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Seasons of Change #2
A Forgiving Heart
Inheriting a home near two eligible bachelors seems like a dream come true. But which man deserves her trust—or her heart?
Kate Kingston wants nothing more than to instill her love of art into the hearts of her pupils, but when a solicitor arrives to inform her that her uncle died and she inherited his estate, she is hesitant to leave the comfortable life she has developed. Encouraged by her friends to embrace the new adventure, Kate uproots her life and travels to Larkfield where she must face the demons from her past—and work to replace the spoiled memories from her childhood with happier ones. The only problem: she doesn't know the first thing about running a large country estate.
When an injured shoulder sends Peter Evans home from the war, he finds that his younger brother Martin is far from ready to give up his authority over the family estate, and even less willing to leave old quarrels in the past. But when a beautiful lady moves in next door and requests help in learning to manage her estate, Peter is willing to offer his knowledge—and his heart. If only Martin didn't have his sights set on the new neighbor, as well.
But when trouble finds the inhabitants of Larkfield, few people believe the misdeeds are more than a run of bad luck. Convinced that someone is trying to hurt her friend, Kate must track the culprit, and she can't do it alone.
But how can she know which brother to trust?
The second book in the Seasons of Change series, A Forgiving Heart is a stand-alone novel. Check out the other books in the series to discover stories about change and love.
Book One: The Road Through Rushbury by Martha Keyes
Book Two: A Forgiving Heart by Kasey Stockton
Book Three: The Last Eligible Bachelor by Ashtyn Newbold
Book Four: A Well-Trained Lady by Jess Heileman
Book Five: from Deborah M. Hathaway
Book Six: A Haunting at Havenwood from Sally Britton
Book Seven: His Disinclined Bride from Jennie Goutet
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 25, 2020
841 people are currently reading
663 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
August 26, 2020
This was a well written regency. I like Stockton's writing. It had great characters and a good story line. I enjoyed the slow moving romance and the mystery. I loved that the main character was capable and strong. I just really enjoyed this one.
October 10, 2024
That was intense…
Wow, talking about a wild ride. The story was incredible with bit of everything and the perfect happy ending. I saw certain things coming, but there was still more than enough surprises. And Kate chose well.
Wow, talking about a wild ride. The story was incredible with bit of everything and the perfect happy ending. I saw certain things coming, but there was still more than enough surprises. And Kate chose well.
May 28, 2020
3.5 stars.
I’ve been really excited for this book because I enjoyed the first one in this series. It’s one of those series where each book is written by a different author. I enjoyed this story but it didn’t give me any butterfly’s. I guess I’m a sucker for that in a clean romance. It did however have good build up and the relationship moved at a good pace. There was a mystery element and a “who done it.” I think I will try another book from this author.
I’ve been really excited for this book because I enjoyed the first one in this series. It’s one of those series where each book is written by a different author. I enjoyed this story but it didn’t give me any butterfly’s. I guess I’m a sucker for that in a clean romance. It did however have good build up and the relationship moved at a good pace. There was a mystery element and a “who done it.” I think I will try another book from this author.
May 25, 2020
When I picked up this book, I was not expecting the suspenseful mystery or the plot turns and twists but I loved it! Orphan Kate inherits her family's estate and returns home to bring it to rights. She becomes acquainted with Peter and Martin, brothers in the neighboring estate but not all is as it seems and there are secrets from the past yet to be uncovered. The story is written from three different perspectives and I really enjoyed it; it heightened my emotions as I read because I got to know the characters on a deeper level.
I appreciated the theme of forgiveness and that when we hold on to past wrongs, it is we who suffer rather than those who have hurt us.
This book is sure to delight any fan of regency romance and is a wonderful addition to a fantastic multi-author series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but am voluntarily leaving a review of my opinions.
I appreciated the theme of forgiveness and that when we hold on to past wrongs, it is we who suffer rather than those who have hurt us.
This book is sure to delight any fan of regency romance and is a wonderful addition to a fantastic multi-author series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but am voluntarily leaving a review of my opinions.
May 22, 2020
A beautiful story that really demonstrates the power of forgiveness and the lack thereof. There was so much mystery and intrigue throughout the story. You're given enough information to keep you questioning and slowly things start to come together. I loved Kate and Peter's characters. They were such good people. I hope there is a spin off series that includes Peter's friends. Their stories really intrigue me.
November 1, 2020
Second book in this series and I struggled to like it. The book seems more primarily a mystery that also has a bit of a romance. The heroine, Kate, an orphan who learns she has inherited an estate with bad memories for her, was well done. The two main male characters, Martin and Peter, were odd. One a bit mad and the other with a temper problem. But Kate is convinced he would never turn that temper on her. Eh... I didn't like Kates "friend" Emily either. We learn at the beginning that Kate and Emily are friends since childhood, both coming from very humble beginnings, yet Emily doesn't particularly treat her as an equal or believe/support Kate when she believes something is amiss.
I'm hoping I like the next in the series better.
I'm hoping I like the next in the series better.
August 31, 2021
Choosing Between Brothers
I enjoyed this romance with its complex plot and message about forgiveness. Memories of childhood past raised concerns as those involved interacted as adults. Loved the characters.
I enjoyed this romance with its complex plot and message about forgiveness. Memories of childhood past raised concerns as those involved interacted as adults. Loved the characters.
May 29, 2020
Another lovely, sweet and clean read by Ms. Stockton! I am a great fan of Kasey Stockton’s novels and this is a lovely addition to the Seasons of Change collaboration/series. These stories can be read as stand-alone novels and in any order. I am eagerly looking forward to reading the other books in this series as the overall theme(s) - seasons of change - are lovely and inspiring.
Ms. Stockton’s story spans some 10 years - a lot can happen in that time and people change. First impressions from so long ago may no longer be a reliable guide or influence to knowing a persons character a decade later where there has been no interaction in between. One must not judge or trust too easily.
This story is about a young woman, coming of age and facing the changes that occur outside of her control. Facing sad and haunting memories of her past while trying to carve a bright and happy future for herself. Developing and maintaining both new and old friendships during challenging and uncertain circumstances. These are all things that our heroine has to face while she navigates a new world of change in a society she is not fully familiar with. And of course, with two candidates vying for the position - who will be the hero of her story?
I truly enjoyed the character development throughout this book. I would quite happily read a further sequel following on with the other characters from this book!
I received an ARC of this book. I am under no obligation to leave a review.
Ms. Stockton’s story spans some 10 years - a lot can happen in that time and people change. First impressions from so long ago may no longer be a reliable guide or influence to knowing a persons character a decade later where there has been no interaction in between. One must not judge or trust too easily.
This story is about a young woman, coming of age and facing the changes that occur outside of her control. Facing sad and haunting memories of her past while trying to carve a bright and happy future for herself. Developing and maintaining both new and old friendships during challenging and uncertain circumstances. These are all things that our heroine has to face while she navigates a new world of change in a society she is not fully familiar with. And of course, with two candidates vying for the position - who will be the hero of her story?
I truly enjoyed the character development throughout this book. I would quite happily read a further sequel following on with the other characters from this book!
I received an ARC of this book. I am under no obligation to leave a review.
May 25, 2020
I love this author and I REALLY loved this story. It was a sweet, clean romance with a happy ending.
Kate lost her parents when she was four years old and her uncle sent her to live with a friend. When she was older, she was brought to Split Tree Manor to live. He was awful to her. He never let her leave the house and if she did, she knew the consequences would be awful. One time she risked it and found a two savage boys who were shooting arrows at baby birds in a tree. She also saw a young boy hiding up in a different tree. When she was spotted by the savage boys, she tried to save the young boy since it was obvious they were after him, even while being held captive by the two older boys. It was an experience she wouldn't soon forget.
Many years later, when she returned to the manor after her uncle's death, she met Martin, the young boy she saved and his older brother, Peter, who had held her captive. She didn't instantly recognize either of them but they would both again be the catalyst to a major change in her future.
Kate was kind and forgiving and even with the horrible memories of her time under her uncle's care, she was able to forgive and make a wonderful future for herself. Peter had served in the war and had memories from his life that also plagued him but also begin to forgive but Martin held grudges and didn't easily forgive. He was determined to come out the victor at any cost.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The plot was well developed and executed and all of the characters were well thought out, even the secondary characters. I look forward to more wonderful stories from this author. She has a gift with Regency romances.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
Kate lost her parents when she was four years old and her uncle sent her to live with a friend. When she was older, she was brought to Split Tree Manor to live. He was awful to her. He never let her leave the house and if she did, she knew the consequences would be awful. One time she risked it and found a two savage boys who were shooting arrows at baby birds in a tree. She also saw a young boy hiding up in a different tree. When she was spotted by the savage boys, she tried to save the young boy since it was obvious they were after him, even while being held captive by the two older boys. It was an experience she wouldn't soon forget.
Many years later, when she returned to the manor after her uncle's death, she met Martin, the young boy she saved and his older brother, Peter, who had held her captive. She didn't instantly recognize either of them but they would both again be the catalyst to a major change in her future.
Kate was kind and forgiving and even with the horrible memories of her time under her uncle's care, she was able to forgive and make a wonderful future for herself. Peter had served in the war and had memories from his life that also plagued him but also begin to forgive but Martin held grudges and didn't easily forgive. He was determined to come out the victor at any cost.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The plot was well developed and executed and all of the characters were well thought out, even the secondary characters. I look forward to more wonderful stories from this author. She has a gift with Regency romances.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
May 20, 2020
4.5 stars, A Forgiving Heart definitely was an enjoyable Regency romance with a surprising amount of mystery mixed into the plot to go along with the developing romance. I loved the way the author used multiple points of view throughout the book to really add depth and intrigue to the novel. This left me on the edge of my seat waiting to see how everything would unfold since I knew a bit more of what was happening than the characters did. On a deeper level, the story beautifully addressed the power of forgiveness and I like how it reminded the reader that it only hurts ourselves to hold on to hurt feelings and not let go. It fit so well with the theme of seasons of change and second chances, not second chance romance, but second chance at relationships as a whole.
The characters were very well developed. Kate was so loving and kind and I couldn't help but cheer for her happiness. Peter was so real and down to earth which made him this fabulous hero; I loved how his character was portrayed and revealed throughout the book.
This book is definitely worth reading and I recommend it to Regency fans.
The characters were very well developed. Kate was so loving and kind and I couldn't help but cheer for her happiness. Peter was so real and down to earth which made him this fabulous hero; I loved how his character was portrayed and revealed throughout the book.
This book is definitely worth reading and I recommend it to Regency fans.
August 27, 2025
I revisited this book on the audiobook version. I enjoyed the story and the characters. I didn't love certain aspects of the audiobook. The narrator didn't give a good indication at the paragraph breaks, which when you're reading the book has a visual space or graphic to show a change in character perspective or setting. it made listening to the book confusing at times. I kept feeling like I'd skipped something, but I knew I hadn't. besides that, the inflections and voices were well portrayed.
October 23, 2025
This was a unique story in that the initial boy she helps is not the boy she will end up marrying. That boy is a psychopath and turns out to also be a murderer. Instead, she marries the brother who was mean to her when she was young and held her down. I didn’t see that coming right away. This story is also a cautionary tale on why vigilante justice is so dangerous. It is absolutely insane that they let the psychopath have freedom in a new country. They knew he had kidnapped a woman to force her to marry him, and simultaneously was poisoning a woman who he got pregnant. They also knew that same woman was pushed off a cliff a bit earlier. The brother is a psychopath and is a danger to everyone in the new country. England may have been protected, but what about everyone else? I thought that part was crazy. It was also crazy how spot on Kate’s and Peter‘s intuition turned out to be. It was a bit too much in my opinion. Kate would feel a disturbance in the force like a Jedi. Having said that, the writing was good, the story was engaging, and when I ignored the far-fetched parts, it was a unique story.
Kate’s parents die and she is shuffled around by her uncle until landing a school for girls where she graduates, accepts an art teacher position, then learns she is an heiress to her father’s estate which her uncle hid from her. She returns fearful as her memories of her childhood home are dominated by her uncle and his demanding ways. One day when she was young she slipped out to see the split tree which gave her manor the name. She saw a shoe and a small boy in the tree. Soon she saw two older boys looking for someone. She pretended to have not seen the small boy. However, he had dropped his shoe. She pointed the two older boys in another direction. Peter had held her down, leaving a scratch on her brow. Once they left the little boy promised he would pay her back one day. That was weeks before she was shipped to the school for girls. Upon her return, she becomes reacquainted with Martin the little boy. He clearly has designs to marry her. However, he has suspicious motivations. His oldest brother was killed in a horse race. His second oldest brother has recently returned from the war and was recovering from injuries. Martin had run the estate while Peter was at war and he was having a hard time relinquishing control. Peter was trying to be patient. There is also a local girl that you eventually find out Martin had impregnated. Martin refuses to marry her, and wants to marry Kate in part because she’s an heiress and has an estate. Martin reminds Peter that Kate is the one that he had held down all those years ago. Peter was mortified, knowing that he is a different person now, and at the time, didn’t realize his oldest brother could go too far. He tries to find a way to tell her But each time he tries he doesn’t think it’s the right time. As adults, he first met Kate, ripping his carriage door open, which Martin had loaned to Kate upon her return to the area. Peter apologized. He soon was visiting her and teaching her how to ride a horse. Martin could see that Peter liked Kate too and seemed to get more joy in knowing Peter‘s heart was being broken. Eventually to drive a wedge between Kate and Peter, Martin reveals to Kate that Peter was the one that held her down as a child. Kate was initially upset, but she realized she had already forgiven Peter at school with her teacher pointed out at holding on to that hurt would only hurt her further. Martin had begun courting Kate. One day a large group went to a scenic place to have a picnic. One of the local girls was heard, screaming and found at the bottom of some drop off. She was only a little injured and told people she was pushed. You find out this is the girl that Martin got pregnant. Peter and Kate device a plan for Peter to throw a house party so they can find out who pushed her. Soon they realize that Kate’s groomsman lied to her about being a previous servant. It was not long after that they connected Martin to the groomsmen as the same girl fell sick at the house party. Martin had worked with Kate’s groomsman to get poison and try and get a woman to miscarry. By the time Peter had connected the dots, Martin realized they were on him. He knocked Peter out, and kidnapped Kate. Peter went with a couple of war buddies to London to find her. They successfully track them down and found Kate tied up in a room. Martin was taken into their custody. You found out from Martin’s perspective that he had also poisoned Kate’s uncle. In part from some misguided attempt to help her as the uncle was keeping her from her inheritance, but also for his own financial gain. Martin goes with one of Peter’s war buddies to a far off land to work on a plantation. Peter and Kate get engaged.
Kate’s parents die and she is shuffled around by her uncle until landing a school for girls where she graduates, accepts an art teacher position, then learns she is an heiress to her father’s estate which her uncle hid from her. She returns fearful as her memories of her childhood home are dominated by her uncle and his demanding ways. One day when she was young she slipped out to see the split tree which gave her manor the name. She saw a shoe and a small boy in the tree. Soon she saw two older boys looking for someone. She pretended to have not seen the small boy. However, he had dropped his shoe. She pointed the two older boys in another direction. Peter had held her down, leaving a scratch on her brow. Once they left the little boy promised he would pay her back one day. That was weeks before she was shipped to the school for girls. Upon her return, she becomes reacquainted with Martin the little boy. He clearly has designs to marry her. However, he has suspicious motivations. His oldest brother was killed in a horse race. His second oldest brother has recently returned from the war and was recovering from injuries. Martin had run the estate while Peter was at war and he was having a hard time relinquishing control. Peter was trying to be patient. There is also a local girl that you eventually find out Martin had impregnated. Martin refuses to marry her, and wants to marry Kate in part because she’s an heiress and has an estate. Martin reminds Peter that Kate is the one that he had held down all those years ago. Peter was mortified, knowing that he is a different person now, and at the time, didn’t realize his oldest brother could go too far. He tries to find a way to tell her But each time he tries he doesn’t think it’s the right time. As adults, he first met Kate, ripping his carriage door open, which Martin had loaned to Kate upon her return to the area. Peter apologized. He soon was visiting her and teaching her how to ride a horse. Martin could see that Peter liked Kate too and seemed to get more joy in knowing Peter‘s heart was being broken. Eventually to drive a wedge between Kate and Peter, Martin reveals to Kate that Peter was the one that held her down as a child. Kate was initially upset, but she realized she had already forgiven Peter at school with her teacher pointed out at holding on to that hurt would only hurt her further. Martin had begun courting Kate. One day a large group went to a scenic place to have a picnic. One of the local girls was heard, screaming and found at the bottom of some drop off. She was only a little injured and told people she was pushed. You find out this is the girl that Martin got pregnant. Peter and Kate device a plan for Peter to throw a house party so they can find out who pushed her. Soon they realize that Kate’s groomsman lied to her about being a previous servant. It was not long after that they connected Martin to the groomsmen as the same girl fell sick at the house party. Martin had worked with Kate’s groomsman to get poison and try and get a woman to miscarry. By the time Peter had connected the dots, Martin realized they were on him. He knocked Peter out, and kidnapped Kate. Peter went with a couple of war buddies to London to find her. They successfully track them down and found Kate tied up in a room. Martin was taken into their custody. You found out from Martin’s perspective that he had also poisoned Kate’s uncle. In part from some misguided attempt to help her as the uncle was keeping her from her inheritance, but also for his own financial gain. Martin goes with one of Peter’s war buddies to a far off land to work on a plantation. Peter and Kate get engaged.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2023
"Looks like we found a lost helpless little girl in need of a helping hand. Shall we help her?... You're on our land. Do you know what the penalty is for trespassing, little girl?"
A Forgiving Heart (2020, Golden Owl Press), second in the Seasons of Change series, is a standalone Regency romance. This is a multi-author series, and this story is the brainchild of Kasey Stockton. YouTube brought this new-to-me author to my attention, so I decided to give this book a try. I enjoyed it thoroughly! After enjoying this book, I listened to book one by Martha Keyes, who I've been binging on recently. (That's probably why YouTube recommended this book!)
Rating: 5 stars
Narration: 5 stars
Is it clean/chaste? Yes
Other content issues: Bullying
Christian elements: I don't remember anything specifically, but I did feel that the flavor of forgiveness in this story is in line with Christian teachings.
Plot:
Kate became orphaned at a young age and went to live with her uncle at Split Tree Manor. He was incredibly strict, and seemed to care nothing for her. He treated her poorly and expected her to remain in the house at all times. One day, she snuck out of the house and encountered three boys in the woods. The young one was in hiding, and the other two bullied her. In the altercation, her clothes became dirty and her face bloody. The dishevelment was impossible to conceal, and when her uncle found out, he decided to send her away to school… never to be invited back. When Kate eventually graduated, she became a teacher at that same school. (Jane Eyre, anyone? This story is not, however, gothic.) Kate grows into a lovely adult.
What I liked:
*I liked the shifts of point-of-view being demarcated by the name of the person's eyes the reader is looking through. It made listening more accessible to my deaf ears.
*The title is wonderfully apt!
*I felt that the way the premise played out broke the mold. Very cleverly done, I thought.
What I didn’t like:
*The resentment emanating from a certain character, but that's as it should be
Audiobook: I loved the narration by Jennifer Smith. Ms. Smith's delivery of the "little girl" quotation at the top of this review gave me chills.
The bottom line: This is a great story of a heroine with a Cinderella-esque background. I recommend this book to fans of clean Regency romances.
I look forward to reading more by Kasey Stockton!
Also consider trying: Just Ella by Annette K. Larsen.
A Forgiving Heart (2020, Golden Owl Press), second in the Seasons of Change series, is a standalone Regency romance. This is a multi-author series, and this story is the brainchild of Kasey Stockton. YouTube brought this new-to-me author to my attention, so I decided to give this book a try. I enjoyed it thoroughly! After enjoying this book, I listened to book one by Martha Keyes, who I've been binging on recently. (That's probably why YouTube recommended this book!)
Rating: 5 stars
Narration: 5 stars
Is it clean/chaste? Yes
Other content issues: Bullying
Christian elements: I don't remember anything specifically, but I did feel that the flavor of forgiveness in this story is in line with Christian teachings.
Plot:
Kate became orphaned at a young age and went to live with her uncle at Split Tree Manor. He was incredibly strict, and seemed to care nothing for her. He treated her poorly and expected her to remain in the house at all times. One day, she snuck out of the house and encountered three boys in the woods. The young one was in hiding, and the other two bullied her. In the altercation, her clothes became dirty and her face bloody. The dishevelment was impossible to conceal, and when her uncle found out, he decided to send her away to school… never to be invited back. When Kate eventually graduated, she became a teacher at that same school. (Jane Eyre, anyone? This story is not, however, gothic.) Kate grows into a lovely adult.
What I liked:
*I liked the shifts of point-of-view being demarcated by the name of the person's eyes the reader is looking through. It made listening more accessible to my deaf ears.
*The title is wonderfully apt!
*I felt that the way the premise played out broke the mold. Very cleverly done, I thought.
What I didn’t like:
*The resentment emanating from a certain character, but that's as it should be
Audiobook: I loved the narration by Jennifer Smith. Ms. Smith's delivery of the "little girl" quotation at the top of this review gave me chills.
The bottom line: This is a great story of a heroine with a Cinderella-esque background. I recommend this book to fans of clean Regency romances.
I look forward to reading more by Kasey Stockton!
Also consider trying: Just Ella by Annette K. Larsen.
July 11, 2022
Kate, an art teacher in a ladies seminary suddenly discovers that her uncle has died and left her the sole heir to property. The uncle was a bully and there is some backstory to when Kate rescued a young boy in her neighborhood who was being bullied by his brothers. This forms an instant bond of sympathy between the boy (Martin) and Kate and continues years later when she returns as an heiress.
Kate tries to settle back in to her house, manage her inheritance, fit into society and overcome her fear caused by her uncles tyranny. In the meantime, she is intrigued by mysterious happenings and attempted murder. In all of this her charming neighbor Peter lends a helping hand. But he is the same person who was a bully as a child. How will Kate react when she finds out?
The book really shows how people change over time, and how they react to situations defines their character. This is one of the best things about this book.
In terms of the story and intrigue, it is definitely a well-written book, very easy to read. The mysteries are interesting though the reasoning and resolution are not very strong.
This book tries to stay within the time period. But the language is a little weird, as if the author tried very hard not to allow anachronisms to creep in. The same goes with the interaction of characters and the correct forms of address. They are a bit off in this book.
A gently bred girl, who was a teacher would interact very differently with a cook, groom and maid. She would have referred to her cook by the surname rather than her name (Alice) no matter how close they were. As the younger brother Martin Evans would have been called Mr. Martin. Everyone referring to him Mr. Evans caused Kate (and the reader) to get totally confused.
Overall, a good clean romance with a bit of mystery thrown in. If you are okay with the historical correctness being a bit off, a good book to spend a few hours with.
Kate tries to settle back in to her house, manage her inheritance, fit into society and overcome her fear caused by her uncles tyranny. In the meantime, she is intrigued by mysterious happenings and attempted murder. In all of this her charming neighbor Peter lends a helping hand. But he is the same person who was a bully as a child. How will Kate react when she finds out?
The book really shows how people change over time, and how they react to situations defines their character. This is one of the best things about this book.
In terms of the story and intrigue, it is definitely a well-written book, very easy to read. The mysteries are interesting though the reasoning and resolution are not very strong.
This book tries to stay within the time period. But the language is a little weird, as if the author tried very hard not to allow anachronisms to creep in. The same goes with the interaction of characters and the correct forms of address. They are a bit off in this book.
A gently bred girl, who was a teacher would interact very differently with a cook, groom and maid. She would have referred to her cook by the surname rather than her name (Alice) no matter how close they were. As the younger brother Martin Evans would have been called Mr. Martin. Everyone referring to him Mr. Evans caused Kate (and the reader) to get totally confused.
Overall, a good clean romance with a bit of mystery thrown in. If you are okay with the historical correctness being a bit off, a good book to spend a few hours with.
May 26, 2020
4.5 stars. Kasey has done it again: she’s written a book I quite love! The storyline is different and very enjoyable. I found that I was kept on my toes most of the time and I really liked that! I love the themes of forgiveness, compassion, trusting and looking to God, and friendship, but I love even more that each of these feels like an undercurrent of character and not that I’m being beat over the head with moralizing. I love a good moral but I don’t like it being spelled out for me. Another thing I loved about this book were the amazing lines! I rarely highlight my Kindle books, but I just couldn’t help it with this book, as they were just too good. Way to go, Kasey!
Kate and Peter are just perfect protagonists. I love that it’s obvious they are human and make mistakes but they each grow so much and learn from their mistakes and actively work to overcome their weaknesses. I really like Kate’s personality.
Emily confuses me sometimes. She didn’t always act like Kate’s best friend. But I’m chalking it up to anxiety over Paul and I’ll leave it at that.
I will keep my opinion of Martin to myself. I have quite strong feelings about this dude. Perhaps I’ll only say that I am not as generous as Kate.
Marsh, Cohen, Aniston are awesome supporting characters. I loved that they felt as though they cut a large presence in the story, even if they didn’t appear in it (at least wholly) until nearer the end.
Miss Smithson and Miss Annie Smithson. One I like, one I don’t as much. I really wanted to get to know Annie more.
Mrs James, or Alice, might have been my favorite background character. I was only sad she didn’t have as much of a presence in the latter half of the book, because I really liked her!
This was really a lovely, sweet romance. Kasey is quickly making her way to my list of favorite authors and I cannot wait to read more of her books!
Kate and Peter are just perfect protagonists. I love that it’s obvious they are human and make mistakes but they each grow so much and learn from their mistakes and actively work to overcome their weaknesses. I really like Kate’s personality.
Emily confuses me sometimes. She didn’t always act like Kate’s best friend. But I’m chalking it up to anxiety over Paul and I’ll leave it at that.
I will keep my opinion of Martin to myself. I have quite strong feelings about this dude. Perhaps I’ll only say that I am not as generous as Kate.
Marsh, Cohen, Aniston are awesome supporting characters. I loved that they felt as though they cut a large presence in the story, even if they didn’t appear in it (at least wholly) until nearer the end.
Miss Smithson and Miss Annie Smithson. One I like, one I don’t as much. I really wanted to get to know Annie more.
Mrs James, or Alice, might have been my favorite background character. I was only sad she didn’t have as much of a presence in the latter half of the book, because I really liked her!
This was really a lovely, sweet romance. Kasey is quickly making her way to my list of favorite authors and I cannot wait to read more of her books!
August 17, 2025
For me, this book caused me to lose any respect for the author and I don't plan to read any of her other works. The antagonist violently abused two different women, shows no remorse nor plans to change, then is sent away at the end to be a free man on a colony island with the hope that he will be able to buy his own land their someday. All this in the name of "mercy" rather than have him face the legal system. What about accountability and protecting others who will be his next victims? He most definitely will repeat his behaviors on the island and the victim will be someone's daughter or someone sister. How will they feel once they learn that this person shouldn't have been there in the first place? They had the power to stop that from happening in the future but didn't take the steps to protect other women and I find that decision enabling rather than noble. I know this is all fictional, but people like this exist in real life and an author that teaches this behavior is okay is not someone I want filling my time. Forgiveness doesn't mean you don't hold people accountable, it means you don't foster hate in your own heart. It is possible to have justice and mercy at the same time. It is possible to have forgiveness but still let others deal with their consequences. To let someone who will hurt others off the hook in the name of mercy is teaching false principles. It teaches victims that they can't take a stand and telling perpetrators that they don't have to pay for their actions.
May 25, 2020
ONE THRILLING ADVENTURE!!!
Gushing gecko! Kasey unleashes one dynamic approach with this skillfully composed delight, laying out this enthralling storyline and engaging plot, imparting such heartfelt essence, sentiment and nuance, wrapping this baby up sleek shiny and tight. Crazy mishaps and startling happenstance swirl with the formidable trials and challenging tribulations, spinning alongside the shocking twists and wicked turns, putting our characters through their paces, testing them in ways they could have never imagined. Shenanigans, escapades and mayhem rule the roost displaying the drama, turmoil, intrigue, sizzling suspense and electrifying situations, along with a double dose of moxie and intellect, you have one intoxicating adventure. Braided, bound and entangled, showcasing the explosive ups and agonizing downs, grounding in it's strength and awe-inspiring in it's depth. The characters, banter, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow, transforming into genuinely charismatic personalities. The scenes are so graphically descriptive you have no trouble picturing each scenario as they play off one another beautifully. Awesome job Kasey, thanks for sharing this little treasure with us.
Gushing gecko! Kasey unleashes one dynamic approach with this skillfully composed delight, laying out this enthralling storyline and engaging plot, imparting such heartfelt essence, sentiment and nuance, wrapping this baby up sleek shiny and tight. Crazy mishaps and startling happenstance swirl with the formidable trials and challenging tribulations, spinning alongside the shocking twists and wicked turns, putting our characters through their paces, testing them in ways they could have never imagined. Shenanigans, escapades and mayhem rule the roost displaying the drama, turmoil, intrigue, sizzling suspense and electrifying situations, along with a double dose of moxie and intellect, you have one intoxicating adventure. Braided, bound and entangled, showcasing the explosive ups and agonizing downs, grounding in it's strength and awe-inspiring in it's depth. The characters, banter, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow, transforming into genuinely charismatic personalities. The scenes are so graphically descriptive you have no trouble picturing each scenario as they play off one another beautifully. Awesome job Kasey, thanks for sharing this little treasure with us.
March 9, 2021
A Forgiving Heart was a sweet enjoyable read/listen. I really enjoyed the intrigue with which the book starts, and how, obviously, one has to figure out who those boys were and kind of match them with the adult characters Kate encounters upon her return to Split Tree. Of course, once this was figured out, the second mystery surrounding a certain Miss served to hook me into the story even more. Though, granted, it was Peter and Kate's second encounter and conversation that did it for me ;).
I found it interesting that the author gives us not only Kate's POV but also Peter and Martin's. And while I wasn't a fan of one of them, it certainly added to the depth of the story.
The narrator did a wonderful job bringing all the characters to life as well as portraying different emotions, though I think there were a couple of nuances that could have been better (mainly whispers). Still, I think she did great performing all the different voices (from older matrons to maids, as well as lords and several misses).
Overall, this is a sweet and enjoyable Regency Romance story that's perfect for fans of the genre as well as the author. ~4.5 stars
I found it interesting that the author gives us not only Kate's POV but also Peter and Martin's. And while I wasn't a fan of one of them, it certainly added to the depth of the story.
The narrator did a wonderful job bringing all the characters to life as well as portraying different emotions, though I think there were a couple of nuances that could have been better (mainly whispers). Still, I think she did great performing all the different voices (from older matrons to maids, as well as lords and several misses).
Overall, this is a sweet and enjoyable Regency Romance story that's perfect for fans of the genre as well as the author. ~4.5 stars
June 14, 2020
I love Stockton’s books and again this is included. I couldn’t put it down! I was interested by the blurb and love the cover.
Kate lost her parents very young and has been poorly treated by her uncle. It was a blessing to be sent away to a school for girls. She occasionally thought of his lashings and the one time as a girl, she escaped to pick blackberries and saw young boys ill-treating others. She saves a little boy from some monsters and then has to face her uncle too. It was not a good day.
That lasting image never leaves her and when she’s told her uncle has passed and she’s inherited her ancestral home - his phantom and memories follow. She’s determined to clean the house up and sell but finding two handsome single neighbors makes her question her heart.
This followed 3 POVs and I liked it. Kate overcomes her fears. Peter sees her goodness and Martin calls her an angel. This included suspense towards the end but I feel like that was the main focus at the end rather than romance but I still love it and want more books in this world. 😁
Kate lost her parents very young and has been poorly treated by her uncle. It was a blessing to be sent away to a school for girls. She occasionally thought of his lashings and the one time as a girl, she escaped to pick blackberries and saw young boys ill-treating others. She saves a little boy from some monsters and then has to face her uncle too. It was not a good day.
That lasting image never leaves her and when she’s told her uncle has passed and she’s inherited her ancestral home - his phantom and memories follow. She’s determined to clean the house up and sell but finding two handsome single neighbors makes her question her heart.
This followed 3 POVs and I liked it. Kate overcomes her fears. Peter sees her goodness and Martin calls her an angel. This included suspense towards the end but I feel like that was the main focus at the end rather than romance but I still love it and want more books in this world. 😁
July 10, 2020
It was lovely to witness the ease and comfort between the compatible hero and heroine. They simply understood each other and were strongly connected by that understanding. The villain, on the other hand, was a truly broken person who displayed how mistreatment as a child can manifest in adulthood as rage, bitter resentment, and misplaced control issues. The author deftly illustrated the reality of how women who feel unworthy of attention are obligated to express appreciation of and feel flattered by unwanted advances from men, such as this story's villain, who are emotionally immature and self-centered and feel entitled to unwarranted admiration. The transitions between points of view were unusual--I've never seen alternating character names used as chapter titles to identify POV shifts--but I liked the straightforwardness and simplicity of it. There was some intrigue and action, but the best part of the entire story was definitely the admirable partnership between the hero and heroine. An enjoyable continuation of the Seasons of Change series.
June 8, 2020
I knew this book was likely to be pretty good because I have read others by this author, but it exceeded my expectations in every way! Suspense, surprises, clean romance ~ and a great, satisfying ending!
I really love Kate's character - strong yet vulnerable. She is kind, intelligent, and as the title suggests, has a beautifully forgiving heart.
She deals with so many things in her new life after inheriting her childhood home ~ new acquaintances (including two handsome suitors!), finding courage to brave hurtful memories of the past, a mystery, danger, and learning how to ride a horse!
This story was well written, with excellent characters and kept me engaged the entire time. No slow or dull parts.
I loved it from beginning to end and I highly recommend it! I have added it to my 'will read again' list!
I'm also really looking forward to all of the upcoming additions to this series!
I really love Kate's character - strong yet vulnerable. She is kind, intelligent, and as the title suggests, has a beautifully forgiving heart.
She deals with so many things in her new life after inheriting her childhood home ~ new acquaintances (including two handsome suitors!), finding courage to brave hurtful memories of the past, a mystery, danger, and learning how to ride a horse!
This story was well written, with excellent characters and kept me engaged the entire time. No slow or dull parts.
I loved it from beginning to end and I highly recommend it! I have added it to my 'will read again' list!
I'm also really looking forward to all of the upcoming additions to this series!
June 19, 2020
I am always excited when Ms. Stockton comes out with a new book. She has such a beautiful writing style and does a great job of bringing the story and characters to life. This indeed was another one of her delightful stories. It's the second book in the Season's of Change series. Each book is written by a different author. I read the first book and loved it and adored this one as well. This is a beautiful story that showcases the power of forgiveness and the importance of it. It has mystery and intrigue and keeps you guessing as you read. The dialogue between the characters was also wonderfully written. A very well-written story that kept me captivated and engaged all the way through. Entertaining and interesting storyline, well-developed characters, and witty dialogue, this was such a charming read! I am totally addicted to this series and I can't wait to read what comes next!
I received a complimentary advanced reader’s copy and am voluntarily giving my honest opinion.
I received a complimentary advanced reader’s copy and am voluntarily giving my honest opinion.
June 27, 2020
Kate Kingston was orphaned at a young age. She had a uncle as a guardian who had no desire to raise a child. He sent her away to a foster home where she was bullied and mistreated until she was nine. At nine she returned to live with him as an unpaid servant, harshly treated and never allowed to leave the house. Finally at age twelve he sent her to a girls school. Upon graduation she became the art teacher. Eventually she received word that her uncle had passed away and she had inherited the house and the estate plus 10,000 pounds.
She had only left the house once while she lived there and she had encountered three boys. Two were shooting birds out of a tree with arrows and one was hiding in a tree afraid of being bullied by the larger, older boys. She stood up to the bullies and it made an impression on the smaller lad who vowed to make it up to her someday.
Upon returning to the homestead, she encounters the now men and the story unfolds as to how the men have grown and changed.
She had only left the house once while she lived there and she had encountered three boys. Two were shooting birds out of a tree with arrows and one was hiding in a tree afraid of being bullied by the larger, older boys. She stood up to the bullies and it made an impression on the smaller lad who vowed to make it up to her someday.
Upon returning to the homestead, she encounters the now men and the story unfolds as to how the men have grown and changed.
June 28, 2020
This story is based on something that happened with Kate was nine years old. There is a lot of intrigue going on, but in reality we are looking at the situation from a madman. The older brother who was helping his older brother bully his little brother grows up to be a responsible and honorable man who regrets his past actions. His younger brother has fed his hate of the his two elder brothers and tries to make a relationship with Kate, because he believes she understands him, because she helped him that day of the incident. It's about forgiveness and how the heart is affected by it, or the lack of forgiveness. The story takes some breaks from reality, and exaggerates the hate that Martin carries. Kate is a little too naive and assumes that Peter and Martin are not the boys from when she was nine, although they have lived there all of there lives. In story writing and plot, it is just okay.
February 13, 2021
A Forgiving Heart
@authorkaseystockton
A sweet story about how childhood mistakes and experiences can shape your life and how to overcome those. I liked this story, it moved along well, but I feel like the last 1/3 of the book held all the excitement but then felt rushed at the end. There was a lot of character and relationship building at the beginning, all great, just felt like I was continually learning about backstory and history before I get into the story.
❤️❤️❤️❤️
Synopsis:
Kate experienced a rough childhood with an uncle that was less than kind, but when she becomes the sole owner of his house in the country, she has to deal with all the demons of her past.
Martin and Peter Evans are brothers who live next door to Kate, and both fall in love with Kate’s sweet spirit instantly. But which brother will she choose, and when she discovers their role in her one childhood memory from long ago, will her heart change?
@authorkaseystockton
A sweet story about how childhood mistakes and experiences can shape your life and how to overcome those. I liked this story, it moved along well, but I feel like the last 1/3 of the book held all the excitement but then felt rushed at the end. There was a lot of character and relationship building at the beginning, all great, just felt like I was continually learning about backstory and history before I get into the story.
❤️❤️❤️❤️
Synopsis:
Kate experienced a rough childhood with an uncle that was less than kind, but when she becomes the sole owner of his house in the country, she has to deal with all the demons of her past.
Martin and Peter Evans are brothers who live next door to Kate, and both fall in love with Kate’s sweet spirit instantly. But which brother will she choose, and when she discovers their role in her one childhood memory from long ago, will her heart change?
March 3, 2021
Twenty-year-old Kate Kingston inherits an uncle’s estate after his death. Her own parents died when she was four and that uncle was a not kind guardian for the orphaned girl. In fact, her childhood was far from happy there. Kate did however enjoy her life as an art teacher and the inheritance was a complete surprise.
She decided to take on the Larkfield estate and make it something special for her, including planting an orchard. Kate has a particular disturbing memory of an incident in her childhood involving the neighbor’s children. And of course, she crosses their paths as they are all adults now.
The story has mystery, adventure and forgiveness, with some romance competition thrown in. It was enjoyable, but not riveting: 3 1/2 stars. Probably not one I would keep to read again someday. It’s the first in the Seasons of Change series, each story written by a different author – which I find intriguing! Many of the authors I have read and enjoyed previously, so on to #2!
She decided to take on the Larkfield estate and make it something special for her, including planting an orchard. Kate has a particular disturbing memory of an incident in her childhood involving the neighbor’s children. And of course, she crosses their paths as they are all adults now.
The story has mystery, adventure and forgiveness, with some romance competition thrown in. It was enjoyable, but not riveting: 3 1/2 stars. Probably not one I would keep to read again someday. It’s the first in the Seasons of Change series, each story written by a different author – which I find intriguing! Many of the authors I have read and enjoyed previously, so on to #2!
May 13, 2022
Interesting
It's an interesting story.... A young girl finds out she has " inherited "from her uncle , BUT, she was the heiress all along. Her uncle took advantage of her age and used her estate as his own while sending her off to a boarding school and never contacting her again. Going back to the estate which was hers once her parents died, she begins to change everything, and becomes friends with the neighbors - two men who are brothers but not friends. One was bullied by his brothers and has allowed his anger to lead him to attempted murder and actually killing another. The brother who was a bully until he left for school has become a decent and helpful person. She's caught between the two men and attempts to make sense of attacks, lost items, and an underlying sense of danger. It's an interesting story and although I had that idea that one brother was behind the events, it isn't as clear as I like. There are still plenty of surprises.
It's an interesting story.... A young girl finds out she has " inherited "from her uncle , BUT, she was the heiress all along. Her uncle took advantage of her age and used her estate as his own while sending her off to a boarding school and never contacting her again. Going back to the estate which was hers once her parents died, she begins to change everything, and becomes friends with the neighbors - two men who are brothers but not friends. One was bullied by his brothers and has allowed his anger to lead him to attempted murder and actually killing another. The brother who was a bully until he left for school has become a decent and helpful person. She's caught between the two men and attempts to make sense of attacks, lost items, and an underlying sense of danger. It's an interesting story and although I had that idea that one brother was behind the events, it isn't as clear as I like. There are still plenty of surprises.
May 20, 2020
A 4-4.5 stars for me. I thought the H was fabulous. I thought the h was strong and good natured. I liked them both. The villian or antagonist I went back and forth till close to the end for feeling sorry for and thinking of him a result of his circumstances. I wasn't sure how I felt about the H being the H with his history with the villian. As the story went deeper the villians nature came through better to me. I was able to understand the what the author was conveying in the story. The title was perfect for the theme of the book. I loved the end of the story and the epilogue made me smile. I thought if ever Kasey Stockton ever wanted to write a story invloving the H's friends I'd read that. I enjoyed the mystery and stayed up late to finish it. Morning me did not appreciate that but last night me couldn't put it down! I love this series idea and have enjoyed both in the series so far.
May 27, 2020
Kate didn't have a favorable first impression of Peter when he rides yelling after her borrowed carriage, but she remembers his brother Martin fondly as the boy in the tree she rescued from bullies when she was bullied by her uncle. Martin seems to have a devious nature and he tries to make it seem like he is the master instead of older brother who has recently returned from war Peter. If I were Kate based on those impressions I wouldn't want either brother. But Peter shows kindness saving Kate's friend Emily after she falls from her horse and insisting that he teach Kate to ride after he discovers she doesn't know how. Kate has never had a man want her before, so she is uncertain which one her heart wants. There are some dark suspenseful moments with attempts on a character's life, kidnapping, and madness, but this was a clean Regency romance with some sweet and funny moments too.
June 29, 2022
It took me a little bit to get into this story because the writing felt stilted at times, and I’m not as used to 3 different perspectives (versus 1-2), but after a few chapters, I got engaged with the story and the surrounding mystery. The mystery builds throughout the novel to keep things interesting, but some parts seemed a bit unbelievable. Spoiler: The crimes of one brother seem to be dealt with faster and easier than I expected, though I understand the reason for it in the narrative. It just seemed like Martin’s cruelty was a bit overdone or unrealistic for the circumstances (did anyone else know he killed Kate’s uncle, as the book implied?). But I did like Kate and Peter, and how their love grew out of friendship throughout the novel. A quick, fun read, and I will read more of Stockton in the future.
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