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Bequest #2
Courting Intrigue
Security or loyalty? Attraction or duty? How does one choose?
Miss Lillian Shaw, wellborn but impoverished, has been living with her aunt, the widowed Viscountess Shepley, since the death of her parents a few years ago. Lily wants to find a paid position to add to her savings so she can open a bakery when she receives the Byram Bequest. Her aunt would rather present her and arrange a High Society marriage for her. Lily’s limited experience with the gentry has not been positive, and she would prefer to be independent than tied for life to a noble lout.
The Earl of Sedgwick only wants to go home and see to his estates after his sudden, unexpected inheritance but has one last investigation to complete for the Home Office. When his path crosses that of Miss Shaw, he is intrigued by the attractive young woman but forces himself to keep his focus on the matter at hand.
When Lily becomes suspicious of the earl’s activities, he must decide whether or not to bring her into his confidence. Lily is forced to choose between her security and her loyalties while Sedgwick is torn between his attraction and his duty.
This is a standalone story set in the same world as Inheriting Trouble but with all new characters. No cliffhangers. Guaranteed happy ending.
Miss Lillian Shaw, wellborn but impoverished, has been living with her aunt, the widowed Viscountess Shepley, since the death of her parents a few years ago. Lily wants to find a paid position to add to her savings so she can open a bakery when she receives the Byram Bequest. Her aunt would rather present her and arrange a High Society marriage for her. Lily’s limited experience with the gentry has not been positive, and she would prefer to be independent than tied for life to a noble lout.
The Earl of Sedgwick only wants to go home and see to his estates after his sudden, unexpected inheritance but has one last investigation to complete for the Home Office. When his path crosses that of Miss Shaw, he is intrigued by the attractive young woman but forces himself to keep his focus on the matter at hand.
When Lily becomes suspicious of the earl’s activities, he must decide whether or not to bring her into his confidence. Lily is forced to choose between her security and her loyalties while Sedgwick is torn between his attraction and his duty.
This is a standalone story set in the same world as Inheriting Trouble but with all new characters. No cliffhangers. Guaranteed happy ending.
177 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 7, 2020
301 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Wendy May Andrews
50 books160 followersWendy May Andrews has been reading whatever she could get her hands on since the age of five. She has been writing for almost as long, although Tempting the Earl was the first story she was willing to share with anyone other than her mother. Since then, Wendy has published more than forty Sweet Historical Romance novels.
Wendy lives in Toronto with her own real-life hero. When not writing or reading, she loves traveling with her husband, wherever the mood takes them.
Wendy lives in Toronto with her own real-life hero. When not writing or reading, she loves traveling with her husband, wherever the mood takes them.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
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March 15, 2020Too wordy. Lots of repetiton.
January 9, 2020
Lillian was an independent person and this was mainly due to her circumstances. Maybe a little too independent for her own good? She was also resourceful and capable. However, there were one or two things that didn’t quite sit right with me. I know Brock was on a mission but his actions didn’t suit that of a gentleman and it did take him a time to come to realise what his action should be and why. There was also a mystery to solve but I would have liked to have known what evidence led Brock to investigate the viscount. Overall, it was an enjoyable read which moved along at a good pace and it had a happy ending for most of the characters. Just one other thing, there were no bears or wolves in England at this time. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 8, 2020
Treading the fine line between unwelcome guest and household help, Lillian is beholden to her dear aunt's step-son for a place to live until she is of an age where she can claim the bequest left to the village women by the kindly Lord Byram. She crosses paths with a guest going through Lester's private papers and her suspicions regarding the Earl of Sedgwick are aroused. Brock has been sent on one last assignment for the Crown to flush out a conspirator and all indications are that it is Lester, the Earl of Shepley. Brock has two choices: to have Lillian expose him or to allow her into his confidence. This is a fairly short novel with some intrigue, but as Brock and Lillian join forces in trying to discover the truth, the attraction between them flares up. Set in an era where women have few rights, Lillian is nevertheless a resourceful young lady and one can only admire her gumption. This well written romantic story is a standalone and does come to a happy conclusion. I received a copy of this novel as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary
July 13, 2023
One very good thing about books like this. Nobody dies. Nobody is murdered. There are two main characters who overcome their personal problems. There's a happy ending.
A very, very nice break from most other fiction books.
In this case you have Lillian, a young lady who is impoverished but promised a diary of ten pounds in time. She wants to start a bakery with the money.
She has a friend who invites her to spend a few weeks with her and seeing how the members of the ton live. There's an earl who becomes her love interest and, as expected, they have a lot of misunderstanding to work through first.
There's a drunken sot at the house Lillian's friend lives in and the possibility of a terrible crime that might be committed. Things get worse for her and she has to make a decision whether to stay or go.
Really nice, gentle story.
A very, very nice break from most other fiction books.
In this case you have Lillian, a young lady who is impoverished but promised a diary of ten pounds in time. She wants to start a bakery with the money.
She has a friend who invites her to spend a few weeks with her and seeing how the members of the ton live. There's an earl who becomes her love interest and, as expected, they have a lot of misunderstanding to work through first.
There's a drunken sot at the house Lillian's friend lives in and the possibility of a terrible crime that might be committed. Things get worse for her and she has to make a decision whether to stay or go.
Really nice, gentle story.
January 9, 2020
Independence. Yes, that is what she needed if only Lily could last until her five and twenty birthday when she would receive some money. Living with her Aunt Violet as her companian was all well and good, but they were at the mercy of her dreadful Stepson, Lester.
Brock, Lord Sedgewick is on his last assignment for the crown investigating Lester, who he has befriended to get closer to him. But when he locks eyes with the beautiful Lily, he has a little trouble keeping focused in his investigation.
What follows is an adventure to for each of them to fight their attraction while doing their duty. I enjoyed this story so much and it flowed really well and kept my attention until the end! I have really enjoyed reading books by this author and looking forward to more in this series!
Brock, Lord Sedgewick is on his last assignment for the crown investigating Lester, who he has befriended to get closer to him. But when he locks eyes with the beautiful Lily, he has a little trouble keeping focused in his investigation.
What follows is an adventure to for each of them to fight their attraction while doing their duty. I enjoyed this story so much and it flowed really well and kept my attention until the end! I have really enjoyed reading books by this author and looking forward to more in this series!
September 19, 2021
2021 bk 289. In my search for other authors who research and write the time period as well as Mary Balogh, I ran across a recommendation for Wendy May Andrews. I enjoyed this shorter novel about a very independent young lady and will possibly read more written by her. Drawbacks, the story line, while well-plotted was not as in-depth or as developed as I had hoped for. Good for a time between deeper books, but not quite yet a comfort read. I'll try the book again later (which means it is worth holding onto for at least another year.)
November 23, 2020
Circumstances have made Lillian Shaw an independent woman and losing that independence is the last thing she wants to do. After inheriting a title and estates unexpectedly, the Earl of Sedgewick is ready to be finished with his work for the Home Office and have a peaceful life. Does love have a chance for two people used to relying on themselves?
“She has the most courageous independent streak.” Lillian’s aunt makes this statement towards the end of the story, and it is the most accurate description for our heroine. Lillian is so used to taking care of herself and taking care of household details for her aunt, that she is incapable of asking for help. Or, rather, she does not want the help she is offered. Her aunt offers to find a position as a governess or companion for her, but she dismisses them as uninteresting.
Brock Ralston, the Earl of Sedgewick, is on a mission. However, the pretty face of his host’s step-cousin keeps distracting him. I liked Brock. I respected how he kept to his task, though this makes him act in a less than gentlemanly manner.
Although this tale does have a happy ending, I am hesitant to call it a romance. Lillian and Brock know each other for a short amount of time, and while they get along as friends, I didn’t feel much attraction between them. The book doesn’t end with their marriage, so I am hopeful they had time to know each other better.
Well-written and interesting, I would recommend this to fans of Regency era stories with a touch of mystery.
“She has the most courageous independent streak.” Lillian’s aunt makes this statement towards the end of the story, and it is the most accurate description for our heroine. Lillian is so used to taking care of herself and taking care of household details for her aunt, that she is incapable of asking for help. Or, rather, she does not want the help she is offered. Her aunt offers to find a position as a governess or companion for her, but she dismisses them as uninteresting.
Brock Ralston, the Earl of Sedgewick, is on a mission. However, the pretty face of his host’s step-cousin keeps distracting him. I liked Brock. I respected how he kept to his task, though this makes him act in a less than gentlemanly manner.
Although this tale does have a happy ending, I am hesitant to call it a romance. Lillian and Brock know each other for a short amount of time, and while they get along as friends, I didn’t feel much attraction between them. The book doesn’t end with their marriage, so I am hopeful they had time to know each other better.
Well-written and interesting, I would recommend this to fans of Regency era stories with a touch of mystery.
March 6, 2023
2.5 Stars rounded down. The writing is not as adroit as book one in this series. We're being told this or that instead of having scenes that showed us. And the cyclic repetition of the reasons for this, reasons for that are stifling.
A real failing is the shocking number of scenes where personal information is discussed that would never be done in the polite society the setting is supposed to be. The reason these out-of-place conversations occur is for the author to cover ground expediently rather than going through the bother of couching these plot points indirectly in a manner characteristic of the era.
Speaking frankly and openly about delicate subjects is modern, unless the relationship itself is intimate or familial. Here, the topics were brought up between house party hostesses and titled guests, with no attempt to finesse them -- just blurt and proceed. Knocks the reader right out of the historical fiction mindset m
The other failing is there is no progression to speak of between the MCs, from finding each other attractive to being madly in love.
A real failing is the shocking number of scenes where personal information is discussed that would never be done in the polite society the setting is supposed to be. The reason these out-of-place conversations occur is for the author to cover ground expediently rather than going through the bother of couching these plot points indirectly in a manner characteristic of the era.
Speaking frankly and openly about delicate subjects is modern, unless the relationship itself is intimate or familial. Here, the topics were brought up between house party hostesses and titled guests, with no attempt to finesse them -- just blurt and proceed. Knocks the reader right out of the historical fiction mindset m
The other failing is there is no progression to speak of between the MCs, from finding each other attractive to being madly in love.
November 18, 2024
The first book in the series was much better. This one needed some major review and cleaning up. The story meandered awkwardly between two mildly engaged couples whose romances never developed. It was also very out of line for this period as it had too many socially unacceptable occurrences for a regency period novel.
I was shocked that a young woman wandering off in the night was so acceptable. It would normally cause panic and alarm, but the careless aunt and suitor fell terribly short of showing love or concern. The aunt sat around thinking of reasons she shouldn’t go save her innocent niece. She passively sent grooms out after her nephew said he was too hungover to meet until dinner. She was content to wait to speak with him for an entire day? Then when they find her and return without her she considers that fine? And her casual acquaintance who lets her take the fall when they’re caught searching the study doesn’t try to find her for a week??? The whole concept was absurd. With love like that, I’d have stayed as the cook’s assistant.
I was shocked that a young woman wandering off in the night was so acceptable. It would normally cause panic and alarm, but the careless aunt and suitor fell terribly short of showing love or concern. The aunt sat around thinking of reasons she shouldn’t go save her innocent niece. She passively sent grooms out after her nephew said he was too hungover to meet until dinner. She was content to wait to speak with him for an entire day? Then when they find her and return without her she considers that fine? And her casual acquaintance who lets her take the fall when they’re caught searching the study doesn’t try to find her for a week??? The whole concept was absurd. With love like that, I’d have stayed as the cook’s assistant.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2021
I think this is a cute series so far. The idea that 10 pounds can change a woman's life is intriguing to me. I was a little annoyed by how stubborn Lily is but it is also good. She isn't waiting around for anyone to save her but determined to make her own way in life.
This story isn't exactly like most regency books and is just enjoyable to read and not think too hard about it. It is a simple story, clean and entertaining which is exactly what I was looking for. A quick read too so perfect for an afternoon or evening read.
No sex, language or violence
This story isn't exactly like most regency books and is just enjoyable to read and not think too hard about it. It is a simple story, clean and entertaining which is exactly what I was looking for. A quick read too so perfect for an afternoon or evening read.
No sex, language or violence
January 9, 2020
I loved this story with wonderful characters and an intriguing plot...
A young lady, orphaned that loves mathematics and wants to open a baker...
Her window aunt and her stepson and his will to live without problems...
A young lord, so different from other... Strong, kind and with an open mind...
I recommend this book to all that loves Regency... It will surprises you with an end that will surprise you...
A young lady, orphaned that loves mathematics and wants to open a baker...
Her window aunt and her stepson and his will to live without problems...
A young lord, so different from other... Strong, kind and with an open mind...
I recommend this book to all that loves Regency... It will surprises you with an end that will surprise you...
January 12, 2020
Courting Intrigue: A Sweet, Regency Romance is the second book in The Bequest Series and is a wonderful historical romantic suspense story.
The characters are well developed, strong, likable, and intelligent. The storyline is well written and has mystery, suspense, intrigue, secrets, loyalty, and a sweet romance between Lord Sedgewick and Miss Lillian Shaw.
I look forward to reading more books in this series.
Miss Lillian Shaw
The characters are well developed, strong, likable, and intelligent. The storyline is well written and has mystery, suspense, intrigue, secrets, loyalty, and a sweet romance between Lord Sedgewick and Miss Lillian Shaw.
I look forward to reading more books in this series.
Miss Lillian Shaw
March 7, 2020
An Independent Woman
An Independent and capable woman finds herself living with a beloved widowed aunt who cannot afford to support her, but is frustrated in her attempts to help her niece find a good marriage. The aunt's stepson and their wants both women gone, even though they are who keep his estate running. Spies and intrigue are involved. Good characters, and in spite of a slow beginning, a good plot.
An Independent and capable woman finds herself living with a beloved widowed aunt who cannot afford to support her, but is frustrated in her attempts to help her niece find a good marriage. The aunt's stepson and their wants both women gone, even though they are who keep his estate running. Spies and intrigue are involved. Good characters, and in spite of a slow beginning, a good plot.
March 31, 2021
This is the 2nd book in the Bequest Series. I like to read stories in order when it comes to a series book but this book could be read as stand alone.
Wendy is a favorite author of mine, so I have nothing negative to say about her writing or stories. I love her writing and story lines. Her characters come alive for me! She writes clean romance in the Regency Era.
I was given an ARC by the author and not required to leave a positive review.
Wendy is a favorite author of mine, so I have nothing negative to say about her writing or stories. I love her writing and story lines. Her characters come alive for me! She writes clean romance in the Regency Era.
I was given an ARC by the author and not required to leave a positive review.
March 29, 2022
Courting Intrigue
I really liked this story. Lillian was a niece to Violet. Her husband had died and the estate was left to his son. A stupendous was left to Violet and her to be able to live in the cureRent home. There was a week long gathering by Lester, Violets step so . Out of this , Sedgwick was looking for a conspiracy from Lester to Prinny”“” the prince. You will enjoy this one, I sure did.
I really liked this story. Lillian was a niece to Violet. Her husband had died and the estate was left to his son. A stupendous was left to Violet and her to be able to live in the cureRent home. There was a week long gathering by Lester, Violets step so . Out of this , Sedgwick was looking for a conspiracy from Lester to Prinny”“” the prince. You will enjoy this one, I sure did.
July 18, 2020
I didn't like that Brock waited so long to check on Lillian. It put me off that he wasn't concerned for her and just went home to get on with his life. Then after he found her he confessed he was desperately in love with her. But only after she prompted him. Also, the aunt couldn't have been searching that hard, they knew the town she went to and her skill set and they still didn't find her?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2020
This is a well written book that holds your attention. I was hooked on the first page and read it in one setting. I just had to know what happened next. I received an ARC copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 30, 2020
Nice read
This was a story that involved a genteel lady and a lord who meet over a unusual situation. There is a bit of complications and misunderstandings until all is resolved and we have a sweet romantic end
This was a story that involved a genteel lady and a lord who meet over a unusual situation. There is a bit of complications and misunderstandings until all is resolved and we have a sweet romantic end
October 1, 2022
Interesting, fun, unusual.
The main character is a remarkable woman with the ability to get through the toughest of situations. The earl is a spy, nobleman, and gets her kicked out of her home only to worry about her later. Highly recommended for all readers.
The main character is a remarkable woman with the ability to get through the toughest of situations. The earl is a spy, nobleman, and gets her kicked out of her home only to worry about her later. Highly recommended for all readers.
April 24, 2020
Romance
Thank you for sharing these wonderful romance novels series books. Please keep writing more of these wonderful books. Thank you
Thank you for sharing these wonderful romance novels series books. Please keep writing more of these wonderful books. Thank you
June 4, 2020
Easy read. Cute story and clean romance.
April 27, 2021
Another interesting Romance
Although the scenario is a wee bit different, the story of an excellent manager of the house, and a spy, becoming friends is an interesting tale
Although the scenario is a wee bit different, the story of an excellent manager of the house, and a spy, becoming friends is an interesting tale
April 29, 2022
Courting Intrigue
This book is a sweet regency romance with plenty of twists and turns. The characters are lovable and the story interesting.
This book is a sweet regency romance with plenty of twists and turns. The characters are lovable and the story interesting.
July 20, 2022
Badly in need of editing, full of modernisms, and more repetitious than any other book I've read.
February 22, 2023
nice
My dislike was the over use of the term handsome. It was beginning to grate on me. As far as the story it was ok.
My dislike was the over use of the term handsome. It was beginning to grate on me. As far as the story it was ok.
February 27, 2023
Great Story
This is a very well written tale. I love the interactions of the characters and especially the independence of the main character.
This is a very well written tale. I love the interactions of the characters and especially the independence of the main character.
March 24, 2025
3.25/10⭐️
April 13, 2024
Lillian Shaw lives with her widowed aunt in her palatial home. However, when the aunt's husband died, the property went to a loutish stepson. The aunt has problems keeping Lillian because her stepson wants to get rid of her—and his stepmother.
The Earl of Sedgwick is on a case for the Home Office; he's investigating the Earl of Shepley (that loutish stepson) for treason. Lillian, who takes care of the household, catches him snooping. Before long, they join forces. However, trouble soon arrives.
This second story was definitely less interesting and engaging than the first. Overall score = G+.
Bequest
1. Inheriting Trouble (2019)
** 2. Courting Intrigue (2019)
3. Inviting Misfortune (2020)
The Earl of Sedgwick is on a case for the Home Office; he's investigating the Earl of Shepley (that loutish stepson) for treason. Lillian, who takes care of the household, catches him snooping. Before long, they join forces. However, trouble soon arrives.
This second story was definitely less interesting and engaging than the first. Overall score = G+.
Bequest
1. Inheriting Trouble (2019)
** 2. Courting Intrigue (2019)
3. Inviting Misfortune (2020)
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews