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The Golden Redepennings #4
Unkept Promises
She wants to negotiate a comfortable marriage; he wants her in his bed
Naval captain Jules Redepenning has spent his adult life away from England, and at war. He rarely thinks of the bride he married for her own protection, and if he does, he remembers the child he left after their wedding seven years ago. He doesn’t expect to find her in his Cape Town home, a woman grown and a lovely one, too.
Mia Redepenning sails to Cape Town to nurse her husband’s dying mistress and adopt his children. She hopes to negotiate a comfortable married life with the man while she’s there. Falling in love is not on her to-do list.
Before they can do more than glimpse a possible future together, their duties force them apart. At home in England, Mia must fight for the safety of Jules's children. Imprisoned in France, Jules must battle for his self-respect and his life.
Only by vanquishing their foes can they start to make their dreams come true.
Not your usual Regency: Jude Knight writes historical fiction with a large helping of romance, a splash of Regency, and a side order of suspense.
Naval captain Jules Redepenning has spent his adult life away from England, and at war. He rarely thinks of the bride he married for her own protection, and if he does, he remembers the child he left after their wedding seven years ago. He doesn’t expect to find her in his Cape Town home, a woman grown and a lovely one, too.
Mia Redepenning sails to Cape Town to nurse her husband’s dying mistress and adopt his children. She hopes to negotiate a comfortable married life with the man while she’s there. Falling in love is not on her to-do list.
Before they can do more than glimpse a possible future together, their duties force them apart. At home in England, Mia must fight for the safety of Jules's children. Imprisoned in France, Jules must battle for his self-respect and his life.
Only by vanquishing their foes can they start to make their dreams come true.
Not your usual Regency: Jude Knight writes historical fiction with a large helping of romance, a splash of Regency, and a side order of suspense.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 22, 2019
16 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Jude Knight
97 books228 followersHave you ever wanted something so much you were afraid to even try? That was me ten years ago.
For as long as I can remember, I've wanted to be a novelist. I even started dozens of stories, over the years.
But life kept getting in the way. A seriously ill child who required years of therapy; a rising mortgage that led to a full-time job; six children, my own chronic illness… the writing took a back seat.
As the years passed, the fear grew. If I didn't put my stories out there in the market, I wouldn't risk making a fool of myself. I could keep the dream alive if I never put it to the test.
Then my mother died. That great lady had waited her whole life to read a novel of mine, and now it would never happen.
So I faced my fear and changed it--told everyone I knew I was writing a novel. Now I'd make a fool of myself for certain if I didn't finish.
My first book came out to excellent reviews in December 2014, and the rest is history. Many books, lots of positive reviews, and a few awards later, I feel foolish for not starting earlier.
I write historical fiction with a large helping of romance, a splash of Regency, and a twist of suspense. I then try to figure out how to slot the story into a genre category. I'm mad keen on history, enjoy what happens to people in the crucible of a passionate relationship, and love to use a good mystery and some real danger as mechanisms to torture my characters.
Dip your toe into my world with one of my lunch-time reads collections or a novella, or dive into a novel. And let me know what you think.
For as long as I can remember, I've wanted to be a novelist. I even started dozens of stories, over the years.
But life kept getting in the way. A seriously ill child who required years of therapy; a rising mortgage that led to a full-time job; six children, my own chronic illness… the writing took a back seat.
As the years passed, the fear grew. If I didn't put my stories out there in the market, I wouldn't risk making a fool of myself. I could keep the dream alive if I never put it to the test.
Then my mother died. That great lady had waited her whole life to read a novel of mine, and now it would never happen.
So I faced my fear and changed it--told everyone I knew I was writing a novel. Now I'd make a fool of myself for certain if I didn't finish.
My first book came out to excellent reviews in December 2014, and the rest is history. Many books, lots of positive reviews, and a few awards later, I feel foolish for not starting earlier.
I write historical fiction with a large helping of romance, a splash of Regency, and a twist of suspense. I then try to figure out how to slot the story into a genre category. I'm mad keen on history, enjoy what happens to people in the crucible of a passionate relationship, and love to use a good mystery and some real danger as mechanisms to torture my characters.
Dip your toe into my world with one of my lunch-time reads collections or a novella, or dive into a novel. And let me know what you think.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
September 26, 2019
Captivating historical novel kept my attention the whole way though. I love the author's attention to detail and meticulous research done makes for a very clever and enjoyable read. I look forward to reading more by this author.
I received a complimentary copy. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
August 28, 2019
What a good read! Mia was so endearing, she had such a loving and caring nature but could be fierce when her loved ones were threatened. Julius Redepenning rescued Mia when she was fourteen and married her to protect her reputation. Mia knew about his mistress and corresponded with her. Jules was a bit of a rogue with his various women and I wondered would he redeem himself. Seven years later, Mia travels to South Africa to care for the mistress and her children. There are a few misunderstandings and Jules realises that Mia has changed greatly from their previous meetings. There are a number of dangerous situations that will keep your interest until the end. I enjoyed the way that Mia and Jules relationship grew and the vow at the end of Mia’s stay in South Africa was endearing. Many of the Repenning family make a welcome appearance. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. However, as I’ve enjoyed this series so much, I preordered my own copy.
September 28, 2019
Sigh-worthy and satisfying
Jules Redepenning may be a philandering rogue (or maybe not), but when he storms into his house after deployment ready to defend the mother of his children, and when he scoops those little ones into his arms, he has the reader’s heart and he doesn’t let it go. Mia, plucky, determined and possessing enough love to encompass the whole world, already has it by then.
Jude Knight has once again written a story that with an entirely unexpected premise, fresh plot twists, and profoundly complex, emotionally rounded characters that bring her readers emotional moment after emotional moment to an entirely satisfactory ending. If the entire world of her Golden Redepennings seems to crowd in at times, her loyal readers will forgive the distraction.
Full disclosure: I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Jules Redepenning may be a philandering rogue (or maybe not), but when he storms into his house after deployment ready to defend the mother of his children, and when he scoops those little ones into his arms, he has the reader’s heart and he doesn’t let it go. Mia, plucky, determined and possessing enough love to encompass the whole world, already has it by then.
Jude Knight has once again written a story that with an entirely unexpected premise, fresh plot twists, and profoundly complex, emotionally rounded characters that bring her readers emotional moment after emotional moment to an entirely satisfactory ending. If the entire world of her Golden Redepennings seems to crowd in at times, her loyal readers will forgive the distraction.
Full disclosure: I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2019
She’s a girl on the cusp of womanhood. He’s a military man with a mistress and children in another country. Fate brings them together and life separates them. Now years later she’s a strong woman who knows what she wants but can she convince him that their life is meant to be together or are they destined to live apart?
The amazing Jude Knight again writes outside the lines of the typical Historical romance, and again, does a superb job. Mia is a strong, compassionate woman who goes after what she wants whether convention looks favorably on it or not. And Jules is a man who loves his family and is flustered by the now grown child bride he left behind. Throw in a dash or two of danger and you have an A++++ story.
The amazing Jude Knight again writes outside the lines of the typical Historical romance, and again, does a superb job. Mia is a strong, compassionate woman who goes after what she wants whether convention looks favorably on it or not. And Jules is a man who loves his family and is flustered by the now grown child bride he left behind. Throw in a dash or two of danger and you have an A++++ story.
November 3, 2019
Rating: 4.5/5.0
When it comes to historical romance, there are different aspects that make a book stand out.
Read full review in the 2019 Nov issue of InD'tale Magazine.
When it comes to historical romance, there are different aspects that make a book stand out.
Read full review in the 2019 Nov issue of InD'tale Magazine.
September 22, 2019
4.5 Stars
This story begins with Naval captain Julius Darius Achilles Redepenning being held captive by smugglers in the next cell is fourteen year old Euronyme Margaret Stirling along with her fatally injured father. Jules & Mia manage to escape after her father dies but it becomes known that they spent time alone together, ruining her reputation so they marry & Jules returns to sea & to his mistress Kirana. Seven years later Mia Redepenning sails to Cape Town to nurse Kirana who is dying and adopt his children. She hopes to negotiate a comfortable married life with the man while she’s there.
As always with one of the author’s books it's beautifully written with strong believable characters & a story that draws you in from the start & doesn't let go until the final page. I loved Mia certainly not your usual heroine, she accepted Jules had a mistress who was pregnant when they married & has corresponded with her & actually travels halfway round the world to nurse her, she’s not so forgiving of Jules' other affairs. She's strong, caring, determined & loves Jules' three children. Jules I had more of a problem with I started by really liking him as he rescued Mia but to leave her for seven years & not return once – hmm. I could understand it if he'd stayed away until she was seventeen or eighteen so that she was no longer a child. Also to continue his affair with Kirana & then when she became ill to have other liaisons – at this point I disliked him & wondered if he could & would be redeemed. He does love his children & they love him as was shown when he returned (moved up in my estimation). There are villains along the way, I kept expecting Dench & Maureen to reappear & felt they didn’t get their just desserts. When Jules begins to court Mia things conspire to part them but on returning to England the rest of the Redepennings are on hand to help & support. Overall an enthralling, engrossing read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This story begins with Naval captain Julius Darius Achilles Redepenning being held captive by smugglers in the next cell is fourteen year old Euronyme Margaret Stirling along with her fatally injured father. Jules & Mia manage to escape after her father dies but it becomes known that they spent time alone together, ruining her reputation so they marry & Jules returns to sea & to his mistress Kirana. Seven years later Mia Redepenning sails to Cape Town to nurse Kirana who is dying and adopt his children. She hopes to negotiate a comfortable married life with the man while she’s there.
As always with one of the author’s books it's beautifully written with strong believable characters & a story that draws you in from the start & doesn't let go until the final page. I loved Mia certainly not your usual heroine, she accepted Jules had a mistress who was pregnant when they married & has corresponded with her & actually travels halfway round the world to nurse her, she’s not so forgiving of Jules' other affairs. She's strong, caring, determined & loves Jules' three children. Jules I had more of a problem with I started by really liking him as he rescued Mia but to leave her for seven years & not return once – hmm. I could understand it if he'd stayed away until she was seventeen or eighteen so that she was no longer a child. Also to continue his affair with Kirana & then when she became ill to have other liaisons – at this point I disliked him & wondered if he could & would be redeemed. He does love his children & they love him as was shown when he returned (moved up in my estimation). There are villains along the way, I kept expecting Dench & Maureen to reappear & felt they didn’t get their just desserts. When Jules begins to court Mia things conspire to part them but on returning to England the rest of the Redepennings are on hand to help & support. Overall an enthralling, engrossing read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
September 26, 2019
Another fantastic story from this author. I loved Mia and Jules. I didn't want to put it down. And am looking forward to reading more from this author.
February 12, 2020
I have previously enjoyed some of Ms Knight’s books about the Redepenning family and was therefore positively predisposed towards the male protagonist of Unkept Promises, a feeling that survived throughout the first chapter. Then… Ah, well: I need to clarify, I think. Ms Knight’s books tend to start with a a bang and Unkept Promises is no exception. It is 1805 and we meet Navy Lieutenant Jules Redepenning when our hero awakens after having been taken prisoner by some nasty smugglers. He quickly realises that he is not alone in his predicament: in the cell next door is a young girl and her dying father. Jules saves the day, but young Euronyme (Mia for short) Stirling is compromised by the fact that they have spent the night together in a cell with only her dead father as a chaperone – I'll say no more. Spoilers.
It would not be much of a romance if the book began with the Happily Ever After, which is why Ms Knight has constructed a complicated life for Jules. His mistress Kirana, back in Madras, is expecting their first child. Jules tells Mia about Kirana, about his need to keep his native mistress—and their children—safe. He makes promises and then leaves for distant Madras and his duties there.
Eight years later, Mia has struck up a correspondence with Kirana and upon hearing that she is fatally sick, decides she must go to Cape Town and help her. Yes, Mia is one of those genuinely good people the world has too few of, but she is no milksop, and she manages to conceal her insecurities behind the façade of a rich lady of the upper classes. So she braves Jules' household—he is away at sea—brings order into chaos, saves Kirana from a dismal hole in which Jules has thrown her, and… well, I'llleave you to find out.
I enjoyed how Ms Knight developed this side of the story, elegantly emphasising just how difficult it was to be a woman—even a wealthy, woman—in a time where an adulterous husband was par for the course. And as to Kirana, she is utterly dependent on Jules’ goodwill, which is why she hasn’t protested overmuch at his various affairs, making excuses for him along the lines that a vigorous man needs his bedsport and when she was struck down with consumption, what else could she expect?
Ha! At this point, Jules comes across as a major, major cad but it is testament to Ms Knight’s skills as a writer that Jules is utterly believable in his hero-cad-hero journey (because yes, dear reader: this is a romance and Jules is the hero. Phew!) Along the way, she skilfully presents us with a historical background, complete with furnishings and clothes, foods and customs. Ms Knight generously imparts her information—and love of—the period without it ever intruding into the story as such. She paints colonial Cape Town and nineteenth century England into vivid life, all the while giving the readers a twisting well-plotted tale that at times is quite impossible to put down.
I shall not reveal more than this of an excellently executed plot. I will only say that Ms Knight has delivered yet another great read which I warmly recommend you to read!
Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds
It would not be much of a romance if the book began with the Happily Ever After, which is why Ms Knight has constructed a complicated life for Jules. His mistress Kirana, back in Madras, is expecting their first child. Jules tells Mia about Kirana, about his need to keep his native mistress—and their children—safe. He makes promises and then leaves for distant Madras and his duties there.
Eight years later, Mia has struck up a correspondence with Kirana and upon hearing that she is fatally sick, decides she must go to Cape Town and help her. Yes, Mia is one of those genuinely good people the world has too few of, but she is no milksop, and she manages to conceal her insecurities behind the façade of a rich lady of the upper classes. So she braves Jules' household—he is away at sea—brings order into chaos, saves Kirana from a dismal hole in which Jules has thrown her, and… well, I'llleave you to find out.
I enjoyed how Ms Knight developed this side of the story, elegantly emphasising just how difficult it was to be a woman—even a wealthy, woman—in a time where an adulterous husband was par for the course. And as to Kirana, she is utterly dependent on Jules’ goodwill, which is why she hasn’t protested overmuch at his various affairs, making excuses for him along the lines that a vigorous man needs his bedsport and when she was struck down with consumption, what else could she expect?
Ha! At this point, Jules comes across as a major, major cad but it is testament to Ms Knight’s skills as a writer that Jules is utterly believable in his hero-cad-hero journey (because yes, dear reader: this is a romance and Jules is the hero. Phew!) Along the way, she skilfully presents us with a historical background, complete with furnishings and clothes, foods and customs. Ms Knight generously imparts her information—and love of—the period without it ever intruding into the story as such. She paints colonial Cape Town and nineteenth century England into vivid life, all the while giving the readers a twisting well-plotted tale that at times is quite impossible to put down.
I shall not reveal more than this of an excellently executed plot. I will only say that Ms Knight has delivered yet another great read which I warmly recommend you to read!
Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds
April 9, 2025
Mins has been married to Julius for years, but they've rarely met, and she only really knows four things about him, he's a naval officer so away at war most of the time, he has a wonderful family, he is her hero for rescuing her, and then marrying her to save her her reputation, and he's in love with Kirana his mistress of years and mother of his children.
Over the years Nina has corresponded with Kirana, and on hearing she was dying Nina travel a to South Africa to help her friend and take on the children.
When Julius finds out she's moved Kirana to a different room and dismissed staff he is is furious, why is she there and changing everything? Although hearing from Kirana and other staff, he realised the good she's doing. For the first time they're living under the same roof, and Jules learns that Nina means to take the children back to the UK and raise them herself, combined with the care she's providing Kirana in her last week's he finds he's more than admiring her.
Returning to England is difficult for each of them, Jules is thrown overboard on the journey and taken prisoner by the French, and Nina has to. Contend with a man trying to kidnap their son.
This is probably my favourite book in the series so far. I love that the series is written in English English.
Over the years Nina has corresponded with Kirana, and on hearing she was dying Nina travel a to South Africa to help her friend and take on the children.
When Julius finds out she's moved Kirana to a different room and dismissed staff he is is furious, why is she there and changing everything? Although hearing from Kirana and other staff, he realised the good she's doing. For the first time they're living under the same roof, and Jules learns that Nina means to take the children back to the UK and raise them herself, combined with the care she's providing Kirana in her last week's he finds he's more than admiring her.
Returning to England is difficult for each of them, Jules is thrown overboard on the journey and taken prisoner by the French, and Nina has to. Contend with a man trying to kidnap their son.
This is probably my favourite book in the series so far. I love that the series is written in English English.
January 26, 2023
Jules married Mia when she was just fifteen to save her reputation. He then promptly left to return to his ship, while she went to live with is father and family. Seven years later, Mia sailed to Cape Town, South Africa to take care of his dying mistress and help raise their children. It is under these unusal circumstances that Jules and Mia became reacquainted. I found myself in awe of her fortitude, and disappointed in his callousness and carelessnes. So much happens in this story. You will find multiple deaths, some heartbreaking and some not; Lady Carrington rearing her ugly head; various kidnapping and murder attempts; and Jules being taken prisoner. Once again this author presents a complex tale filled with action, remarkable characters, lots of emotion, and a demonstration of the power of love. There is an intensity to this story that held me captive from beginning to end, and made it difficult to put down. This really is an incredible story.
January 1, 2020
A historical regency that is unlike the regency norms you find today. This is the first book I’ve read by Jude Knight, and I really like her writing style, her attention to the smallest things and her character building. This book held my interest from start to finish, and it had just enough suspense to keep it interesting. I think some of it defies belief of the era, but Mia isn’t concerned about how society sees her and fights for both the children and for her husband. There are a few things that are a little unbelievable for the time period, but the author weaves in enough suspense and a dash of danger to keep the reader turning the pages.
In the end, it comes together well, but it’s a fight to get there. I do look forward to reading more from this author.
4.5 Stars
In the end, it comes together well, but it’s a fight to get there. I do look forward to reading more from this author.
4.5 Stars
January 24, 2023
Allow a full day and have a tissue handy for this PG Regency romance set in 1812 switching between various locations as Euronyme Margaret Stirling Redepening, after a seven-year wait, sets off to claim her husband, but do not read in public as guffaws will ensue. Note that the author rates this PG but I STRONGLY urge parents to read it before passing it on to their children. I had an ARC via Booksprout and this is my voluntary review.
October 29, 2020
Well thought out and continues the series with continued excitement and romance. Characters are well defined and 3 dimensional who grow before your eyes. Plot keeps you reading to the end. I would recommend for those who love an epic series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 13, 2023
The fourth book in the series was probably the best. I enjoyed the heroine, she was utterly no-nonsense and the plot didn't use miscommunication to drag the story as I have seen in too many romance novels—adventure and romance in a tight package.
September 23, 2019
Unkept Promises is the fourth book in The Golden Redepennings series by author Judith Knight. Although this book is fourth in the series, I didn’t feel like I was lost while reading when it referred to previous characters, and it could easily be read as a standalone. Ms. Knight is a new author to me and after reading this book and absolutely loving it, I will be going back to read the previous books in this series. I was extremely impressed with this story and Ms. Knight’s writing style.
Jules Redepenning is a Naval Captain who has spent the majority of his life away from home and at war. When he’s captured by smugglers he realizes he’s in a prison cell next to a young girl (Mia Sterling) and her dying father. When the father dies, Jules and Mia escape only to be forced to marry to save Mia’s reputation.
Euronyme “Mia” Sterling is fourteen years old when she and her father are caught by smugglers and put in a prison cell. Gossip forces a marriage between her and Jules, but she knows he’s going back to war and his mistress and children, while she stays with his family in England.
What a fabulous story! I absolutely loved Mia from the very beginning. She’s not ready for marriage even though she is mature for her age, she’s only just turned fifteen. When her father dies, she has no one left to turn to. With the gossip and rumors bent on destroying her reputation, she has no choice but to marry Jules. She goes into the marriage knowing that Jules is leaving to go back to war and that he has a mistress and two children in Cape Town. As for Jules, he goes into this marriage to protect Mia and hoping that the future would take care of itself. I admired Jules as he’s just trying to do right by everyone.
The story then jumps seven years forward, with Mia arriving in Cape Town to help take care of Jules mistress, Kirana, and her children. Kirana and Mia have been corresponding for years and have become friends. Kirana is dying and Mia has agreed to take the children back to England and raise them as her own. At this point in the story, I have to admit I truly admired Mia for the woman she has become. She’s smart, brave and a caring woman who will do anything to protect those she loves. Kirana is a lovely woman who suffered greatly in the years before she met Jules. My heart broke for her and her children. Although I know many a reader wouldn’t approve of a story with a mistress and a wife as friends, I truly felt Ms. Knight did an amazing job of pulling this off. It truly worked in this story and I commend Ms. Knight for bringing in a situation that most might at first glance feel uncomfortable with. As for Jules, he comes home after a two-month mission to find Kirana dying and the young girl he married a grown woman taking care of his mistress and children. I liked Jules and I came to love him when I saw him with his children. When he starts to see himself through Mia’s eyes, and he’s not impressed, I admired him for admitting the truth and trying to make a change for the better.
This definitely was not your typical boy meets girl and falls in love with a HEA. It was truly a unique and fascinating story that I struggled to put down! I really loved both Mia and Jules from the start and liked that their relationship actually had time to grow as they both began to trust and love one another. There were some fabulous secondary characters, a villain or two and an absolutely perfect ending! This one is definitely a keeper and I look forward to going back and catching up with the other books in the series! Highly recommend!
Jules Redepenning is a Naval Captain who has spent the majority of his life away from home and at war. When he’s captured by smugglers he realizes he’s in a prison cell next to a young girl (Mia Sterling) and her dying father. When the father dies, Jules and Mia escape only to be forced to marry to save Mia’s reputation.
Euronyme “Mia” Sterling is fourteen years old when she and her father are caught by smugglers and put in a prison cell. Gossip forces a marriage between her and Jules, but she knows he’s going back to war and his mistress and children, while she stays with his family in England.
What a fabulous story! I absolutely loved Mia from the very beginning. She’s not ready for marriage even though she is mature for her age, she’s only just turned fifteen. When her father dies, she has no one left to turn to. With the gossip and rumors bent on destroying her reputation, she has no choice but to marry Jules. She goes into the marriage knowing that Jules is leaving to go back to war and that he has a mistress and two children in Cape Town. As for Jules, he goes into this marriage to protect Mia and hoping that the future would take care of itself. I admired Jules as he’s just trying to do right by everyone.
The story then jumps seven years forward, with Mia arriving in Cape Town to help take care of Jules mistress, Kirana, and her children. Kirana and Mia have been corresponding for years and have become friends. Kirana is dying and Mia has agreed to take the children back to England and raise them as her own. At this point in the story, I have to admit I truly admired Mia for the woman she has become. She’s smart, brave and a caring woman who will do anything to protect those she loves. Kirana is a lovely woman who suffered greatly in the years before she met Jules. My heart broke for her and her children. Although I know many a reader wouldn’t approve of a story with a mistress and a wife as friends, I truly felt Ms. Knight did an amazing job of pulling this off. It truly worked in this story and I commend Ms. Knight for bringing in a situation that most might at first glance feel uncomfortable with. As for Jules, he comes home after a two-month mission to find Kirana dying and the young girl he married a grown woman taking care of his mistress and children. I liked Jules and I came to love him when I saw him with his children. When he starts to see himself through Mia’s eyes, and he’s not impressed, I admired him for admitting the truth and trying to make a change for the better.
This definitely was not your typical boy meets girl and falls in love with a HEA. It was truly a unique and fascinating story that I struggled to put down! I really loved both Mia and Jules from the start and liked that their relationship actually had time to grow as they both began to trust and love one another. There were some fabulous secondary characters, a villain or two and an absolutely perfect ending! This one is definitely a keeper and I look forward to going back and catching up with the other books in the series! Highly recommend!
October 2, 2019
Gorgeous. Chivalrous hero Jules rescues young girl and marries her to protect her reputation. Goes off to India and the Navy, and back to his mixed race mistress and children, and more or less forgets Euronyme (Mia). Mia knows that Jules has a mistress, and accepts this, she has corresponded with Kirana, and is on her way to help her as she is dying, she is also hoping that she can build a proper marriage with Jules, although she is hurt by his other infidelities and neglect.
When she arrives she has a huge amount to do as the household is in turmoil in Julian’s absence, and the children and Kirana have been treated very badly. Mia soon loves them all and puts the household to rights, together with her companion Hannah who becomes the children’s Nanny.
Julian returns and is livid with Mia, however he soon sees how much she has cared for his ragtag family, and how much he has kept his distance from his children and ignored his responsibilities and his wedding vows.
Mia and Jules reconcile and become man and wife in truth, and the older child Dan becomes the subject of a conflict between his natural father and former captain to Jules, Hackett. Hackett wants a son to inherit and Julian and Mia won’t let him go. The rest of the book is about how Mia gets the children home to England safely, how Jules fares sailing home to England in service to the navy, and how he is captured and used by an amoral woman he was once infatuated with, Lady Carrington. By recruiting the gamekeeper and his son and the family, they are able to thwart Hackett and Lady C, and finally get their HEA. Some nice cameo appearances from Lord Aldridge- hope he gets his own story soon!
Nice epilogue far into the future too.
When she arrives she has a huge amount to do as the household is in turmoil in Julian’s absence, and the children and Kirana have been treated very badly. Mia soon loves them all and puts the household to rights, together with her companion Hannah who becomes the children’s Nanny.
Julian returns and is livid with Mia, however he soon sees how much she has cared for his ragtag family, and how much he has kept his distance from his children and ignored his responsibilities and his wedding vows.
Mia and Jules reconcile and become man and wife in truth, and the older child Dan becomes the subject of a conflict between his natural father and former captain to Jules, Hackett. Hackett wants a son to inherit and Julian and Mia won’t let him go. The rest of the book is about how Mia gets the children home to England safely, how Jules fares sailing home to England in service to the navy, and how he is captured and used by an amoral woman he was once infatuated with, Lady Carrington. By recruiting the gamekeeper and his son and the family, they are able to thwart Hackett and Lady C, and finally get their HEA. Some nice cameo appearances from Lord Aldridge- hope he gets his own story soon!
Nice epilogue far into the future too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2019
I received this ARC eBook from the author for an honest review. These are my own opinions.I
There is nothing usual about Unkept Promises. Mia Stirling is not the conventional shy, blushing English rose. Jules Redepenning and his family including his father are no where near a typical English upper crust family. Even the circumstances of Mia and Jules's meeting and subsequent marriage were even close to normal. Mia is pretty much still a child, just turned fifteen. Jules a navy man is anxious to get back to his ship and his half Batavian mistress who is in the later stages of pregnancy. Jules is honest with Mia and she is aware that their marriage must take place before he returns to the sea. Fast forward seven years, we find Mia and Kirana, the mistress have become friends though the many letters they have shared. Mia, true to her atypical self goes to Cape Town to care for a dying Kirana and her children. When Jules returns is when the real take begins. This is a story not just of love and romance, but also of tolerance of the differences between people.
I have read a few of Jude Knight's novellas, but this is the first full novel I have read of hers. It was not the usual not meets girl, they fall in love and love happily ever after. Instead, it was a read with more than enough action, intrigue, and romance to keep my interest from beginning to end. Now I must catch up on the Redepenning books I missed.
There is nothing usual about Unkept Promises. Mia Stirling is not the conventional shy, blushing English rose. Jules Redepenning and his family including his father are no where near a typical English upper crust family. Even the circumstances of Mia and Jules's meeting and subsequent marriage were even close to normal. Mia is pretty much still a child, just turned fifteen. Jules a navy man is anxious to get back to his ship and his half Batavian mistress who is in the later stages of pregnancy. Jules is honest with Mia and she is aware that their marriage must take place before he returns to the sea. Fast forward seven years, we find Mia and Kirana, the mistress have become friends though the many letters they have shared. Mia, true to her atypical self goes to Cape Town to care for a dying Kirana and her children. When Jules returns is when the real take begins. This is a story not just of love and romance, but also of tolerance of the differences between people.
I have read a few of Jude Knight's novellas, but this is the first full novel I have read of hers. It was not the usual not meets girl, they fall in love and love happily ever after. Instead, it was a read with more than enough action, intrigue, and romance to keep my interest from beginning to end. Now I must catch up on the Redepenning books I missed.
September 25, 2019
Jude Knight penned this story. Yes, I know... That should say it all, because she is a master storyteller that incorporates her vast knowledge of history with indepth characters around a storyline that never fails to feel fresh and new. This addition to the Redepenning saga stays true to form and takes us on a journey with Jules, Captain Redepenning. He was captured by smugglers and found a young girl Mia and her dying father in the same fate. Unfortunately her father passes but he gets Mia and himself out and to the safety of a nearby friend. In an act of true kindness he marries Mia due to the rumors of them being together but leaves her with his family as he heads back to sea and to rejoin his mistress and children. You see Mia was only fifteen.
But Mia grows up and it takes seven years for her and Jules to come back together in a twist least expected. I loved and admired Mia because she had such a large heart and was so smart and determined. I was anxious for Jules to redeem himself after being gone so long and you will just have to read to see how he achieves it in such a heartwarming way.
As I said in the beginning, Jude takes us into the hearts and emotions of the Redenpennings and it seems I always leave a little piece of myself with them to be picked back up in the next story (yes there needs to be another!). I highly recommend!
But Mia grows up and it takes seven years for her and Jules to come back together in a twist least expected. I loved and admired Mia because she had such a large heart and was so smart and determined. I was anxious for Jules to redeem himself after being gone so long and you will just have to read to see how he achieves it in such a heartwarming way.
As I said in the beginning, Jude takes us into the hearts and emotions of the Redenpennings and it seems I always leave a little piece of myself with them to be picked back up in the next story (yes there needs to be another!). I highly recommend!
September 24, 2019
Knight Complex and unusual.
Jude Knight is a talented writer I love her style. In this book you have Julius rescuing Mia when she was fourteen and married her to protect her reputation. After this Julius, a Naval officer returns to the sea and guess what his mistress. Now seven years later Mia has gone to South Africa to nurse Julius and to take care of his children. You need to read the book to understand the ends our outs of this part it is rather complex and such a good read. Only after going to South Africa does the story really start for Mia and Julius. This was story was different in so many great ways intense and engaging if I could give it 10 stars I would. This must-read is highly recommended and so worth the time to read. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Jude Knight is a talented writer I love her style. In this book you have Julius rescuing Mia when she was fourteen and married her to protect her reputation. After this Julius, a Naval officer returns to the sea and guess what his mistress. Now seven years later Mia has gone to South Africa to nurse Julius and to take care of his children. You need to read the book to understand the ends our outs of this part it is rather complex and such a good read. Only after going to South Africa does the story really start for Mia and Julius. This was story was different in so many great ways intense and engaging if I could give it 10 stars I would. This must-read is highly recommended and so worth the time to read. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
October 23, 2019
Once again, Ms. Knight takes the reader on a beautiful journey. Her stories are never rushed. Just as she does with each of her books, we are introduced to characters and scenery that is described in such detail that we have clear images of both as we read each page.
In this book, Mia is so very special. Married as a teen, she blossoms into a beautiful young women with compassion in her heart. She is one of Ms. Knight’s strongest characters yet. When Jules married Mia, he never gave it a thought to truly be her husband, not when a mistress and their children were waiting him. Many years later, life has changed and Jules finds himself without his freedom. Mia is his saving grace.
This is one of those books that you do not want to end. I would love a sequel!
In this book, Mia is so very special. Married as a teen, she blossoms into a beautiful young women with compassion in her heart. She is one of Ms. Knight’s strongest characters yet. When Jules married Mia, he never gave it a thought to truly be her husband, not when a mistress and their children were waiting him. Many years later, life has changed and Jules finds himself without his freedom. Mia is his saving grace.
This is one of those books that you do not want to end. I would love a sequel!
September 24, 2019
I loved this story of Jules Redepenning and the two women in his life. We met his wife Mia in the earlier books and it was clear Jules had married her when she was very young to protect her and then basically left her with his family to look after. He had a separate life with Kirani and their children. The story was beautifully written and you really felt for all the characters involved and how they were affected by prejudice and attitudes of the time. A great story with a perfect ending and epilogue. The whole series has been excellent.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2019
WoW! This is not your usual romance but a very complex, emotional story about love and acceptance. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed it but can assure you that it's a real page turner. There are enough plot twists and intrigue in this story to hold the readers interest. Watching Jules and Mia navigate the circumstances of their marriage their relationship and their romance was so enjoyable. I was completely captivated by the situations any overwhelming emotions one feels reading the story. Thank you so much Jude for such an entertaining reading experience. I can't wait to read the rest of the Redpenning stories.
September 26, 2019
"The golden pen of Jude Knight, author of the Golden Redepennings Series has penned a golden prize for readers. Begun with an unusual premise (seven years between the wedding and the wedding night), Unkept Promises is rich in historical detail and heavy (as real gold is) with suspense. Ms. Knight’s story shines bright with emotion and the true luster of love. If you have read her previous Redepenning books, you’ll know that Ms. Knight makes no promises she does not keep. If you have not experienced her other Redepenning stories (and there are many), Unkept Promises is an excellent place to start. 5 stars."I received a free copy of this book and I have voluntarily provided this review.
October 2, 2019
A great historical romance...
Unkept Promises is the fourth book in The Golden Redepennings series. The characters are well developed, strong, and independent. The storyline is well written, with Jude and Mia learning how to be husband and wife when they finally come together as a family with his children. The story has some danger, suspense, and romance.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book with no obligation.
Unkept Promises is the fourth book in The Golden Redepennings series. The characters are well developed, strong, and independent. The storyline is well written, with Jude and Mia learning how to be husband and wife when they finally come together as a family with his children. The story has some danger, suspense, and romance.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book with no obligation.
October 3, 2019
One of the best
I've been waiting for this book. A great author. A Captain must Matt a young lady to save her reputation and the go to sea. They don't see each other for seven years and must build a family after that. Lots of adventures!
I've been waiting for this book. A great author. A Captain must Matt a young lady to save her reputation and the go to sea. They don't see each other for seven years and must build a family after that. Lots of adventures!
October 7, 2019
Very enjoyable and entertaining story.
Storyline is intriguing and sometimes unbelievable but fits totally the characters.
I did enjoy reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Storyline is intriguing and sometimes unbelievable but fits totally the characters.
I did enjoy reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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