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Redeeming The Reclusive Earl
His heart is a fortress.
And she’s trespassing!
After losing all he holds dear in a horrific fire, Max Aldersley, Earl of Rivenhall, shuns the world – until he catches Effie Nithercott digging holes on his estate! He banishes the intrepid archaeologist and the unsettled feelings she rouses within him. But she returns even more determined and infuriatingly desirable than before! He wonders just how deep she is prepared to dig – so far she’ll reach the man beneath his scars…?
369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2020
125 people are currently reading
647 people want to read
About the author
Virginia Heath
133 books1,196 followersWhen Virginia Heath was a little girl it took her ages to fall asleep, so she made up stories in her head to help pass the time while she was staring at the ceiling. As she got older, the stories became more complicated, sometimes taking weeks to get to the happy ending. Then one day, she decided to embrace the insomnia and start writing them down. Twenty books and two Romantic Novel of the Year Award nominations later, and it still takes her forever to fall asleep.
Her new Regency Romcom for St Martin's Press ~ Never Fall For Your Fiancée ~ is on sale November 9, 2021
If you want to find out more check out virginiaheathromance.com or follow her on Facebook @VirginiaHeathAuthor
Her new Regency Romcom for St Martin's Press ~ Never Fall For Your Fiancée ~ is on sale November 9, 2021
If you want to find out more check out virginiaheathromance.com or follow her on Facebook @VirginiaHeathAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 177 reviews
January 1, 2022
This is the second book by the author that I have thoroughly enjoyed. The dialogue and writing kept me entertained throughout the whole book. Max and Effie both have pasts that have caused trauma and this book tells the story of how each grows and deals with it. I enjoyed that Effie was not an avenging superhero character but rather a woman who accepts that she has a "big brain" and that the men of time (think Amy Farrah Fowler of Big Bang) are intimidated by her.
March 1, 2022
4.5 stars!
This is a fabulous reading, it has been a while since I enjoy any HR like this one.
My first read from this author, I certainly will checking her other books.
I like Ms. Heath writing style, I do feels like reading a genuine HR book, instead of a contemporary romance setting in the past.
I love the heroine, she help the hero back into the ‘living’ with just by be herself and I also love the hero who doesn’t scare with an extremely intelligent woman, especially when his ‘real’ education ended when he was only 12! 😳😬
Go, try and read this book, it’s a lovely read!
❤️❤️❤️
This is a fabulous reading, it has been a while since I enjoy any HR like this one.
My first read from this author, I certainly will checking her other books.
I like Ms. Heath writing style, I do feels like reading a genuine HR book, instead of a contemporary romance setting in the past.
I love the heroine, she help the hero back into the ‘living’ with just by be herself and I also love the hero who doesn’t scare with an extremely intelligent woman, especially when his ‘real’ education ended when he was only 12! 😳😬
Go, try and read this book, it’s a lovely read!
❤️❤️❤️
September 25, 2024
The bane of his life and the balm to his soul.
This was such a delight. A charming, funny, angsty, endearing, adorable delight. I adored this so much and adored the leads Max and Effie even more. Two incredibly lonely souls finding acceptance and happiness in each other. For fans of Amanda Quick's Ravished I think you'll love this one. This had a very similar set up with a scarred "beast" recluse hero and a sweet eccentric bluestocking heroine who loves her archeology. Although I found this one much stronger with more depth and emotion on top of the humor. I loved Effie's combination of confidence in her intelligence yet vulnerability and insecurity of wanting a family and to be loved just as she is. Max was the perfect gruff, brooding, grouchy "beast" to her smiling personality and open heart. Max just dissolves into a big teddy bear around her and it was so great to see. Their meet cute happens when he finds her on his land digging up holes trying to extract an old ancient pot. He first mistakes her for a boy since she's covered in mud and wearing breeches and weird goggles. The hilarity and fun ensues from there. What I loved most about this was that while we got to see this couple slowly fall for each other we also got to see them become friends first. I found that very significant and so dear considering Effie never had a real friend before this. Her "big brain" and tendency to ramble out whatever comes to her mind and debate topics always scared people off and society labels her as odd. Her scholarly father died so that left her completely alone in the world with nothing but her and her passion for antiquity to distract her. I just found her so endearing and sweet. Both hero and heroine are recluses for different reasons but need distractions from the whirling questions and thoughts plaguing them in their loneliness. They both needed unconditional love and that's exactly what they found in each other.
"Can I ask you a question, Max?"
"You can always ask me anything, Effie. In fact, I insist upon it. I find your honesty and your undisguised curiosity refreshing."
"Then that is a first. Most people loathe it."
"Then most people are daft. What’s the question?"
"Are we friends now? I feel as though we are, but I am never entirely sure. And experience has taught me that if I assume, then I am doomed to be disappointed when my perceived friend starts to avoid me."
She said it so matter of factly, but his heart wept for her. It was so ill deserved. Effie was a breath of fresh air, not an irritation. "I suppose we must be."
Her delighted smile was like a balm to his soul. "That’s nice. And you don’t mind all the questions?"
"I don’t want you to ever think you shouldn’t ask questions, Effie. You can always ask me anything..."
Ugh. Just so adorable. ❤️ This scene honestly made me want to cry I found it so touching and vulnerable. I loved how patient and kind Max was with Effie. Her intelligence and how quick her mind works fascinates him. And him going from grumbly put-out neighbor to intrigued assistant helping her dig up treasures and artifacts on his land was really cute and hilarious. Their banter is the greatest thing. I loved the endless nicknames he came up for her when he was angry or wanted to tease her. Miss Naive, Miss None-of-your-business, Miss Ninnyhammer, etc. 😂 It becomes a game of sorts and it's hilarious. I also loved Max's older sister Eleanor who takes Effie under her wing and truly worries and cares for her recluse brother. I also enjoyed how Max and Eleanor championed Effie's passion in antiquities and wanting her research paper on her finds to be published in a magazine for Archeologists society which only accepts men. Max's passionate defense of her and lifting her up was very sweet and showed how much he loved her. She really becomes his everything and you really see it in his actions and needing to be with her. His vulnerability and just wanting her to love him in return just turns your heart over and makes you all gooey inside. Maximillion Aldersley really is a swoon worthy hero.
"I brought lunch. It’s in my satchel and I am happy to share it with you seeing that you have practically demolished that pesky wall for me."
"Then don’t dither, Miss Nithercott. Bring it hither from thither before I wither."
Her mind fascinated him. Never in all his thirty-four years had he ever witnessed anything quite like it. The way she worked her way through problems by asking herself questions was astounding, coming to reasoned and substantiated conclusions in minutes when most would take hours deliberating such complicated things.
"Not so much an oddity in the odd sense, more odd that you are so..." Maddening, lovely, entertaining, necessary, entirely perfect from your magnificent big brain to your mismatched earrings. "Errr...uniquely you."
The air around him was suddenly heavy with the heady scent of lilacs and fat summer roses. With things unsaid and hopes unfulfilled. He knew they were best left unsaid. Knew he needed to be thankful she was his friend and not keep foolishly wishing for more. For everything. Everything? The truth slammed into him and left him unsteady. She was his everything. Good lord, he was doomed.
I am conflicted on the rating for this and I might change it. I really wanted to give this a 5 star (ETA: fuck it, I did. It's worth 5 stars ❤️) but the reason I held off was I felt the big misunderstanding dragged on for too long and both characters got stuck in their own heads too long, playing on their own fears and insecurities. Max especially. While I really liked that for once a scar-ravaged hero really was struggling with his self-confidence and he doesn't just overcome it overnight, Max's self-loathing, deep insecurity and fear got the best of him at times and it made me want to shake him and wish he would just talk to Effie instead of leaping to the wrong conclusions. Which he did a lot of. So that did get a little frustrating and dragged things out a little too long in the last quarter. They both are masters of jumping to the wrong conclusions and misunderstanding each other. That and there was only 1 sex scene and no epilogue. I really felt this needed an epilogue. I did love the slow burn just craved a *little* more payoff in the intimacy department given all the yearning and build up. But at the same time given Max's deep insecurities and trauma over his disfigurement I understood why it took a while to get there.
But overall, this was so good and I will definitely be trying Virginia Heath's other works. I already have some of her other books on my TBR list.
July 7, 2022
To put it simply, this book was a plain, easy, and such a comfort read. Focused more on their growing together and less on drama, this book shows that historical romance still can thrive outside the usual scandal-gossip-society theme. It’s just them, unapologetically them, prideful them, under close proximity, falling in love: and that’s enough for me. If you think the lack of drama is boring then this book might not be for you.
A Beauty and the Beast retelling, the story is about Effie who is an archaeologist. She is odd because of her brain and overall intelligence. When the new Earl settled on his new estate, he was surprised to find her digging on his lands. She claimed she had permission from the previous owner, but the stubborn scarred Max kicked her out because he wanted to wallow in self-pity. Soon she finds out that his scar is more than skin-deep and the two of them became friends. His friendship was proving to be useful when he helped her overcome the obstacles of being a woman scholar.
I love simple books, I do! And this book just gives that witty and unique conversation, one that leaves no doubt that they’re falling in love. This book is a breath of fresh air when I’m suffocated by HR’s society, instant lust, and gossips.
I also like how realistic it is compared to other books with scarred heroes. Max doesn’t immediately curse the world for the unfairness of it all, but he was scared of rejection. He decided it was enough not when his ex-fiance called off their engagement (although that stings a bit), but subtly and gradually when people at the park reacted differently. Basically, he hid not just because of his face, but because he lost everything one by one. I appreciated that.
I usually don’t like a modern take on gender equality in HR but this book shows the inequality so subtly and handled it so realistically. Let me clarify: what I meant about “modern take on gender equality” is how HR heroines curse men and demand change on the spot. That’s too modern. What I like is when we see the inequality, can relate to the unfairness, and we handle/overcome it realistically. Effie does this really well. She understood that this is a man’s world, she hated it but doesn’t curse and be overly hot-headed over it… she just wanted her papers to be published, for her studies to matter, and she makes effort to do that. She doesn’t blame the hero or rant at all to other people, she deals with it much like what I think women of the past would’ve dealt with it. That, folks, is refreshing. Strong HR women, yes pls.
The way they fall in love is really refreshing too. They peel back stories, they discover new things the more they interact, and it’s based on friendship. Although the conflict is not even close to our usual conflicts with almost no high-stakes drama, the book itself is incredibly good because it focused on a couple who fell in love despite their eccentric selves. That, ladies in gentlemen, is the core of beauty and the beast ; and as a lover of Beauty and the Beast, this passed the vibe check!
Because I don’t mind the lack of drama and I can’t pinpoint any flaws, a 5-star will do!
A Beauty and the Beast retelling, the story is about Effie who is an archaeologist. She is odd because of her brain and overall intelligence. When the new Earl settled on his new estate, he was surprised to find her digging on his lands. She claimed she had permission from the previous owner, but the stubborn scarred Max kicked her out because he wanted to wallow in self-pity. Soon she finds out that his scar is more than skin-deep and the two of them became friends. His friendship was proving to be useful when he helped her overcome the obstacles of being a woman scholar.
I love simple books, I do! And this book just gives that witty and unique conversation, one that leaves no doubt that they’re falling in love. This book is a breath of fresh air when I’m suffocated by HR’s society, instant lust, and gossips.
I also like how realistic it is compared to other books with scarred heroes. Max doesn’t immediately curse the world for the unfairness of it all, but he was scared of rejection. He decided it was enough not when his ex-fiance called off their engagement (although that stings a bit), but subtly and gradually when people at the park reacted differently. Basically, he hid not just because of his face, but because he lost everything one by one. I appreciated that.
I usually don’t like a modern take on gender equality in HR but this book shows the inequality so subtly and handled it so realistically. Let me clarify: what I meant about “modern take on gender equality” is how HR heroines curse men and demand change on the spot. That’s too modern. What I like is when we see the inequality, can relate to the unfairness, and we handle/overcome it realistically. Effie does this really well. She understood that this is a man’s world, she hated it but doesn’t curse and be overly hot-headed over it… she just wanted her papers to be published, for her studies to matter, and she makes effort to do that. She doesn’t blame the hero or rant at all to other people, she deals with it much like what I think women of the past would’ve dealt with it. That, folks, is refreshing. Strong HR women, yes pls.
The way they fall in love is really refreshing too. They peel back stories, they discover new things the more they interact, and it’s based on friendship. Although the conflict is not even close to our usual conflicts with almost no high-stakes drama, the book itself is incredibly good because it focused on a couple who fell in love despite their eccentric selves. That, ladies in gentlemen, is the core of beauty and the beast ; and as a lover of Beauty and the Beast, this passed the vibe check!
Because I don’t mind the lack of drama and I can’t pinpoint any flaws, a 5-star will do!
May 27, 2020
A- / 4.5 stars rounded up.
Another winner from Virginia Heath in the form of this lovely, funny, warm and sexy grumpy-reclusive-hero-meets-breath-of-fresh-air-heroine story that is easily one of the best historical romances I’ve read in a while.
Badly injured in a ship-board fire he barely survived, and then unceremoniously dumped by his beautiful but shallow fiancée, Max Aldersley, Earl of Rivenhall, has holed up on his Cambridgeshire estate, and intends to remain there, licking his wounds (metaphorically) for… well, ever, if he has his own way. The last thing he wants is to find himself distracted from his wallowing by a breeches-wearing, challenging and rather lovely female who insists on digging up bits of his land in the name of archaeology – and he tells his irritating trespasser so in no uncertain terms.
Miss Effie Nithercott has dedicated her life to the study of antiquities, and is dismayed at the prospect of having to discontinue her work. She’s nearly thirty and unmarried – the man she had planned to marry was killed in the war – and she has resigned herself to spinsterhood and a life spent in academic pursuits. Her dream is to have one of her papers published by the Society of Antiquities, but they will not even look at her work because she’s a woman; even so, she continues to write and send them… and to receive them back unopened.
She refuses to give up her dig without a fight, and in the face of yet another refusal, starts digging alone in the dark – and Max eventually gives in, citing the threat to her personal safety as the reason, and allows her to continue with her excavations in the daylight. Not long afterwards, she finds herself entertaining a lordly guest who just happens to come by “accidentally” every day to share her lunch, listen to her talk about her discoveries and whom she manages to persuade to wield a pick-axe on occasion.
Virginia Heath has penned a lovely, slow-burn romance full of chemistry, affection, tenderness and teasing between two people who have found themselves on the outside through no fault of their own. Effie is neuroatypical; her mind is always on the go, she has a huge thirst and capacity for knowledge and she’s possessed of an eidetic memory. She’s known she was ‘odd’ all her life; men have been attracted to her, but have been intimidated by the intelligence she’s unable to hide. She can’t simper and flirt as other women do, she’s too much herself to try to be anything she is not and she speaks her mind, often without thinking first; none of these qualities men look for in a wife.
Max, however, is fascinated by Effie’s mind and the way it works. He’s physically attracted to her, too, but her inquisitiveness and amazing capacity for joy in her work delight him. He’s reluctant to let her in, to tell her about and let her see all the ways the fire he survived damaged him inside and out; but as he begins to see and understand the obstacles she has faced – and continues to face – he slowly starts to let her in. I cheered at the moment when Effie calls Max on his wallowing, and reminds him that he has far more choices in life than she does – and again later, when he finally understands what she’s been telling him:
The world was made for men and brutally unfair to a woman as brilliant as her.
One of the things I really enjoyed about the book is the way the author imbues it with a feminist message without hitting readers over the head with it. Effie is unusual and rather eccentric, but her quirkiness is a properly established character trait, and not just a way for her to go around telling everyone how unconventional she is. Another is that Effie absolutely refuses to pity Max for his scars or for what caused them and what happened after. She understands a terrible thing happened to him, and helps him to see that:
“We all have a choice, Max. We can either fact it fighting or let it beat us and win.”
I was also pleased at the way Max’s sister, Eleanor is portrayed. Often, a character such as she is interfering and annoying, but here, it’s very clear that Eleanor (and okay, so she is one for interfering!) loves her brother very much – she leaves her own family for weeks at a time because she’s worried about him – and wants him to be happy. I liked her kindness and sense of humour, and the friendship that developed between her and Effie.
Redeeming the Reclusive Earl is a gorgeously romantic, sensual love story featuring two lonely souls who are perfect one another.
Another winner from Virginia Heath in the form of this lovely, funny, warm and sexy grumpy-reclusive-hero-meets-breath-of-fresh-air-heroine story that is easily one of the best historical romances I’ve read in a while.
Badly injured in a ship-board fire he barely survived, and then unceremoniously dumped by his beautiful but shallow fiancée, Max Aldersley, Earl of Rivenhall, has holed up on his Cambridgeshire estate, and intends to remain there, licking his wounds (metaphorically) for… well, ever, if he has his own way. The last thing he wants is to find himself distracted from his wallowing by a breeches-wearing, challenging and rather lovely female who insists on digging up bits of his land in the name of archaeology – and he tells his irritating trespasser so in no uncertain terms.
Miss Effie Nithercott has dedicated her life to the study of antiquities, and is dismayed at the prospect of having to discontinue her work. She’s nearly thirty and unmarried – the man she had planned to marry was killed in the war – and she has resigned herself to spinsterhood and a life spent in academic pursuits. Her dream is to have one of her papers published by the Society of Antiquities, but they will not even look at her work because she’s a woman; even so, she continues to write and send them… and to receive them back unopened.
She refuses to give up her dig without a fight, and in the face of yet another refusal, starts digging alone in the dark – and Max eventually gives in, citing the threat to her personal safety as the reason, and allows her to continue with her excavations in the daylight. Not long afterwards, she finds herself entertaining a lordly guest who just happens to come by “accidentally” every day to share her lunch, listen to her talk about her discoveries and whom she manages to persuade to wield a pick-axe on occasion.
Virginia Heath has penned a lovely, slow-burn romance full of chemistry, affection, tenderness and teasing between two people who have found themselves on the outside through no fault of their own. Effie is neuroatypical; her mind is always on the go, she has a huge thirst and capacity for knowledge and she’s possessed of an eidetic memory. She’s known she was ‘odd’ all her life; men have been attracted to her, but have been intimidated by the intelligence she’s unable to hide. She can’t simper and flirt as other women do, she’s too much herself to try to be anything she is not and she speaks her mind, often without thinking first; none of these qualities men look for in a wife.
Max, however, is fascinated by Effie’s mind and the way it works. He’s physically attracted to her, too, but her inquisitiveness and amazing capacity for joy in her work delight him. He’s reluctant to let her in, to tell her about and let her see all the ways the fire he survived damaged him inside and out; but as he begins to see and understand the obstacles she has faced – and continues to face – he slowly starts to let her in. I cheered at the moment when Effie calls Max on his wallowing, and reminds him that he has far more choices in life than she does – and again later, when he finally understands what she’s been telling him:
The world was made for men and brutally unfair to a woman as brilliant as her.
One of the things I really enjoyed about the book is the way the author imbues it with a feminist message without hitting readers over the head with it. Effie is unusual and rather eccentric, but her quirkiness is a properly established character trait, and not just a way for her to go around telling everyone how unconventional she is. Another is that Effie absolutely refuses to pity Max for his scars or for what caused them and what happened after. She understands a terrible thing happened to him, and helps him to see that:
“We all have a choice, Max. We can either fact it fighting or let it beat us and win.”
I was also pleased at the way Max’s sister, Eleanor is portrayed. Often, a character such as she is interfering and annoying, but here, it’s very clear that Eleanor (and okay, so she is one for interfering!) loves her brother very much – she leaves her own family for weeks at a time because she’s worried about him – and wants him to be happy. I liked her kindness and sense of humour, and the friendship that developed between her and Effie.
Redeeming the Reclusive Earl is a gorgeously romantic, sensual love story featuring two lonely souls who are perfect one another.
July 11, 2020
4,5*
A star for that cover alone!
I can picture Max just like that ... long locks to cover his scars.
And a beautiful, heartwarming story with two immensely lovable mcs.
*Spoilers*
A star for that cover alone!
I can picture Max just like that ... long locks to cover his scars.
And a beautiful, heartwarming story with two immensely lovable mcs.
*Spoilers*
October 7, 2020
I used to be a Harlequin snob, but in the past year or so I've found some really good Harlequin historical romances while at the same time my favorite non-Harlequin authors have consistently been letting me down. So a big welcome to Virginia Heath as an addition to my historical romance author list.
This, her most recent HR, does not have an unusual plot, with the exception of what the heroine spends her time doing. The hero is one of those formerly handsome and dashing upper-class men who is disfigured in an accident and gives up on life and happiness. Max Aldersley, Earl of Rivenhall, a former ship captain, was burned in a terrible fire at sea, almost dies, is left badly scarred, depressed, and despondent after his beautiful fair-weather fiancee dumps him. He is now in self exile at the estate which he inherited from his late uncle, wanting to see no one nor to be seen by anyone. He's grumpy, grouchy, a completely-empty-glass kind of guy and doesn't even want visits from his loving sister who had nursed him back to health.
When Max is out riding one day he comes upon what seems to be a very young man digging around on his land. Turns out it's Effie Nithercott, his next-door neighbor and avocational archaeologist, who had had permission from his uncle to do a dig on the land. She has made a surprising discovery of what seems to be a pre-Roman site.
Well, of course, grumpy Max says no more digging. Go away. Leave me and my land alone. And Effie doesn't quite know how to take no for an answer. Archaeology and academics and learning are all she has. After the death of her father she is alone in the world. And she doesn't expect ever to marry and have a family of her own. It seems that her excessively big brain turns men away after their first initial interest in her beauty. Not only that but her feminine gender prevents her from being accepted in the academic world.
So we have two lonely, somewhat lost souls. But, in spite of that, this is a fun, upbeat, humorous and romantic story. No time is spent wallowing in angst. The time is spent getting Max to stop feeling sorry for himself and embrace life again and to think about someone other than himself.
The relationship between the two is delightful. From antagonism to friendship to love. Nicely done. There's great and smart dialogue. It's a story written with humor, wit and intelligence. The romance develops rather slowly, the way I like. When the H and h finally do become involved sexually, it works because their interactions up to that point have led to it organically rather than having the author throw sex scenes in just because. In addition, the secondary characters such as the sister are nicely drawn and add to the overall story line.
This, her most recent HR, does not have an unusual plot, with the exception of what the heroine spends her time doing. The hero is one of those formerly handsome and dashing upper-class men who is disfigured in an accident and gives up on life and happiness. Max Aldersley, Earl of Rivenhall, a former ship captain, was burned in a terrible fire at sea, almost dies, is left badly scarred, depressed, and despondent after his beautiful fair-weather fiancee dumps him. He is now in self exile at the estate which he inherited from his late uncle, wanting to see no one nor to be seen by anyone. He's grumpy, grouchy, a completely-empty-glass kind of guy and doesn't even want visits from his loving sister who had nursed him back to health.
When Max is out riding one day he comes upon what seems to be a very young man digging around on his land. Turns out it's Effie Nithercott, his next-door neighbor and avocational archaeologist, who had had permission from his uncle to do a dig on the land. She has made a surprising discovery of what seems to be a pre-Roman site.
Well, of course, grumpy Max says no more digging. Go away. Leave me and my land alone. And Effie doesn't quite know how to take no for an answer. Archaeology and academics and learning are all she has. After the death of her father she is alone in the world. And she doesn't expect ever to marry and have a family of her own. It seems that her excessively big brain turns men away after their first initial interest in her beauty. Not only that but her feminine gender prevents her from being accepted in the academic world.
So we have two lonely, somewhat lost souls. But, in spite of that, this is a fun, upbeat, humorous and romantic story. No time is spent wallowing in angst. The time is spent getting Max to stop feeling sorry for himself and embrace life again and to think about someone other than himself.
The relationship between the two is delightful. From antagonism to friendship to love. Nicely done. There's great and smart dialogue. It's a story written with humor, wit and intelligence. The romance develops rather slowly, the way I like. When the H and h finally do become involved sexually, it works because their interactions up to that point have led to it organically rather than having the author throw sex scenes in just because. In addition, the secondary characters such as the sister are nicely drawn and add to the overall story line.
May 8, 2020
Max is living in semi-exile after a horrible accident left him scarred and alone. He meets Miss Effie Nithercott digging on his land and he is not at all pleased about it. He is "happy" wallowing in his own "self-pity" and doesn't need someone encroaching on his personal space ... or trespassing on
his property!
But encroach she does and she gets under his skin ... I really liked Effie. Not afraid to stand her ground and speak her mind. She lived a lonely life and Max was a bright spark in it.
Max had been used to a life of travel with the Navy. Now, he was "stuck" on his Estate where he feels he has no purpose in life ...
Effie was no shrinking violet. She worked in a "man's world" ... she knew she would never get recognition for the work she did ...
I really liked his sister, Eleanor - she wanted to see Max happy and content and she knew that Effie could be the person to make that dream come true.
I haven't read this author before. Thanks Ira for your lovely review. It piqued my interest and I knew I would have to give it a try. Who doesn't love a tortured, scarred hero?
his property!
He had lost all interest in everything and everyone a long time ago.
But encroach she does and she gets under his skin ... I really liked Effie. Not afraid to stand her ground and speak her mind. She lived a lonely life and Max was a bright spark in it.
He was simply being difficult and unreasonable. Two traits she had little time for under the normal course of things.
Max had been used to a life of travel with the Navy. Now, he was "stuck" on his Estate where he feels he has no purpose in life ...
Effie was no shrinking violet. She worked in a "man's world" ... she knew she would never get recognition for the work she did ...
The heady aroma of lilac and roses ...
Nothing terrified or aggravated a man more than an excessively clever woman ...
"This pencil ... is the single most erotic thing I have ever seen."
I really liked his sister, Eleanor - she wanted to see Max happy and content and she knew that Effie could be the person to make that dream come true.
"Oh, Effie," his sigh was like a benediction.
I haven't read this author before. Thanks Ira for your lovely review. It piqued my interest and I knew I would have to give it a try. Who doesn't love a tortured, scarred hero?
January 4, 2022
Ridiculous book cover aside, this book was awesome!
It was so cute that I want a re-read already.
An enimes to friends to lovers story that made me awwwwn and ooooh and laugh in so many parts. I highly recommend this book.
4.5 stars.
It was so cute that I want a re-read already.
An enimes to friends to lovers story that made me awwwwn and ooooh and laugh in so many parts. I highly recommend this book.
4.5 stars.
August 27, 2022
This was really cute. I loved our depressed hero with a sense of humor nonetheless. And the heroine grew on me over the time especially when I learned she was really alone in the world. Even though that’s often author’s device to make heroines likable.
March 17, 2020
Normally, I pay little, if any, attention to book covers, but I have to say this cover is absolutely perfect for Maximillian (Max) Aldersley, Earl of Rivenhall. Max is in a really dark place and he just wants to be left alone. He has suffered a debilitating series of losses – one after the other. There is no future for him – nothing left but endless, relentless days of despair and unhappiness. In an act of heroism, he managed to save his crew from a fiery death at sea – but – that nearly cost him his life. He was left scarred, and his fiancée begged off their betrothal. In a matter of just a few short months, he was horribly injured and scarred, lost his career, lost his ship, lost his crew, lost his father and lost his fiancée. He wants nothing more than to exist on his estate – alone. No visitors, no friends, no interactions with anyone except his staff. Until… Who is that muddy boy who is digging on his property? Only, is it a boy?
Euphemia (Effie) Nithercott is quite accustomed to people shying away from her. Oh, they approach her and compliment her on how lovely she is. At least they do until they spend a few minutes around her. Then they see how odd she is, how smart she is, how unconventional she is. Effie is also accustomed to her solitary life. She doesn’t like it, she’d like something more, but she is resigned to it. She has no family and no friends. Her sole joy is in the antiquities she is unearthing on the neighboring estate. She is uncovering some very rare, never seen before, kinds of things. Things that may very well rewrite England’s early history. Her one desire is to have the papers she’s written about the discoveries published in Archaeologia, but since she is female, they won’t even read her papers much less publish them.
I absolutely adored the romance between these two misfits. They were delightful characters to whom you’ll quickly relate. It was wonderful to watch the indomitable, irrepressible Effie totally flummox the grumpy, curmudgeonly Max. I love that the transformation didn’t happen overnight – it built up over months – and was so entirely believable. I was immediately sucked into the story and found it impossible to put the book down.
The humor is deliciously pleasing all through the book. For instance, Max rarely calls Effie Miss Nithercott. He calls her things like Miss Nuisance, Miss Nitwit, Miss Nocturnal, Miss Not-at-all-usual, Miss No-common-sense-whatsoever, Miss Nit-Picker, Miss Not-above-knavery-to-get-her-own-way, etc. Then, of course, there were the comments about Effie’s big brain – I kept giggling and picturing that cartoon character – Megamind.
It is a delightful story and you absolutely cannot go wrong by reading it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Euphemia (Effie) Nithercott is quite accustomed to people shying away from her. Oh, they approach her and compliment her on how lovely she is. At least they do until they spend a few minutes around her. Then they see how odd she is, how smart she is, how unconventional she is. Effie is also accustomed to her solitary life. She doesn’t like it, she’d like something more, but she is resigned to it. She has no family and no friends. Her sole joy is in the antiquities she is unearthing on the neighboring estate. She is uncovering some very rare, never seen before, kinds of things. Things that may very well rewrite England’s early history. Her one desire is to have the papers she’s written about the discoveries published in Archaeologia, but since she is female, they won’t even read her papers much less publish them.
I absolutely adored the romance between these two misfits. They were delightful characters to whom you’ll quickly relate. It was wonderful to watch the indomitable, irrepressible Effie totally flummox the grumpy, curmudgeonly Max. I love that the transformation didn’t happen overnight – it built up over months – and was so entirely believable. I was immediately sucked into the story and found it impossible to put the book down.
The humor is deliciously pleasing all through the book. For instance, Max rarely calls Effie Miss Nithercott. He calls her things like Miss Nuisance, Miss Nitwit, Miss Nocturnal, Miss Not-at-all-usual, Miss No-common-sense-whatsoever, Miss Nit-Picker, Miss Not-above-knavery-to-get-her-own-way, etc. Then, of course, there were the comments about Effie’s big brain – I kept giggling and picturing that cartoon character – Megamind.
It is a delightful story and you absolutely cannot go wrong by reading it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 18, 2022
It is a charming story but a bit too simplistic for my taste. Too many inner monologues as well, so it was boring at times. The misunderstanding was too drawn out. One reviewer compared this book to Ravished. The premise is pretty similar, but I feel that Ravished is more fun and enjoyable. It might have to do with the writing. This book was my first Virginia Heath book. The writing style isn't bad per se, but just a tad dull and uninspiring
March 17, 2020
Normally, I pay little, if any, attention to book covers, but I have to say this cover is absolutely perfect for Maximillian (Max) Aldersley, Earl of Rivenhall. Max is in a really dark place and he just wants to be left alone. He has suffered a debilitating series of losses – one after the other. There is no future for him – nothing left but endless, relentless days of despair and unhappiness. In an act of heroism, he managed to save his crew from a fiery death at sea – but – that nearly cost him his life. He was left scarred, and his fiancée begged off their betrothal. In a matter of just a few short months, he was horribly injured and scarred, lost his career, lost his ship, lost his crew, lost his father and lost his fiancée. He wants nothing more than to exist on his estate – alone. No visitors, no friends, no interactions with anyone except his staff. Until… Who is that muddy boy who is digging on his property? Only, is it a boy?
Euphemia (Effie) Nithercott is quite accustomed to people shying away from her. Oh, they approach her and compliment her on how lovely she is. At least they do until they spend a few minutes around her. Then they see how odd she is, how smart she is, how unconventional she is. Effie is also accustomed to her solitary life. She doesn’t like it, she’d like something more, but she is resigned to it. She has no family and no friends. Her sole joy is in the antiquities she is unearthing on the neighboring estate. She is uncovering some very rare, never seen before, kinds of things. Things that may very well rewrite England’s early history. Her one desire is to have the papers she’s written about the discoveries published in Archaeologia, but since she is female, they won’t even read her papers much less publish them.
I absolutely adored the romance between these two misfits. They were delightful characters to whom you’ll quickly relate. It was wonderful to watch the indomitable, irrepressible Effie totally flummox the grumpy, curmudgeonly Max. I love that the transformation didn’t happen overnight – it built up over months – and was so entirely believable. I was immediately sucked into the story and found it impossible to put the book down.
The humor is deliciously pleasing all through the book. For instance, Max rarely calls Effie Miss Nithercott. He calls her things like Miss Nuisance, Miss Nitwit, Miss Nocturnal, Miss Not-at-all-usual, Miss No-common-sense-whatsoever, Miss Nit-Picker, Miss Not-above-knavery-to-get-her-own-way, etc. Then, of course, there were the comments about Effie’s big brain – I kept giggling and picturing that cartoon character – Megamind.
It is a delightful story and you absolutely cannot go wrong by reading it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Euphemia (Effie) Nithercott is quite accustomed to people shying away from her. Oh, they approach her and compliment her on how lovely she is. At least they do until they spend a few minutes around her. Then they see how odd she is, how smart she is, how unconventional she is. Effie is also accustomed to her solitary life. She doesn’t like it, she’d like something more, but she is resigned to it. She has no family and no friends. Her sole joy is in the antiquities she is unearthing on the neighboring estate. She is uncovering some very rare, never seen before, kinds of things. Things that may very well rewrite England’s early history. Her one desire is to have the papers she’s written about the discoveries published in Archaeologia, but since she is female, they won’t even read her papers much less publish them.
I absolutely adored the romance between these two misfits. They were delightful characters to whom you’ll quickly relate. It was wonderful to watch the indomitable, irrepressible Effie totally flummox the grumpy, curmudgeonly Max. I love that the transformation didn’t happen overnight – it built up over months – and was so entirely believable. I was immediately sucked into the story and found it impossible to put the book down.
The humor is deliciously pleasing all through the book. For instance, Max rarely calls Effie Miss Nithercott. He calls her things like Miss Nuisance, Miss Nitwit, Miss Nocturnal, Miss Not-at-all-usual, Miss No-common-sense-whatsoever, Miss Nit-Picker, Miss Not-above-knavery-to-get-her-own-way, etc. Then, of course, there were the comments about Effie’s big brain – I kept giggling and picturing that cartoon character – Megamind.
It is a delightful story and you absolutely cannot go wrong by reading it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 6, 2020
An adorable spectacled bluestocking defies the unsociable and unrelenting Earl of Rivenhall.
Miss Euphemia Nithercott was considered an eccentric, at least in the era in which she was born. A spinster closer to her thirties than her twenties, she used to spend most of her time excavating near an old abbey in search of antiquities.
She even found an ancient, very rare pot, but unfortunately, at the same time, she met a reclusive, grumpy Earl, set on expelling her from the land.
Our hero, Lord Maximillian Aldersley, had had a substantial share of misfortunes and was not in a socializing mood. A spectacled, muddy, breech-wearing, bluestocking trespasser was more than he could cope with at that moment.
As usual in Mrs. Heath's stories, the dialogues are witty, and there are some priceless bantering between the main characters. Be sure to pay attention to all inventive and fun names given by Max to Euphemia. They trace a timeline of their relationship.
The side-characters are also compelling. I particularly liked Max's sister Eleanor, a caring sibling that stayed by his side no matter how much he pushed her away.
Max's former fiancee Miranda is selfish, superficial, and cruel. Luckily, she does not make an appearance and lives only in the hero's regrets and the heroine's insecurities.
On the background of Euphemia and Max's love story, the role of women in that society is questioned and analyzed. Euphemia's genius mind and her dream of publishing her archeological finds are an essential part of the plot and bring an extra layer of complexity.
Redeeming the Reclusive Earl is entertaining and heart-warming. A story of love, understanding, and acceptance.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Miss Euphemia Nithercott was considered an eccentric, at least in the era in which she was born. A spinster closer to her thirties than her twenties, she used to spend most of her time excavating near an old abbey in search of antiquities.
She even found an ancient, very rare pot, but unfortunately, at the same time, she met a reclusive, grumpy Earl, set on expelling her from the land.
Our hero, Lord Maximillian Aldersley, had had a substantial share of misfortunes and was not in a socializing mood. A spectacled, muddy, breech-wearing, bluestocking trespasser was more than he could cope with at that moment.
As usual in Mrs. Heath's stories, the dialogues are witty, and there are some priceless bantering between the main characters. Be sure to pay attention to all inventive and fun names given by Max to Euphemia. They trace a timeline of their relationship.
The side-characters are also compelling. I particularly liked Max's sister Eleanor, a caring sibling that stayed by his side no matter how much he pushed her away.
Max's former fiancee Miranda is selfish, superficial, and cruel. Luckily, she does not make an appearance and lives only in the hero's regrets and the heroine's insecurities.
On the background of Euphemia and Max's love story, the role of women in that society is questioned and analyzed. Euphemia's genius mind and her dream of publishing her archeological finds are an essential part of the plot and bring an extra layer of complexity.
Redeeming the Reclusive Earl is entertaining and heart-warming. A story of love, understanding, and acceptance.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 10, 2022
I liked the hero, on leave from the Royal Navy, which
he'd joined at age 12. He barely lived after a ship's fire,
1+ yr prior, which resulted in his facial & body scars.
But he rescued his crew.
The h was an archeologist. The hero's late uncle let
the h 'dig' on his land, land now owned by the H.
(Uncle died and the H became the earl. ) Men felt
threatened by her superior intelligence & she felt
"odd." The MCs "bumped faces (kissed)" & helped
each other grow emotionally. Different, charming,
had some angst.
he'd joined at age 12. He barely lived after a ship's fire,
1+ yr prior, which resulted in his facial & body scars.
But he rescued his crew.
The h was an archeologist. The hero's late uncle let
the h 'dig' on his land, land now owned by the H.
(Uncle died and the H became the earl. ) Men felt
threatened by her superior intelligence & she felt
"odd." The MCs "bumped faces (kissed)" & helped
each other grow emotionally. Different, charming,
had some angst.
May 24, 2023
I really enjoyed this story and the issues the female character had to face. Definitely worth reading it and another writer to keep an eye on.
June 24, 2020
This was a beauty and the beast type of story that I really enjoyed. The H was a Navy Captain who was in a fire aboard his ship. He lost his ship, crew, and nearly lost his life. Sadly, he also lost his fiance when she couldn't deal with his injury and loss of looks. After the death of his father, he is now the earl and has moved to the country where he can be alone and wallow in misery. He seems to really enjoy wallowing in self pity and he is a beast to everyone and pushes them away.
The h is a beautiful genius who is digging on the property of the H looking for antiquities. She is so intelligent that she scares away all eligible men when they realize that she is miles away more intelligent than they will ever hope to be. She lives alone after the death of her father and because she must keep her mind engaged, has been digging on the H's property and has found several interesting things that would seem to be thousands of years old and would give new insight into the earliest settlers of England.
When we begin the book, the H has come upon the h on his land and he is furious, rude and tells her to leave or he'll turn his dogs on her. (he has no dogs). She is desperate enough to track him down and beg to be allowed to continue and when he tells her no, she does it anyway, digging in the early morning hours by candlelight. These two slowly begin to befriend each other and a relationship develops. Sadly, they are both so wounded by life and so insecure that they never consider that the other might be interested in them. This is one of those books where the hero is horribly scarred by a fire (but only on part of his cheek so that he is hideous only in his own mind.) The h has been rejected by men so often and considered odd, that she never sees that the H might be interested in her as more than a friend.
I really enjoyed this book. The h spouts all sorts of facts about early Normans and Romans and I found it quite interesting as I have no knowledge of early England. The MCs are both wonderful yet broken. The h is really good at telling the H off when he gets too engrossed in his personal pity party. There were a few things that niggled (the misunderstandings, the H and h both being too cowardly to just say what they think and feel, the h had to be the one to kick-start the kiss with the H since he was thoroughly convinced that he was so hideous no woman would ever want him) but overall this was a very nice historical with two very likable characters.
Safety
The h is a beautiful genius who is digging on the property of the H looking for antiquities. She is so intelligent that she scares away all eligible men when they realize that she is miles away more intelligent than they will ever hope to be. She lives alone after the death of her father and because she must keep her mind engaged, has been digging on the H's property and has found several interesting things that would seem to be thousands of years old and would give new insight into the earliest settlers of England.
When we begin the book, the H has come upon the h on his land and he is furious, rude and tells her to leave or he'll turn his dogs on her. (he has no dogs). She is desperate enough to track him down and beg to be allowed to continue and when he tells her no, she does it anyway, digging in the early morning hours by candlelight. These two slowly begin to befriend each other and a relationship develops. Sadly, they are both so wounded by life and so insecure that they never consider that the other might be interested in them. This is one of those books where the hero is horribly scarred by a fire (but only on part of his cheek so that he is hideous only in his own mind.) The h has been rejected by men so often and considered odd, that she never sees that the H might be interested in her as more than a friend.
I really enjoyed this book. The h spouts all sorts of facts about early Normans and Romans and I found it quite interesting as I have no knowledge of early England. The MCs are both wonderful yet broken. The h is really good at telling the H off when he gets too engrossed in his personal pity party. There were a few things that niggled (the misunderstandings, the H and h both being too cowardly to just say what they think and feel, the h had to be the one to kick-start the kiss with the H since he was thoroughly convinced that he was so hideous no woman would ever want him) but overall this was a very nice historical with two very likable characters.
Safety
July 20, 2022
‘Do you see a man who you might consider forever with?
She paused and turned towards the mirror to gaze at his reflection while he gazed at hers.
‘That depends...on what you see when you look at me.’
‘I see the woman I love, Effie.’
January 14, 2022
Puedes encontrar esta reseña en español al final.
I loved it.
The only bad thing about this story is the synopsis. It doesn't do it justice. With so much exclamation points and question marks, one ends up exhausted reading it, and also it always gives me the feeling that it is going to be a bore. Or worse, nonsense. I do not know the reason behind the abuse of the marks, but it is something common in almost all the stories by this editorial.
That said, the story is most interesting and entertaining. The author chooses the ideal setting to get rid of some of the very strict conventions of the time, thus she achieves that the story, the romance and the protagonists can develop more fluidly.
This is a character-driven story. Another thing that I adore. Pages and pages of the most peculiar dialogues and interactions. And with plenty of time to see how the characters change, mature, get rid of theirfortress masks and how, above all, they fall in love.
And how, little by little and cunningly, they get what they want, which is not small thing, given the times. Hence the fact that it is an interesting and entertaining story, the author plays with the rules of the time and manages to give her characters field to breathe.
I must say that I have a soft spot for out of ballrooms & no Ton historical romances. Or almost no Ton.
***
Me ha encantado.
Lo único malo de esta historia es la sinopsis. No le hace justicia. Con tanta exclamación e interrogación, una acaba exhausta leyéndola, y además siempre me da la sensación de que va a ser un pestiño. O peor, una chorrada. No sé el porqué del abuso de los signos, pero es algo común en casi todas las historias de esta editorial.
Dicho esto, la historia es de lo más interesante y entretenida. La autora elige el marco ideal para poder deshacerse de muchas de las estrictísimas convenciones de la época. Así consigue que tanto la historia como el romance como los propios protagonistas puedan desarrollarse con mayor fluidez.
El peso total de la historia recae en los personajes. Otra cosa que adoro. Páginas y páginas de diálogos e interacciones de lo más peculiares. Y con tiempo de sobra para ver cómo los personajes van cambiando, madurando, deshaciéndose de sus caretas y como, sobre todo, van enamorándose.
Y cómo, poco a poco y con astucia consiguen lo que anhelan, que no es poco, dados los tiempos. De ahí lo de que es interesante y entretenida, la autora juega con las reglas de la época y consigue darle a sus personajes cancha para respirar.
He de decir que tengo especial predilección por los romances históricos que ocurren fuera de Londres, fuera de los bailes y sin “nobleza” a la vista. O casi.
I loved it.
The only bad thing about this story is the synopsis. It doesn't do it justice. With so much exclamation points and question marks, one ends up exhausted reading it, and also it always gives me the feeling that it is going to be a bore. Or worse, nonsense. I do not know the reason behind the abuse of the marks, but it is something common in almost all the stories by this editorial.
That said, the story is most interesting and entertaining. The author chooses the ideal setting to get rid of some of the very strict conventions of the time, thus she achieves that the story, the romance and the protagonists can develop more fluidly.
This is a character-driven story. Another thing that I adore. Pages and pages of the most peculiar dialogues and interactions. And with plenty of time to see how the characters change, mature, get rid of their
And how, little by little and cunningly, they get what they want, which is not small thing, given the times. Hence the fact that it is an interesting and entertaining story, the author plays with the rules of the time and manages to give her characters field to breathe.
I must say that I have a soft spot for out of ballrooms & no Ton historical romances. Or almost no Ton.
***
Me ha encantado.
Lo único malo de esta historia es la sinopsis. No le hace justicia. Con tanta exclamación e interrogación, una acaba exhausta leyéndola, y además siempre me da la sensación de que va a ser un pestiño. O peor, una chorrada. No sé el porqué del abuso de los signos, pero es algo común en casi todas las historias de esta editorial.
Dicho esto, la historia es de lo más interesante y entretenida. La autora elige el marco ideal para poder deshacerse de muchas de las estrictísimas convenciones de la época. Así consigue que tanto la historia como el romance como los propios protagonistas puedan desarrollarse con mayor fluidez.
El peso total de la historia recae en los personajes. Otra cosa que adoro. Páginas y páginas de diálogos e interacciones de lo más peculiares. Y con tiempo de sobra para ver cómo los personajes van cambiando, madurando, deshaciéndose de sus caretas y como, sobre todo, van enamorándose.
Y cómo, poco a poco y con astucia consiguen lo que anhelan, que no es poco, dados los tiempos. De ahí lo de que es interesante y entretenida, la autora juega con las reglas de la época y consigue darle a sus personajes cancha para respirar.
He de decir que tengo especial predilección por los romances históricos que ocurren fuera de Londres, fuera de los bailes y sin “nobleza” a la vista. O casi.
August 26, 2024
I have mixed emotions about this book.
Did I like it? YES. The story was the best blend of bittersweet, and I loved the twists and turns of the plot. Also, I loved the fact that the author tries to not only present the historical problems of the era but also give solutions to the story to satify the modern reader, especially regarding gender inequality. But... Max was such an A-hole... especially at first, and I wanted some grovel, and the end felt a little rushed.
Tags:
Burned/Scarred MMC👀👀👀
Grumpy/sunshine🙄🤭🥰
Virgin FMC ♍🌮💦
Historical Romance⚔️🏰🐲
Learning intimacy💁👌😍
Miscommunication😵💫⚠️
Angst😐😑😬
HEA🔔🤵🏼👰🏼
Did I like it? YES. The story was the best blend of bittersweet, and I loved the twists and turns of the plot. Also, I loved the fact that the author tries to not only present the historical problems of the era but also give solutions to the story to satify the modern reader, especially regarding gender inequality. But... Max was such an A-hole... especially at first, and I wanted some grovel, and the end felt a little rushed.
Tags:
Burned/Scarred MMC👀👀👀
Grumpy/sunshine🙄🤭🥰
Virgin FMC ♍🌮💦
Historical Romance⚔️🏰🐲
Learning intimacy💁👌😍
Miscommunication😵💫⚠️
Angst😐😑😬
HEA🔔🤵🏼👰🏼
March 15, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋
I fell in love with Max right from the start. Moody, damaged and in need of acceptance and love , he was my ideal book hero.
I wasn’t as enamoured of Effie but she grew on me throughout the book, as she did with Max.
The two are so much fun to read, their slow burn romance is sweet, emotional and funny at times , it’s one of those relationships that you find addictive to read about.
I enjoyed the story , as I said it’s a slow burn and has some great secondary characters that keep the book ticking along.
The sister is wonderful, and I adored Percy too.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋
I fell in love with Max right from the start. Moody, damaged and in need of acceptance and love , he was my ideal book hero.
I wasn’t as enamoured of Effie but she grew on me throughout the book, as she did with Max.
The two are so much fun to read, their slow burn romance is sweet, emotional and funny at times , it’s one of those relationships that you find addictive to read about.
I enjoyed the story , as I said it’s a slow burn and has some great secondary characters that keep the book ticking along.
The sister is wonderful, and I adored Percy too.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
March 29, 2021
Gosh but I enjoyed this a lot! Max and Effie are a delightful pairing and the author gave both characters equal prominence in the story. Effie is a fabulous heroien, intelligent, sparky, outspoken, passionate and caring. Max is recovering from terrible injuries and the desertion of his shallow fiancee. Effie is attemting to do an archaeological dig on max's lands and he doesn't want her there. The slow burn of their attractiona nd the developemnt of liking an drespect between them is beautifully done. I liked Max's sister Eleanor and her attempts to support Max and to bring these two together. A really great story with real historical authenticity.
January 30, 2020
Why can't I give more than 5 stars? Because I would if I could. Max Aldersley, Earl of Rivenhall, a man with more scars on the inside than his terribly scarred skin from a fire, is my new favourite hero. Ephemia (Effie) Nithercott has always known she is odd, and has literally hidden herself in a hole in the earth. Thank goodness she is persistent and continues her endeavours, and Max can't hide his gentlemanly manners forever. Ingenious writing by Ms Heath for this story to end in a HEA. Can't recommend enough. Read this book!
June 26, 2022
Graži draugystės ir meilės istorija.
March 22, 2020
Redeeming the Reclusive Earl
Virginia Heath
https://www.facebook.com/virginiaheat...
Release date 04/01/2020
Publisher Harlequin Historical/Mills&Boon Historical
Blurb :
His heart is a fortress.
And she’s trespassing! After losing all he holds dear in a horrific fire, Max Aldersley, Earl of Rivenhall, shuns the world—until he catches Effie Nithercott digging holes on his estate! He banishes the intrepid archaeologist and the unsettled feelings she rouses within him. But she returns even more determined and infuriatingly desirable than before! He wonders just how deep she’s prepared to dig—so far she’ll reach the man beneath his scars?
My review :
Will their past pain and losses determine their future ...
Why is it always more difficult to point out why I loved in a book than the contrary.
I can rant about how I love Mrs Virginia Heath, but i will never give her due to her talent with words.
She has a super power, she infuses life with her clever words in her characters, both are damaged, with visible and invisible scars, they just choose a different path to deal with them.
Effie is a overlooked genius, but as she points it herself, she was born in the wrong body, as a woman, her says will never be accepted, not even checked.
She had dreams both for herself and science but when the course of her life was altered, she had to find a way out of her own cage, why she buried herself in her digging journey, why it took precedence over everything else, it was her salvation instead of drowning in madness because of her lack of usefulness.
Max lost everything over a short period of time, his fiancée being the last straw. Unable to face anymore Society, he retired in the countryside with no prospects nor plans, except avoiding people and living as a recluse. Until he stumbles on a woman trespassing his land and refusing to back down.
And what began as a battle of soon turns as a rescue mission. She became his emergency pole, the one keeping his head out of the water as she is not afraid to tell her mind and won’t cower even when he wallows in self-pity.
When Effie understands his struggles, she will also not agree with his management of his pain. She is one to reap clean a bandage in the hope to help it heal faster.
Together, they will learn to trust again and have faith in the other.
Their perspectives are altered, while Effie was never given a second glance once her clever mind was discovered, Max fears people’s attention so sure of what they see.
I loved to see them battling wits and exchanging barbs, then bumping heads to tiptoeing around one another, unable to see straight, blinded by their own doubts.
5 stars for this sweet and humorous tale.
I was granted an advance copy by the author, prior to it I preordered my own. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
Virginia Heath
https://www.facebook.com/virginiaheat...
Release date 04/01/2020
Publisher Harlequin Historical/Mills&Boon Historical
Blurb :
His heart is a fortress.
And she’s trespassing! After losing all he holds dear in a horrific fire, Max Aldersley, Earl of Rivenhall, shuns the world—until he catches Effie Nithercott digging holes on his estate! He banishes the intrepid archaeologist and the unsettled feelings she rouses within him. But she returns even more determined and infuriatingly desirable than before! He wonders just how deep she’s prepared to dig—so far she’ll reach the man beneath his scars?
My review :
Will their past pain and losses determine their future ...
Why is it always more difficult to point out why I loved in a book than the contrary.
I can rant about how I love Mrs Virginia Heath, but i will never give her due to her talent with words.
She has a super power, she infuses life with her clever words in her characters, both are damaged, with visible and invisible scars, they just choose a different path to deal with them.
Effie is a overlooked genius, but as she points it herself, she was born in the wrong body, as a woman, her says will never be accepted, not even checked.
She had dreams both for herself and science but when the course of her life was altered, she had to find a way out of her own cage, why she buried herself in her digging journey, why it took precedence over everything else, it was her salvation instead of drowning in madness because of her lack of usefulness.
Max lost everything over a short period of time, his fiancée being the last straw. Unable to face anymore Society, he retired in the countryside with no prospects nor plans, except avoiding people and living as a recluse. Until he stumbles on a woman trespassing his land and refusing to back down.
And what began as a battle of soon turns as a rescue mission. She became his emergency pole, the one keeping his head out of the water as she is not afraid to tell her mind and won’t cower even when he wallows in self-pity.
When Effie understands his struggles, she will also not agree with his management of his pain. She is one to reap clean a bandage in the hope to help it heal faster.
Together, they will learn to trust again and have faith in the other.
Their perspectives are altered, while Effie was never given a second glance once her clever mind was discovered, Max fears people’s attention so sure of what they see.
I loved to see them battling wits and exchanging barbs, then bumping heads to tiptoeing around one another, unable to see straight, blinded by their own doubts.
5 stars for this sweet and humorous tale.
I was granted an advance copy by the author, prior to it I preordered my own. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
February 25, 2020
Can I please give this book more than five stars???
When I sat down to write this review, I literally stared at the blank page for what much have been twenty minutes as the words I desperately wanted to say about this sensational book alluded me. My thoughts were as scrambled and illegible as those of my notes in my notebook….and believe me, a handwritten doctors note is neater and more legible than my shorthand….but the problem I was having was simple;
How do you describe perfection?
Because, I am telling you, that is exactly what this book is; Perfection!!
I have been an avid reader of Virginia Heath since the start, I have devoured book after book after book and loved everyone, there are some that have really stuck with me ***Warriners*** and every single time I say that Virginia you have outdone yourself which is the truth, but this one, my goodness!!….. Not only has Virginia literally out written herself, but this has ‘one of the Classics‘ written all over it, in years to come people will be talking about this book in the same breath as the literary giants, such as Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre, in my humble opinion this could easily rival and dominate those greats.
This book is something very special indeed!
Virginia has literally taken every aspect of what I (and thousands of other romance readers) love about historical romance and placed it in inside this book. Everything that we love about historical romance is here; romance, intrigue, history, intelligent and courageous heroines, flawed and fragile heroes, great banter, wit, unique and inspiring plot, perfect pacing and character development, heart-breaking moments of honesty, laughter and sadness…plus my beloved Heathcliffe has now been resigned to the ‘oh, he’s not too bad‘ category and well and truly been replaced by my now beloved Max (hhmmm….which sounds very possessive, but honestly this guy is very special)
I do realise I’m waffling and really making a complete hash of this review, plus most likely not making any sense what-so-ever, but this book is just so beautiful and mesmerising I really want to do it justice, but I’m afraid, I’m not; maybe I should stick to gifs and emoji’s!
After losing everything in a fire, a fire that not only stripped him of his possessions but it stole a part of him too, not just leaving his horrifically scarred both physically but his new scars run deep and have crept in and taken hold of his mind and his heart. Max Aldersley; Earl of Rivenhall becomes a recluse – or he wants to, he wants to run away from the world, from society from all hope so he retires to his newly inherited estate to as he hopes perhaps be forgotten about and I believe die in peace. But, that all get thrown out of the window when he meets the most startling and unusual woman he has ever met in his life; Miss Effie Nithercott, who is only digging up his land in the most alluring breaches which inflame the dormant lust he thought was dead.
He just cannot be having a distraction such as her curvaceous bottom roaming his land digging holes everywhere, even if is looking for archaeology, all our lovely Max wants is peace, so there and then he bans her from his property, well our plucky, determined and uniquely intelligent; Effie has never done wants she was supposed to do if she had maybe she would have been married off by now, but alas her smarts intimidate those poor boys. She very rarely hears the word ‘no’ which I supposed makes you think she is a right spoiled little madam, but that is the complete opposite, Effie is a remarkable, passionate and determined woman, whom I think is rather lonely herself due to her unique talent, she just turns up in the dead of night to dig, something which infuriates the hell out of Max.
Max, oh Max!!! Oh my goodness, I can’t write this, my heart is bursting with too much love for this scarred, fragile, sad, lonely and beautiful-in-his-own-way man. A man who is beyond heart-breaking and easily one of the most tortured individuals that Virginia has ever created, I just don’t know how this fabulous man can be topped, I don’t think he can be, in my eyes he is perfect!! I heart broke for him, he is so full of grief over the future he thinks he has lost, he is uncomfortable around everyone and even more confused and uncomfortable with his growing awareness for the marvellously unique Effie. Plus, I love that hint of a quirky sense of humour, I love that when he gets riled with Effie he changes her surname with hilarious results – but, I am easily amused, but calling her ‘Miss Nitwit’ fabulous.
The whole book is a beautiful masterpiece setting example of how a historical romance is supposed to be, it’s so perfectly crafted from start to finish, it’s actually criminal how heartbreakingly beautiful this book is! It’s sensual, traumatic, emotional, mesmerising, alluring, full of drama and romance, with that ever-present Virginia Heath humour and wit, which we have all come to know and love.
With its solid narrative, richly textured details and amusing and thought-provoking plot. Plus two of the most perfectly imperfect lead characters that have ever walked out of the pages of a book, this is an amazing never-ending pull at the heartstrings love story. One of the very finest that any historical romance reader can ever read, this book has ruined me, it’s exhausted me and sent me into a tizzy of happiness, just perfect! (I do realise I have said that about a hundred times, but there are books that can never have it said about them enough)
Plus, can I just mention the cover? Glory, glory, glory me!! Before I even opened the book, that cover got me; those penetrating, lost and beautiful eyes gazing out at you, Mills and Boon/Harlequin have literally outdone themselves with this beauty but it’s more than just easy on the eye, once you start reading it hits you like a storm that cover model IS-MAX, that is how I envisioned him in my head. I bow down to whoever created this cover, they need an award!
I don’t think I can say much more, without sounding like a broken record, but I will say it again just one more time; IT’S PERFECT!!
When I sat down to write this review, I literally stared at the blank page for what much have been twenty minutes as the words I desperately wanted to say about this sensational book alluded me. My thoughts were as scrambled and illegible as those of my notes in my notebook….and believe me, a handwritten doctors note is neater and more legible than my shorthand….but the problem I was having was simple;
How do you describe perfection?
Because, I am telling you, that is exactly what this book is; Perfection!!
I have been an avid reader of Virginia Heath since the start, I have devoured book after book after book and loved everyone, there are some that have really stuck with me ***Warriners*** and every single time I say that Virginia you have outdone yourself which is the truth, but this one, my goodness!!….. Not only has Virginia literally out written herself, but this has ‘one of the Classics‘ written all over it, in years to come people will be talking about this book in the same breath as the literary giants, such as Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre, in my humble opinion this could easily rival and dominate those greats.
This book is something very special indeed!
Virginia has literally taken every aspect of what I (and thousands of other romance readers) love about historical romance and placed it in inside this book. Everything that we love about historical romance is here; romance, intrigue, history, intelligent and courageous heroines, flawed and fragile heroes, great banter, wit, unique and inspiring plot, perfect pacing and character development, heart-breaking moments of honesty, laughter and sadness…plus my beloved Heathcliffe has now been resigned to the ‘oh, he’s not too bad‘ category and well and truly been replaced by my now beloved Max (hhmmm….which sounds very possessive, but honestly this guy is very special)
I do realise I’m waffling and really making a complete hash of this review, plus most likely not making any sense what-so-ever, but this book is just so beautiful and mesmerising I really want to do it justice, but I’m afraid, I’m not; maybe I should stick to gifs and emoji’s!
After losing everything in a fire, a fire that not only stripped him of his possessions but it stole a part of him too, not just leaving his horrifically scarred both physically but his new scars run deep and have crept in and taken hold of his mind and his heart. Max Aldersley; Earl of Rivenhall becomes a recluse – or he wants to, he wants to run away from the world, from society from all hope so he retires to his newly inherited estate to as he hopes perhaps be forgotten about and I believe die in peace. But, that all get thrown out of the window when he meets the most startling and unusual woman he has ever met in his life; Miss Effie Nithercott, who is only digging up his land in the most alluring breaches which inflame the dormant lust he thought was dead.
He just cannot be having a distraction such as her curvaceous bottom roaming his land digging holes everywhere, even if is looking for archaeology, all our lovely Max wants is peace, so there and then he bans her from his property, well our plucky, determined and uniquely intelligent; Effie has never done wants she was supposed to do if she had maybe she would have been married off by now, but alas her smarts intimidate those poor boys. She very rarely hears the word ‘no’ which I supposed makes you think she is a right spoiled little madam, but that is the complete opposite, Effie is a remarkable, passionate and determined woman, whom I think is rather lonely herself due to her unique talent, she just turns up in the dead of night to dig, something which infuriates the hell out of Max.
Max, oh Max!!! Oh my goodness, I can’t write this, my heart is bursting with too much love for this scarred, fragile, sad, lonely and beautiful-in-his-own-way man. A man who is beyond heart-breaking and easily one of the most tortured individuals that Virginia has ever created, I just don’t know how this fabulous man can be topped, I don’t think he can be, in my eyes he is perfect!! I heart broke for him, he is so full of grief over the future he thinks he has lost, he is uncomfortable around everyone and even more confused and uncomfortable with his growing awareness for the marvellously unique Effie. Plus, I love that hint of a quirky sense of humour, I love that when he gets riled with Effie he changes her surname with hilarious results – but, I am easily amused, but calling her ‘Miss Nitwit’ fabulous.
The whole book is a beautiful masterpiece setting example of how a historical romance is supposed to be, it’s so perfectly crafted from start to finish, it’s actually criminal how heartbreakingly beautiful this book is! It’s sensual, traumatic, emotional, mesmerising, alluring, full of drama and romance, with that ever-present Virginia Heath humour and wit, which we have all come to know and love.
With its solid narrative, richly textured details and amusing and thought-provoking plot. Plus two of the most perfectly imperfect lead characters that have ever walked out of the pages of a book, this is an amazing never-ending pull at the heartstrings love story. One of the very finest that any historical romance reader can ever read, this book has ruined me, it’s exhausted me and sent me into a tizzy of happiness, just perfect! (I do realise I have said that about a hundred times, but there are books that can never have it said about them enough)
Plus, can I just mention the cover? Glory, glory, glory me!! Before I even opened the book, that cover got me; those penetrating, lost and beautiful eyes gazing out at you, Mills and Boon/Harlequin have literally outdone themselves with this beauty but it’s more than just easy on the eye, once you start reading it hits you like a storm that cover model IS-MAX, that is how I envisioned him in my head. I bow down to whoever created this cover, they need an award!
I don’t think I can say much more, without sounding like a broken record, but I will say it again just one more time; IT’S PERFECT!!
March 16, 2020
After losing all he holds dear in a horrific fire, Max Aldersley, Earl of Rivenhall, shuns the world – until he catches Effie Nithercott digging holes on his estate! He banishes the intrepid archaeologist and the unsettled feelings she rouses within him. But she returns even more determined and infuriatingly desirable than before! He wonders just how deep she is prepared to dig – so far she’ll reach the man beneath his scars.
I love just love the authors books. They are not only lovely romances but contain a wealth of historical facts. Very well portrayed characters with lots of depth but then again she doesn’t do two dimensional characters. The story flows so well that the pages flew by & yet again I found it very hard to put down.
I loved Max & Effie two misfits who were perfect for each other, their chemistry simmered until it sizzled. I loved the way they wormed into each others heart. Their insecurities were sympathetically handled & I found the ending to be very satisfying. A lovely page turning read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
I love just love the authors books. They are not only lovely romances but contain a wealth of historical facts. Very well portrayed characters with lots of depth but then again she doesn’t do two dimensional characters. The story flows so well that the pages flew by & yet again I found it very hard to put down.
I loved Max & Effie two misfits who were perfect for each other, their chemistry simmered until it sizzled. I loved the way they wormed into each others heart. Their insecurities were sympathetically handled & I found the ending to be very satisfying. A lovely page turning read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 23, 2020
Redeeming the Reclusive Earl is a standalone novel by Virginia Heath.
From the gorgeous cover to the last words this book is absolutely delightful. The characters' stories, past and present, made me run the gamut of emotions. For me, that makes a perfect novel.
The reclusive Earl is Max Aldersley, Earl of Rivenhall. He loved his life at sea but it all came to an abrupt end when he was caught in a fire and barely survived his burns. Thankfully he did survive them but the physical and mental scars are what has made him a recluse. He just wants to stay at his country estate refusing to accept any visitors. In the words of Greta Garbo, he wants to be alone! Max has really had a hard time of it and my heart breaks for him when we learn exactly all that he has endured.
Effie Nithercott is a neighbour of Max's. Effie had an agreement with the previous Earl allowing her to excavate areas of his land where she has been finding some amazing historical artefacts. When Max discovers Effie on his land happily digging away in a trench he isn't pleased at all. He wants to be able to ride on his lands and not have to worry about coming across anybody. She explains the arrangement she had with the old Earl but Max informs her that as the new Earl he is breaking the arrangement and he sends her on her way.
Effie is a strong independent woman, her intelligence scares off any possible suitors and she has resigned herself to being a spinster. She doesn't sit around feeling sorry for herself, she throws herself wholeheartedly into any venture that fascinates her. That venture for the last few years has been working on the Earl's lands and making fabulous discoveries. She won't let Max stop her when she is at the height of her endeavours so she takes to working on the land at night when she hopes not to be discovered. She discovers a very expensive looking bracelet during her night dig and being honest she knows she has to give it to Max.
The scene that follows where Ellie won't leave the house after the butler told her that Max would not see her sets up the atmosphere for their entire relationship. There are so many funny moments between them where she just won't listen to him and his reaction to that is fun, he even starts calling her names like Miss Nitwit instead of her proper name and it's all taken lightly, I love it. As they start to spend time together, they can't help but have lustful thoughts for the other. Neither of them has self-confidence though so don't think there is a chance to even share a kiss.
The drama of the story is when Ellie wants to publish her findings in an archaeological newspaper and having had papers rejected before because of her being a woman, she sends her latest paper using Max's name. He is fuming when he finds out because that means more and more people will be coming to his house, even just for him to tell them to go away. He refuses to take part in the ruse, but will he change his mind?
I am not saying anything else because I don't want to give spoilers. It's enough to say that I love Ellie and Max and reading how they become a healing balm to each other was just beautiful. They both deserve happiness.
I can't fault this book at all and am very happy to recommend it.
From the gorgeous cover to the last words this book is absolutely delightful. The characters' stories, past and present, made me run the gamut of emotions. For me, that makes a perfect novel.
The reclusive Earl is Max Aldersley, Earl of Rivenhall. He loved his life at sea but it all came to an abrupt end when he was caught in a fire and barely survived his burns. Thankfully he did survive them but the physical and mental scars are what has made him a recluse. He just wants to stay at his country estate refusing to accept any visitors. In the words of Greta Garbo, he wants to be alone! Max has really had a hard time of it and my heart breaks for him when we learn exactly all that he has endured.
Effie Nithercott is a neighbour of Max's. Effie had an agreement with the previous Earl allowing her to excavate areas of his land where she has been finding some amazing historical artefacts. When Max discovers Effie on his land happily digging away in a trench he isn't pleased at all. He wants to be able to ride on his lands and not have to worry about coming across anybody. She explains the arrangement she had with the old Earl but Max informs her that as the new Earl he is breaking the arrangement and he sends her on her way.
Effie is a strong independent woman, her intelligence scares off any possible suitors and she has resigned herself to being a spinster. She doesn't sit around feeling sorry for herself, she throws herself wholeheartedly into any venture that fascinates her. That venture for the last few years has been working on the Earl's lands and making fabulous discoveries. She won't let Max stop her when she is at the height of her endeavours so she takes to working on the land at night when she hopes not to be discovered. She discovers a very expensive looking bracelet during her night dig and being honest she knows she has to give it to Max.
The scene that follows where Ellie won't leave the house after the butler told her that Max would not see her sets up the atmosphere for their entire relationship. There are so many funny moments between them where she just won't listen to him and his reaction to that is fun, he even starts calling her names like Miss Nitwit instead of her proper name and it's all taken lightly, I love it. As they start to spend time together, they can't help but have lustful thoughts for the other. Neither of them has self-confidence though so don't think there is a chance to even share a kiss.
The drama of the story is when Ellie wants to publish her findings in an archaeological newspaper and having had papers rejected before because of her being a woman, she sends her latest paper using Max's name. He is fuming when he finds out because that means more and more people will be coming to his house, even just for him to tell them to go away. He refuses to take part in the ruse, but will he change his mind?
I am not saying anything else because I don't want to give spoilers. It's enough to say that I love Ellie and Max and reading how they become a healing balm to each other was just beautiful. They both deserve happiness.
I can't fault this book at all and am very happy to recommend it.
February 3, 2022
Divorato! E chi lo avrebbe detto? Preso sempre durante un promozione a 0.99€. Ogni tanto mi faccio tentare. Devo dire che è il secondo che prendo e ne sono contenta.
Trama: Max prende possesso di Rivenhall dopo la morte di suo zio. Non vedeva l'ora di lasciare Londra e stare un pò tranquillo. Dopo un incidente è rimasto sfigurato, ha perso tutto e non sopporta gli sguardi di orrore della gente quando lo guardano. Così decide di vivere una vita da eremita rifugiandosi in campagna. Peccato che il destino voglia diversamente. Mentre fa un giro nella proprietà trova Effi, la vicina di casa, intenta a scavare vicino all'abbazia romana, alla ricerca di reperti storici. E' un'arecheloga, e lo zio di Max le aveva dato permesso, ma lui assolutamente non vuole e la caccia. Effi è testarda e continua ad insistere per continuare gli scavi. E' un vero tornado che scombussolerà la vita di entrambi.
Ma quanto ho riso? Questi due personaggi sono davvero troppo divertenti, oltre che molto soli e tormentati. Max burbero quanto basta e lei testarda e dolce allo stesso tempo. Sembrano forti ma in realtà sono molto fragili e insieme riescono a superare le loro paure.
Uno spasso poi è la sorella di Max, che preoccupata si trasferisce da lui per qualche tempo, per fargli compagnia.
Mi è piaciuto proprio tanto. Era quello che ci voleva. Divertente e romantico. E poi mi ha ricordato un pò la bella e la bestia ^^
La fine è un pò veloce, ma per essere un romanzo rosa di 170 pagine è ben fatto, con personaggi pieni, che si evolvono. E questo è un bel passo avanti.
Per una lettura romantica, senza troppi pensieri, che ti lascia alla fine un bel sorriso sulle labbra e che ti ricorda di non perdere mai la speranza.
Trama: Max prende possesso di Rivenhall dopo la morte di suo zio. Non vedeva l'ora di lasciare Londra e stare un pò tranquillo. Dopo un incidente è rimasto sfigurato, ha perso tutto e non sopporta gli sguardi di orrore della gente quando lo guardano. Così decide di vivere una vita da eremita rifugiandosi in campagna. Peccato che il destino voglia diversamente. Mentre fa un giro nella proprietà trova Effi, la vicina di casa, intenta a scavare vicino all'abbazia romana, alla ricerca di reperti storici. E' un'arecheloga, e lo zio di Max le aveva dato permesso, ma lui assolutamente non vuole e la caccia. Effi è testarda e continua ad insistere per continuare gli scavi. E' un vero tornado che scombussolerà la vita di entrambi.
Ma quanto ho riso? Questi due personaggi sono davvero troppo divertenti, oltre che molto soli e tormentati. Max burbero quanto basta e lei testarda e dolce allo stesso tempo. Sembrano forti ma in realtà sono molto fragili e insieme riescono a superare le loro paure.
Uno spasso poi è la sorella di Max, che preoccupata si trasferisce da lui per qualche tempo, per fargli compagnia.
Mi è piaciuto proprio tanto. Era quello che ci voleva. Divertente e romantico. E poi mi ha ricordato un pò la bella e la bestia ^^
La fine è un pò veloce, ma per essere un romanzo rosa di 170 pagine è ben fatto, con personaggi pieni, che si evolvono. E questo è un bel passo avanti.
Per una lettura romantica, senza troppi pensieri, che ti lascia alla fine un bel sorriso sulle labbra e che ti ricorda di non perdere mai la speranza.
April 1, 2020
I’ve really enjoyed this novel, I’ve particularly appreciated the characters building, that there isn’t an insta-love between the hero and the heroine and that also the side characters are amusing and essential to the story.
Max, the new Earl of Rivenhall, decided to hide away at his new mansion, far from London and its peering, judging, pitying eyeses.
He was glad he could stay alone licking his wounds but he didn’t know that with the property he also had inherited the beautiful and smart neighbour.
Effie is determinated to excavate his land in order to find relics and ruins of inestimable value to gain an aknowledgement from the male dominated archeological community.
Max and Effie start on the wrong foot, their bickerings are lively and animated, but day after day they begin to understand each other better and their relationship blooms in something more than a friendship.
It’s such a pleasure to read Virginia Heath works, I spend so much time with her characters, reading their adventures slowly wishing the story never end.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Autho.
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