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The Ladies of Bath: A Regency Romance Boxset Collection
Become immersed in the elegance of Regency Era England. Where chivalrous rouges, daring lords, and smart spirited ladies overcome the dastardly schemes that stand in the way of true love! 3 Full Length Regency Romance Novels now in a captivating Boxset. Join the Ladies of Bath as they struggle with love and loss in their search for happily ever after.The Duke’s Daughter A High Society Lady and a Navy Commander…Joined by a tragic accident, a secret cypher, and a clandestine engagement. Two people have never been so mismatched, but when Amelia’s father dies under mysterious circumstances, and Samuel’s elder brother is poisoned within a mere day of the Duke’s death, both Lady Amelia and Commander Beresford find themselves forced to work together in a desperate search for the culprit.Neither could imagine falling in love … now it seems they cannot imagine loving anyone else.The Baron in Bath Surrounded by Rumor…Betrothed to a Rake…Miss Julia Bellevue has been made an object of ridicule amongst the Ton for years and would wish to be left out of their cruel games. But Julia’s late father has secretly betrothed her to Godwin Gruger, the devilishly handsome Baron Fawkland, a scandalous gentleman with a terrible reputation. She would much prefer his equally dashing younger brother, but if Julia refuses to marry the baron she is to lose her inheritance! Caught in a whirlwind of rumors, picnics, parties and balls where no one is who they pretend to be Julia must decide what she really wants…The baron or his brother… and if she can truly trust either man with her heart?The Deceptive Earl Lady Charity is the last of her friends to marry, and she finds Bath lonely…That is until she matches wits with the dashing Earl of Wentwell.Lady Charity thinks Wentwell is a rogue and a scoundrel who has ruined more than one lady. She wants nothing more than to give him the cut direct. Lord Wentwell thinks Lady Charity is outrageous; a woman on the prowl for a husband, and he will have none of it. He has had enough of scheming women and he will not play their games, or the Ton's. Once Charity has seen the gentleman behind Lord Wentwell's devil may care exterior, nothing can keep her from him, not war, nor disease, not even her overbearing mother or his!Can love flourish amidst the problems of Neville's war shaken brother and Charity's elderly ailing father?3 Full Length Sweet and Wholesome Regency Romances.Don't miss the glamor and excitement of Regency Romance by Isabella Thorne.Follow Isabella Thorne on Amazon, Facebook and Bookbub.SIGN UP for her newsletter to be notified of the debut of Isabella Thorne's next novel.
763 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 2, 2019
170 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
Isabella Thorne
85 books105 followersIsabella Thorne is an author of Regency and Georgian Romance. The first grown-up books she read were historical, authored by Georgette Heyer, Victoria Holt and Anna Seton. Unfortunately, for her own daughters, the beauty and hallmark of Regency Romance, witty dialogue and the manners of the time, have been overshadowed by explicit books instead of true Regency Romance. Regency Romance includes a more formal language, longer sentences and ballrooms instead of bedrooms.
With a return to romance, Isabella Thorne hopes you will enjoy her light fun books. You can share them with your daughters with the guarantee that although there is romance aplenty, and a bit of sexual tension and a kiss, there is nothing explicit in her books. They are clean and wholesome reads with lots of humor and upbeat "fun poking" at the English mannerisms of the time.
Because I love the pageantry of the period, I love to include true events or set stories during a war--the English were involved in so many of them at this time! You will find bits of history scattered through the books and an occasional historical figure, but these books are FICTION and not intended to be a definitive history. None of the Peerage of (any land) actually existed. I hope that all the British and the die-hard historical readers will please forgive this passionate American if I make any mistakes, and send an email off to isabellathorne@christianromancestories.com I will make corrections.
I endeavor to make the heros and heroines true to their time period. That means that many women may seem weak at first glance, but they soon find their inner grit. Unlike today's heroines, the Regency heroine could not openly defy convention at the time. Instead, she had to find a way around the convention. That is half the fun! Likewise, heros were expected to be chauvinistic. In fact, the etymology of chauvinism shows that the word chauvinism did not appear until the late 1800's and then was a pejorative term the English had for the French who continued to be slavishly patriotic to Napoleon. What we call chauvinistic, the Regency called masculine or virile. I will always choose to make my characters as historically correct as possible, even if that means they seem a bit politically incorrect to today's audiences.
I am a meticulous perfectionist who taught AP English for 20 years at the high school level before moving to teach at a community college because I was disheartened by the decline in American education, especially the decline of the reading level. Be forewarned that the longer sentences in my books cause an upward trend in the reading level, which settles at about seventh grade, instead of the fourth grade level found in newspapers and many, so called, adult books. An occasional typo may slip by me, but is usually caught by my editor, who is a fellow teacher, or by my Beta and ARC readers who are marvelous. You can expect long sentences in my books, just like they were in yesteryear. You may even learn a few new words. I hope so! I guess I am still a bit of a teacher at heart.
Stop by my website, www.isabellathorne.com for a free story and a notification of special sales.
If you love my books, PLEASE REVIEW and SHARE.
Air Kisses!
Isabella Thorne
With a return to romance, Isabella Thorne hopes you will enjoy her light fun books. You can share them with your daughters with the guarantee that although there is romance aplenty, and a bit of sexual tension and a kiss, there is nothing explicit in her books. They are clean and wholesome reads with lots of humor and upbeat "fun poking" at the English mannerisms of the time.
Because I love the pageantry of the period, I love to include true events or set stories during a war--the English were involved in so many of them at this time! You will find bits of history scattered through the books and an occasional historical figure, but these books are FICTION and not intended to be a definitive history. None of the Peerage of (any land) actually existed. I hope that all the British and the die-hard historical readers will please forgive this passionate American if I make any mistakes, and send an email off to isabellathorne@christianromancestories.com I will make corrections.
I endeavor to make the heros and heroines true to their time period. That means that many women may seem weak at first glance, but they soon find their inner grit. Unlike today's heroines, the Regency heroine could not openly defy convention at the time. Instead, she had to find a way around the convention. That is half the fun! Likewise, heros were expected to be chauvinistic. In fact, the etymology of chauvinism shows that the word chauvinism did not appear until the late 1800's and then was a pejorative term the English had for the French who continued to be slavishly patriotic to Napoleon. What we call chauvinistic, the Regency called masculine or virile. I will always choose to make my characters as historically correct as possible, even if that means they seem a bit politically incorrect to today's audiences.
I am a meticulous perfectionist who taught AP English for 20 years at the high school level before moving to teach at a community college because I was disheartened by the decline in American education, especially the decline of the reading level. Be forewarned that the longer sentences in my books cause an upward trend in the reading level, which settles at about seventh grade, instead of the fourth grade level found in newspapers and many, so called, adult books. An occasional typo may slip by me, but is usually caught by my editor, who is a fellow teacher, or by my Beta and ARC readers who are marvelous. You can expect long sentences in my books, just like they were in yesteryear. You may even learn a few new words. I hope so! I guess I am still a bit of a teacher at heart.
Stop by my website, www.isabellathorne.com for a free story and a notification of special sales.
If you love my books, PLEASE REVIEW and SHARE.
Air Kisses!
Isabella Thorne
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
July 2, 2019
The Duke’s Daughter 4*
did like the character of Samuel Beresford, he liked nothing better than to ruffle a few feathers. Amelia, I didn’t take to at first, she was rather full of herself but as her circumstances changed so did her personality, for the better. This story has a mystery to solve and a couple of romances. This was an entertaining read.
The Baron’s Bride 3*
I think the main reason I didn’t enjoy this book as much as the other was that I didn’t like the heroine, Julia Bellevue. At times, she was unsure of herself and then she questioned whether she was behaving as a wanton and following her mother. I did like her betrothed, Godwin Gruger, Baron Fawkland, he was honourable and understanding and really worthy of a more suitable match.
The Deceptive Earl 3.5*
It took me a while to get into this book but once I did, I enjoyed it. I hadn’t taken a liking to Charity when I read about her in previous books but she had such a caring attitude towards her father that I began to like her. Neville, inspite of his reputation was a likeable character. They both had troubled relations that they cared for. I enjoyed reading of the friends that were in previous books. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
did like the character of Samuel Beresford, he liked nothing better than to ruffle a few feathers. Amelia, I didn’t take to at first, she was rather full of herself but as her circumstances changed so did her personality, for the better. This story has a mystery to solve and a couple of romances. This was an entertaining read.
The Baron’s Bride 3*
I think the main reason I didn’t enjoy this book as much as the other was that I didn’t like the heroine, Julia Bellevue. At times, she was unsure of herself and then she questioned whether she was behaving as a wanton and following her mother. I did like her betrothed, Godwin Gruger, Baron Fawkland, he was honourable and understanding and really worthy of a more suitable match.
The Deceptive Earl 3.5*
It took me a while to get into this book but once I did, I enjoyed it. I hadn’t taken a liking to Charity when I read about her in previous books but she had such a caring attitude towards her father that I began to like her. Neville, inspite of his reputation was a likeable character. They both had troubled relations that they cared for. I enjoyed reading of the friends that were in previous books. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 3, 2019
Good
I found this a good book. All 3 of these books are all good books.
The Duke's Daughter. Amelia is a strong character. She wants to find out about her Father's death and enlists the help of Samuel Beresford to help her.
The Baron in Bath. Julia is a good character. She is confused about her feelings between 2 brothers who fight over her hand.
The Deceptive Earl. Charity is a great character and so caring to her father. I liked the chemistry between the 2 lead characters.
I found this a good book. All 3 of these books are all good books.
The Duke's Daughter. Amelia is a strong character. She wants to find out about her Father's death and enlists the help of Samuel Beresford to help her.
The Baron in Bath. Julia is a good character. She is confused about her feelings between 2 brothers who fight over her hand.
The Deceptive Earl. Charity is a great character and so caring to her father. I liked the chemistry between the 2 lead characters.
July 3, 2019
I read these 3 books when they first came out, and have re-read and enjoyed them again! There has been some editing, but the delightful stories are essentially the same and give much pleasure to the reader (especially the first book, The Duke’s Daughter). I thought the storyline in each was very strong and the author has been very inventive her some of her plots! All are 5 star books, which readers of all ages will enjoy. Take advantage of the price!
For individual reviews of each book, I have placed them below.
1. The Duke’s Daughter
A poisoning, a murder, encoded books and 2 love stories keep the interest level high throughout.
This is not your typical Regency Romance-it is so much more! A mystery, a matching up of a shy elder son of the Earl of Blackburn and his sea-going younger brother and 2 young ladies that are close friends. These ladies have appeared in other books and give a sense of continuity to this series. Patience, that a reticent, unsure-of-herself young lady, and Amelia, the brilliant star of London society, who has rejected most of the eligible men of the ton. Amelia, the star, lost her mother a few years ago in childbirth and has a fear of that happening to her as well. That fear, as well as her mental acuity that has not yet found it’s equal, has kept her from forming any attachments. However, she sees how her father, a Duke, has aged since her mother’s death and as he has dealt with his Dukedom’s responsibilities. As she can not inherit, her father’s death will result in the passing of the title and estate to her Uncle Declan, who has had uneasy relations with her father, a fact that is prodding her to think of marriage more seriously.
The stage is set by all of our characters, including Amelia’s father and her maternal Aunt, attending a ball where the 2 young ladies will meet the 2 young men for the first time. Percivil, the elder brother and heir apparent, and Patience the shy young lady, make eye contact and smile at each other. However, they are not yet introduced. The Naval officer, Samuel, is encouraging his brother to make an effort to meet and dance with young ladies, with the hope of ultimately finding a bride. Samuel sees Amelia, learns she is rather a terror to young men, and takes up the challenge of showing Percivil how it is done: to boldly approach a lady of interest, ask her to dance, and thus establish a relationship with her. Off Samuel goes, bruskly interrupting a conversation Amelia is having with another man, and whisks her away to dance. His boldness, his ability to verbally fence with her, and his physique all impress Amelia.
While Samuel and Amelia are dancing, Percivil snacks on the food and drinks. By the time the dance is over, Percy is quite ill, and Samuel takes him home. It soon becomes apparent that this is not a simple case of food poisoning, as no one else becomes ill, and Percivil continues to spiral downward despite the forced emesis Samuel had induced shortly after they had arrived home. They deduce Percy has been deliberately poisoned, but the who and the why are not known.
The next morning, Amelia’s father appears tired and worried, and makes a cryptic remark when Amelia tells him to not be late coming home that night:
“ ‘I cannot promise,” The Duke said, “After what happened at the ball last night. I fear …” He broke off and Amelia asked “What happened father?” Her father smiled wanly, but it did not reach his eyes. “Nothing you need worry about. I will take care of it.”’
Later, after shopping with her Aunt Ebba, she receives a message that her father was killed in a carriage accident that very day. As if the shock and grief were not enough, her Uncle Declan, who now inherits the title and estates, soon let’s her know she will be removed from town, have a reduced allowance, and is expected to marry as soon as possible. Off she goes to the country, to figure out what to do with the rest of her life.
In the country home, Amelia finds a book with unusal markings and writings that do not make sense. This book was found accidentally in a hidden compartment in her father’s desk. Meanwhile, Percivil and Samuel also have removed to the country to help Percivil recuperate, out of the sight of society, which is left with the impression that Percivil is dying of some malady. It happens that the 2 homes are not far apart, and when Patience comes to visit Amelia, they go with Aunt Ebba to visit Percivil and Samuel. Samuel discovers his brother with an unusual book, damaged by water and with an unusual symbol on the cover. When Amelia is trying to figure out what her book is all about one morning, Samuel walks in, recognizes the unusal symbol on her book is the same as the one on Percivil’s book. Samuel finds his brother’s book, and they make a bit of progress in deciphering some of the numbers- they are latitude and longitudinal readings, which Samuel can follow up on when he goes to London. Samuel shares what he has learned with Percy, and Percy confirms he and Amelia’s father were working on this together. This solidified the belief that Percy was deliberately poisoned and Amelia’s father was killed purposefully, not as an accident.
Will Percy and Samuel be able to master the code to understand what the words and numbers mean? Amelia, not to be left out of the search, goes to London, posing as Samuel’s fiancé. Will this working relationship develop into something deeper? Will Percy recover and begin a relationship with Patience? Who was behind the death attempts and why? This intriguing book will keep your interest until the very end. Readers of all ages will enjoy this mystery around which 2 love stories develop.
2. The Baron in Bath
Gossip nearly tears apart a couple, who must seek the truth in each other.
Julia is accompanied to Bath by her sister to meet her betrothed, Baron Falkland. Her late father arranged for her to marry him, and tied giving her the family summer home in Bath to her actually marrying the Baron. She had known him and his younger brother as children, but had not idea of the man he had become, so it was with trepidation that she prepared herself to meet the adult the Baron had become.
Since Julia Mother’s death, ugly rumors have swirled around the Ton that Julia’s Mother was unfaithful and that Julia was not the daughter of the man her Mother was married to. She was harried by that rumor and made to always feel inferior. Her father had repeatedly reassured her that there was no grain of truth in the gossip. Therefore she carries this inferiority complex to the meeting of her betrothed.
Further complicating the situation were the numerous rumors about Baron Falkland being a rake and having ruined many a girl, and even having a bastard child he is supporting. When they finally meet and begin to come to know each other, each sees in the other the good qualities that they were hoping for in a mate. This leads to a gradual softening of Julia’s attitude to the arrangement her father had set forth in his will for her to wed the Baron.
Of course, they immediately run into the younger brother, a charming, teasing young man that women seem to adore. He quickly makes Julia aware he desires her, and treats her in an overly friendly manner that makes Julia uncomfortable, and raises his brothers’ hackles. The book then is built around the three and their interactions, which has 2 episodes resulting in fodder for the gossip mill. Both episodes put the blame on the Baron for placing Julia in compromising situations.
Throughout the turmoil, we see the steadfast man that struggles against popular opinion, trying to do the right thing and be the mature man that his brother is so clearly not. Julia gradually comes to realize that the younger brother nearer her age that she THOUGHT she knew so well as a youngster is not respectful of her and is not the person she had thought he was. All along he had been hurting her in various ways and getting the blame placed on others, usually his older brother. We see Julia come to see that her father’s insight into her and into the Baron was correct and that they were a good match.
There is are unexpected twists throughout the story that make this book seem fresh and maintains the reader’s interest throughout. Finally, the difficulties are overcome and the engagement is made official.
This is a clean book, with only one episode of mild cursing and one scene where the younger brother forces a kiss on Julia and tries to push her into a more compromising situation. She stops him with a brisk slap and leaves him in the garden. Reader of romance novels of all ages will enjoy this novel with unique twists.
3. The Deceptive Earl
Appearances CAN be deceptive-on purpose!
Sweet story of Charity Abernathy, a young woman whose family has gone to Bath, where they hope the waters will help her father, the Earl of Shalace, who is suffering from failing memory. As it is summer, many of her friends and members of the Ton are there as well to escape a London summer. She soon meets a debonair young man, Lord Wentwell, who enjoys a reputation as a rake—enjoys being a key term here. He uses this front to protect himself from well-born young ladies who would otherwise look to him as a potential husband.
What do a chaste young woman of marriageable age and a 28 year old rake have in common? We find each has an mentally ailing family member that is requiring much attention from the family, with each of them deeply committed to helping this member to the best of their ability. But the significant difference is that Charity is ready for a husband, but Neville has been deeply hurt after being left nearly at the alter by the woman he loved. He has built a wall of protection for himself by encouraging the view that he is a rake, not serious marriage material for respectable young women. As they meet, and are attracted to each other, we watch as both of them fight against their feelings: Neville, as he has yet to recover emotionally himself; and Charity as she must consider her reputation will suffer if she is seen as becoming close to him. We watch as they meet, begin interacting with each other, and learn about each other from their mutual friends. Oddly, Charity’s male friends appear to like Neville and encourage her to not believe all the rumors about him.
Finally, a family crisis brings Neville to Charity’s rescue, and she sees the kind, upright young man that lies beneath the surface. Just as they are about to make a sort of debut as a couple, Neville’s brother has a breakdown, making Neville need to return home. Charity takes this opportunity to accompany him, partly to repay him for his kindness in her time of need, and partly to meet his mother and offer whatever support is needed. This reopens a can of worms that has been locked tightly for too many years, and finally a 20-some year long disagreement between their mothers is finally resolved by the story’s end.
I liked the book as both the H & h are upright, moral young people, deserving of the best of mates. Their struggles with the mental illness in each of their families rings true to us today, and they each exemplify a positive role model for the way a son or daughter can be an aid to the family in such situations. That they hold true to themselves, despite concerns by others about their course, is a pattern for us all, regardless of age. The story is sweet, the book thoughtful about dealing with illness in the family, yet lighthearted enough for enjoyment as a simple love story with a HEA ending for those readers wanting a lighter read. It can be enjoyed on many levels, by readers of all ages. 5 Stars
For individual reviews of each book, I have placed them below.
1. The Duke’s Daughter
A poisoning, a murder, encoded books and 2 love stories keep the interest level high throughout.
This is not your typical Regency Romance-it is so much more! A mystery, a matching up of a shy elder son of the Earl of Blackburn and his sea-going younger brother and 2 young ladies that are close friends. These ladies have appeared in other books and give a sense of continuity to this series. Patience, that a reticent, unsure-of-herself young lady, and Amelia, the brilliant star of London society, who has rejected most of the eligible men of the ton. Amelia, the star, lost her mother a few years ago in childbirth and has a fear of that happening to her as well. That fear, as well as her mental acuity that has not yet found it’s equal, has kept her from forming any attachments. However, she sees how her father, a Duke, has aged since her mother’s death and as he has dealt with his Dukedom’s responsibilities. As she can not inherit, her father’s death will result in the passing of the title and estate to her Uncle Declan, who has had uneasy relations with her father, a fact that is prodding her to think of marriage more seriously.
The stage is set by all of our characters, including Amelia’s father and her maternal Aunt, attending a ball where the 2 young ladies will meet the 2 young men for the first time. Percivil, the elder brother and heir apparent, and Patience the shy young lady, make eye contact and smile at each other. However, they are not yet introduced. The Naval officer, Samuel, is encouraging his brother to make an effort to meet and dance with young ladies, with the hope of ultimately finding a bride. Samuel sees Amelia, learns she is rather a terror to young men, and takes up the challenge of showing Percivil how it is done: to boldly approach a lady of interest, ask her to dance, and thus establish a relationship with her. Off Samuel goes, bruskly interrupting a conversation Amelia is having with another man, and whisks her away to dance. His boldness, his ability to verbally fence with her, and his physique all impress Amelia.
While Samuel and Amelia are dancing, Percivil snacks on the food and drinks. By the time the dance is over, Percy is quite ill, and Samuel takes him home. It soon becomes apparent that this is not a simple case of food poisoning, as no one else becomes ill, and Percivil continues to spiral downward despite the forced emesis Samuel had induced shortly after they had arrived home. They deduce Percy has been deliberately poisoned, but the who and the why are not known.
The next morning, Amelia’s father appears tired and worried, and makes a cryptic remark when Amelia tells him to not be late coming home that night:
“ ‘I cannot promise,” The Duke said, “After what happened at the ball last night. I fear …” He broke off and Amelia asked “What happened father?” Her father smiled wanly, but it did not reach his eyes. “Nothing you need worry about. I will take care of it.”’
Later, after shopping with her Aunt Ebba, she receives a message that her father was killed in a carriage accident that very day. As if the shock and grief were not enough, her Uncle Declan, who now inherits the title and estates, soon let’s her know she will be removed from town, have a reduced allowance, and is expected to marry as soon as possible. Off she goes to the country, to figure out what to do with the rest of her life.
In the country home, Amelia finds a book with unusal markings and writings that do not make sense. This book was found accidentally in a hidden compartment in her father’s desk. Meanwhile, Percivil and Samuel also have removed to the country to help Percivil recuperate, out of the sight of society, which is left with the impression that Percivil is dying of some malady. It happens that the 2 homes are not far apart, and when Patience comes to visit Amelia, they go with Aunt Ebba to visit Percivil and Samuel. Samuel discovers his brother with an unusual book, damaged by water and with an unusual symbol on the cover. When Amelia is trying to figure out what her book is all about one morning, Samuel walks in, recognizes the unusal symbol on her book is the same as the one on Percivil’s book. Samuel finds his brother’s book, and they make a bit of progress in deciphering some of the numbers- they are latitude and longitudinal readings, which Samuel can follow up on when he goes to London. Samuel shares what he has learned with Percy, and Percy confirms he and Amelia’s father were working on this together. This solidified the belief that Percy was deliberately poisoned and Amelia’s father was killed purposefully, not as an accident.
Will Percy and Samuel be able to master the code to understand what the words and numbers mean? Amelia, not to be left out of the search, goes to London, posing as Samuel’s fiancé. Will this working relationship develop into something deeper? Will Percy recover and begin a relationship with Patience? Who was behind the death attempts and why? This intriguing book will keep your interest until the very end. Readers of all ages will enjoy this mystery around which 2 love stories develop.
2. The Baron in Bath
Gossip nearly tears apart a couple, who must seek the truth in each other.
Julia is accompanied to Bath by her sister to meet her betrothed, Baron Falkland. Her late father arranged for her to marry him, and tied giving her the family summer home in Bath to her actually marrying the Baron. She had known him and his younger brother as children, but had not idea of the man he had become, so it was with trepidation that she prepared herself to meet the adult the Baron had become.
Since Julia Mother’s death, ugly rumors have swirled around the Ton that Julia’s Mother was unfaithful and that Julia was not the daughter of the man her Mother was married to. She was harried by that rumor and made to always feel inferior. Her father had repeatedly reassured her that there was no grain of truth in the gossip. Therefore she carries this inferiority complex to the meeting of her betrothed.
Further complicating the situation were the numerous rumors about Baron Falkland being a rake and having ruined many a girl, and even having a bastard child he is supporting. When they finally meet and begin to come to know each other, each sees in the other the good qualities that they were hoping for in a mate. This leads to a gradual softening of Julia’s attitude to the arrangement her father had set forth in his will for her to wed the Baron.
Of course, they immediately run into the younger brother, a charming, teasing young man that women seem to adore. He quickly makes Julia aware he desires her, and treats her in an overly friendly manner that makes Julia uncomfortable, and raises his brothers’ hackles. The book then is built around the three and their interactions, which has 2 episodes resulting in fodder for the gossip mill. Both episodes put the blame on the Baron for placing Julia in compromising situations.
Throughout the turmoil, we see the steadfast man that struggles against popular opinion, trying to do the right thing and be the mature man that his brother is so clearly not. Julia gradually comes to realize that the younger brother nearer her age that she THOUGHT she knew so well as a youngster is not respectful of her and is not the person she had thought he was. All along he had been hurting her in various ways and getting the blame placed on others, usually his older brother. We see Julia come to see that her father’s insight into her and into the Baron was correct and that they were a good match.
There is are unexpected twists throughout the story that make this book seem fresh and maintains the reader’s interest throughout. Finally, the difficulties are overcome and the engagement is made official.
This is a clean book, with only one episode of mild cursing and one scene where the younger brother forces a kiss on Julia and tries to push her into a more compromising situation. She stops him with a brisk slap and leaves him in the garden. Reader of romance novels of all ages will enjoy this novel with unique twists.
3. The Deceptive Earl
Appearances CAN be deceptive-on purpose!
Sweet story of Charity Abernathy, a young woman whose family has gone to Bath, where they hope the waters will help her father, the Earl of Shalace, who is suffering from failing memory. As it is summer, many of her friends and members of the Ton are there as well to escape a London summer. She soon meets a debonair young man, Lord Wentwell, who enjoys a reputation as a rake—enjoys being a key term here. He uses this front to protect himself from well-born young ladies who would otherwise look to him as a potential husband.
What do a chaste young woman of marriageable age and a 28 year old rake have in common? We find each has an mentally ailing family member that is requiring much attention from the family, with each of them deeply committed to helping this member to the best of their ability. But the significant difference is that Charity is ready for a husband, but Neville has been deeply hurt after being left nearly at the alter by the woman he loved. He has built a wall of protection for himself by encouraging the view that he is a rake, not serious marriage material for respectable young women. As they meet, and are attracted to each other, we watch as both of them fight against their feelings: Neville, as he has yet to recover emotionally himself; and Charity as she must consider her reputation will suffer if she is seen as becoming close to him. We watch as they meet, begin interacting with each other, and learn about each other from their mutual friends. Oddly, Charity’s male friends appear to like Neville and encourage her to not believe all the rumors about him.
Finally, a family crisis brings Neville to Charity’s rescue, and she sees the kind, upright young man that lies beneath the surface. Just as they are about to make a sort of debut as a couple, Neville’s brother has a breakdown, making Neville need to return home. Charity takes this opportunity to accompany him, partly to repay him for his kindness in her time of need, and partly to meet his mother and offer whatever support is needed. This reopens a can of worms that has been locked tightly for too many years, and finally a 20-some year long disagreement between their mothers is finally resolved by the story’s end.
I liked the book as both the H & h are upright, moral young people, deserving of the best of mates. Their struggles with the mental illness in each of their families rings true to us today, and they each exemplify a positive role model for the way a son or daughter can be an aid to the family in such situations. That they hold true to themselves, despite concerns by others about their course, is a pattern for us all, regardless of age. The story is sweet, the book thoughtful about dealing with illness in the family, yet lighthearted enough for enjoyment as a simple love story with a HEA ending for those readers wanting a lighter read. It can be enjoyed on many levels, by readers of all ages. 5 Stars
March 4, 2024
Recommended
I really enjoyed these interlinked novels. About a group of friends who one by one find love and marriage. There are, as expected, intrigues and misunderstandings but then that’s ‘par for the course’ amusing and entertaining. Would recommend!
I really enjoyed these interlinked novels. About a group of friends who one by one find love and marriage. There are, as expected, intrigues and misunderstandings but then that’s ‘par for the course’ amusing and entertaining. Would recommend!
November 30, 2020
Boring!
Tedious and in the end I had to put it down. Could not finish reading this badly written book. Awful!
Tedious and in the end I had to put it down. Could not finish reading this badly written book. Awful!
March 15, 2021
Clean reads
Three stories about three ladies and how they meet their loves despite the ups and downs of all their relationships and obstacles. All have their happy endings
Three stories about three ladies and how they meet their loves despite the ups and downs of all their relationships and obstacles. All have their happy endings
June 20, 2019
In Regency Era England, you will find chivalrous rouges, daring lords, and intelligent, spirited ladies who must overcome the wicked schemes that keep them from true love! These three Regency Romance Novels dealing with love and loss in the search for a happily ever after include: The Duke’s Daughter, The Baron in Bath, and The Deceptive Earl. Below are reviews of two of them to entice you into their world!
*** Reviewing THE DUKE’S DAUGHTER ***
This was a wonderful book with plot twists and suspense promising an intriguing mystery for the reader! Lady Amelia Atherton is a very popular young lady with many suitors eager to court her. At a ball, Commander Samuel Beresford, a second son, asks her to dance. That evening, Samuel’s brother Percival is poisoned! And some time later, her father the Duke dies in a carriage accident. This begins to look suspicious. Amelia’s uncle becomes the new Duke and sends her to the country estate to get rid of her.
Amelia finds, among her deceased father’s belongings, a book and papers with strange writing that could point to the suspicious death of her father. Samuel believes he has seen a book like this at his brother’s estate. Where will this clue lead them? How is her uncle involved? And will their working together to solve the mystery bring them into a closer relationship?
*** Reviewing THE DECEPTIVE EARL: LADY CHARITY ABERNATHY ***
Lady Charity Abernathy, the only daughter of the Earl of Shalace was in her dressing room being readied by her mother to show her off to potential suitors. She truly wanted to escape from this! The actual ball was not for another week! At the soiree they attended, Charity saw no one who interested her; without her friends, she didn’t know many people and found it difficult to smile as her mother demanded. Then she saw a crowd of women around a young gentleman, Neville Collington, Earl of Wentwell. The ton accused him of being a flirt, a pretty face, a rake, and he certainly looked the part!
Lord Wentwell remembered Lady Charity. She had new perspectives on things and her intelligence was obvious as they had talked the year before. He had enjoyed her company. When another woman forced her way into their conversation, Charity did not like the harshness that Lord Wentwell displayed, not knowing how obnoxious the woman had been in trying to lure him in as her suitor. This of course made her think the rumors might be true about his character. She knew to stay back from him, yet she still found herself attracted to him. He also was attracted to her, but she saw that as being faked in order to flirt with her.
Lady Charity decided to teach Lord Wentwell a lesson in trifling with a lady’s heart. She led him on, all while remaining a proper lady, and then revealed that she felt nothing. She saw the genuine hurt in his eyes – not from her treatment, but because it dredged up a very painful episode in his life where he was used by a lady only to get to another man. His heart had broken, and he was reminded of the cruelty of women. Even worse, when one of the ladies was ruined and left town, rumor said Lord Wentwell had been to blame. Instead of believing him that he had nothing to do with the false rumor, she turned her anger on HIM and blamed him fully without proof. By the time she acknowledged to herself that she may have been wrong, it was too late and the damage was done. Would there be a second chance? Or would Charity have to move on and settle for someone less than what her heart had chosen?
*** Reviewing THE DUKE’S DAUGHTER ***
This was a wonderful book with plot twists and suspense promising an intriguing mystery for the reader! Lady Amelia Atherton is a very popular young lady with many suitors eager to court her. At a ball, Commander Samuel Beresford, a second son, asks her to dance. That evening, Samuel’s brother Percival is poisoned! And some time later, her father the Duke dies in a carriage accident. This begins to look suspicious. Amelia’s uncle becomes the new Duke and sends her to the country estate to get rid of her.
Amelia finds, among her deceased father’s belongings, a book and papers with strange writing that could point to the suspicious death of her father. Samuel believes he has seen a book like this at his brother’s estate. Where will this clue lead them? How is her uncle involved? And will their working together to solve the mystery bring them into a closer relationship?
*** Reviewing THE DECEPTIVE EARL: LADY CHARITY ABERNATHY ***
Lady Charity Abernathy, the only daughter of the Earl of Shalace was in her dressing room being readied by her mother to show her off to potential suitors. She truly wanted to escape from this! The actual ball was not for another week! At the soiree they attended, Charity saw no one who interested her; without her friends, she didn’t know many people and found it difficult to smile as her mother demanded. Then she saw a crowd of women around a young gentleman, Neville Collington, Earl of Wentwell. The ton accused him of being a flirt, a pretty face, a rake, and he certainly looked the part!
Lord Wentwell remembered Lady Charity. She had new perspectives on things and her intelligence was obvious as they had talked the year before. He had enjoyed her company. When another woman forced her way into their conversation, Charity did not like the harshness that Lord Wentwell displayed, not knowing how obnoxious the woman had been in trying to lure him in as her suitor. This of course made her think the rumors might be true about his character. She knew to stay back from him, yet she still found herself attracted to him. He also was attracted to her, but she saw that as being faked in order to flirt with her.
Lady Charity decided to teach Lord Wentwell a lesson in trifling with a lady’s heart. She led him on, all while remaining a proper lady, and then revealed that she felt nothing. She saw the genuine hurt in his eyes – not from her treatment, but because it dredged up a very painful episode in his life where he was used by a lady only to get to another man. His heart had broken, and he was reminded of the cruelty of women. Even worse, when one of the ladies was ruined and left town, rumor said Lord Wentwell had been to blame. Instead of believing him that he had nothing to do with the false rumor, she turned her anger on HIM and blamed him fully without proof. By the time she acknowledged to herself that she may have been wrong, it was too late and the damage was done. Would there be a second chance? Or would Charity have to move on and settle for someone less than what her heart had chosen?
June 30, 2019
The Duke's Daughter
This is the only one of the these three that I haven't reviewed before. This story reflects a woman who stubbornly viewed her place in this world as a spinster. When her father was killed, she turns to the man who intrigued her to help her. Amelia learns that you can't judge a man by a first impression, and Samuel Beresford keeps Amelia on her toes. Commodore Samuel Beresford learns that love has a way of sneaking into ones heart. This story is a delightful romp with delight repartee.
The Baron in Bath
I waited on this book because it came out in parts and I hate part reading. I am one of those that hate serials that try to make you come back because the story is not complete. I like serials that are complete stories in themselves and if you want to come back it is because the characters and the setting want you to. So I waited and my author granted me an Advance Reader Copy. This is my honest review.
Julia is a large woman, not pudgy or fat, but Amazonian. She has self doubts and her father arranged a betrothal to the Baron of Fawkland. The gossip surrounding this man is atrocious and Julia does not want to be married to a faithless man. Julia remembers the Baron as a child and remembers that he was arrogant. His brother, Cedric was her own age and they had fun playing together, although Cedric used to get in a lot of trouble. Cedric makes his moves on Julia, although she is betrothed to his brother. The Baron is trying to properly court Julia and wishes for her to be his wife.
The truth is this book is about how malicious gossip can be circulated and ruin and hurt people, especially when the lies are perpetuated by a malinger. I loved how the Baron and Julia overcame the gossip, and you will have to read the book to find out what happens to Cedric!😃
The Deceptive Earl
This problem addresses the things in Regency that we didn't have a real name for; PTSD and Alzheimer's. It's amazing how much love these two had for their own families. Things could have gone badly if Neville hadn't helped Charity out, but his own understanding came into play because of his own brother. This is a story worth reading, and an understanding that love can come from a friendship and secrets shared.
This is the only one of the these three that I haven't reviewed before. This story reflects a woman who stubbornly viewed her place in this world as a spinster. When her father was killed, she turns to the man who intrigued her to help her. Amelia learns that you can't judge a man by a first impression, and Samuel Beresford keeps Amelia on her toes. Commodore Samuel Beresford learns that love has a way of sneaking into ones heart. This story is a delightful romp with delight repartee.
The Baron in Bath
I waited on this book because it came out in parts and I hate part reading. I am one of those that hate serials that try to make you come back because the story is not complete. I like serials that are complete stories in themselves and if you want to come back it is because the characters and the setting want you to. So I waited and my author granted me an Advance Reader Copy. This is my honest review.
Julia is a large woman, not pudgy or fat, but Amazonian. She has self doubts and her father arranged a betrothal to the Baron of Fawkland. The gossip surrounding this man is atrocious and Julia does not want to be married to a faithless man. Julia remembers the Baron as a child and remembers that he was arrogant. His brother, Cedric was her own age and they had fun playing together, although Cedric used to get in a lot of trouble. Cedric makes his moves on Julia, although she is betrothed to his brother. The Baron is trying to properly court Julia and wishes for her to be his wife.
The truth is this book is about how malicious gossip can be circulated and ruin and hurt people, especially when the lies are perpetuated by a malinger. I loved how the Baron and Julia overcame the gossip, and you will have to read the book to find out what happens to Cedric!😃
The Deceptive Earl
This problem addresses the things in Regency that we didn't have a real name for; PTSD and Alzheimer's. It's amazing how much love these two had for their own families. Things could have gone badly if Neville hadn't helped Charity out, but his own understanding came into play because of his own brother. This is a story worth reading, and an understanding that love can come from a friendship and secrets shared.
June 23, 2019
The Duke’s Daughter****
Miss prime and proper Lady Amelia got exactly what was coming to her. She is so catch up in the rules that she doesn't realize something dire is amidst. What I like about Amelia is that, come what may, there is more to her then finding the husband of her choice, she is very independent and smart as a whip. Samuel is a daredevil and not looking for a wife because his ship is the love of his life. I also like that regardless of their status in society, they respect one another & actually make a great team. She is strong-willed but a sailor that can handle his ship can surely handle a lady, loved their story!
The Baron in Bath****
I enjoyed this clean regency romance. It is very entertaining and full of the scandals of the ton. Julia is very forthright but she is very naive when it comes to men. Godwin is drawn to her and his cad of a brother is on a different mission. Julia is torn between two brothers and is definitely overwhelmed as she slowly figures things out, a web is spun but who is the spider?! Lol, very interesting and realistic example of the ins and outs, and downfalls of gossip.
The Deceptive Earl****
Interesting, revealing and heartwarming. I actually remember Charity from a previous book in this series and I really didn't like her attitude then and she is true to form this time around. :) She is a handful, a bit frustrating and basically a snob but that is also expected in this genre. I think this story brings understanding to her character, what drives her and why, which in the end actually made me feel sorry for her. Absolutely love the Earl because he is straight-forward and very compassionate.
I received a review copy at no cost without any obligation from the author.
Miss prime and proper Lady Amelia got exactly what was coming to her. She is so catch up in the rules that she doesn't realize something dire is amidst. What I like about Amelia is that, come what may, there is more to her then finding the husband of her choice, she is very independent and smart as a whip. Samuel is a daredevil and not looking for a wife because his ship is the love of his life. I also like that regardless of their status in society, they respect one another & actually make a great team. She is strong-willed but a sailor that can handle his ship can surely handle a lady, loved their story!
The Baron in Bath****
I enjoyed this clean regency romance. It is very entertaining and full of the scandals of the ton. Julia is very forthright but she is very naive when it comes to men. Godwin is drawn to her and his cad of a brother is on a different mission. Julia is torn between two brothers and is definitely overwhelmed as she slowly figures things out, a web is spun but who is the spider?! Lol, very interesting and realistic example of the ins and outs, and downfalls of gossip.
The Deceptive Earl****
Interesting, revealing and heartwarming. I actually remember Charity from a previous book in this series and I really didn't like her attitude then and she is true to form this time around. :) She is a handful, a bit frustrating and basically a snob but that is also expected in this genre. I think this story brings understanding to her character, what drives her and why, which in the end actually made me feel sorry for her. Absolutely love the Earl because he is straight-forward and very compassionate.
I received a review copy at no cost without any obligation from the author.
July 4, 2019
Enjoyed this Regency romance stories with strong heroines and interesting plot developments.
The Duke’s Daughter Lady Amelia Atherton
Referred as cold and distant, Lady Amelia Atherton had much to think about. When fate changed her life and mysterious events were laid before her, seemed like the harsh and at the same time enchanting Commander Samuel Beresford was her only hope. With Lady Amelia, her own woman, soon Beresford had his hands full. Good characters, intrigue, deception, romance, a strong heroine and an interesting and entertaining mystery to solve.
The Baron in Bath
“It is not what you are; it is what people believe you are.” Manipulated from the start, that’s what Julia had been. The Ton was easily convinced of sin and she had had the short straw all her life. Could she trust to be wanted for herself? A lovely story with a heroine in need of reassurance and self-confidence. Julia was struggling with her emotions and her feelings which she thought were wrong. Liked the descriptions and narrations, how the author described the characters and the interesting plot development that kept my attention.
The Deceptive Earl
Quickly to draw conclusions upon rumors Lady Charity Abernathy was blindsided and her heart was at risk. Struggling to protect his heart Lord Neville Wentwell was entangled in his own charade. A regency romance with strong-willed female protagonist, heartbreaking situations, some amusing scenes and an entertaining plot development that kept me enjoying the reading.
The Duke’s Daughter Lady Amelia Atherton
Referred as cold and distant, Lady Amelia Atherton had much to think about. When fate changed her life and mysterious events were laid before her, seemed like the harsh and at the same time enchanting Commander Samuel Beresford was her only hope. With Lady Amelia, her own woman, soon Beresford had his hands full. Good characters, intrigue, deception, romance, a strong heroine and an interesting and entertaining mystery to solve.
The Baron in Bath
“It is not what you are; it is what people believe you are.” Manipulated from the start, that’s what Julia had been. The Ton was easily convinced of sin and she had had the short straw all her life. Could she trust to be wanted for herself? A lovely story with a heroine in need of reassurance and self-confidence. Julia was struggling with her emotions and her feelings which she thought were wrong. Liked the descriptions and narrations, how the author described the characters and the interesting plot development that kept my attention.
The Deceptive Earl
Quickly to draw conclusions upon rumors Lady Charity Abernathy was blindsided and her heart was at risk. Struggling to protect his heart Lord Neville Wentwell was entangled in his own charade. A regency romance with strong-willed female protagonist, heartbreaking situations, some amusing scenes and an entertaining plot development that kept me enjoying the reading.
July 5, 2019
clean, sweet romance
Ms Thorne is a master of writing Regency romance. I love reading her books. Sometimes i lose myself in her descriptions of clothes for the characters, and she always gives variety to the cast. Lady Julia was a tall, quiet lady who despaired of finding the love of her life, as did her friend, Lady Charity. Their close friend, Lady Amelia, was also unwilling to settle for marrying without love. How these outspoken but ladylike women managed to find their solutions despite rules of the Ton provided much entertaining reading for me.
I received these books in a giveaway. I am giving my review to encourage others to give them a try, as well. You won't be disappointed with them or any other of Ms Thorne's books. Thanks for a very goodread!
Ms Thorne is a master of writing Regency romance. I love reading her books. Sometimes i lose myself in her descriptions of clothes for the characters, and she always gives variety to the cast. Lady Julia was a tall, quiet lady who despaired of finding the love of her life, as did her friend, Lady Charity. Their close friend, Lady Amelia, was also unwilling to settle for marrying without love. How these outspoken but ladylike women managed to find their solutions despite rules of the Ton provided much entertaining reading for me.
I received these books in a giveaway. I am giving my review to encourage others to give them a try, as well. You won't be disappointed with them or any other of Ms Thorne's books. Thanks for a very goodread!
July 2, 2019
Suspense, intrigue, and the promise of love.
If you like Isabella Thorne as much as do this is a great collection to have. Each of these clean regency romances are engaging and highly entertaining you will be hooked right from the beginning. You will see how the ton works and read about all the challenges the characters have to go through. There will be times you will wonder if there is going to be a happy ever after. The Duke’s Daughter, The Baron in Bath, and The Deceptive Earl were wonderful books. I highly recommend the collection. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
If you like Isabella Thorne as much as do this is a great collection to have. Each of these clean regency romances are engaging and highly entertaining you will be hooked right from the beginning. You will see how the ton works and read about all the challenges the characters have to go through. There will be times you will wonder if there is going to be a happy ever after. The Duke’s Daughter, The Baron in Bath, and The Deceptive Earl were wonderful books. I highly recommend the collection. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
July 2, 2019
A brilliant series that you should definitely read if you a lover of clean regency romances.
The Dukes Daughter
Well I was never expecting that amount of suspense and intrigue but safe to say I was hooked. They made an admirable couple.
The Baron in Bath
Another charming Regency tale with recurring characters from previous book. A little slow in places but it made up for as it progressed.
The Deceptive Earl
This one was just lovely to read. I can’t say more than that with out giving away to much 😘. An absolute must read.
I received this as an arc and I am giving my honest review voluntarily
The Dukes Daughter
Well I was never expecting that amount of suspense and intrigue but safe to say I was hooked. They made an admirable couple.
The Baron in Bath
Another charming Regency tale with recurring characters from previous book. A little slow in places but it made up for as it progressed.
The Deceptive Earl
This one was just lovely to read. I can’t say more than that with out giving away to much 😘. An absolute must read.
I received this as an arc and I am giving my honest review voluntarily
July 2, 2019
Amelia meets Samuel and is intrigued by him, but he's a naval officer and shes a Duke's daughter.
Then her father is killed and her life changes.
A great read with some suspense thrown in.
The Baron of Bath
Julia has been betrothed in her father's will to Lord Fawkland. She doesn't remember him well but does remember his brother, Cedric, better. But things are not what they seem.
A good read with some underhand tactics.
The Deceptive Earl
Charity meets Earl Wentwell again after dancing with him previously. His reputation as a rake means she wants to keep away from him but she's attracted to him, and things are not always as they appear.
Then her father is killed and her life changes.
A great read with some suspense thrown in.
The Baron of Bath
Julia has been betrothed in her father's will to Lord Fawkland. She doesn't remember him well but does remember his brother, Cedric, better. But things are not what they seem.
A good read with some underhand tactics.
The Deceptive Earl
Charity meets Earl Wentwell again after dancing with him previously. His reputation as a rake means she wants to keep away from him but she's attracted to him, and things are not always as they appear.
August 6, 2019
Three beautifully written books in one neat bundle. The Ladies of Batg each have their challenges. Lady Amelia has to adapt and grow up to achieve her desires in life. Lady Julia tries to fit into society but must realize that she can make her own future. Lady Charity has to find herself before she will find true love. I love reading Historical fiction and really enjoyed these Regency period books. I would recommend this author to all who love reading love stories and Historical Fiction.
July 4, 2019
I really enjoyed this series, I loved buying all three, at once.
I was able to read them in order.
Each book is an individual story.
Sometimes refers to a part or character of an earlier book.
Isabella, has bought the three stories & characters together well.
The characters are well developed.
I was able to read them in order.
Each book is an individual story.
Sometimes refers to a part or character of an earlier book.
Isabella, has bought the three stories & characters together well.
The characters are well developed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2019
Enjoyed this boxset and all of the stories have well developed and defined plots and characters. Therey is mystery, adventure and romance. Each of these strong women meet their perfect match even if they don't realize it at the time and have much to overcome before they find their happiness. Recieved an advanced copy from author and voluntarily leaving this review.
July 28, 2019
If you are someone who loves historical romances, this collection of Regency romances is for you. Isabella Thorne has a wonderful talent of bringing the time period to life, and this collection is a very good example of that. I look forward to what she comes up with next.
August 5, 2019
This boxed set is well written and keeps you reading. I really enjoyed
The Baron in Bath, is a great read it keeps you entertained as it takes you back in time for an adventure. As does the other stories. I enjoyed the adventure. My opinion
The Baron in Bath, is a great read it keeps you entertained as it takes you back in time for an adventure. As does the other stories. I enjoyed the adventure. My opinion
August 9, 2019
Three in one
I liked the details used to describe each of people. It made it easy to visualize them. The setting of each of the stories was interesting. I dislikeed that rather than asking questions to find out the truth, what they was their reality for way too long.
I liked the details used to describe each of people. It made it easy to visualize them. The setting of each of the stories was interesting. I dislikeed that rather than asking questions to find out the truth, what they was their reality for way too long.
August 27, 2019
Loved all 3 stories in this book. They were fun, entertaining, romantic, etc. Didn't want to put the book down until I finished all 3 stories. Loved the original characters and plots. Great collection.
January 27, 2020
A lot of Twists & Turns
I very much enjoyed seeing friends brought together and where this love story would go and end. A very good story!
I very much enjoyed seeing friends brought together and where this love story would go and end. A very good story!
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