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The Spinster Chronicles #6
What a Spinster Wants
Lady Edith Leveson has lived her young widowhood in shadows and secrets, not even revealing the truth to family or friends. That, it seems, is no longer an option, and she must act quickly to avoid being ruined entirely and forevermore. A handsome but reserved rescuer comes to her aid just in time, and their paths begin to entwine more than either of them expected.
Graham Hastings, Lord Radcliffe, is no hero. He isn't brave, bold, or in any way noble, yet the striking Lady Edith seems determined to paint him so. One dance with her, and he seems unable to avoid finding her in need wherever he goes. The more involved he becomes, the more his heart begins to open, and he finds himself more than willing to become a hero. Hers.
Graham Hastings, Lord Radcliffe, is no hero. He isn't brave, bold, or in any way noble, yet the striking Lady Edith seems determined to paint him so. One dance with her, and he seems unable to avoid finding her in need wherever he goes. The more involved he becomes, the more his heart begins to open, and he finds himself more than willing to become a hero. Hers.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2020
132 people are currently reading
280 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Connolly
93 books1,280 followersI was born once upon a time, and I started making up stories right away. Eventually, I started writing them down, and never stopped! I have a day job, which gets in the way of my writing, but it pays the bills so I CAN write, so I guess that's okay! I am a bookworm, which I think is key to being a writer, and I am always looking for inspiration! I live in Indiana, am obsessed with hot chocolate, and I am on track to be the best aunt in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
May 14, 2020
This was a fun addition to the Spinster Chronicles. I have really been looking forward to Edith's story, I always thought her character was interesting and wanted to know what secrets she was keeping. It was nice to finally get her back story and learn more about her as a character. Edith was a likable character, even though she is going through tough times, she stays positive and doesn't lose her sense of humor. I also liked our hero, Lord Radcliffe. I thought they brought out the best in each other and were a good match.
This is the sixth book in the series, it does have a lot of the previous characters so you'd probably want to read the books in order so you know who everyone is.
Content
Romance: Clean romance, just kisses
Language: Mild
Violence: Mild-moderate, nothing overly graphic. Villain gets a bit handsy at times.
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This is the sixth book in the series, it does have a lot of the previous characters so you'd probably want to read the books in order so you know who everyone is.
Content
Romance: Clean romance, just kisses
Language: Mild
Violence: Mild-moderate, nothing overly graphic. Villain gets a bit handsy at times.
Similar Books You May Enjoy...
May 28, 2020
Good, not great SPOILER ALERT
I have loved all the books in this series - and 90% of this one is absolutely enjoyable. I loved both of the main characters, and enjoyed spending time with the others from previous books. But - the end! I have some serious problems with the end. I admit, it may just be a misunderstanding on my part about reputations and such, but I just can’t see why an immediate rescue is MORE HARMFUL than waiting a few weeks - AND why a woman’s reputation would matter MORE in that moment than the unimaginable torture everyone knew she had been under threat of, and had no reason not to expect would be carried out! And, WHY didn’t the villain act in character? Not that I wanted him to, but there was NO reason given or implied as to why he would go to the effort and expense to kidnap her... then leave her alone.
I know, that scene about AGONY! And her conflict about self sacrifice and feeling abandoned... those words couldn’t have been written without the extended time frame! Sorry, getting a bit sarcastic here, but I just was (obviously) a bit upset about the end! The girl was SAFE! ESCAPE ALREADY!
As I said, I immediately read everything this author writes. I will continue to. And, if you have read the other stories you can’t miss Lady Edith’s story. Just know it ends..
I have loved all the books in this series - and 90% of this one is absolutely enjoyable. I loved both of the main characters, and enjoyed spending time with the others from previous books. But - the end! I have some serious problems with the end. I admit, it may just be a misunderstanding on my part about reputations and such, but I just can’t see why an immediate rescue is MORE HARMFUL than waiting a few weeks - AND why a woman’s reputation would matter MORE in that moment than the unimaginable torture everyone knew she had been under threat of, and had no reason not to expect would be carried out! And, WHY didn’t the villain act in character? Not that I wanted him to, but there was NO reason given or implied as to why he would go to the effort and expense to kidnap her... then leave her alone.
I know, that scene about AGONY! And her conflict about self sacrifice and feeling abandoned... those words couldn’t have been written without the extended time frame! Sorry, getting a bit sarcastic here, but I just was (obviously) a bit upset about the end! The girl was SAFE! ESCAPE ALREADY!
As I said, I immediately read everything this author writes. I will continue to. And, if you have read the other stories you can’t miss Lady Edith’s story. Just know it ends..
May 2, 2020
Lady Edith Leveson is adopted into the Spinsters group, even though she is a widow. The Spinsters write a paper The Spinster Chronicles, but more importantly, they're intrepid women of their day, seeking to inform others and right wrongs. Lady Edith values their friendship, and when her diseased husband's cousin keeps threatening, propositioning, and making a general nuisance of himself, she turns to them for aide. Her friends, and their husbands, are a great support, as well as Lord Radcliffe, who keeps being in the right place at the right time to make a hero of himself.
I love Rebecca Connolly's regencies, and for that matter, her contemporary romances too! Her characters are full of life, and their problems tug right at my heart. My favorite thing is the wit that she sprinkles liberally throughout her stories. Edith is worn down by her circumstances, but she still rallies enough to joke with Lord Radcliffe and her friends. Lord Radcliffe has a dry sense of humor, and the ability to be in the right place, and the confidence to insert himself into the situation. I loved the many ways he came to Edith's aide!
This book made me laugh, stay up entirely to late, and it made me happy!
Content: clean (pressure from a lewd man to become his mistress, some kissing, mild language)
I love Rebecca Connolly's regencies, and for that matter, her contemporary romances too! Her characters are full of life, and their problems tug right at my heart. My favorite thing is the wit that she sprinkles liberally throughout her stories. Edith is worn down by her circumstances, but she still rallies enough to joke with Lord Radcliffe and her friends. Lord Radcliffe has a dry sense of humor, and the ability to be in the right place, and the confidence to insert himself into the situation. I loved the many ways he came to Edith's aide!
This book made me laugh, stay up entirely to late, and it made me happy!
Content: clean (pressure from a lewd man to become his mistress, some kissing, mild language)
October 19, 2020
The long awaited story for Edith is here! Wow - this story has it all! Suspense, drama, romance and plenty of droll and witty humour. I loved getting a glimpse into the lives of so many of the previous characters to see how they’re progressing but to finally have Edith’s story told was in itself wonderful! I’ve been eagerly anticipating it for the past few books. I love how her character has developed. I definitely recommend reading the other books in the series first if you haven’t already. It gives this story so much more body knowing how strong she has been in the lead up to this. And Gray! Sigh. I loved his droll wit and caring sensitivity. Be careful ladies - he might just make you swoon. This book also brought in a few other characters that we haven’t heard as much about previously. One intriguing couple included. As well as Mr. Demeris. I wonder if he will appear in another story. I can’t wait for the next story after having read the Epilogue to this one. Henshaw has intrigued me from the very beginning so I’m glad that we will hopefully be able to discover more about him next time 🙃 plus... only one Spinster left - what will Charlotte’s story be like?!
I receive an ARC of this book from the Author with no obligation to leave a review.
I receive an ARC of this book from the Author with no obligation to leave a review.
May 8, 2020
I've found Lady Edith to be the most mysterious of the Spinsters. Before now, all we've known is that she's a very young widow, but now we get to find out more about her. I thought her backstory to be sad, but it seems not that unusual for the time, as women didn't have a lot of control over whom they married. Unfortunately some families were more concerned about money than their daughter's happiness, and Lady Edith's was one of them. Luckily for her, she's one of the Spinsters and those ladies not only stick together, they help one another--it's one of the things I love about them--so no matter how much Edith wanted to handle her problems by herself, they weren't going to let that happen.
Graham Hastings. Lord Radcliffe, has the demon of trying to be the man that his brother was or would have been. That's not fair to expect him to be something he isn't, because Graham is a wonderful man in his own right. I loved how Edith and Graham met at the ball, and how she kept entering his thoughts afterward. I adored how the Spinster's husbands come together to help Edith, they really are the best of men. I love this series and think it would be so much fun to be friends with this group of people.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions in my review are my own.
Graham Hastings. Lord Radcliffe, has the demon of trying to be the man that his brother was or would have been. That's not fair to expect him to be something he isn't, because Graham is a wonderful man in his own right. I loved how Edith and Graham met at the ball, and how she kept entering his thoughts afterward. I adored how the Spinster's husbands come together to help Edith, they really are the best of men. I love this series and think it would be so much fun to be friends with this group of people.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions in my review are my own.
April 29, 2020
I loved reading Edith's story as heartbreaking as it was. She was rather mysterious in previous books. We only got snippets of her story. But she did seem world wise and knowing. In this one we see all her insecurities, strengths, fears and fierceness.
Graham is pretty wonderful and very introverted but once one is part of his life, he is incredibly loyal. Loved him. He and Edith are well matched.
Very mixed feelings about Edith's brother. He came through this time but I'm not sure that I trust him at all. I never get enough of the Spinsters as a group and I adore their husbands as well.
The villain in this book is truly evil. It was hard to read in some parts because he was so awful. We didn't get to fully know what happened to him.
spoiler> I also want to know what happens to his wife. Is she as horrible as her husband or also a good person in a bad situation?
I have enjoyed all the books in this series and recommend reading them in order since characters reappear and it is easier to understand the situation with the Spinsters when you start with book one. Looking forward to the next one.
Possible triggers: sexual assault, psychological abuse, physical abuse.
Sex: some kisses, references to marital bed, innuendo.
Language: yes, mild.
Violence: physical assault, sexual assault, psychological abuse, entrapment, references to throwing of punches, violence against women.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Graham is pretty wonderful and very introverted but once one is part of his life, he is incredibly loyal. Loved him. He and Edith are well matched.
Very mixed feelings about Edith's brother. He came through this time but I'm not sure that I trust him at all. I never get enough of the Spinsters as a group and I adore their husbands as well.
The villain in this book is truly evil. It was hard to read in some parts because he was so awful. We didn't get to fully know what happened to him.
spoiler> I also want to know what happens to his wife. Is she as horrible as her husband or also a good person in a bad situation?
I have enjoyed all the books in this series and recommend reading them in order since characters reappear and it is easier to understand the situation with the Spinsters when you start with book one. Looking forward to the next one.
Possible triggers: sexual assault, psychological abuse, physical abuse.
Sex: some kisses, references to marital bed, innuendo.
Language: yes, mild.
Violence: physical assault, sexual assault, psychological abuse, entrapment, references to throwing of punches, violence against women.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
May 23, 2020
Edith has always been a mystery in the previous books in the series, and I was glad to see her get a happy ending! She has endured abuse from her family, her husband, and now her husband's heir. She's a woman living in fear, which takes a toll. It's hard for me to understand her and what she puts up with, but thankfully she finally allows her friends and Lord Radcliffe come to her rescue. The beginning of the book was a little difficult for me to get into because of the choppy dialogue between the large group of friends, sometimes the number of characters is a bit overwhelming. I enjoyed the perspective of Graham the most since he's a pretty steady man and finds himself intrigued by Edith. They have sweet chemistry and some special moments that show their emotional connection. We get some new secondary characters to bring even more personality to the story with Graham's Aunt Eloise and niece Molly, who are both delightful, as well as Amanda Perry who joins the Spinsters as a champion for Edith. I appreciated that the setting was in both London and in the country, giving some variety and a fresh feeling midway through the story. The villain was very dastardly, and provided the impetus for Edith to move away from her self-isolation and reach out to her friends for the emotional support she needed. I'm already looking forward to the next in the series!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
August 20, 2020
I have wanted to know Lady Edith's back-story for the longest time. She is possibly my favorite spinster. However, I found myself scratching my head, often, with how she is saved in this novel. I didn't like the graphic descriptions of how the bad guy behaved. I couldn't suspend my disbelief as to him getting away with what he did in such public places either. Although Edith is my favorite, her novel is my least favorite.
December 15, 2020
This was a favorite book in the spinster chronicles. The story is about Edith, who was a widow, not really never married. Her life is not her own though, and she is becoming desperate. The property was all entailed to a male relative. He has taken an unhealthy attraction to her, and is threatening to have her removed ,with no support unless she agrees to his terms, and marriage is not on the table.. I loved how,she took control, and found love on her own. She trusted friends she feared would look at her in pity, but those friends were once spinsters, and knew the gossip of the ton, and the damage it could do..It lifted my spirits, because I also would have never given into a forced relationship.either....I have given it 5 stars.
August 3, 2021
I really wanted to like this more than I did, Lady Edith had always been my favorite Spinster (capital S) but it seemed strange that after years of keeping her terrible secret (which turned out, as expected, not to be so dark and terrible after all) she would suddenly spill it to all and sundry and allow them to arrange her life without her having much say in the matter and the villain of the piece behaves so stupidly that it was hard to also envision him as capable of creating Edith's problems. However, I really like Radcliffe, and a Connolly romance is always worth a chuckle.
May 13, 2025
This series is a delight even though I’m reading it out of order (don’t tell anyone 🤫).
June 13, 2020
Good
It was good but it was never very clear why Edith couldn’t live with friends
She risked a lot as without funds all she had was her reputation
Good plot good pace
Someone that obsessed would do more stalking
It was good but it was never very clear why Edith couldn’t live with friends
She risked a lot as without funds all she had was her reputation
Good plot good pace
Someone that obsessed would do more stalking
May 26, 2020
Just with the last three of the series - while I enjoyed the overall plot - I have the feeling the author does neither know the era she is writing in very well, nor does she know her own bloody characters.
e.g.
The stories of the Spinsters with capital S are supposedly set shortly after the Napoleonic wars (many references of the Peninsular War, soldiers returning home, some ppl being spies etc). However the dresses she describes most of the time, be it the colours or the style of the dress, remind me of a much later era. At one point I even had the feeling she was describing a 1880 ball gown rather than a Regency dress on the cusp of the Romantic era. The only words missing that description were corset and crinoline.
If you write historical romance, know the era!!! Anything else distracts mightily.
Secondly, with recurring characters, you need to be consistent. You cannot have recurring characters which have certain characteristics and their own kind of voice as minor characters in one book, and then as they turn into main characters in another book are almost not recognizable anymore. Edith was almost unrecognizable. In all the books before it was mentioned she was from Scotland, but that she was a quiet woman of sophistication. In this book, not one page in and Edith has the broadest of Scottish brogue this side of the Hadrian's wall and later on she bellows a typical or let's say very cliched sentence in Scots as well as using a mix of Scottish Gaelic and Irish Gaelic which I find distracting.
The characters do not sound or act at all like they did in the five books before. Once they take center stage, it is as if these are totally different characters.
Having said all this, the Spinsters with a capital S and their spouses have formed a bond among them, that is deeper than friendship. Men and women alike are not only friends, they are equals and family (and entirely too modern but I let this slide). That earned the book the second star IMHO.
e.g.
The stories of the Spinsters with capital S are supposedly set shortly after the Napoleonic wars (many references of the Peninsular War, soldiers returning home, some ppl being spies etc). However the dresses she describes most of the time, be it the colours or the style of the dress, remind me of a much later era. At one point I even had the feeling she was describing a 1880 ball gown rather than a Regency dress on the cusp of the Romantic era. The only words missing that description were corset and crinoline.
If you write historical romance, know the era!!! Anything else distracts mightily.
Secondly, with recurring characters, you need to be consistent. You cannot have recurring characters which have certain characteristics and their own kind of voice as minor characters in one book, and then as they turn into main characters in another book are almost not recognizable anymore. Edith was almost unrecognizable. In all the books before it was mentioned she was from Scotland, but that she was a quiet woman of sophistication. In this book, not one page in and Edith has the broadest of Scottish brogue this side of the Hadrian's wall and later on she bellows a typical or let's say very cliched sentence in Scots as well as using a mix of Scottish Gaelic and Irish Gaelic which I find distracting.
The characters do not sound or act at all like they did in the five books before. Once they take center stage, it is as if these are totally different characters.
Having said all this, the Spinsters with a capital S and their spouses have formed a bond among them, that is deeper than friendship. Men and women alike are not only friends, they are equals and family (and entirely too modern but I let this slide). That earned the book the second star IMHO.
May 1, 2020
Lady Edith Leveson has a problem. Sir Reginald, her late husband's cousin and heir has control of Edith's purse strings and is threatening to ruin her reputation if she does not agree to be his mistress. Lady Leveson needs a hero. Meet Lord Radcliffe, her hero. He's handsome, he's rich, and he always seems to be in the right place at the right time when Edith is in trouble. While the Spinsters and their husbands work together to help protect Edith, it will take a miracle to save Edith from the ruthless and determined Sir Reginald. Add in a house party, an adorable little girl, and a great deal of Scottish brogue and you've got an excellent novel.
Readers Note: though this book can be read as a stand alone, I highly recommend that you read the first five books in the series prior to What a Spinster Wants. There are so many characters in this novel that unless you have read the previous books, you will likely be confused. As it had been a while since I read them, I had to go back and review in order to get the characters straight.
Spoiler Alert in this book there are three sets of Sterlings; Janet and Francis Sterling, Georgie and Captain Tony Sterling and Hugh and Elinor Sterling. In addition, Lord Aubrey and Lady Grace Ingram, Camden and Prudence Vale, Mr. and Mrs. Izzy Morton and Izzy's Sister in Law Kitty Morton; Amelia Perry, Charlotte Wright, Lieutenant Henshaw. and Miranda. Introducing Lord Radcliffe, Graham Hastings, his Aunt Eloise, his niece Molly and and his friend Tyrone Denmar and don't forget the butlers, ladies maids etc. and there are quite a few characters to sort through.
Readers Note: though this book can be read as a stand alone, I highly recommend that you read the first five books in the series prior to What a Spinster Wants. There are so many characters in this novel that unless you have read the previous books, you will likely be confused. As it had been a while since I read them, I had to go back and review in order to get the characters straight.
Spoiler Alert in this book there are three sets of Sterlings; Janet and Francis Sterling, Georgie and Captain Tony Sterling and Hugh and Elinor Sterling. In addition, Lord Aubrey and Lady Grace Ingram, Camden and Prudence Vale, Mr. and Mrs. Izzy Morton and Izzy's Sister in Law Kitty Morton; Amelia Perry, Charlotte Wright, Lieutenant Henshaw. and Miranda. Introducing Lord Radcliffe, Graham Hastings, his Aunt Eloise, his niece Molly and and his friend Tyrone Denmar and don't forget the butlers, ladies maids etc. and there are quite a few characters to sort through.
May 1, 2020
Another solid addition to The Spinster Chronicles series, What a Spinster Wants finally gives us Edith's mysterious story. This book was a bit darker in tone than the other books in this particular series due to the tragic nature of Edith's history. That being said, there were still moments of levity and the overall cast of characters were really good. I enjoyed the sparks between Edith and Graham and their "meet cute". The house party was an unexpected twist I really enjoyed. I like how both Edith and Graham had to learn to trust others and share their feelings.
The epilogue at the end has me soooo excited for the next book in the series too.
I received an advance reader copy of this book. I am choosing to leave a review and all thoughts are my own.
The epilogue at the end has me soooo excited for the next book in the series too.
I received an advance reader copy of this book. I am choosing to leave a review and all thoughts are my own.
May 21, 2020
Love this book! I love Rebecca Connolly and I am so glad that we finally have Edith’s story! From the first book in this series I have wanted to know more about Edith and I am so glad that we finally get to see her overcome a terrible past to finally be happy. I like that she was able to help Graham to be happy and to be okay with taking over his title that he never wanted. I really did love this book and I love the characters so much!
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
May 7, 2020
I absolutely loved this book! It is yet another great addition to this series by Rebecca Connolly. This books tells the story of Lady Edith and her thus far unlucky life as an adult. As well as Graham whom is in a place he never expected to be and trying to live up to his brother's ghost. As they meet and end up helping each other through trials their love slowly grows. Through living, learning and loving they grow stronger. Great story! Can't wait for Charlotte's story!
I was given a free copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I was given a free copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 10, 2020
Another wonderful installment in this series where we have a literal hero stepping in to save his damsel in distress from a weasel of a villain. This book has all the feels, and a swoony gentleman who will do anything for the woman he loves. That’s what I love so such about Rebecca’s books - strong heroes who are willing to do what it takes for the heroine! Well, that and amazing chemistry with steamy kisses while still keeping things clean. :)
November 21, 2024
It was fun to read about Edith and Graham coming together. They are a cute couple, that help each other through some difficult heartaches. All of the characters from the previous Spinster books are in this story, which adds to the fun. The villain is truly despicable, and it is great to watch him lose. Also, Graham's aunt and niece are great additions to the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2020
Connolly does not disappoint! I love the group of characters in this series and their support of one another through all of their different trials. If you enjoy regency romances; you will enjoy this story!
May 14, 2020
I really enjoyed this story. I love the time period and I really enjoyed all the many characters. I really loved Lord Radcliff and how his life changed into a true hero. This is a sweet, clean romance.
April 11, 2021
Of all the books in the series so far, this is the first book to really have any true drama and/or intrigue that was good enough to capture the attention of the reader and encourage further reading to determine the outcome of the story.
I adore this author's proclivity to humor. She never fails to infuse each of her books with it, and it never fails to lighten the story just when it's needed. If only more authors would do this, then they might sell more books.
Once again, there wasn't much passion and/or romance in this story. It was more drama and intrigue than romantic. However, there did seem to be a tad (and a do mean TAD) more chemistry between the Hero and Heroine. Why only a tad? Because they were rarely ever together. I don't know why the author of this series tends to keep her main characters apart and focus more on the extras in the stories, but that's the way it has happened in every single book so far...sadly. Personally, I would like to see more interaction of the main characters than the extras. That doesn't mean the author needs to have more sex scenes, but at least have them be in the same room, talking more to each other, dancing together, playing games on the same team...just doing more things with each other so they could at least attempt to build a relationship.
The build-up of the drama and intrigue was remarkable as the chapters continued to unfold. For the first time in the series, the reader was kept on their toes, desperate to learn the outcome of the story.
I have to say, the ending was a complete surprise (one I won't spoil!). This whole entire story was one that had many twists, turns and, to top it off, an unexpected ending. Out of all the books in the series, this book earned 5 stars from me and the title of "Keeper for the Shelves" worthy, for this was by far the best book in the series...so far.
I adore this author's proclivity to humor. She never fails to infuse each of her books with it, and it never fails to lighten the story just when it's needed. If only more authors would do this, then they might sell more books.
Once again, there wasn't much passion and/or romance in this story. It was more drama and intrigue than romantic. However, there did seem to be a tad (and a do mean TAD) more chemistry between the Hero and Heroine. Why only a tad? Because they were rarely ever together. I don't know why the author of this series tends to keep her main characters apart and focus more on the extras in the stories, but that's the way it has happened in every single book so far...sadly. Personally, I would like to see more interaction of the main characters than the extras. That doesn't mean the author needs to have more sex scenes, but at least have them be in the same room, talking more to each other, dancing together, playing games on the same team...just doing more things with each other so they could at least attempt to build a relationship.
The build-up of the drama and intrigue was remarkable as the chapters continued to unfold. For the first time in the series, the reader was kept on their toes, desperate to learn the outcome of the story.
I have to say, the ending was a complete surprise (one I won't spoil!). This whole entire story was one that had many twists, turns and, to top it off, an unexpected ending. Out of all the books in the series, this book earned 5 stars from me and the title of "Keeper for the Shelves" worthy, for this was by far the best book in the series...so far.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2020
Lady Edith Leveson has come to a decision: her brief marriage and subsequent widowhood must end. It is the only way to escape the disgusting control of her husband’s cousin and heir. Keeping out of the man's way brings her into the company of Lord Radcliffe. With the help of her Spinster friends, Edith learns to hold her head up high and finds a love she wasn’t expecting.
Since Edith was introduced to the Spinsters, I have been intrigued by her story. We get hints that she is penniless and that her first marriage was unfortunate and brief. In this book, we get the full picture: her brother wagered her hand without permission and she was forced into the marriage by her family. She has been making do with what little she had, but her husband’s cousin is making life intolerable for her.
I was certain Henshaw would be paired with Edith, so I was surprised to be introduced to the logical Graham Hastings, Lord Radcliffe. Tragedy brought the title to him and he has struggled with being compared to his now dead older brother. He knows he is no hero, but circumstances bring Edith into his life and he finds himself in that role. Together, they bring out the best in each other.
The plot moves at a good pace. The story is delightful and made for an excellent weekend read. We are down to one Spinster left and, though she is not my favorite, I am eager to see how her story plays out.
This series is one I would recommend to readers looking for a clean and witty tale set in the Regency era.
Since Edith was introduced to the Spinsters, I have been intrigued by her story. We get hints that she is penniless and that her first marriage was unfortunate and brief. In this book, we get the full picture: her brother wagered her hand without permission and she was forced into the marriage by her family. She has been making do with what little she had, but her husband’s cousin is making life intolerable for her.
I was certain Henshaw would be paired with Edith, so I was surprised to be introduced to the logical Graham Hastings, Lord Radcliffe. Tragedy brought the title to him and he has struggled with being compared to his now dead older brother. He knows he is no hero, but circumstances bring Edith into his life and he finds himself in that role. Together, they bring out the best in each other.
The plot moves at a good pace. The story is delightful and made for an excellent weekend read. We are down to one Spinster left and, though she is not my favorite, I am eager to see how her story plays out.
This series is one I would recommend to readers looking for a clean and witty tale set in the Regency era.
September 19, 2024
This is the weakest book of the series so far. Danger and intrigue are not this author's strong suit.
The biggest problem with this book was that it should have taken place way earlier in the series. At this point in the series, the fmc has very close bonds with a group of married women whose husbands are powerful, wealthy, and well connected.
It made all the danger and conflict feel manufactured when the fmc's problems would have been easily solved if she had just talked to anyone. (I get that some people never ask for help because they are afraid to burden people, but it's super frustrating to read)
The villain was cartoonishly evil, but never actually felt like a credible threat. Outside of being a creep, his threats amounted to little more than a couple vague rumors and some hired goons. Hardly an inescapable scheme of ruination. There was nothing to suggest that he had the social capital to outmaneuver the very influential friends of the heroine. His grand plan at the end was too stupid to take seriously. He knows who her friends are and how protective they are! That's why this book should have been one of the first, before she knew them well, before they got married to powerful men.
I cannot even say anything about the hero. He's so inconsequential to the overall story that he could be written out entirely and it would barely change anything. Until about 200 pages in, the hero and heroine were basically just friendly acquaintances. They barely interact with each other.
The biggest problem with this book was that it should have taken place way earlier in the series. At this point in the series, the fmc has very close bonds with a group of married women whose husbands are powerful, wealthy, and well connected.
It made all the danger and conflict feel manufactured when the fmc's problems would have been easily solved if she had just talked to anyone. (I get that some people never ask for help because they are afraid to burden people, but it's super frustrating to read)
The villain was cartoonishly evil, but never actually felt like a credible threat. Outside of being a creep, his threats amounted to little more than a couple vague rumors and some hired goons. Hardly an inescapable scheme of ruination. There was nothing to suggest that he had the social capital to outmaneuver the very influential friends of the heroine. His grand plan at the end was too stupid to take seriously. He knows who her friends are and how protective they are! That's why this book should have been one of the first, before she knew them well, before they got married to powerful men.
I cannot even say anything about the hero. He's so inconsequential to the overall story that he could be written out entirely and it would barely change anything. Until about 200 pages in, the hero and heroine were basically just friendly acquaintances. They barely interact with each other.
June 1, 2020
Romance - Clean
Language - Mild
Violence - Mild/Moderate
Recommendation - High
Series - Book 6 (These should definitely be read in order)
I cannot say enough good things about this series as a whole, I absolutely love it. This book was far more intense than the others in the series. Each book has dealt with a different obstacle that the ladies of the Spinsters (with a capital S)must face and deal with. One of the things I love about this series are the husbands, and how they too become just as much an integral part of the Spinsters.
This is Edith's story. I won't give spoilers, but WOW, this girl has a LOT to deal with. She is strong, and kind throughout it all, regardless of what she is facing.
Graham, oh what a sweet man he is. He has no clue what is about to hit him when he first meets Edith, but his life will definitely never be the same.
I highly recommend this series. You will fall in love with each Spinster and their husbands.
Language - Mild
Violence - Mild/Moderate
Recommendation - High
Series - Book 6 (These should definitely be read in order)
I cannot say enough good things about this series as a whole, I absolutely love it. This book was far more intense than the others in the series. Each book has dealt with a different obstacle that the ladies of the Spinsters (with a capital S)must face and deal with. One of the things I love about this series are the husbands, and how they too become just as much an integral part of the Spinsters.
This is Edith's story. I won't give spoilers, but WOW, this girl has a LOT to deal with. She is strong, and kind throughout it all, regardless of what she is facing.
Graham, oh what a sweet man he is. He has no clue what is about to hit him when he first meets Edith, but his life will definitely never be the same.
I highly recommend this series. You will fall in love with each Spinster and their husbands.
March 29, 2026
I loved this book! Edith was such an interesting character for the whole of the series so far, and to finally get to her book was exciting! Edith is such a strong, witty, and independent woman who went through the worst circumstances possible in her entire life. Graham is a reserved yet fiercely loyal person whose fairly recent acquisition of his late brother's title is a trial. Graham being the "reluctant" hero in Edith's case was really nice; however, her situation was absolutely terrifying.
I really liked this story and gave it 5 stars. I definitely recommend this for an emotional, fun read.
I really liked this story and gave it 5 stars. I definitely recommend this for an emotional, fun read.
June 6, 2023
Heartwarming & Touching
Really enjoyed this book. I’ve read a few from this author and have enjoyed them all. The storyline, although not entirely original, is enhanced by appealing characters, humorous dialogue, good writing with few errors, and clever suspense and intrigue. I especially enjoyed the heroine, who found herself in a distressing situation but with the help of her friends, was able to overcome it and find love. Delightful story. I highly recommend.
Really enjoyed this book. I’ve read a few from this author and have enjoyed them all. The storyline, although not entirely original, is enhanced by appealing characters, humorous dialogue, good writing with few errors, and clever suspense and intrigue. I especially enjoyed the heroine, who found herself in a distressing situation but with the help of her friends, was able to overcome it and find love. Delightful story. I highly recommend.
August 14, 2020
3.5 stars for #6 of the 6 that I've read to date, which deals with Edith's story. She's been the mystery lady all along, and is in much more trouble than the Spinsters realize. The books are clean and entertaining historical romances; this author gets as much mileage out of kissing (and general swooning) as one could hope for. These should be read in order, and I will be waiting for book #7.
February 5, 2022
Wow….just wow!
I am speechless over this book. Complete change of pace from the rest of the series with plenty of emotional payout in the character development that happened throughout the series. Rebecca Connolly takes us on a wicked adventure this time around, and I am completely floored over it all. I read this in a single day. You should, too.
I am speechless over this book. Complete change of pace from the rest of the series with plenty of emotional payout in the character development that happened throughout the series. Rebecca Connolly takes us on a wicked adventure this time around, and I am completely floored over it all. I read this in a single day. You should, too.
April 12, 2022
Such a great start and then YUCK!
This was the second time I read this and goodness I wish I remembered the ridiculously disgusting last few chapters before picking this up a second time. Spoiler, the hero lets the bad guy take her captive and won’t save her because it would ruin her reputation????? Painful ending.
This was the second time I read this and goodness I wish I remembered the ridiculously disgusting last few chapters before picking this up a second time. Spoiler, the hero lets the bad guy take her captive and won’t save her because it would ruin her reputation????? Painful ending.
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