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Where the Stars Meet the Sea
Juliet Graham fervently counts the days until her twenty-first birthday, when she can claim the inheritance that will grant her the freedom she has always craved and the guardianship of her younger brother. Until then, she is trapped under her aunt Agnes’s domineering will. When forced to accompany the family to a house party at Shaldorn Castle, Juliet’s only objective is to keep to herself. That is, until a chance encounter with a boorish stranger stirs up an unexpected whirlwind of emotions in her. Thrown off-balance, Juliet does the loses her temper and insults the man—who turns out to be her unwilling host, the Duke of Halstead. Fully expecting to be sent away, Juliet is surprised when the brusque and callous duke instead takes an interest in her.
Drawn to the duke in unguarded moments, Juliet finds herself more and more intrigued by the man who shuns Society’s rules as completely as she does, and over the next few weeks, their unlikely friendship deepens into a connection neither expected.
But even as Juliet comes to recognize her true feelings, her scheming aunt issues an ultimatum that threatens the future she was just beginning to hope for. Juliet must either break the promise she made to herself years ago, or lose the man who has captured her heart and soul.
Drawn to the duke in unguarded moments, Juliet finds herself more and more intrigued by the man who shuns Society’s rules as completely as she does, and over the next few weeks, their unlikely friendship deepens into a connection neither expected.
But even as Juliet comes to recognize her true feelings, her scheming aunt issues an ultimatum that threatens the future she was just beginning to hope for. Juliet must either break the promise she made to herself years ago, or lose the man who has captured her heart and soul.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 2, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 656 reviews
June 29, 2020
You know that scene in Jane Eyre where Jane wakes up and rescues Rochester from the fire in his bedroom and then they just stand around and talk in their night clothes and the tension is palpable and the fire is warm and it's the middle of the night?
This book is 300 pages of that
and that is a good thing
This book is 300 pages of that
and that is a good thing
June 27, 2023
I have never read this author and was loving this book. Strong heroine, brooding wounded duke and a wicked aunt. Loved it! Wonderful writing. This book was heading towards maybe a 5*
Then the thunderstorm hit, and Juliet turned into a completely different person and stayed there. So at about the halfway point she just becomes tstl. She made rash decisions that anyone with a moment of thought would have gone....wait I have a DUKE. Anyway, it becomes a 3.5*
Then the thunderstorm hit, and Juliet turned into a completely different person and stayed there. So at about the halfway point she just becomes tstl. She made rash decisions that anyone with a moment of thought would have gone....wait I have a DUKE. Anyway, it becomes a 3.5*
April 10, 2020
I feel like I won't do my review justice since it's been over a month since I read the book. It was such a captivating read. I couldn't set it down. I devoured it. I read straight through it. It's been a book that I have thought about a lot since reading it. I've recommended it to so many others. I've bought a physical copy of the book. My daughters have devoured it multiple times since then. This book has become one of my favorite Regency novels. It's up on the top of my list with Julianne Donaldson's books, Edenbrooke and Blackmoore.
Be still my heart. Juliet and Halstead captivated and entranced me with their story. From their first unconventional meeting to the final page of their story. I couldn't wait for the scenes when they would be together and interacting. But I also loved the scenes watching them figuring out life and hoping for friendship and love.
I'll be completely honest here, I cried during different times of the story. I had a goofy grin on my face during other times. I laughed out loud (and possibly woke up sleeping people in my house). I giggled. I sighed. I cringed and was angry at different characters (yes, sometimes even the main characters). But feeling all of those emotions throughout reading the book is the mark of a great book for me. I was invested in knowing these characters and their struggles and hopes and dreams. *sigh* I just keep having flashes of the different scenes going through my mind. I really need to go back and read this one again very soon!
I read a digital copy and I think I just about highlighted the whole book. Ha! You think I'm kidding but I'm not! I'm completely serious. I loved so much about this book that I started highlighting parts of scenes and then it would be several pages (digital pages) that were highlighted. Yes, it's that good! That's saying something if I highlight that much while reading.
If you're looking for a book about finding yourself, trusting yourself, being a friend, learning the true meaning of family, healing, aching, heartbreak, redemption and love...do yourself a favor and find a copy. Buy one. Borrow one. And read it! I hope it will touch your heart like it touched mine! Thank you Heidi Kimball for such a fabulous read. I loved it and I can tell you put a lot of yourself and your heart into this story.
Content: Clean. Some kissing but nothing further.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. And I have also purchased my own physical copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Be still my heart. Juliet and Halstead captivated and entranced me with their story. From their first unconventional meeting to the final page of their story. I couldn't wait for the scenes when they would be together and interacting. But I also loved the scenes watching them figuring out life and hoping for friendship and love.
I'll be completely honest here, I cried during different times of the story. I had a goofy grin on my face during other times. I laughed out loud (and possibly woke up sleeping people in my house). I giggled. I sighed. I cringed and was angry at different characters (yes, sometimes even the main characters). But feeling all of those emotions throughout reading the book is the mark of a great book for me. I was invested in knowing these characters and their struggles and hopes and dreams. *sigh* I just keep having flashes of the different scenes going through my mind. I really need to go back and read this one again very soon!
I read a digital copy and I think I just about highlighted the whole book. Ha! You think I'm kidding but I'm not! I'm completely serious. I loved so much about this book that I started highlighting parts of scenes and then it would be several pages (digital pages) that were highlighted. Yes, it's that good! That's saying something if I highlight that much while reading.
If you're looking for a book about finding yourself, trusting yourself, being a friend, learning the true meaning of family, healing, aching, heartbreak, redemption and love...do yourself a favor and find a copy. Buy one. Borrow one. And read it! I hope it will touch your heart like it touched mine! Thank you Heidi Kimball for such a fabulous read. I loved it and I can tell you put a lot of yourself and your heart into this story.
Content: Clean. Some kissing but nothing further.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. And I have also purchased my own physical copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
February 21, 2021
SWEET BUT NOT VERY MEMORABLE
I really wanted to like this more than I did. But sadly, I think I might forget this before long. It didn't really stand out from the crowd - except for the cover, that is, which is stunning!
👍 What I Liked 👍
Juliet: Our heroine, Juliet, started out as a total push over. But her transformation throughout this book - aided by our hero, Halstead - was nice to see. I liked how she started standing up for herself more and more.
Diversity: Our hero, Halstead, was an uncommon Historical Romance hero in that he was handi-capable. It was a nice diversion from the ordinary tropes in Historical Romance.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Ending: The ending was strange to me, because (in my opinion) it needn't even have gone there at all. It felt implausible and forced, as if Kimball just wanted some drama and some intrigue even though it didn't make any sense.
Memorable: There was really nothing that made this book stand out from the crowd of other Historical Romance novels. The writing was decent, the romance was cute, the inclusion of a handi-capable hero was nice - but it just didn't wow me in any way.
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I really wanted to like this more than I did. But sadly, I think I might forget this before long. It didn't really stand out from the crowd - except for the cover, that is, which is stunning!
👍 What I Liked 👍
Juliet: Our heroine, Juliet, started out as a total push over. But her transformation throughout this book - aided by our hero, Halstead - was nice to see. I liked how she started standing up for herself more and more.
Diversity: Our hero, Halstead, was an uncommon Historical Romance hero in that he was handi-capable. It was a nice diversion from the ordinary tropes in Historical Romance.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Ending: The ending was strange to me, because (in my opinion) it needn't even have gone there at all. It felt implausible and forced, as if Kimball just wanted some drama and some intrigue even though it didn't make any sense.
Memorable: There was really nothing that made this book stand out from the crowd of other Historical Romance novels. The writing was decent, the romance was cute, the inclusion of a handi-capable hero was nice - but it just didn't wow me in any way.
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Blog Post: 15 Books to Read if You Love Jane Austen
February 29, 2020
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved this cover. Isn’t it beautiful? I had no idea this was going to be so good! I loved it! Wonderful writing, a new favorite historical, clean romance for sure.
I love it when a book grabs me right from the start. I didn’t want to put it down and I loved the angst and chemistry. I also enjoyed seeing the characters bring out the best in each other. The romance was magical and I held my breath a few times wondering how in the world it would end. But alas it does give me the HEA I love. *Sigh*
I highly recommend this book! ♥️
This was a NETGALLEY gift and all opinions are my own.
I loved this cover. Isn’t it beautiful? I had no idea this was going to be so good! I loved it! Wonderful writing, a new favorite historical, clean romance for sure.
I love it when a book grabs me right from the start. I didn’t want to put it down and I loved the angst and chemistry. I also enjoyed seeing the characters bring out the best in each other. The romance was magical and I held my breath a few times wondering how in the world it would end. But alas it does give me the HEA I love. *Sigh*
I highly recommend this book! ♥️
This was a NETGALLEY gift and all opinions are my own.
September 5, 2022
Mrs Kimball is the queen of HR slowburn. And this time the tension and angst was so palpable you couldn’t put down the book until you finished it.
I just loved Juliet and Halstead relationship, how improper but precious their encounters were. And although you could see the end coming together quite predictable, it was something I was looking forward so much I didn’t mind.
I just loved Juliet and Halstead relationship, how improper but precious their encounters were. And although you could see the end coming together quite predictable, it was something I was looking forward so much I didn’t mind.
February 10, 2020
Where the Stars Meet the Sea was intensely romantic. From the first scene until the last, the main characters’ chemistry was off the charts. I don’t say that lightly, chemistry is something I take very seriously. I loved, loved this book. It isn't often I want to push the two main characters to "just kiss already," but with Juliet and Halstead, from their first encounter until their last, that is exactly how I felt. I predict the wounded Duke of Halstead will become a Regency romance icon not to be forgotten.
February 16, 2021
This has been added to my favorite regency shelf! I was so pleasantly surprised with this book and ended up reading it in one sitting.
After losing her parents at a young age, Juliet is forced to live with her meanspirited and controlling Aunt. Her aunt uses Juliet's young brother to manipulate her and keep her in line. While attending a houseparty Juliet has a few encounters with the Duke of Halstead, normally a man most people would avoid. I enjoyed the relationship between Juliet and Halstead. I am always a sucker for the broody hero that is really a softy. I liked how they brought out the best in each other, made each other stronger without realizing it. But, Juliet's aunt has other ideas and another suitor in mind for Juliet, so it's not all smooth sailing and Juliet will do anything to protect her brother.
This was my first book by Ms. Kimball and I eagerly look forward to reading the rest of her books now. I thought it was well written, the characters were unique and developed well. The pacing was good and I loved the setting. A really enjoyable regency.
Content PG
Romance: Very clean, kissing
Language: None
Violence: None, talk of controlling and abusive Aunt & the hardships living with her
After losing her parents at a young age, Juliet is forced to live with her meanspirited and controlling Aunt. Her aunt uses Juliet's young brother to manipulate her and keep her in line. While attending a houseparty Juliet has a few encounters with the Duke of Halstead, normally a man most people would avoid. I enjoyed the relationship between Juliet and Halstead. I am always a sucker for the broody hero that is really a softy. I liked how they brought out the best in each other, made each other stronger without realizing it. But, Juliet's aunt has other ideas and another suitor in mind for Juliet, so it's not all smooth sailing and Juliet will do anything to protect her brother.
This was my first book by Ms. Kimball and I eagerly look forward to reading the rest of her books now. I thought it was well written, the characters were unique and developed well. The pacing was good and I loved the setting. A really enjoyable regency.
Content PG
Romance: Very clean, kissing
Language: None
Violence: None, talk of controlling and abusive Aunt & the hardships living with her
March 26, 2020
I loved this story. It was so good. From the first pages I was sucked in and didn't want to leave. Good thing I didn't have too:} I got to read this beautiful story from start to finish without stopping (except for miner life things). Dark sad hero's and bright optimistic woman are some of my favorites. Kimball did an amazing job of bringing these two together with a mix of bite, sass and attraction. I loved their first meeting! The tension of the romance and the overall feel of the book was so good. I'm so glad I own this. It will be one I reread:}
December 12, 2019
You're going to start reading this book, and from page 1 are going to decide, right that's it everything else on my schedule just went right down the toilet... LOL - keep reading..
I could not put this book down, everything: the house party, the complex situation that Juliet has found herself in, the elusive Duke, and all the minor characters who play a significant part in it. Lots of love-to-hate women, and pleasantly surprised the Duke's intended didn't become one of them. That's a stereotype that's way overplayed.
So much empathy for Juliet, and her brother Harry - who after the sudden loss of their father, found themselves at the mercy of her Aunt's care. Her own mother physically present but with a broken soul, hasn't protected them either. As expected Juliet has spent the last 10 years taking it upon herself to look out for her younger brother's welfare. Until recently however, and he has been carted off to Harrow - and she's left to worry about him. She is almost 21, and with it, the freedom it will bring both financially and physically. Her cousin has just made things even more complicated, and this book begins as they find themselves guests at a house party at the Duke of Halstead's sprawling estate on the Norfolk coast.
Be ready for this one, it is going to throw you for a ringer. All regency romance fans are going to be left breathless by the incredible way this author has written the Duke. Get this on your want to read list, preorder list. You won't want to miss this. March cannot come soon enough.
I read an early ARC. This is my honest review.
I could not put this book down, everything: the house party, the complex situation that Juliet has found herself in, the elusive Duke, and all the minor characters who play a significant part in it. Lots of love-to-hate women, and pleasantly surprised the Duke's intended didn't become one of them. That's a stereotype that's way overplayed.
So much empathy for Juliet, and her brother Harry - who after the sudden loss of their father, found themselves at the mercy of her Aunt's care. Her own mother physically present but with a broken soul, hasn't protected them either. As expected Juliet has spent the last 10 years taking it upon herself to look out for her younger brother's welfare. Until recently however, and he has been carted off to Harrow - and she's left to worry about him. She is almost 21, and with it, the freedom it will bring both financially and physically. Her cousin has just made things even more complicated, and this book begins as they find themselves guests at a house party at the Duke of Halstead's sprawling estate on the Norfolk coast.
Be ready for this one, it is going to throw you for a ringer. All regency romance fans are going to be left breathless by the incredible way this author has written the Duke. Get this on your want to read list, preorder list. You won't want to miss this. March cannot come soon enough.
I read an early ARC. This is my honest review.
March 19, 2020
I'm just going to go ahead and say it...this one is already going to go down as one my top regency romances of 2020. This book gave me the essence of both Jane Eyre and Blackmoore without really being anything like either. Both of those books are some of my all time favorites and this one just got added to the list.
This book is STUNNING. I was transported within the first few chapters and just KNEW I was going to love this book. Juliet is the daughter of a Sea Captain and a mother who has forsaken her station in society to be with man she loves. When both of her parent's die, she and her brother are sent to live with her mother's sister who is less than generous and kind. Juliet is one of my favorite characters because of her sharp mind and her tenacious will. She doesn't bend to societal games and I really respected her for that. Her relationship with the Duke comes on like a warm ember and burns into this larger flame that you seriously can't get enough of. I lived for those quiet moments, that did not demand anything but the intimacy of two like minds finding solace in one another. The banter is full of quick wit and humor and I felt the chemistry within these pages. Yes folks its that good.
The tension was there, the conflict was believable, and the romance was beautifully done. I borrowed a copy of this book, but this is one that I will buy for my own shelves because I already can't wait to RE - read this story. Another book I wish I would have written myself and a much needed escape that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend.
This book is STUNNING. I was transported within the first few chapters and just KNEW I was going to love this book. Juliet is the daughter of a Sea Captain and a mother who has forsaken her station in society to be with man she loves. When both of her parent's die, she and her brother are sent to live with her mother's sister who is less than generous and kind. Juliet is one of my favorite characters because of her sharp mind and her tenacious will. She doesn't bend to societal games and I really respected her for that. Her relationship with the Duke comes on like a warm ember and burns into this larger flame that you seriously can't get enough of. I lived for those quiet moments, that did not demand anything but the intimacy of two like minds finding solace in one another. The banter is full of quick wit and humor and I felt the chemistry within these pages. Yes folks its that good.
The tension was there, the conflict was believable, and the romance was beautifully done. I borrowed a copy of this book, but this is one that I will buy for my own shelves because I already can't wait to RE - read this story. Another book I wish I would have written myself and a much needed escape that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend.
March 10, 2020
I made the mistake of starting this book at bedtime, yes I know, I should know better by now. I knew I was in for a great story in the first couple of pages. Upon the death of her mother, Juliet and her much younger brother, Harry have become the wards of her mother's sister, Agnes. Not only is Aunt Agnes domineering and demanding. She can be downright cruel and cunning when she wants to get her way. She's one of the few female characters I'd describe as odious. It's been nine years and Juliet patiently waits for her twenty-first birthday in a couple of months, when she can care for Harry and they can get away from her aunt.
The Duke of Halstead has spent the two years since his accident avoiding society, despite his mother's attempts to draw him out by having house parties with guests he doesn't want to associate with. He's become withdrawn and sullen, until he meets Juliet in a dark library where he's hiding from the house party guests and she takes refuge hiding from her overbearing aunt.
These two characters definitely had chemistry from the beginning. Halstead brings out the Scottish fire in Juliet and she interests Halstead like no other women ever has. He brings out a side to Juliet that no one else sees. What was it about him that loosened my tongue and made me share my deepest fears and darkest memories? I admit it might seem as if their relationship advanced at a snail's pace but to me that's what made it feel believable. This man had closed himself off from everyone but his family for almost two years, he isn't going to change overnight. Waiting for Halstead and Juliet to declare their love for each other is rewarded with a swoony kiss in the observatory and his declaration "I am not the man I was before my accident. With you, for the first time, I think I might be something more." *swoon*
Of course they are some twists after they admit their feelings to one another. What kind of romance novel would this be if everything went smoothly afterward? I was put through the emotional wringer the last few chapters of the book. My blood boiled when Aunt Agnes showed how truly despicable she could be when she threatens Juliet with Harry's well-being to get what she wants. I feared for Juliet's safety when she was out on her own searching for her brother and was overcome with joy and happiness when Halstead appears at just the right moment to save the day, and Juliet stood her ground and told her aunt what she thought of her. "I know you have never cared for me. It seems I am a living reminder of everything you believe my mother did wrong. But if anyone should have loved Harry and me these past nine years, it was you." YES!! The only thing I missed was Aunt Agnes getting what she deserved, but that wasn't what the book was about. Still it would've been satisfying to have an epilogue detailing how awful her life had become. Lol
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The Duke of Halstead has spent the two years since his accident avoiding society, despite his mother's attempts to draw him out by having house parties with guests he doesn't want to associate with. He's become withdrawn and sullen, until he meets Juliet in a dark library where he's hiding from the house party guests and she takes refuge hiding from her overbearing aunt.
These two characters definitely had chemistry from the beginning. Halstead brings out the Scottish fire in Juliet and she interests Halstead like no other women ever has. He brings out a side to Juliet that no one else sees. What was it about him that loosened my tongue and made me share my deepest fears and darkest memories? I admit it might seem as if their relationship advanced at a snail's pace but to me that's what made it feel believable. This man had closed himself off from everyone but his family for almost two years, he isn't going to change overnight. Waiting for Halstead and Juliet to declare their love for each other is rewarded with a swoony kiss in the observatory and his declaration "I am not the man I was before my accident. With you, for the first time, I think I might be something more." *swoon*
Of course they are some twists after they admit their feelings to one another. What kind of romance novel would this be if everything went smoothly afterward? I was put through the emotional wringer the last few chapters of the book. My blood boiled when Aunt Agnes showed how truly despicable she could be when she threatens Juliet with Harry's well-being to get what she wants. I feared for Juliet's safety when she was out on her own searching for her brother and was overcome with joy and happiness when Halstead appears at just the right moment to save the day, and Juliet stood her ground and told her aunt what she thought of her. "I know you have never cared for me. It seems I am a living reminder of everything you believe my mother did wrong. But if anyone should have loved Harry and me these past nine years, it was you." YES!! The only thing I missed was Aunt Agnes getting what she deserved, but that wasn't what the book was about. Still it would've been satisfying to have an epilogue detailing how awful her life had become. Lol
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Read
July 2, 2023edit: reread 18/12/2021
just as brilliant as the first time i read it; now excuse me while i go cry myself a river and process my wayward emotions 😭🥺
——————————————————
stories like these; they leave no prisoners behind 😭
if i were to summarise my exact feelings about this book, id need an entire cache of words matching the description of “breathtaking” or “spectacular” or “magnificent”. even then i don’t think it’ll be enough to do this book justice.
anyone who knows anything about me would very much know that my love for beauty and the beast knows no bounds. and this story ✨ gave✨ exactly that (see: the scene where belle rushes back to the beast just in the nick of time before gaston and his toxic testosterone army storm the castle and the ensuing angsty love confession thereafter).
anyway, i loved that it (the story) pulled me right in right from the very first page, loved the immaculate slow burn grumpy-sunshine enemies-to-lovers vibes, love the delicious sexual tension that radiated from every interaction b/ween the two main characters (tho just a tad ironic considering this book didn’t actually have any sex), and of course, loved the ending. it was the perfect combination of sweet and tender (and not overdone).
on the other hand, there were some things i hated about this book; I hate that it ended too soon, hated aunt agnes and her gaslighting manipulative chokehold on juliet, annoyed bygaston sorry, robert and the bizzillion mentions of “harry”. like juliet. girrrll, think about your own happiness for once.
in spite of that, i will still rate this book nothing short of five stars bc urgh, i just couldn’t get enough of the brilliance that is this story. i will definitely do a reread when i buy a physical copy of it—that is, if i can find a retailer that can sell or ship this book to australia 🌝
just as brilliant as the first time i read it; now excuse me while i go cry myself a river and process my wayward emotions 😭🥺
——————————————————
stories like these; they leave no prisoners behind 😭
if i were to summarise my exact feelings about this book, id need an entire cache of words matching the description of “breathtaking” or “spectacular” or “magnificent”. even then i don’t think it’ll be enough to do this book justice.
anyone who knows anything about me would very much know that my love for beauty and the beast knows no bounds. and this story ✨ gave✨ exactly that (see: the scene where belle rushes back to the beast just in the nick of time before gaston and his toxic testosterone army storm the castle and the ensuing angsty love confession thereafter).
anyway, i loved that it (the story) pulled me right in right from the very first page, loved the immaculate slow burn grumpy-sunshine enemies-to-lovers vibes, love the delicious sexual tension that radiated from every interaction b/ween the two main characters (tho just a tad ironic considering this book didn’t actually have any sex), and of course, loved the ending. it was the perfect combination of sweet and tender (and not overdone).
on the other hand, there were some things i hated about this book; I hate that it ended too soon, hated aunt agnes and her gaslighting manipulative chokehold on juliet, annoyed by
in spite of that, i will still rate this book nothing short of five stars bc urgh, i just couldn’t get enough of the brilliance that is this story. i will definitely do a reread when i buy a physical copy of it—that is, if i can find a retailer that can sell or ship this book to australia 🌝
March 18, 2020
First of all, isn't that a striking cover?! I think it's my favorite of the year. This is a wonderful Regency romance, with a house party setting, a mysteriously brooding duke, and a spirited young woman who makes friends easily but is long-suffering under her domineering aunt. Juliet has some complicated dynamics in play- the unrequited love of her brotherly best friend/cousin, an inequality in her social status, a younger brother unhappy at boarding school, and an unexpected attraction to the brusque Halstead. I enjoyed how the author wove the story around the various comings and goings at the castle, and the tension that built as Juliet grows closer to Halstead but was pressured to accept her cousin's proposal. It's alluded that there is some secret reason for Halstead to be avoiding society and refusing to marry, so I was a bit let down when the resolution turned out to be rather simple and cliche. I felt like there could have been deeper exploration into his character, but the plot moved on with more misadventure in store for Juliet and her brother. Overall this was an entertaining story perfect for fans of sweet Regency romance!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
January 29, 2021
Where the Stars Meet the Sea was a heart-melting (and stopping), fantastic, crying inducing read. This story had me crying and is now well past my normal bedtime. It's usually the stories that make me cry that I usually end up giving five stars to. I figure if it can make me cry then it is worthy of five stars. I loved Juliet's character, her bluntness, and her devotion to her younger brother and of course, I liked Halstead :) Who wouldn't like him?
March 14, 2020
*sigh* I love regency era books so, so much. The regency era is seriously one of my favorite time eras to read about and this book was so sticken good! I love how even though plots in these stories are similar, every author brings their own flare and uniqueness to these stories.
I loved Juliet and Halstead so much. They were such dynamic characters individually and together they were amazing. I loved their chemistry and watching them grow into better people around each other. Their chemistry was seriously the best thing ever. I loved watching them interact with each other, they were just too cute!
The plot was one that isn't highly unique, but I did enjoy Ms. Kimball's take on it. I loved watching all the various characters interact, even when I wanted to punch a few in their sorry faces a few times. The pacing of the story was perfect and I honestly did not want to put this book down once I started it. It was that good!
I will definitely be checking out more of Ms. Kimball's books and I recommend this one! It is so good and will hook you from the beginning!
*I received this book from the author through Interviews and Review. All thoughts are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.*
I loved Juliet and Halstead so much. They were such dynamic characters individually and together they were amazing. I loved their chemistry and watching them grow into better people around each other. Their chemistry was seriously the best thing ever. I loved watching them interact with each other, they were just too cute!
The plot was one that isn't highly unique, but I did enjoy Ms. Kimball's take on it. I loved watching all the various characters interact, even when I wanted to punch a few in their sorry faces a few times. The pacing of the story was perfect and I honestly did not want to put this book down once I started it. It was that good!
I will definitely be checking out more of Ms. Kimball's books and I recommend this one! It is so good and will hook you from the beginning!
*I received this book from the author through Interviews and Review. All thoughts are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.*
March 1, 2020
*Thank you to NetGalley for sending me this ARC for an honest review*
4.5
The story takes place in the 1820s England, which i adore! It's such a GREAT love story!. Is an easy read and addicting! Tbh i was hoping for at least one spicy scene at the end, the romance is a slow burn, it keeps you wanting for more, it's what makes it addictive tho.
"I want to understand you, all of you. Your memories, your hidden thoughts. Your heart"
I didn't expect to like this book as much as i did, it has a nice plot and characters, i would definitely read another one from the author. Oh and i have to admit that i couldn't help but picture Juliet, the main character, like an older Anne of the Green Gables with a mix of America from The Selection, maybe because she's redhead. Also, at some point the Dukes and Juliet's relationship reminded me of Me Before You, because Juliet helps the Duke to get out of his dark place of suffering after his riding accident.
"There is a part in each of us that longs for a sense of control, battles for it, foolish thought it may be. It is what makes us human".
-"Perhaps control is only an illusion meant only to torment us".
4.5
The story takes place in the 1820s England, which i adore! It's such a GREAT love story!. Is an easy read and addicting! Tbh i was hoping for at least one spicy scene at the end, the romance is a slow burn, it keeps you wanting for more, it's what makes it addictive tho.
"I want to understand you, all of you. Your memories, your hidden thoughts. Your heart"
I didn't expect to like this book as much as i did, it has a nice plot and characters, i would definitely read another one from the author. Oh and i have to admit that i couldn't help but picture Juliet, the main character, like an older Anne of the Green Gables with a mix of America from The Selection, maybe because she's redhead. Also, at some point the Dukes and Juliet's relationship reminded me of Me Before You, because Juliet helps the Duke to get out of his dark place of suffering after his riding accident.
"There is a part in each of us that longs for a sense of control, battles for it, foolish thought it may be. It is what makes us human".
-"Perhaps control is only an illusion meant only to torment us".
March 24, 2020
I knew from the very first chapter that I was in for a great story- the kind of story you don't want to walk away from. It was interesting, engaging and gave me so much to dig into with characters and emotions. I was never sure exactly what Juliet would do or say next because she is quick to temper but only in a way that stands up for herself or others she cares about. She is a loyal sister and devoted daughter even though her parents are no longer alive. Her emotional connections to memories were where I really felt her deeply and came to love her. Juliet definitely finds herself in a few more embarrassing scrapes which lead so some interesting interactions with the duke which were my favorite scenes in the whole book. They are charged with all sorts of emotions- frustration, disappointment, tenderness, sadness, determination, attraction, comfort, embarrassment and so on. It's what really kept me wondering and hoping the whole book through. I really loved this story!
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 12, 2020
The cover is lovely!
It took me a bit to warm up to this story. Ultimately, I did get engaged fully, but it was about halfway through the novel. The vast majority of this tale takes place during a visit to Shaldorn Castle. It was interesting to be a part of the day to day happenings that occurred during these lengthy visits from acquaintances.
Juliet is with her aunt and cousins visiting Shaldorn Castle. The hope is that her older cousin Hugh will find a match with Lady Ellen. Lady Ellen's brother, the duke (Halstead), was permanently injured by a horse a couple of years prior and has a horrible outlook about everything.
Juliet's main priority is her 11 year old brother Harry that remains under her aunt's control until Juliet turns 18.
It took me a bit to warm up to this story. Ultimately, I did get engaged fully, but it was about halfway through the novel. The vast majority of this tale takes place during a visit to Shaldorn Castle. It was interesting to be a part of the day to day happenings that occurred during these lengthy visits from acquaintances.
Juliet is with her aunt and cousins visiting Shaldorn Castle. The hope is that her older cousin Hugh will find a match with Lady Ellen. Lady Ellen's brother, the duke (Halstead), was permanently injured by a horse a couple of years prior and has a horrible outlook about everything.
Juliet's main priority is her 11 year old brother Harry that remains under her aunt's control until Juliet turns 18.
March 2, 2020
From page one I couldn't put this book down! It has so many twists and turns that it made my head spin!
Your heart will go out to Juliet and Harry. I simply loved Juliet and her red hair. I think it defines her.
Us Red Heads will only be pushed so far and then we lose our temper. Juliet is perfect example of that. I admire her very much. She has spit and fire for sure but she also knows when to let loose.
Poor Harry! I'm thinking he's the one who is being used as a pawn! by Meanie Aunt Agnus. I wanted to slap that woman so hard myself! Enough to make her head jerk back the way she does Juliet.
My mom used to do that to me and I hated it. It doesn't feel good that I know for a fact. She'd used to grab my hair and slap me in the face if I back talked her. So I knew how Juliet felt.
But getting told that your father isn't a good person all the time now that I couldn't take! That was extremely mean! I didn't like Aunt Agnus at all!
Halstead just wants to be stubborn! I really didn't like him at first. But as I read on I soon saw why but that shouldn't have made him that kranky. But living with two mean manipulative women would.
But then Heidi knows her stuff. She certainly can make a good story. I love this story so much that I want to read her other books too.
I loved how she described a few of my favorite scenes so much that I felt like I was there. Especially in the drawing room.
I do love when a book can pull me into its pages.
I love how the title matches the story inside.
I too love watching the night sky when I can.
It holds many amazing things and the constellations tell many a story too.
I highly recommend this book. It holds many good things too.
My thanks to #Covenant Communications for a complimentary copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a review. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
Your heart will go out to Juliet and Harry. I simply loved Juliet and her red hair. I think it defines her.
Us Red Heads will only be pushed so far and then we lose our temper. Juliet is perfect example of that. I admire her very much. She has spit and fire for sure but she also knows when to let loose.
Poor Harry! I'm thinking he's the one who is being used as a pawn! by Meanie Aunt Agnus. I wanted to slap that woman so hard myself! Enough to make her head jerk back the way she does Juliet.
My mom used to do that to me and I hated it. It doesn't feel good that I know for a fact. She'd used to grab my hair and slap me in the face if I back talked her. So I knew how Juliet felt.
But getting told that your father isn't a good person all the time now that I couldn't take! That was extremely mean! I didn't like Aunt Agnus at all!
Halstead just wants to be stubborn! I really didn't like him at first. But as I read on I soon saw why but that shouldn't have made him that kranky. But living with two mean manipulative women would.
But then Heidi knows her stuff. She certainly can make a good story. I love this story so much that I want to read her other books too.
I loved how she described a few of my favorite scenes so much that I felt like I was there. Especially in the drawing room.
I do love when a book can pull me into its pages.
I love how the title matches the story inside.
I too love watching the night sky when I can.
It holds many amazing things and the constellations tell many a story too.
I highly recommend this book. It holds many good things too.
My thanks to #Covenant Communications for a complimentary copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a review. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
August 13, 2020
This book gave me all the feels and a bit of a book hangover because really what can I read that will be this sigh inducing?
There's a Beauty and the Beast vibe, unrequited love going on, and evil stepmother (but not really). Basically all the things I loved to read about in one book rolled into one of the most romantic historical era.
I'll be reading more of Ms. Kimball.
There's a Beauty and the Beast vibe, unrequited love going on, and evil stepmother (but not really). Basically all the things I loved to read about in one book rolled into one of the most romantic historical era.
I'll be reading more of Ms. Kimball.
April 17, 2022
this one had potential...the hero had an accident which lead to him secluding himself bc he couldn't take the stares and judgement & the heroine is not a blue blood, is very loyal to her family, and witty.
I felt like the slow-burn was good until it led no where ?? also some parts didn't make sense
the scene in the observatory was cute but that's it.
I felt like the slow-burn was good until it led no where ?? also some parts didn't make sense
the scene in the observatory was cute but that's it.
December 9, 2021
⭐️4.5⭐️ This was my first read by this author and I enjoyed it. The writing was great. It’s definitely slow burn. At times I wanted it to pick up the pace. During the last quarter of the book I was super invested & couldn’t put it down. I will definitely be reading more by the author.
March 24, 2023
2021 4.5 stars
2023 reread! Still loved it!
2023 reread! Still loved it!
November 30, 2022
I've been meaning to read this one for so long and so glad I finally did because I loved it! I adored there slow building friendship. Their first encounters especially were so cute!!!!
Halstead was so grumpy and swoony. Very much a "I hate everyone but you" type book which is one of my fav tropes!!!! I thought the conflict was going to kill me but it thankfully wraps up quickly!!!!
Halstead was so grumpy and swoony. Very much a "I hate everyone but you" type book which is one of my fav tropes!!!! I thought the conflict was going to kill me but it thankfully wraps up quickly!!!!
January 29, 2020
Romance - Sweet and Clean
Violence - None
Language - None
Recommendation - High
Would I reread - Yes
I loved this book. I knew from the first page I would love this book. It is that good! Once you start it, you won't want to put it down.
Juliet is the ward of her horrible aunt, along with her younger brother, until she reaches the age of her majority. The aunt is mean and vindictive, and it angers me that her cousins allow her, and Harry, to be treated in such a way. But then again, she is an expert manipulator and so they probably only see a quarter of what she really does.
Juliet comes to the home of the Duke of Halstead with her aunt and cousins, Hugh and Robert. The hope is for Hugh to make a match with the Duke's sister (no doubt the aunt is only interested in her dowry). While at the Duke's home, Juliet finds herself doing and saying all the wrong things when she is in the presence of the brooding Duke. Granted, several times she assumed she was alone, which only adds to her humiliation.
The Duke has hid himself away for almost two years, following a horrible accident. The last thing he wants is a house full of unwanted guests, but there is something about Juliet that draws him out.
I love the connection between Juliet and Halstead. The Duke is the only person who seems to REALLY "see" Juliet. Those tender moments that they share are so heartwarming. They really are good for each other. She challenges him, and he gives her the warmth and support she has sorely missed since the death of her father.
The machinations of the vicious aunt threaten to spoil everything, so it's even more rewarding when Juliet and the Duke finally get their HEA.
I highly recommend this book. It will not disappoint.
***I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.***
Violence - None
Language - None
Recommendation - High
Would I reread - Yes
I loved this book. I knew from the first page I would love this book. It is that good! Once you start it, you won't want to put it down.
Juliet is the ward of her horrible aunt, along with her younger brother, until she reaches the age of her majority. The aunt is mean and vindictive, and it angers me that her cousins allow her, and Harry, to be treated in such a way. But then again, she is an expert manipulator and so they probably only see a quarter of what she really does.
Juliet comes to the home of the Duke of Halstead with her aunt and cousins, Hugh and Robert. The hope is for Hugh to make a match with the Duke's sister (no doubt the aunt is only interested in her dowry). While at the Duke's home, Juliet finds herself doing and saying all the wrong things when she is in the presence of the brooding Duke. Granted, several times she assumed she was alone, which only adds to her humiliation.
The Duke has hid himself away for almost two years, following a horrible accident. The last thing he wants is a house full of unwanted guests, but there is something about Juliet that draws him out.
I love the connection between Juliet and Halstead. The Duke is the only person who seems to REALLY "see" Juliet. Those tender moments that they share are so heartwarming. They really are good for each other. She challenges him, and he gives her the warmth and support she has sorely missed since the death of her father.
The machinations of the vicious aunt threaten to spoil everything, so it's even more rewarding when Juliet and the Duke finally get their HEA.
I highly recommend this book. It will not disappoint.
***I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.***
July 21, 2021
An easy yes if you like regency romances. Even the more common tropes in the book were set up to be more grounded in a backstory and more believable than in other books of the same genre. I liked the deeper elements of Juliet's loyalty to her family, despite her lack of conventionality. That drove the book much more than "choose a boy" in the end, which was nice. The romance just unfolds instead of being any character's goal. (Also yay for her loving stars.) The duke's physical deformity made for great character development for him as well. I was thankful that the miscommunications were always resolved quickly so the relationships could continue to develop instead of having a great revealed secret be what shook the romance. Even the somewhat of a love triangle element felt much less annoying than usual because it seemed like a normal position to find oneself in and neither man was pushy or a "bad" choice. As a result, the dramatic elements seemed much more relatable and realistic. The descriptions and emotional rollercoaster Juliet goes on were all well done and helped make it a captivating read.
March 5, 2020
This book was AMAZING! Kept me enthralled beginning to end! I kept hearing my phone chime with notifications and just kept reading....until 3:30am.... (I'm a night owl and usually stay up until 2am anyway, but still!) It's now in my top five favorite books ever!
There was this amazing tension throughout the book, with well-developed characters and storyline, and so much to love (and hate) depending on the character and which part of the book I was in.
I just loved how she was so unrestrained when she thought she was alone after having muzzled herself for so much of her life. I also loved that she very often was not as alone as she thought she was and that helped to build a relationship with someone who had been his own little iceberg for the previous two years.
I felt like this was the best of all the Jane Austen/Jane Eyre type plots mixed into one and stirred with a little zest of North and South and the best parts of a rom-com.
There was this amazing tension throughout the book, with well-developed characters and storyline, and so much to love (and hate) depending on the character and which part of the book I was in.
I just loved how she was so unrestrained when she thought she was alone after having muzzled herself for so much of her life. I also loved that she very often was not as alone as she thought she was and that helped to build a relationship with someone who had been his own little iceberg for the previous two years.
I felt like this was the best of all the Jane Austen/Jane Eyre type plots mixed into one and stirred with a little zest of North and South and the best parts of a rom-com.
October 8, 2022
Excellent in every way. The brooding Halstead, the bold Juliet, the vastness of the castle, the stars, ugh, his book has it all. It has the dark undertones of Blackmoore and the sweetness and hope of Edenbrooke and Lakeshire Park.
If you haven’t had a chance to read this yet, please do yourself a favor and pick it up. You won’t regret it.
Heidi Kimball, you’re now one of my favorite authors. Thank you for this masterpiece!
Updated review:
I just finished my reread of this lovely book and realized yet again just how much I love Heidi Kimball’s stories. I love Juliet and Halstead, how they bring out the best in each other. And all the themes with the stars… *sigh*
A beautiful love story!
If you haven’t had a chance to read this yet, please do yourself a favor and pick it up. You won’t regret it.
Heidi Kimball, you’re now one of my favorite authors. Thank you for this masterpiece!
Updated review:
I just finished my reread of this lovely book and realized yet again just how much I love Heidi Kimball’s stories. I love Juliet and Halstead, how they bring out the best in each other. And all the themes with the stars… *sigh*
A beautiful love story!
February 27, 2020
Love triangles aren’t my favorite and if I had known one rested between the pages of this book, I probably wouldn’t have read it. That being said, I still really enjoyed this story. The writing was clean yet lyrical and the interaction between the h/h had enough chemistry to curl one’s toes (in a good way). I liked watching them push and pull one another to be better versions of themselves. I’ll be looking for more books by this author.
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