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Branches of Love Boxed Set, Books 1-3

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Three Loves Stories Set in the Romantic Regency Era. 
A Convenient Arrangement, An Inconvenient Marriage, and a Second Chance at Love.


The Social Tutor:
Christine Devon's social graces are lacking and her entrance in society depends upon her improvement. Thomas Gilbert's finances are in ruin and the only way to save his dream is to find investors for his stables. Together, they can solve both their problems, as long as they don't fall in love.

The Gentleman Physician: 
Five years ago, Julia Devon said goodbye to the man who held her heart, though she had to break his in the process. When Nathaniel Hastings, a physician in Bath, meets hr again, will past regrets keep them apart or will a second chance at love heal them both?

His Bluestocking Bride: 
Marcus Calvert must wed in order to inherit his estate, but he's vowed to never risk his heart in a love match again. Ellen Bringhurst has resigned herself to spinsterhood until her match-making friends contrive to reintroduce Ellen to the man she has secretly loved since childhood. Marcus and Ellen wed, though this marriage of convenience is not what either of them wished for. 

All Books in the Branches of Love Series, in Order:

Martha's Patience, a prequel novella

In This Set: 
The Social Tutor
The Gentleman Physician
His Bluestocking Bride

Available Separately: 

The Earl and His Lady
Miss Devon's Choice 
Courting the Vicar's Daughter

721 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 27, 2019

596 people are currently reading
188 people want to read

About the author

Sally Britton

46 books1,261 followers
Sally Britton is sixth generation Texan, received her BA in English forever ago, and reads voraciously. She started her writing journey at the tender age of fourteen on an electric typewriter, and she’s never looked back.

Sally lives in Oklahoma with her husband, four children, and their overly energetic Australian Shepherds, cat, and snake named Nancy. She loves researching, hiking, and eating too much chocolate.

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5 stars
265 (59%)
4 stars
131 (29%)
3 stars
41 (9%)
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3 (<1%)
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5 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for Melissa.
1,191 reviews15 followers
September 2, 2019
I love this series!

The Social Tutor - This book had a fun twist to the usual Regency novels. I found it interesting that Christine can tell when her father is displeased and that she knows to just do as he says and agree with him, but she doesn't understand this should extend to society as well. Thomas thankfully comes to the rescue, while seeing the gem that she is and how society snuffs that out. This was a sweet story and I enjoyed how naturally their relationship progressed. This seems like a fun series and I'm excited to read the rest of it.

The Gentleman Physician - I'm so glad Julia gets her HEA. As others have mentioned this is a more somber story, but it doesn't make it any less beautiful. The characters in this book are wonderful, well except for Mr. Macon. They are all so loving, giving and kind. Grief is hard, especially drawn out grief like this story, but they shared that grief and helped lift each other. I loved Nathaniel's character. He's definitely the kind of physician I would want for my family. I loved how things came together for Julia and Nathaniel. I'm excited to read Virginia's story.

His Bluestocking Bride - I really dislike Regency society. Thankfully a lot of Regency novels show the cream of the crop, those who may not conform completely to all of society's rules. Ellen is such a sweet woman who genuinely cares about others and does not fit in with society. Marcus has been raised in society and has learned how to "play the game," even though he prefers the country. There were moments I cried and my heart broke for this couple, but at others I cheered them on. I hope we get glimpses of them again in other books to see how they are adjusting to their new life. They are a sweet couple and I enjoyed pretty much all of the story, except for the moments in society.
33 reviews4 followers
July 30, 2022
Enjoy the book very much

Enjoyed reading the book very well. There were no sex scenes
to complain about. I would recommend this interesting book.
Profile Image for Karen.
735 reviews7 followers
March 9, 2020
I just finished reading the third book in the series. Each of the three books has a clean romance with a sweet HEA. I have come to enjoy Sally’s characters and how the stories fit together. They can be read as a stand alone or out of order and they would still be just as enjoyable
Profile Image for Kathy.
1,700 reviews6 followers
January 9, 2020
Three stories of love for three different couples. Each very well done.
Profile Image for Elda.
1,203 reviews6 followers
April 15, 2020
In the Social Tutor, I loved how Christine and Thomas came to become ‘friends’ in a most unusual way. Quite clever of this author to put words to paper (or should I say ebook?) in such an imaginative way. I believe any who read this will be left smiling and happy at the end and also as desirous to continue reading this series. Well done Ms Britton!

The Gentleman Physician is Julia and Dr. Nathaniel Hasting’s story. I thoroughly enjoyed the doctor and Julia’s story. A very clean read and appropriate for the time period. The angst was just enough to keep my interest and root for the couple. It is very well written and I loved the characters, even the dastardly villains. What is a good book without villains?

What a great love story in His Bluestocking Bride! I truly felt Ellen’s pain during the process of her marriage to Marcus. And I truly felt her happiness when Marcus finally professed his love to her. Ms Britton’s writing abilities have to be truly remarkable in order to evoke the tears I experienced while reading this. I got lost in the romance. Very well written.
70 reviews1 follower
January 24, 2022
Branches of Love box set 1-3

I can not say when I have enjoyed reading three stories more. They make me feel as if I am there, part of the story. My favourite was the Gentleman Physician. Sally the way you wrote about such a very difficult time in a Family's life was beautiful, with such tenderness. You are truely a wonderful writer. I look forward to the second book set 4-6 of Branches of Love
918 reviews3 followers
January 31, 2021
My new favorite author

Sally Britton writes stories about real characters who are as imperfect as the rest of us, but loveable all the same. With an unusual sensitivity to historical accuracy, she writes of people outside or on the border of the glitter and glamour of Regency England's "ton." These are wonderful stories by a terrific author
Profile Image for Lisa Swinton.
Author 27 books197 followers
August 13, 2021
Miss Britton weaves wonderful regency tales that will have you swooning as much as the heroines.

Delightful in every way, the box set is a gem and will have you craving more of her wonderful writing. Each story comes with beloved characters with obstacles to overcome before they come together.

Miss Britton, please continue your high standard of writing and I'll keep reading.
723 reviews2 followers
July 20, 2020
London's ton, not for the faint of hearts

Fresh, clean and interesting. You will enjoy getting to know each of the couples as well as their families and friends. Each story holds its own twist as the story is revealed.
Profile Image for Melissa.
193 reviews
January 5, 2021
Love this Author

Sally Britton is one of my favorite authors. Her stories have depth of character and plot. It is pure joy to spend an afternoon deeply engrossed in the sweet and captivating journeys of love.
Profile Image for Tricia Cox garrett.
926 reviews4 followers
January 26, 2021
Branches of Love Books 1 - 3

Great set of books. I love Sally Britton's books. I enjoy reading them and listening to them. You can't go wrong selecting one of her books. Good clean romance.
Profile Image for Megan.
410 reviews
April 7, 2020
The third is the best!

I loved the third book in the series. All three are all clean, quick reads and I enjoyed reading them.
Profile Image for Janet Wild.
495 reviews2 followers
September 27, 2020
A set of sweet romances

This delightful set of gentle romances made a great weekend read, which I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Not read this author before but would read again
1,408 reviews
November 25, 2020
Wonderful Bundle

What a great group of Regency romances! The characters were all well drawn and interesting. All three were clean novels.
Profile Image for Amber.
539 reviews
May 13, 2021
Great series

The set and the one after it build some really great/interesting characters. It was nice to see them in more than one story. Clean romance.
36 reviews
August 11, 2021
This series just gets better and better.

I started with the 5th book in the series, but had to know what came before. The development of the stories is totally delightful.
413 reviews6 followers
September 8, 2019
Below are my individually posted reviews for each title. In all honesty, I read them out of order. I read book 3 first, then went back later and read books 1 & 2. I'm glad I did because book 3 shows much more development and growth in the author's writing skills that continues to improve up to her most current works.

Book #1, The Social Tutor
As far as this particular book is concerned, I'm not entirely sure how realistic it is, but I enjoyed it nevertheless and like how she used it to develop her future books in the series.

Christine starts out as cold and unfeeling because she's determined to meet her father's expectations. Yet, as time passes, she wakes up to the reality that he simply wants to use her to achieve his own goals and there's nothing in the bargain for her. At this point, she has to reevaluate her goals. Does she pursue peace with her father and maybe never satisfy him? Or, does she seek her own happiness as well as heal the division she's caused with her sisters?

Thomas's character grows as well. At first he accepts Christine's offer in a rather mercenary, self serving way in which to fulfill his personal goals. However, as he gets to know Christine, he realizes that he doesn't want her to go to London. He wants her for himself, but is there any possible way to stop her?

The development of the romance is at a perfect pace. What started as mere acquaintances grew to friendship and more. I also loved the interactions of Thomas's parents with him and Christine's sisters with her. But, nothing compares to the ending! My favorite part of the book is the ending. It's absolutely classic how everything turns out.

Romance - PG / kissing
Language - nothing offensive
Violence - threats and anger expressed by one character
My rating - 5 stars

Book #2, The Gentleman Physician
This particular story is much more emotional than the others as it involves the death of one of the characters. But, having read the other books already, I see how important this story is to understanding the storyline in one of the later books.

This story centers on Julia, immediately after the events in book 1. She is now essentially banished from home and finds herself in Bath, helping her cousin who is facing the death of her husband. What she doesn't expect is to find the family physician none other than her previous beaux.

Nathaniel Hastings thought he was over Julia. That is, until she shows up at the home of one of his patients. What he doesn't expect is the feelings he has for her are as strong as ever before. But, will she reject him a second time?

This story deals with some very real life struggles - especially those of Julia's cousin. But, as Nathaniel and Julia get reacquainted, can they move past what happened in the past? I loved how even though the surrounding storyline dealt with sickness and death, there was still the light hearted scenes involving Nathaniel's friends.

Romance - PG / kissing
Language - clean
My rating - 5 stars

Book #3, His Bluestocking Bride.
Ellen is resolved to make the best of her situation as the last unmarried daughter. And, at 26, she realizes that she will likely remain a spinster. She wonders if she's still single because no one compares to her secret love from childhood, Marcus Calvert.

Marcus has been given an ultimatum by his mother - find a wife if he wants to take possession of his inheritance. However, he has decided that a marriage of convenience is what he wants. After having his expressions of love rejected, he determines to avoid any hint of romance again.

When their mutual friends decide to play matchmakers, Marcus decides Ellen is the perfect candidate for a marriage of convenience. Not wanting to lose him and risk never getting married, Ellen accepts. However, can she hide her feelings forever? Will Marcus ever realize that he can love again?

This is my first book from this author and I intend to read much more from her. I was completely drawn into the story. The character development is excellent as I was drawn in to the emotions of each. I felt their joys and sorrow. When Ellen pined with unrequited love for her husband, I felt her heartache. When Marcus wondered why his wife was so quiet, I felt his confusion even if I did want to reach into the pages and slap him! The author expertly shifted perspective to provide a fuller understanding of the scene. Also, the setting and historical accuracy are on point. I could sense the level of competition and tension within the ballroom. It's simply a good book.

Romance - PG / clean
Language - clean
My rating - 5 stars
Profile Image for Priscila.
852 reviews86 followers
September 2, 2019
Sally Britton is a fantastic Clean Regency author and her first three books in the Branches of Love series just prove it. Of course, since by the end of them I knew I had found a new favorite author, you may find yourself reaching for the next book in her series (#4. The Earl and His Lady). Here are my reviews of each featured book in this boxset:

#1. The Social Tutor
A beautiful story born from an unconventional arrangement between Ms. Christine Devon and Mr. Thomas Gilbert that will develop into something more.

If I must be honest, it really took me a while to be able to get into this book. The first part is full of introductions and descriptions of both the main characters, their current situations, and their families. However, once the reader gets over that part, and the arrangement has been made, the true, though at times slow, interest and magic begin. I really loved how the author set the base for Christine and Thomas's relationship on their friendship. I really liked how, through each lesson and question, the reader is able to understand a bit more of what social convention expected as proper behavior. And I certainly loved how each character started to flesh out a bit more as the story progressed, especially with the author's emotional descriptions of both Thomas and Christine, as well as the timely background bits of characters such as Julia.

All in all, a very sweet, clean, and beautiful recommended read. ~ 4 stars

#2. The Gentleman Physician
This one was one of the sweetest Regency Romance I'd read in a while :) it had wonderful characters, a great plot, really nice descriptions of the setting (Bath) but which did not slow down the pace of the book. I enjoyed this story more than the first one, and I guess it had to do with its use of the second chance romance trope. Completely recommended! ~ 5 stars

#3. His Bluestocking Bride
This one was a bit different than the previous two books since it doesn't follow the story of one of the characters we've already been introduced to so far. Instead, we're only told of the relation between the hero, Marcus, and his brother, Lucas, Earl of Annesbury (whom we've only met briefly in The Social Tutor). However, as the author points out in her note to her readers, it makes sense for this book to be the third in the series since it needs to be before the Earl's (4th).

Having said all these things, however, none of them take away from the great experience and quality in storytelling a Sally Britton's reader is already used to. Her descriptions and historical accuracy are on point (as far as I could tell), and she plays definitely well the marriage of convenience trope (it's beautiful to see Marcus's development and growth of feelings for Ellen, his wife). As always, the romance is Sweet (or others would say Clean), and, at least to me, very satisfying.

All in all, a delightful "prequel" to "The Earl and His Lady". Completely recommended. ~ 5 stars
618 reviews
September 7, 2019
TITLE: Three marriage matches that were seemingly NOT made in Heaven, but must surely make the angels sing!

A nice selection of stories that are a bit different than the run-of-the-mill Regency Romances. These each have their focus on unusual characters or situations in which our heroine has a major obstacle in making a good match in society.

In Book 1, our heroine is about to come “out” without being trained in any of the social graces so necessary in that day—she had focused all her attention on learning to care for the horses her mother had left to her care when she died. Who can she turn to, but her friend growing up, Thomas Gilbert, who must learn to navigate the tricky waters of a friendship with a young lady he does not intend to pursue!

In Book 2, our heroine Julia was forced by her father to reject the man she loved, but then failed to make a match he was comfortable with! As a punishment, she is sent to care for the family of a dying man, so his wife can attend to him. When her Long Lost Love turns up as the attending physician for the dying man, will they be able to overcome the past to have a happy future?

Book 3 finds an middle daughter, Ellen, whose parents always put her sisters’ interests over hers in presenting her to society. Now, Ellen is a 26 year old lady with no prospects. Her cousin and his wife see a perfect opportunity to match her up with a friend and invite them both to a house party. Will the already-burnt young Lord be able to open his heart to a young Lady most deserving of it?

These tender stories will linger in your heart and mind long after you finish them.
Profile Image for AmazingJ.
993 reviews7 followers
January 23, 2020
The 1st & 2nd Books were Good, I was very disappointed in the 3rd Book.

"The Social Tutor"

Christine & Thomas's Story was Sweet, Adorable & Delightful.
A clean, Romance Book.
I didn't care for the over Internal Dialogue from the H&H.
Other than that, the Story was very enjoyable.

"The Gentleman Physician

A Wonderful, Sad & Sweet Story.
A Clean Romance Novel.
Julia & Nathaniel's Journey to HEA was a joy to read.
Since Julia was sent to help her Cousin Virginia because her husband was dying, it was sad.
Julia & Nathaniel had met years prior when she arrived in London for her 1st Season.
After breaking his heart, he shows up to visit with his Patient who happens to be her cousin Virginia's husband.

"His Bluestocking Bride"
Ellen & Marcus's Story was OK, it could have been written better.
Truly disappointed with the Book.
There seems to be no real connection between the Characters. It is a short story.

It took the entire Story for them to introduce their feelings to each other.
It ends with only5 pages on the Epiloguewith no real ending.
92 reviews
October 24, 2019
Three "but I'm not going to fall in love" romances, all three really good - worth reading. Course they fooled me: three sisters - The middle one rebellious -- She wasn't going to marry without love - and with a little outside help - she succeeded. Third sister had done something that made monster dad mad - and she suffered for it. Now we find out what it was and .. well, read it. Third sister, the third book would certainly rescue her for Dad's clutches. -- Nope, doesn't have anything to do with that family -- guess I'll have to get books -- how many -- to get the third sister out and to tie these together. Good reading, I assure you.
1,230 reviews3 followers
September 30, 2019
Thoroughly enjoyed this trilogy of Regency romances. Well-written, in-depth characterization, and entertaining from beginning-to-end. Would have thought the last book, however good, would have been about the youngest daughter, Rebecca's London ton experience, but it was a totally unrelated book. Perhaps, it's offered elsewhere. Lovely cover, however the title is not alluring, nor promotional to the content. Otherwise, well worth your time and a delightful read for those who enjoy this genre.
1,160 reviews6 followers
September 19, 2019
This was a great read! The stories were all unique, and just enough of a common thread without going all over the previous book. I like that the characters were woven in without going back over how they met or were related, and you could easily follow along. I loved each happy ending, and that things worked out, though not always as I thought they would get worked out!
Profile Image for Courtney.
4,298 reviews
November 2, 2019
Okay

I don't know if it's just because I had such a connection to a previously read book, or if I just am not in the mood for a novel such as this one- but I did not feel the pull to this novel that I normally do when I am reading a new novel. I will definitely have to try again later.
Profile Image for Sharon.
1,049 reviews2 followers
September 1, 2019
These books in this box set are simply amazing. They are sweet and clean. I loved the characters in each of these books. I want to thank Sally Britton for providing me with an advanced copy. It in no way influenced my opinion and this is my true and honest opinion.
Profile Image for Carmen Nuland.
121 reviews1 follower
November 2, 2019
Three wonderful stories

My favorite of the three novels is the story of Ellen and Marcus (book #3). They married as a matter of practicality, but found their marriage to be so much more.
Each book in this collection is a clean, HEA, standalone novel.
Profile Image for LUAYNE.
1,952 reviews4 followers
September 24, 2019
Excellent stories. Interesting enough to keep you turning pages. Recency England with all the social rules for women is fascinating. Good, clean writing.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews

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