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The Book of Love #2
The Touch of Love
What makes a man fall in love? The Book of Love holds the answer, or so Poppy Farthingale believes...
Poppy Farthingale has made a pact with her two best friends to use The Book of Love to find true love. How else will Nathaniel Sherbourne, Earl of Welles, ever notice her? With a small dowry and no prominent lineage, Nathaniel will never consider her a suitable wife, especially when her competition is a beautiful duke’s daughter who has already been declared an Incomparable. Poppy has four days to win his heart, but with time running out and her rival about to attend a weekend party at Nathaniel’s country home, is all hope lost?
Nathaniel Sherbourne, Earl of Welles, is a man whose heart has been bruised by the ravages of war. He is in no rush to marry, for he’s a wealthy and titled bachelor with debutantes aplenty eager to gain his notice. In any event, he has a blackmail scheme to unravel before he can turn his mind to more romantic ventures. But his sister’s shy friend, Poppy Farthingale, is suddenly capturing his attention. She’s toting around The Book of Love, and he’s promised to help her find a suitable match.
But is it possible that he, in fact, is the right man for Poppy?
Poppy Farthingale has made a pact with her two best friends to use The Book of Love to find true love. How else will Nathaniel Sherbourne, Earl of Welles, ever notice her? With a small dowry and no prominent lineage, Nathaniel will never consider her a suitable wife, especially when her competition is a beautiful duke’s daughter who has already been declared an Incomparable. Poppy has four days to win his heart, but with time running out and her rival about to attend a weekend party at Nathaniel’s country home, is all hope lost?
Nathaniel Sherbourne, Earl of Welles, is a man whose heart has been bruised by the ravages of war. He is in no rush to marry, for he’s a wealthy and titled bachelor with debutantes aplenty eager to gain his notice. In any event, he has a blackmail scheme to unravel before he can turn his mind to more romantic ventures. But his sister’s shy friend, Poppy Farthingale, is suddenly capturing his attention. She’s toting around The Book of Love, and he’s promised to help her find a suitable match.
But is it possible that he, in fact, is the right man for Poppy?
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 30, 2019
955 people are currently reading
336 people want to read
About the author
Meara Platt
121 books890 followersMeara Platt is happily married to her Russell Crowe look-alike husband, and they have two terrific children. She lives in one of the many great towns on Long Island, New York, and loves it, except for the traffic. She has traveled extensively, occasionally lectures and finds time to write. Her favorite place in all the world is England’s Lake District, which may not come as a surprise since many of her stories are set in that idyllic landscape, including her Romance Writers of America Golden Heart award winning story.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
October 13, 2024
4.5 stars 🌟
Second book in series, and just as good as the first one. Loved Nathaniel and Poppy and all the characters in this book. Like the interaction between everyone.
Second book in series, and just as good as the first one. Loved Nathaniel and Poppy and all the characters in this book. Like the interaction between everyone.
July 20, 2019
Another beautifully written story in The Book Of Love Series!!
Now that Olivia and Beast are married bk.1 The Look Of Love. Olivia turns over The Book of Love to her friend Poppy Farthingale. Poppy has decided that Nathaniel Sherbrourne Earl of Welles with be her test Frog.
Nathaniel has recieved a blackmail letter sure to ruin his beloved Aunt Lavina. He confides in Poppy. They set out to find the blackmailer which leads to a budding love between them.
I really like the conversations between the characters in this series. The story was well written. There camaraderie and friendship just gives you a good feeling. I wish the couple had some sexual heat but and more intimate scenes. But other then that it was a great story!
Now that Olivia and Beast are married bk.1 The Look Of Love. Olivia turns over The Book of Love to her friend Poppy Farthingale. Poppy has decided that Nathaniel Sherbrourne Earl of Welles with be her test Frog.
Nathaniel has recieved a blackmail letter sure to ruin his beloved Aunt Lavina. He confides in Poppy. They set out to find the blackmailer which leads to a budding love between them.
I really like the conversations between the characters in this series. The story was well written. There camaraderie and friendship just gives you a good feeling. I wish the couple had some sexual heat but and more intimate scenes. But other then that it was a great story!
May 22, 2019
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋
Quite simply adore this series .
One of the best I’ve read this year , it ticks all the boxes .
Nathaniel is someone we met in the first book along with his friends, but we get to know him and his family much more in this book .
He’s troubled from his guilt of being a lone survivor from his division in the Napoleonic wars, he has problems with a blackmailer and now his sisters friend Poppy Fathingale is using him for experimentation in love .
Can’t things get any worse ?
Poppy has loved The young Earl for as long as she remembers .
She’s a shy , thoughtful and watchful young lady , who has no dowry and comes from a working class family , non of which is good if you want to impress a man of such high standing .
It seems the two will be forever friends, and only that , or will the Book of Love have more secrets to help the young couple realise their destiny.
A perfect second book , with such a wonderful trope of friends to lovers , Meara’s stories continue to leave me begging for more, and dying for her next book release .
I loved it ,and I know if you love regency romance you will too .
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋
Quite simply adore this series .
One of the best I’ve read this year , it ticks all the boxes .
Nathaniel is someone we met in the first book along with his friends, but we get to know him and his family much more in this book .
He’s troubled from his guilt of being a lone survivor from his division in the Napoleonic wars, he has problems with a blackmailer and now his sisters friend Poppy Fathingale is using him for experimentation in love .
Can’t things get any worse ?
Poppy has loved The young Earl for as long as she remembers .
She’s a shy , thoughtful and watchful young lady , who has no dowry and comes from a working class family , non of which is good if you want to impress a man of such high standing .
It seems the two will be forever friends, and only that , or will the Book of Love have more secrets to help the young couple realise their destiny.
A perfect second book , with such a wonderful trope of friends to lovers , Meara’s stories continue to leave me begging for more, and dying for her next book release .
I loved it ,and I know if you love regency romance you will too .
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
July 30, 2019
I so love these Farthingales women!
Since I discovered Meara Platt, I do preorder every new book released and this week has seen two releases in a span of time of two days.
Not easy with all the books lined on my kindle shelves but I always take time to make room for them and read them on the day they are launched.
Mrs Meara Platt’s work is one of my feel-good cures.
And after loving the first installment in this series, this second did not disappointed me.
The background plot is the same as it turns around a group of three young women exploiting a book explaining the mechanism of love and using some childhood friends as frog test.
Here it is about Poppy, the shy one of the group, she is the one who stays on the side, more at ease as observing than acting.
While Olivia/Goose used the book’s knowledge to test it on Beast, Poppy shares it with Nathaniel, together they learn about the way love and lust work in a man and woman brain.
« Nathaniel caressed her cheek. “The touch of Poppy,” he murmured. “Never underestimate its gentle power.” »
Nathaniel, Earl of Welles came back damaged from war and worst he feels like he had no right to still be alive because of his rank while many of his men lost theirs on the battlefields. Why he believes he is not trustworthy of love, not yet as he thinks he must prove his worth before being able to accept anyone’s love.
But during his time close to Poppy while studying the book, he has his sight opened, for the first time, he sees beyond the memory of the little girl who stole his clothes when he was a teenager. This little girl is now a young woman, a very delightful woman, not a siren but in her own way she entrances him, by simply being herself a kind and caring woman.
« She hadn’t used a single spell or trick or recipe, or whatever one wanted to call the advice in that book. She had given him the book to read. Yet, he still responded to her like a low-brained simpleton, even more so now. »
Sure there is more to the plot but it would spoil the pleasure of the reading too much to expose it.
I’m now curious to read about the third couple in this series.
Here below is a perfect teaser.
« “No. Loopy is the only thing keeping me sane right now. She pokes and prods, makes me angry, makes me laugh. Makes me feel as though I am still living. She’s the blister on my foot that refuses to pop.”
Since I discovered Meara Platt, I do preorder every new book released and this week has seen two releases in a span of time of two days.
Not easy with all the books lined on my kindle shelves but I always take time to make room for them and read them on the day they are launched.
Mrs Meara Platt’s work is one of my feel-good cures.
And after loving the first installment in this series, this second did not disappointed me.
The background plot is the same as it turns around a group of three young women exploiting a book explaining the mechanism of love and using some childhood friends as frog test.
Here it is about Poppy, the shy one of the group, she is the one who stays on the side, more at ease as observing than acting.
While Olivia/Goose used the book’s knowledge to test it on Beast, Poppy shares it with Nathaniel, together they learn about the way love and lust work in a man and woman brain.
« Nathaniel caressed her cheek. “The touch of Poppy,” he murmured. “Never underestimate its gentle power.” »
Nathaniel, Earl of Welles came back damaged from war and worst he feels like he had no right to still be alive because of his rank while many of his men lost theirs on the battlefields. Why he believes he is not trustworthy of love, not yet as he thinks he must prove his worth before being able to accept anyone’s love.
But during his time close to Poppy while studying the book, he has his sight opened, for the first time, he sees beyond the memory of the little girl who stole his clothes when he was a teenager. This little girl is now a young woman, a very delightful woman, not a siren but in her own way she entrances him, by simply being herself a kind and caring woman.
« She hadn’t used a single spell or trick or recipe, or whatever one wanted to call the advice in that book. She had given him the book to read. Yet, he still responded to her like a low-brained simpleton, even more so now. »
Sure there is more to the plot but it would spoil the pleasure of the reading too much to expose it.
I’m now curious to read about the third couple in this series.
Here below is a perfect teaser.
« “No. Loopy is the only thing keeping me sane right now. She pokes and prods, makes me angry, makes me laugh. Makes me feel as though I am still living. She’s the blister on my foot that refuses to pop.”
December 29, 2021
Rating: PG-17 or a mature reader: Adult themes, bawdy, risqué, suggestive, sexual humor, mild cursing. >>Angst Level: low-to-medium: Blackmail mystery to be solved. Misunderstanding between main characters to be resolved. That was a bit funny when he was saying one thing and she was thinking something completely different. >>Source: KU 8-18-21: When I first saw the covers and blurb on the books, I couldn’t tell if this was paranormal or not. So, for those who do not like paranormal, there were no spells or incantations just a book full of knowledge similar to a treatise on men and sexuality. It felt like Fate paring the right couples together in a happy-ever-after. I think I would have preferred more paranormal activity. That’s just me.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** spoilers ***
Background information from my review of book one: Lady Olivia Gosling had been perusing the shelves of the bookstore when a red-bound book literally fell from the top shelf onto her head… twice. She was intrigued by the title The Book of Love and felt it was a sign since she and her friends needed all the help they could get.
Olivia and her two best friends, Poppy Farthingale, and Lady Penelope Sherbourne had decided to use the information in the book in order to find true love. However, they needed to test their new theories and decided to practice with their male best friends. If it worked on them then they could safely use it to find husbands in the upcoming Season. It was hilarious as they decided which of their friends they would practice on. Since Nathaniel Sherbourne, the Earl of Welles was Penelope’s brother, she chose Thaddius MacLauren, Laird of Caithness as her test subject. Olivia chose Alexander Beastling [Beast], the Duke of Hartford. Poppy Farthingale chose Penelope’s brother Nathaniel as she was afraid of Beast. Now that the girls were set on their test frog… um… subject, Olivia decided to go first since the book belonged to her. The Beast never knew what hit him.”
Book two was very similar in tone to the first book. It could be read as a standalone but the background information was laid out for the reader in book one. I would not skip that part. Characters from book one had very minimal presence in this second story. This was purely Poppy and her Nathaniel finding their way to true love. However, all characters were present when they were needed.
This was a laugh-out-loud story with ridiculously naïve girls messing with things they had no idea about. Regency girls were kept ignorant about the ways of men. These girls had a book in their hands that spelled it out for them in a no-holds-barred format. The guys were horrified that their sister and her friends were delving into such a subject. It was probably out of character for the era but it was still funny.
The author made me like the characters and I really approved of the parings. I liked those guys. I am curious how the hot and cold relationship between Lady Penelope and Laird Thaddius MacLauren will be resolved in book three [The Taste of Love]. Yeah, that will be a battle of wills for sure.
The Book of Love Series:
Book 1: The Look of Love
Book 2: The Touch of Love
Book 3: The Taste of Love
Book 4: The Song of Love
Book 5: The Scent of Love
Book 6: The Kiss of Love
Book 7: The Chance of Love
Book 8: The Gift of Love
Book 9: The Heart of Love
Book 10: The Promise of Love
Book 11: The Wonder of Love
Book 12: The Journey of Love
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** spoilers ***
Background information from my review of book one: Lady Olivia Gosling had been perusing the shelves of the bookstore when a red-bound book literally fell from the top shelf onto her head… twice. She was intrigued by the title The Book of Love and felt it was a sign since she and her friends needed all the help they could get.
Olivia and her two best friends, Poppy Farthingale, and Lady Penelope Sherbourne had decided to use the information in the book in order to find true love. However, they needed to test their new theories and decided to practice with their male best friends. If it worked on them then they could safely use it to find husbands in the upcoming Season. It was hilarious as they decided which of their friends they would practice on. Since Nathaniel Sherbourne, the Earl of Welles was Penelope’s brother, she chose Thaddius MacLauren, Laird of Caithness as her test subject. Olivia chose Alexander Beastling [Beast], the Duke of Hartford. Poppy Farthingale chose Penelope’s brother Nathaniel as she was afraid of Beast. Now that the girls were set on their test frog… um… subject, Olivia decided to go first since the book belonged to her. The Beast never knew what hit him.”
Book two was very similar in tone to the first book. It could be read as a standalone but the background information was laid out for the reader in book one. I would not skip that part. Characters from book one had very minimal presence in this second story. This was purely Poppy and her Nathaniel finding their way to true love. However, all characters were present when they were needed.
This was a laugh-out-loud story with ridiculously naïve girls messing with things they had no idea about. Regency girls were kept ignorant about the ways of men. These girls had a book in their hands that spelled it out for them in a no-holds-barred format. The guys were horrified that their sister and her friends were delving into such a subject. It was probably out of character for the era but it was still funny.
The author made me like the characters and I really approved of the parings. I liked those guys. I am curious how the hot and cold relationship between Lady Penelope and Laird Thaddius MacLauren will be resolved in book three [The Taste of Love]. Yeah, that will be a battle of wills for sure.
The Book of Love Series:
Book 1: The Look of Love
Book 2: The Touch of Love
Book 3: The Taste of Love
Book 4: The Song of Love
Book 5: The Scent of Love
Book 6: The Kiss of Love
Book 7: The Chance of Love
Book 8: The Gift of Love
Book 9: The Heart of Love
Book 10: The Promise of Love
Book 11: The Wonder of Love
Book 12: The Journey of Love
June 27, 2019
Great 2nd book in series!
Nathaniel Sherbourne, Earl of Welles, is the next to be the test frog for the Book of Love. The book already worked for Olivia and now it’s Poppy’s turn. Poppy Farthingale is no one of consequence in her eyes and should not set her sights on the titled Nathaniel. Who is also her best friend’s brother and the one she has known and loved for a long time. But he has never noticed her, until now.
They are getting closer because first they start reading the Book of Love together and second they have teamed up to figure out who is blackmailing Nathaniel and his family.
This book has a great story line which is romantic and steamy yet witty and humorous while taking on some serious intrigue surrounding the family being blackmailed.
I’m am really looking forward to Penelope & Thad’s story!
Nathaniel Sherbourne, Earl of Welles, is the next to be the test frog for the Book of Love. The book already worked for Olivia and now it’s Poppy’s turn. Poppy Farthingale is no one of consequence in her eyes and should not set her sights on the titled Nathaniel. Who is also her best friend’s brother and the one she has known and loved for a long time. But he has never noticed her, until now.
They are getting closer because first they start reading the Book of Love together and second they have teamed up to figure out who is blackmailing Nathaniel and his family.
This book has a great story line which is romantic and steamy yet witty and humorous while taking on some serious intrigue surrounding the family being blackmailed.
I’m am really looking forward to Penelope & Thad’s story!
June 3, 2019
Very enjoyable... loved the interaction between all the couples.. and especially Nate and Poppy..
The only thing I always wonder about is the age of the couple.. We know how old the girls are, but how old would the gentlemen be? Knowing this doesn't add to the story , but just wondering.
I am looking forward to the next book.
The only thing I always wonder about is the age of the couple.. We know how old the girls are, but how old would the gentlemen be? Knowing this doesn't add to the story , but just wondering.
I am looking forward to the next book.
October 7, 2019
This is a terrific series. So original. So light —and truly had everything that Platt’s fans adore about her books. Great book selection!
May 29, 2019
Find yourself totally enchanted with this second story in The Book of Love series! After the story of Olivia and Beast, I could not wait to see what would happen next! Now Poppy Farthingale (yes I love these names!) was part of the pact with her two friends to use the Book of Love Olivia had found in a bookshop to see if she is successful with Nathaniel, Earl of Welles in getting him to fall in love with her. One could only hope since it worked with Olivia!
Nathaniel is in no hurry to marry but he agrees to help Poppy find a match for herself. After all he has known her forever, what could happen? Of course he has his own problems with his feelings from the wars of surviving when others did not. Plus a blackmailer is on his trail.
Meara Platt always writes stories that capture me from the very first page. Once I start there is no stopping until the end! Cannot wait for more!!
Nathaniel is in no hurry to marry but he agrees to help Poppy find a match for herself. After all he has known her forever, what could happen? Of course he has his own problems with his feelings from the wars of surviving when others did not. Plus a blackmailer is on his trail.
Meara Platt always writes stories that capture me from the very first page. Once I start there is no stopping until the end! Cannot wait for more!!
December 7, 2019
I do love this series, which is an off-shoot of the Farthingales. Poppy's turn this time, to find her love. Loved the storyline and characters. It was nice to catch up on the Farthingales. Enjoyable read.
5☆
5☆
November 21, 2024
Esta historia es un romance histórico y, como tal, está bien. Hay algunas cosas que no me convencieron, pero se pueden pasar por alto fácilmente. En general, fue una lectura rápida y agradable con cierta libertad histórica y personajes decentes.
June 1, 2019
So sweet
Heartwarming series! I enjoyed it so much! Love when the classes mix for love! Surely it happened in real life, it makes for a great read!
Heartwarming series! I enjoyed it so much! Love when the classes mix for love! Surely it happened in real life, it makes for a great read!
April 28, 2021
es muy similar al anterior
June 19, 2019
A good read
Nathaniel- an earl
Poppy- shy and sweet
I enjoyed reading this sweet story that is well written with lovable characters. Their story has a wonderful HEA though I would like to know what ever happened to Felicity it was hinted but more details would be nice.
Nathaniel- an earl
Poppy- shy and sweet
I enjoyed reading this sweet story that is well written with lovable characters. Their story has a wonderful HEA though I would like to know what ever happened to Felicity it was hinted but more details would be nice.
July 11, 2019
Adorable book in this series. I look forward to the next one.
September 1, 2020
I stumbled across the audiobook version of this book and figured I'd give it a shot despite the fact that I've never heard of the author or read the first book in the series.
First things first - I dislike the narrator, Hollis McCarthy, very strongly. She makes every character and every intonation sound like a joke. I'm not sure why she feels it's necessary to "overact" or narrate the whole book in a sing-songy way but it's friggin' annoying! No one talks like this IRL >_<
First things first - I dislike the narrator, Hollis McCarthy, very strongly. She makes every character and every intonation sound like a joke. I'm not sure why she feels it's necessary to "overact" or narrate the whole book in a sing-songy way but it's friggin' annoying! No one talks like this IRL >_<
June 5, 2019
Nathaniel Sherboure, Earl of Welles a certified bachelor is happy to be single and has no plans to marry. Many women including his sister’s best friend Poppy Farthingale have tried to snare him into marriage but Nathaniel has been able to avoid it. When Poppy starts carrying the Book of Love wanting to try the recipes used in the book to find a suitable marriage prospect Nathaniel agrees to help her by being her test frog. Poppy has her sights set on Nathaniel but she knows that he doesn’t love her. Still maybe Poppy can win Nathaniel’s heart before a beautiful Duke’s daughter takes him away and marries him anyway. Of course the road to love is never easy and with other things pulling at Poppy and Nathaniel. Can Nathaniel convince Poppy that his feelings have changed for her and are true before something else happens.
This is the second book in The Book of Love series and still a delight to read! The book moves steadily with some hardships but it never really slows the storyline down. Of course this is a prettily told story of friends to lovers with one sexy scene so it doesn’t put off most regency readers which is good to see. The attraction between them is highly evident and very easily felt. The cover is very beautiful and just brings everything together too. The characters are fairly drawn out. We fell in love with the previous characters and the characters in this book are no exception either. Poppy the sensible smart heroine never loses who she is. Yes she loves an Earl but doesn’t act haughty or snobbishly to anyone. Poppy might be a little too nice but is still willing to give Nathaniel up even though it will break her heart. Nathaniel seems like an okay guy even with his past roguish ways. The only bothersome point was Nathaniel’s past sexual relationship and history with the Duke’s daughter; it’s never fully explained or elaborated. Sure it was before Nathaniel started to really notice Poppy it just won’t sit well for some. O yes the next book is one that is much eagerly anticipated anyway!
This is the second book in The Book of Love series and still a delight to read! The book moves steadily with some hardships but it never really slows the storyline down. Of course this is a prettily told story of friends to lovers with one sexy scene so it doesn’t put off most regency readers which is good to see. The attraction between them is highly evident and very easily felt. The cover is very beautiful and just brings everything together too. The characters are fairly drawn out. We fell in love with the previous characters and the characters in this book are no exception either. Poppy the sensible smart heroine never loses who she is. Yes she loves an Earl but doesn’t act haughty or snobbishly to anyone. Poppy might be a little too nice but is still willing to give Nathaniel up even though it will break her heart. Nathaniel seems like an okay guy even with his past roguish ways. The only bothersome point was Nathaniel’s past sexual relationship and history with the Duke’s daughter; it’s never fully explained or elaborated. Sure it was before Nathaniel started to really notice Poppy it just won’t sit well for some. O yes the next book is one that is much eagerly anticipated anyway!
May 31, 2019
Heart-meltingly intimate and witty delight!
Really loving this series and the comfort and familiarity Platt generates as she seemlessly blends and connects all her series' characters together, here linking a member of the infamous, adoringly lovable and unforgettable Farthingales - must to my delight.
A compelling balance between wit and touching sentiment, innocent blushes, stomach fluttering moments and passionate musings as the pair continue down their path of discovery to mutual heart-pounding love. Nathaniel is suddenly entinced and drawn to the beautiful (both inside and out) woman Poppy has become, as he struggles to no longer see her as the shy little girl and kindhearted childhood friend of this sister, who's always been around. Really loved experiencing Nathaniel and Poppy's heart warmingly witty journey as they build trust, reveal soul deep torment and embrace misunderstandings, sparks of attraction, self doubt, protectiveness, sexual yearnings and jealousy, through the innocent actions of Poppy, as she fights to win the heart of the man she's always secretly loved and adored, and the yearnings of a man who's slowly surrendering to her soothing touch. The addition of a bit of espionage in the quest to root out a malicious blackmailer only intensified my enjoyment and kept me further riveted. A real charming and heartmeltingly entertaining read.
Platt has a real skill for creating entrancing characters that you can't help but champion and fall head over heels in love with. Really hoping the subcharacters, especially Dr Angus Carmichael, the endearing scamp Pip (when he's much older of course) as well as Felicity Billings and even the rogue Lord Jameson earn their own happy ever after as they have already entinced my curiosity and won a little piece of my heart too.
Looking forward to book 3, Thad and Penelope - let the sparring and delightful teasing and provocation commence!!!
Really loving this series and the comfort and familiarity Platt generates as she seemlessly blends and connects all her series' characters together, here linking a member of the infamous, adoringly lovable and unforgettable Farthingales - must to my delight.
A compelling balance between wit and touching sentiment, innocent blushes, stomach fluttering moments and passionate musings as the pair continue down their path of discovery to mutual heart-pounding love. Nathaniel is suddenly entinced and drawn to the beautiful (both inside and out) woman Poppy has become, as he struggles to no longer see her as the shy little girl and kindhearted childhood friend of this sister, who's always been around. Really loved experiencing Nathaniel and Poppy's heart warmingly witty journey as they build trust, reveal soul deep torment and embrace misunderstandings, sparks of attraction, self doubt, protectiveness, sexual yearnings and jealousy, through the innocent actions of Poppy, as she fights to win the heart of the man she's always secretly loved and adored, and the yearnings of a man who's slowly surrendering to her soothing touch. The addition of a bit of espionage in the quest to root out a malicious blackmailer only intensified my enjoyment and kept me further riveted. A real charming and heartmeltingly entertaining read.
Platt has a real skill for creating entrancing characters that you can't help but champion and fall head over heels in love with. Really hoping the subcharacters, especially Dr Angus Carmichael, the endearing scamp Pip (when he's much older of course) as well as Felicity Billings and even the rogue Lord Jameson earn their own happy ever after as they have already entinced my curiosity and won a little piece of my heart too.
Looking forward to book 3, Thad and Penelope - let the sparring and delightful teasing and provocation commence!!!
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January 27, 2021I'm actually just finished with reading book 4 of this series and up until that point, even after reading book 3, this was my favorite. There's just something nice about the Farthinggale females. They aren't aristocracy, but they aren't poor either. I also like that in the first 3 in this series, it's about 3 young women who grew up together as what in today's world would be considered BFF's, just as the 3 men are also best friends, one brought in through their experiences being in the Napoleonic wars. I liked the fact that you can read these books as stand alone books, but because you become kind of involved with the intertwined relationships of these young people, you also want to see each one of them finding their life mates and/or happily ever after. Poppy and Nathaniel have such a great relationship that sometimes I had to scratch my head that they both felt attracted but neither realized until the very end that they each felt the same way. I would definitely recommend this and all 4 in the series that I've read so far. I will begin book 5 sometime today after I spend a little more time on-line. That one doesn't involve the 3 girlfriends, or guy buddies, but does continue on with the Farthingale family since Poppy gives the book to her BFF Penelope, who in turn gives it to Poppy's sister, Violet. I plan to read all the Farthingale stories after I finish this series. One thing I'd love is to see more of these characters as they grow old together. Being older now, I love these sweet stories of young love, but what would be even more fun is if Meara would make some "extended epilogues" showing the couples when their children are older and they are maybe even becoming grandparents, to show how well their marriages worked out. HINT HINT
May 30, 2019
The Book of Love is being used again, this time by Poppy Farthingale, after the marriage of Goose and Beast. Poppy decided that she has 4 days to make the Earl of Welles notice her. Yes, they are friends. She has known him since she was little but has also held her love for him close to her heart. Nathaniel Sherbourne, the Earl of Welles, has returned home from war a much different person than the one that went in. Since seeing most of his regiment, in coffins lining the dock, he has become numb to his feelings. Numbness was easy for him and he has grown comfortable with the feeling. However, Poppy brings him this book and together they explore the contents. While trying to explain it to Poppy, Nathaniel finds a blackmail letter sent to his Aunt, and Poppy is sent an unsigned love letter. Just what is going on and how is he going to unravel the mysteries threating his family. Will the book win out or will these unsettling mysteries get in the way? What an interesting adventure caused in part by The Book of Love.
May 31, 2019
The Book of Love with rules to find true love. Poppy Farthingale has made a pact with her two best friends to use The Book of Love, after all how else will Nathaniel Sherbourne, Earl of Welles, ever notice her compare to the Duke’s beautiful daughter. Nathaniel is in no hurry to marry, but he agrees to help Poppy find a match for herself. Poppy has known Nathanial since she was little and she knows he will never hurt her. Nathaniel knows he’s in trouble when he tells his friends Poppy is harmless and he’ll prove it by agreeing to be her test frog, to experiment and teach her the five senses: sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch. They are drawn closer the more time they spend together, but he feels quilt from the wars of surviving when others did not and a blackmailer to deal with so falling in love was the last thing he expects. An enchanting story with The Book of Love moving to the second couple in the series Poppy and Nathaniel. I have voluntarily read and review this book.
January 6, 2020
Poppy Farthingale (yes of those Farthingales) has been in love with Nathaniel, Earl of Welles since she was a little girl. One of her best friends, Penelope (Loopy book 3) is Nathan's sister. Along with Olivia (Goose, book 1) the three are reading the Book of Love. It must be true and accurate because it landed Olivia a beast, who was her perfect match. Poppy starts using the book and Nathan is her test frog. He thinks he can outwit her so he goes along with the "game". Nathan although is a bit distracted, much to Loopy's horror (and Poppys) Nathan has invited a skanky women and her Duke father to a house party, along with some other people. His motive is not what everyone assumes. Someone is blackmailing his family and he has plans to set a trap and deal with those that are responsible. He confides in Poppy and the two start playing detective. Only poppy is also using the book! Nathan won't know what hit him!!! A True Farthingale delight!
July 31, 2023
The Touch of Love (The Books of Love 2) Meara Platt
Nathaniel had returned from the battles with Napoleon, along with his friends the Duke of Hartford, Beast and Thadd. A summer of friends, his sister Penelope, Poppy Farthingale, Olivia Beasts wife, Goose as she was called since her maiden name was Gosling. Beast and Goose had just been married recently. The ladies were all using the Book of Love to understand about how to attract men to marry, since it was their first season of coming out. Nathaniel was to be the test frog for Poppy, and he was not amused. This is the delightful story of slowing falling in love, noticing a girl that he ignored before as only his sister's friend who has been in love with him for many years. As goes life he also falls in love with her. Side stories fill in and complicate this love story. I thought enjoyed this story, loved the characters and cheered the ending.
Nathaniel had returned from the battles with Napoleon, along with his friends the Duke of Hartford, Beast and Thadd. A summer of friends, his sister Penelope, Poppy Farthingale, Olivia Beasts wife, Goose as she was called since her maiden name was Gosling. Beast and Goose had just been married recently. The ladies were all using the Book of Love to understand about how to attract men to marry, since it was their first season of coming out. Nathaniel was to be the test frog for Poppy, and he was not amused. This is the delightful story of slowing falling in love, noticing a girl that he ignored before as only his sister's friend who has been in love with him for many years. As goes life he also falls in love with her. Side stories fill in and complicate this love story. I thought enjoyed this story, loved the characters and cheered the ending.
May 27, 2019
Nathaniel Sherbourne, the Earl of Welles is feeling strangely nervous. His sister and her friends have got a book that is causing mischief. It's called the "Book of Love". It's already caused the downfall into marriage of one of his best friends. Now it looks like it's his turn to be the test frog. He's got far too much on his mind to get caught up in another drama.
Miss Poppy Farthingale is excited to have her turn with the book. She is a shy and very innocent young lady so she needs someone she can trust to be her test frog. She's known Nathaniel since she was a child, so she knows he will never hurt her.
This is a fun read full of mischief and emotion. Secrets have a way of coming to haunt us when we least want them. This is the second book in the series and I can't wait to read the next.
Great fun, I loved it.
Miss Poppy Farthingale is excited to have her turn with the book. She is a shy and very innocent young lady so she needs someone she can trust to be her test frog. She's known Nathaniel since she was a child, so she knows he will never hurt her.
This is a fun read full of mischief and emotion. Secrets have a way of coming to haunt us when we least want them. This is the second book in the series and I can't wait to read the next.
Great fun, I loved it.
June 20, 2019
Oh, sweet Poppy Farthingale has been in love with Nathaniel Sherbourne since she was a small child. Now, she must find a way to entice him to notice her but with a small dowry, no great lineage & a beautiful duke's daughter for competition, she must use The Book of Love to win him.
Nathaniel Sherbourne, the Earl of Welles, has returned from war & now must take a wife to fulfill his duties to the title.
But, the war has changed him after all the memories of wounded & dead soldiers.
This was such a fun, emotional read with LOL humor & Poppy only has 4 days to convince Nate she is his perfect choice for marriage. I love Meara's books as they always leave me with one of those happy, Feel Good feelings. I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book; all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
Nathaniel Sherbourne, the Earl of Welles, has returned from war & now must take a wife to fulfill his duties to the title.
But, the war has changed him after all the memories of wounded & dead soldiers.
This was such a fun, emotional read with LOL humor & Poppy only has 4 days to convince Nate she is his perfect choice for marriage. I love Meara's books as they always leave me with one of those happy, Feel Good feelings. I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book; all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
August 9, 2021
WOW!!! LOVED IT! this author is now among my FAVORITES!!! LOVE this time period she writes about, not really sure WHICH time period but I LOVE IT!! I usually read Paranormal romance, and Urban Fantasy with monsters, mayhem and fighting but I like to take a break and read something different and just as AWESOME and THIS author and this series fits the bill PERFECTLY!!
Like book one of this series book 2 has a sweet love story going on with a bit of mystery and turmoil in the mix. OOOOooooo !! LOVE IT. Super sweet love story, LOVED the mystery n scandal part too.
Can't wait to read the next one!!! I've been DYING to know more about how Penelope and THAD are going to get along if at all. ALREADY got it loaded up on the Kindle!!
Thanks Ms Platt, LOVE YOUR WORK!!!
PS ! There are some LOVELY quotable parts in this book!! LOVELY LOVELY sentiments and inspirational .
Like book one of this series book 2 has a sweet love story going on with a bit of mystery and turmoil in the mix. OOOOooooo !! LOVE IT. Super sweet love story, LOVED the mystery n scandal part too.
Can't wait to read the next one!!! I've been DYING to know more about how Penelope and THAD are going to get along if at all. ALREADY got it loaded up on the Kindle!!
Thanks Ms Platt, LOVE YOUR WORK!!!
PS ! There are some LOVELY quotable parts in this book!! LOVELY LOVELY sentiments and inspirational .
May 30, 2019
The Book of Love is ready for its next victim/subject - Nathaniel Sherbourne. Poppy has loved Nathaniel as long as she can remember. As Nathaniel realizes exactly what she wishes to learn and try with a member of the opposite sex, the more he decides that is unacceptable with anyone but him. Unwilling to admit his feelings, Nathaniel must sit and be quiet when Poppy chats and meets with Andrew Gordon and Dr. Angus Carmichael. There is a bit of a mystery in this one, as someone has begun to blackmail members of the peerage. Of course Poppy and Nathaniel must quietly solve the mystery and somehow rid himself of a “fiance” he has yet to propose marriage.
Another fun time with the magical book.
Another fun time with the magical book.
July 24, 2023
When The Book of Love is passed to Poppy Farthingale she is as intrigued as her friends to learn of the scientific differences between how men and women fall in love. Whilst having been in love with Nathaniel for years, she knows he is drawn towards another woman and a misunderstanding means she believes he will marry her in the near future. That being so, rather than trying to experiment with the various senses with Nathaniel, she attempts to open his eyes so that he can love Lady Charlotte.
For his part, Nathaniel cannot understand why a woman he has known for years is suddenly having such a hold on his thoughts, making him feel possessive and pushing him towards a woman he is not even sure he likes, whilst he is in the midst of trying to resolve a delicate family matter.
For his part, Nathaniel cannot understand why a woman he has known for years is suddenly having such a hold on his thoughts, making him feel possessive and pushing him towards a woman he is not even sure he likes, whilst he is in the midst of trying to resolve a delicate family matter.
February 18, 2020
The Touch of Love ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️by Meara Platt
Poppy Farthingale and her two best friends intend to learn all they can about attracting a man. They are reading what seems to be a magical book that will give them the recipes for love.
Poppy has always adored Nathaniel Sherbourne but he only thinks of her as his sisters friend friend childhood.
As Poppy proposes he be her test subject using the book Nathaniel realizes he doesn’t want her testing this out on anyone else but him. The dialogue between them is priceless as Poppy reels him in. This is an easy read that could be enjoyed by all ages.
Poppy Farthingale and her two best friends intend to learn all they can about attracting a man. They are reading what seems to be a magical book that will give them the recipes for love.
Poppy has always adored Nathaniel Sherbourne but he only thinks of her as his sisters friend friend childhood.
As Poppy proposes he be her test subject using the book Nathaniel realizes he doesn’t want her testing this out on anyone else but him. The dialogue between them is priceless as Poppy reels him in. This is an easy read that could be enjoyed by all ages.
June 29, 2020
I'm so lucky to own and to add this wonderful book to my Meara Platt Kindle collection.
Reading author Meara Platt's books are always so much fun and Nathaniel doesn't stand a chance once he agrees to be Poppy's test frog opening his eyes to actually see Poppy as a vibrant caring young woman and realizing he has feelings for her as they come together to solve a mystery. Outstanding writing, storytelling and charismatic characters come together creating a fun, loving and lighthearted regency romance.
Reading author Meara Platt's books are always so much fun and Nathaniel doesn't stand a chance once he agrees to be Poppy's test frog opening his eyes to actually see Poppy as a vibrant caring young woman and realizing he has feelings for her as they come together to solve a mystery. Outstanding writing, storytelling and charismatic characters come together creating a fun, loving and lighthearted regency romance.
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