Cedric Williamson made a fool of himself at the Newmarket races, deceived and cheated of his meager bankroll. When he throws himself upon the mercy of his wealthy Aunt Amelia, her companion, Miss Jane Gabriel, heartily disapproves of his rescue. To her chagrin, Jane finds herself assigned to transform Cedric from a dedicated rakehell into the kind of responsible heir Lady Stockdale requires. Though he tries to warm her heart with gallant words, floral bouquets, and flattering attention, Jane deftly repels Cedric’s tactics and declares him a pest. Their only teamwork comes from mutual affection for the once pathetic racehorse with which Cedric had ruined himself. Can the fate of a bedraggled filly become the basis for enduring love?
Victoria Hinshaw loves all things English and Regency; she writes about clever heroines and dashing heroes on their intriguing paths to love—that is when she can overcome her execrable typing and lack of tech-savvy. In fact, but for modern plumbing, e-readers, and internet research, she would gladly live in 1815. Victoria binges on Jane Austen, Bridgerton, visiting British Stately Homes (when she can travel), and her secret identity as a baroness in disguise. Enjoy Victoria’s stories…and Experience the Elegance.
Pleasant but minimal humor and wittiness 4 stars overall, 4 stars story, 4 stars narration
This sweet Regency romance was a slightly dull in the first half, but it redeemed itself enough in the second half to rate 4 stars. The main characters were likeable, but Jane never said anything with humor in it. Her personality was boring. I wish the book had some witty dialogue and humor like those of my favorite historical romance writers. On the other hand, I enjoyed the other main character, Cedric. He started out as a frivolous rake and reformed himself with the help of his aunt’s plan. Cedric became a loveable hero. In addition, the mystery and suspense part of the plot (a dangerous group of con-men) was handled well, especially the exciting climax. The romance was truly a slow burn; it was great when Jane and Cedric finally kissed and fell in love. Another of the novel’s admirable attributes is its historical accuracy. Nearly the entire story is believable and plausible for the Regency time period, including the culture, sheep-farming, horse-racing, and society. Perhaps there were two tiny historical inaccuracies in the entire book. Overall, it is a pleasant and sweet (i.e., just kissing) Regency romance but a little dry.
The narrator June deBorahae did a very good job with the various British accents and character voices. She has a versatile voice and made the book as entertaining as possible. I think her voice is beautifully smooth and pleasing to my ear. I think that her pace was a little slow, and increasing the speed to 1.25x greatly increased my enjoyment of the book.
I requested and received a free audiobook copy from the Flock VIP Review Team, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review. #PFPAudio #TheFlockVIPReviewTeam
This was my first Victoria Hinshaw's book, and won't be my last. This is a great Regency Romance. Cedric and Jane's slow burn romance is beautifully written, and entertaining. Cedric is handsome, and protective. Jane is smart, and strong. They are perfect together. I liked the mystery, the suspense., and the sweet romance. Cedric's Aunt Amelia is a great supporting character. Great narration from June DeBorahae. She has a beautiful voice. #PFPAudio
I enjoyed listening to this book. It was sweet, exciting, and charming. It had the quintessential elements of a good historical romance. The characters were interesting and likable. There wasn't any dull moment.
June deBorahae delivered a solid and fantastic performance. She's so talented. Well done!
Cedric and Jane have a rough beginning but when they both work together in handling his horse issues along with Cedric learning how his aunt’s estate and sheep business they ultimately find their hea