An Unexpected Bride by Ashtyn Newbold has it all. It is very well written as well as super clean and sweet. The emotionally engrossing plot is well woven and the ending is sigh-worthy. Eleanor is understandably damaged but with a kind heart. Henry is the epitome of goodness and patience. When thrown together Eleanor and Henry will need to stand together and fight for their desired happy-ever future.
Content 411: Although there is no swearing or sex, this book does deal with the subject of spousal abuse.
April 23, 2020
Eleanor Claridge had a loving family in Brighton and thought the soldier courting her was perfect. When he kidnaps her and forces her to elope and then keeps her from her family for years to control her dowry, she discovers the horrible person he really is. Kept in isolation with her young son, she escapes her home and her horrid father-in-law the minute her husband falls down the stairs and dies.
When her coach encounters mud problems just outside of Brighton, she's aided by Henry Beaumont, the brother of a friend of her brother. He aids her in getting to her family where she is welcomed home with a few recriminations. When her father-in-law starts threatening to take away her son, Henry steps up and proposes marriage. Gradually the two start to feel at home with Henry, but it takes a kidnapping to really bring them together.
When her coach encounters mud problems just outside of Brighton, she's aided by Henry Beaumont, the brother of a friend of her brother. He aids her in getting to her family where she is welcomed home with a few recriminations. When her father-in-law starts threatening to take away her son, Henry steps up and proposes marriage. Gradually the two start to feel at home with Henry, but it takes a kidnapping to really bring them together.
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