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Romantic Encounters #1
A Dash of Romance
With quills and fantasies, they write their future.
Percival Randall lives an uncomplicated life of luxury, as he likes it. Not even an ultimatum requiring marriage can tip the scales. A conniving young lady who compromises his name to force a betrothal, however, is an impediment to happiness Percival must confront.
Abigail Walsley dreams of publishing novels rather than marrying dashing heroes. An unexpected proposal and a subsequent Banbury tale tumble her into a betrothal with a man she has never met. Following her dreams proves a challenge with a marriage of inconvenience on the horizon.
This is the love story of Percival and Abigail, two dreamers who write their love story one scene at a time.
From second chance romances to mistaken identities, experience A Dash of Romance in this collection of one short novel and fourteen bonus flash fiction pieces.
Percival Randall lives an uncomplicated life of luxury, as he likes it. Not even an ultimatum requiring marriage can tip the scales. A conniving young lady who compromises his name to force a betrothal, however, is an impediment to happiness Percival must confront.
Abigail Walsley dreams of publishing novels rather than marrying dashing heroes. An unexpected proposal and a subsequent Banbury tale tumble her into a betrothal with a man she has never met. Following her dreams proves a challenge with a marriage of inconvenience on the horizon.
This is the love story of Percival and Abigail, two dreamers who write their love story one scene at a time.
From second chance romances to mistaken identities, experience A Dash of Romance in this collection of one short novel and fourteen bonus flash fiction pieces.
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 18, 2020
29 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Paullett Golden
16 books160 followersCelebrated for her complex characters, realistic conflicts, and sensual portrayal of love, Paullett Golden writes historical romance for intellectuals. Her novels, set primarily in Georgian England, challenge the genre's norm by starring characters loved for their imperfections and idiosyncrasies. The writing aims for historical immersion into the social mores and nuances of Georgian England. Her plots explore human psyche, mental and physical trauma, and personal convictions. Her stories show love overcoming adversity. Whatever our self-doubts, love will out.
Paullett Golden completed her post-doctoral work at King’s College London, studying Classic British Literature. Her Ph.D. is in Composition and Rhetoric, her M.A. in British Literature from the Enlightenment to the Victorian era, her B.A. in English. Her specializations include creative writing and professional writing. She has served as a University Professor for nearly three decades and is a seasoned keynote speaker, commencement speaker, conference presenter, workshop facilitator, and writing retreat facilitator.
As an ovarian cancer survivor, she makes each day count, enjoying an active lifestyle of Spartan racing, powerlifting, hiking, antique car restoration, drag racing, butterfly gardening, competitive shooting, and gaming. Her greatest writing inspirations, and the reasons she chose to write in the clean historical romance genre, are Jane Austen and Charlotte Brontë.
Paullett Golden completed her post-doctoral work at King’s College London, studying Classic British Literature. Her Ph.D. is in Composition and Rhetoric, her M.A. in British Literature from the Enlightenment to the Victorian era, her B.A. in English. Her specializations include creative writing and professional writing. She has served as a University Professor for nearly three decades and is a seasoned keynote speaker, commencement speaker, conference presenter, workshop facilitator, and writing retreat facilitator.
As an ovarian cancer survivor, she makes each day count, enjoying an active lifestyle of Spartan racing, powerlifting, hiking, antique car restoration, drag racing, butterfly gardening, competitive shooting, and gaming. Her greatest writing inspirations, and the reasons she chose to write in the clean historical romance genre, are Jane Austen and Charlotte Brontë.
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July 17, 2020
A Dash of Romance, by Paullett Golden is a must read for all readers in the year of 2020. I am head over hills in love with this book! Move over Pam Godwin and make a seat for our new friend. The talented writer, Paullett Golden. She has the skills and writing abilities to move within the circles of the Legendary writer, James Patterson.
Readers, I speak the truth. Oh, where do I begin?! Paullett had me laughing and rolling while reading this book. I couldn’t put it down! I actually forced my self to stay awake, to at least read a good portion of it.
Clearly Paullett holds the secret to reeling in her readers. My gosh! The details in her writing of this book, gives her readers the imagination to be lost and transported into Percy and Abbie’s love story. Paullett’s ability to add humor to the love story made Percy and Abbie’s romance all the more joy to read. The romance, the drama and the true meaning of being in love with someone, made way for the anticipation of reading this story all the more enjoyable.
The book leaves you on a high from beginning to end. There was never a dull moment between the two leading characters. I loved the part where Percy invited himself to the Ladies Readers Society. Another favorite part of mine is when he put Abbie on blast and produced his own story. I couldn’t stop laughing. Yes, the book has a number of humorous moments.
Like where Abbie’s sister wrote her a letter, chastising Abbie about not mentioning the engagement and how her sister Pru found out about it. I was thinking to myself. “Self, this is exactly how a family would embarrass the one that they love”. I know, back to the point. I’m sorry.
What was the point? Oh right. Although, there are so many wonderful moments in the book. You the reader will see our couple- uhm, our amazing, literary couple, embark on a romantically, loving journey that will leave you with sighs and a warming heart. You will shed a few tears of happiness.
Well, I shed a few tears. That’s right! I’m not embarrassed to say it. You will also end with a genuine feeling that you are glad to have read this book. Important note: You as the reader will find yourself laughing out loudly, so be for warned.
Don’t read this book among a group of people. They may think that you are a crazy person and move away from you, if you should find yourself in this unfortunate position. If and when you do laugh out loud, please do not look up and make eye contact with anyone. They may try to make a brisk getaway and hurt themselves in the process. You don’t want to do that.
It may cause you to laugh even harder. I so recommend this book to you loyal readers out there. I give this book two snaps and a Mrs. Button and a Mr. Stitch, have retired from the match making society local newspaper. Oh hell people. Go read the book!
Until next time my fellow readers...read on! I voluntary reviewed this ARC after receiving a free gifted copy.
Readers, I speak the truth. Oh, where do I begin?! Paullett had me laughing and rolling while reading this book. I couldn’t put it down! I actually forced my self to stay awake, to at least read a good portion of it.
Clearly Paullett holds the secret to reeling in her readers. My gosh! The details in her writing of this book, gives her readers the imagination to be lost and transported into Percy and Abbie’s love story. Paullett’s ability to add humor to the love story made Percy and Abbie’s romance all the more joy to read. The romance, the drama and the true meaning of being in love with someone, made way for the anticipation of reading this story all the more enjoyable.
The book leaves you on a high from beginning to end. There was never a dull moment between the two leading characters. I loved the part where Percy invited himself to the Ladies Readers Society. Another favorite part of mine is when he put Abbie on blast and produced his own story. I couldn’t stop laughing. Yes, the book has a number of humorous moments.
Like where Abbie’s sister wrote her a letter, chastising Abbie about not mentioning the engagement and how her sister Pru found out about it. I was thinking to myself. “Self, this is exactly how a family would embarrass the one that they love”. I know, back to the point. I’m sorry.
What was the point? Oh right. Although, there are so many wonderful moments in the book. You the reader will see our couple- uhm, our amazing, literary couple, embark on a romantically, loving journey that will leave you with sighs and a warming heart. You will shed a few tears of happiness.
Well, I shed a few tears. That’s right! I’m not embarrassed to say it. You will also end with a genuine feeling that you are glad to have read this book. Important note: You as the reader will find yourself laughing out loudly, so be for warned.
Don’t read this book among a group of people. They may think that you are a crazy person and move away from you, if you should find yourself in this unfortunate position. If and when you do laugh out loud, please do not look up and make eye contact with anyone. They may try to make a brisk getaway and hurt themselves in the process. You don’t want to do that.
It may cause you to laugh even harder. I so recommend this book to you loyal readers out there. I give this book two snaps and a Mrs. Button and a Mr. Stitch, have retired from the match making society local newspaper. Oh hell people. Go read the book!
Until next time my fellow readers...read on! I voluntary reviewed this ARC after receiving a free gifted copy.
July 15, 2020
A Dash of Romance
Romantic Encounters: An Anthology Book 1
Paullett Golden
https://www.facebook.com/Paullettgolden/
Release date 07/20/2020
Blurb :
With quills and fantasies, they write their future.
Percival Randall lives an uncomplicated life of luxury, as he likes it. Not even an ultimatum requiring marriage can tip the scales. A conniving young lady who compromises his name to force a betrothal, however, is an impediment to happiness Percival must confront.
Abigail Walsley dreams of publishing novels rather than marrying dashing heroes. An unexpected proposal and a subsequent Banbury tale tumble her into a betrothal with a man she has never met. Following her dreams proves a challenge with a marriage of inconvenience on the horizon.
This is the love story of Percival and Abigail, two dreamers who write their love story one scene at a time.
From second chance romances to mistaken identities, experience A Dash of Romance in this collection of one short novel and fourteen bonus flash fiction pieces.
My review :
Will a fake betrothal result in a lasting love ...
A dash of romance, a touch of wit, a bit of subtle sensuality, a dab of musing and a lot of cleverness are Mrs Paullett Golden composants for this tasty recipe.
While this is my first read by Mrs Paullett Golden, it won’t be the last, I loved her dry humor and how she put two very opposite characters together.
So very different when she has purposes and he has none, only to enjoy the leasure and idle life of a peer’s son.
And even if the heroes are adult, it is still a tale of coming of age as both must decide what are they expecting from life outside their parents’ clutch.
Abigail and Percival are so lovable characters, she is one to give selflessly, because she finds fulfillment in her writing, yet she thought. Percival enjoys his society’s life, and if not for his father’s ultimatum, everything would be perfect, until he finds himself estranged in the countryside with a vicar’s daughter who is not whom he expected.
Mrs Golden is a gem at narrating parlor talk but also well-bred thinking, quips and witticisms pepper the pages of this surprising novella.
Oh my! The tea party at Abigail’s sister house was like stepping in a Jane Austen novel.
The last part of this book is something I knew nothing about, but yes, from time to time I have read short to very short stories in authors’ newsletters, and calling it Flash Fiction is definitely the right appellation.
Do not miss them, their length can vary from a page to a bit more, yet they are all very amusing to intriguing to read, straight to the point to tricky texts. Illustrated like the novels in my youth, do not pass them.
5 stars
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Romantic Encounters: An Anthology Book 1
Paullett Golden
https://www.facebook.com/Paullettgolden/
Release date 07/20/2020
Blurb :
With quills and fantasies, they write their future.
Percival Randall lives an uncomplicated life of luxury, as he likes it. Not even an ultimatum requiring marriage can tip the scales. A conniving young lady who compromises his name to force a betrothal, however, is an impediment to happiness Percival must confront.
Abigail Walsley dreams of publishing novels rather than marrying dashing heroes. An unexpected proposal and a subsequent Banbury tale tumble her into a betrothal with a man she has never met. Following her dreams proves a challenge with a marriage of inconvenience on the horizon.
This is the love story of Percival and Abigail, two dreamers who write their love story one scene at a time.
From second chance romances to mistaken identities, experience A Dash of Romance in this collection of one short novel and fourteen bonus flash fiction pieces.
My review :
Will a fake betrothal result in a lasting love ...
A dash of romance, a touch of wit, a bit of subtle sensuality, a dab of musing and a lot of cleverness are Mrs Paullett Golden composants for this tasty recipe.
While this is my first read by Mrs Paullett Golden, it won’t be the last, I loved her dry humor and how she put two very opposite characters together.
So very different when she has purposes and he has none, only to enjoy the leasure and idle life of a peer’s son.
And even if the heroes are adult, it is still a tale of coming of age as both must decide what are they expecting from life outside their parents’ clutch.
Abigail and Percival are so lovable characters, she is one to give selflessly, because she finds fulfillment in her writing, yet she thought. Percival enjoys his society’s life, and if not for his father’s ultimatum, everything would be perfect, until he finds himself estranged in the countryside with a vicar’s daughter who is not whom he expected.
Mrs Golden is a gem at narrating parlor talk but also well-bred thinking, quips and witticisms pepper the pages of this surprising novella.
Oh my! The tea party at Abigail’s sister house was like stepping in a Jane Austen novel.
The last part of this book is something I knew nothing about, but yes, from time to time I have read short to very short stories in authors’ newsletters, and calling it Flash Fiction is definitely the right appellation.
Do not miss them, their length can vary from a page to a bit more, yet they are all very amusing to intriguing to read, straight to the point to tricky texts. Illustrated like the novels in my youth, do not pass them.
5 stars
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
October 12, 2020
'With quills and fantasies, they write their future.
Percival Randall lives an uncomplicated life of luxury, as he likes it. Not even an ultimatum requiring marriage can tip the scales. A conniving young lady who compromises his name to force a betrothal, however, is an impediment to happiness Percival must confront.
Abigail Walsley dreams of publishing novels rather than marrying dashing heroes. An unexpected proposal and a subsequent Banbury tale tumble her into a betrothal with a man she has never met. Following her dreams proves a challenge with a marriage of inconvenience on the horizon.
This is the love story of Percival and Abigail, two dreamers who write their love story one scene at a time.
From second chance romances to mistaken identities, experience A Dash of Romance in this collection of one short novel and fourteen bonus flash fiction pieces.'
__________________________________
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars.
A Dash of Romance is the first book in Paulett Golden's new series, Romantic Encounters. This series is quite unique in that each book will serve as an annual anthology, including a short novel to start and followed by a series of short stories(varying in length from a few pages to several and unrelated to the short novel they follow). In this book the short novel is roughly the first 75% of the book's total pages and the remaining 25% is comprised of 14 seperate short stories.
I would also like to add that there is a sketch included at the start of each short story. The drawings are both simplistic and lovely and were one of my favorite things from this anthology. The sketches at the start of Gorgeous and Hauntedof a young woman and of a castle on the hill were my particular favorites.
I really enjoyed the premise of this book, the fake engagement to escape the corner that Abbie had been backed in to by an unwanted proposal took us down an amusing path. I like both main characters, Abbie and Percy. To protect herself, Abbie had the tendency to paint Percy in a more negative light than he warranted by reflex. Slowly this changes as the dynamic between the two changes and the engagement is less of a trap and more of an opportunity, but they're pretty blind to it for a while.
I found the interactions between them sweet and often amusing. I loved that the bridge between them was their writing. I love a book with an authoress and how especially how this story evolved trough her writings.
A Dash of Romance is the third book I have read by Paulett Golden and I have found that I enjoy her writing style. I'll be keeping a lookout for more books by her in the future and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series as I enjoy the format of novel plus assorted short stories. This is a clean romance.
_____
I would like to thank BookSirens and Paulett Golden for sharing an electronic copy of A Dash of Romance with me. This is my honest review.
Percival Randall lives an uncomplicated life of luxury, as he likes it. Not even an ultimatum requiring marriage can tip the scales. A conniving young lady who compromises his name to force a betrothal, however, is an impediment to happiness Percival must confront.
Abigail Walsley dreams of publishing novels rather than marrying dashing heroes. An unexpected proposal and a subsequent Banbury tale tumble her into a betrothal with a man she has never met. Following her dreams proves a challenge with a marriage of inconvenience on the horizon.
This is the love story of Percival and Abigail, two dreamers who write their love story one scene at a time.
From second chance romances to mistaken identities, experience A Dash of Romance in this collection of one short novel and fourteen bonus flash fiction pieces.'
__________________________________
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars.
A Dash of Romance is the first book in Paulett Golden's new series, Romantic Encounters. This series is quite unique in that each book will serve as an annual anthology, including a short novel to start and followed by a series of short stories(varying in length from a few pages to several and unrelated to the short novel they follow). In this book the short novel is roughly the first 75% of the book's total pages and the remaining 25% is comprised of 14 seperate short stories.
I would also like to add that there is a sketch included at the start of each short story. The drawings are both simplistic and lovely and were one of my favorite things from this anthology. The sketches at the start of Gorgeous and Hauntedof a young woman and of a castle on the hill were my particular favorites.
I really enjoyed the premise of this book, the fake engagement to escape the corner that Abbie had been backed in to by an unwanted proposal took us down an amusing path. I like both main characters, Abbie and Percy. To protect herself, Abbie had the tendency to paint Percy in a more negative light than he warranted by reflex. Slowly this changes as the dynamic between the two changes and the engagement is less of a trap and more of an opportunity, but they're pretty blind to it for a while.
I found the interactions between them sweet and often amusing. I loved that the bridge between them was their writing. I love a book with an authoress and how especially how this story evolved trough her writings.
A Dash of Romance is the third book I have read by Paulett Golden and I have found that I enjoy her writing style. I'll be keeping a lookout for more books by her in the future and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series as I enjoy the format of novel plus assorted short stories. This is a clean romance.
_____
I would like to thank BookSirens and Paulett Golden for sharing an electronic copy of A Dash of Romance with me. This is my honest review.
August 11, 2020
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is my 3rd book by P Golden, and it was also my favorite. This author is definitely in my top 5 favorite historical romance authors. The story was beautifully written. And I couldn’t get enough of Percy and Abbie. I loved the banter, chemistry and romance between them. The small country village was charming and worthy of the story. I wish I could visit the literary society.
The snippets of stories that followed give us excitable, so very heartfelt moments. Just more to love about this.
I highly recommend this book and hope you enjoy it as much as I did. It was really good.
Thank you NETGALLEY and the publisher for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review. ♥️
This is my 3rd book by P Golden, and it was also my favorite. This author is definitely in my top 5 favorite historical romance authors. The story was beautifully written. And I couldn’t get enough of Percy and Abbie. I loved the banter, chemistry and romance between them. The small country village was charming and worthy of the story. I wish I could visit the literary society.
The snippets of stories that followed give us excitable, so very heartfelt moments. Just more to love about this.
I highly recommend this book and hope you enjoy it as much as I did. It was really good.
Thank you NETGALLEY and the publisher for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review. ♥️
July 13, 2020
Series: Standalone
Publication Date: 7/20/20
What a great new reading experience for me! I had never heard of Flash Fiction until this author mentioned it to me and it has been such a fun read. Evidently there isn’t much of it in the romance world, so this is really unique – you should definitely give it a read. Flash fiction includes a main story (novella) and then a number of additional shorter (short stories) – sometimes a page sometimes more – stories. I think some Flash Fiction even include drawings, etc. as part of the ‘flash’ portion. I’m sure I’m not explaining this very well, but it is a novel (HA!) concept and it was a really good read.
The main story features Percival Randall, the middle son of an earl. Randall has just sort of been drifting through life with no goals, no plans for his future – more existing than living. His father has finally given him an ultimatum – find a wife and grow up or lose his allowance. He’s trying, but his heart definitely isn’t in it, so when he learns that he is supposedly already betrothed – and the girl he’s been courting breaks things off – he’s really not too terribly upset. Well – not upset other than he doesn’t want to come out of it with a damaged reputation. I love the things Percy learns about himself as the tale progresses.
Abigail Walsley is the youngest daughter of a vicar and she dreams of becoming a published author. She’s never considered marriage and a family of her own – she just assumes she’ll live with her father and take care of him and continue with her writing. Most likely, a husband would never allow her to continue with her writing and other pursuits she enjoys – so, she doesn’t need one. Then, when she receives a most awkward and unwelcome proposal – one she really can’t refuse – she does what any self-respecting, intelligent young woman would do – she LIES. Little does she realize the consequences of that lie.
Abigail has a poor opinion of Percy from the beginning. She believes he’s a frivolous, unfocused, rake who has never given his future a thought. She’s right, to a point. I love the way both Abigail and Percy grow into their relationship and how bright and funny each of them can be.
I loved this wonderfully entertaining and well-written story and I hope you will as well.
In addition to the main story, you get to read and love fourteen short-stories. Each of them is unique and special and a really fun addition to the book. They have interesting titles like – Arrival, Beguiled, Highwayman, Shipwreck, Entangled, Midsummer, Candor, Requited, Persephone, Haunted, Masquerade, Homecoming, Beneficence, and Gorgeous.
Publication Date: 7/20/20
What a great new reading experience for me! I had never heard of Flash Fiction until this author mentioned it to me and it has been such a fun read. Evidently there isn’t much of it in the romance world, so this is really unique – you should definitely give it a read. Flash fiction includes a main story (novella) and then a number of additional shorter (short stories) – sometimes a page sometimes more – stories. I think some Flash Fiction even include drawings, etc. as part of the ‘flash’ portion. I’m sure I’m not explaining this very well, but it is a novel (HA!) concept and it was a really good read.
The main story features Percival Randall, the middle son of an earl. Randall has just sort of been drifting through life with no goals, no plans for his future – more existing than living. His father has finally given him an ultimatum – find a wife and grow up or lose his allowance. He’s trying, but his heart definitely isn’t in it, so when he learns that he is supposedly already betrothed – and the girl he’s been courting breaks things off – he’s really not too terribly upset. Well – not upset other than he doesn’t want to come out of it with a damaged reputation. I love the things Percy learns about himself as the tale progresses.
Abigail Walsley is the youngest daughter of a vicar and she dreams of becoming a published author. She’s never considered marriage and a family of her own – she just assumes she’ll live with her father and take care of him and continue with her writing. Most likely, a husband would never allow her to continue with her writing and other pursuits she enjoys – so, she doesn’t need one. Then, when she receives a most awkward and unwelcome proposal – one she really can’t refuse – she does what any self-respecting, intelligent young woman would do – she LIES. Little does she realize the consequences of that lie.
Abigail has a poor opinion of Percy from the beginning. She believes he’s a frivolous, unfocused, rake who has never given his future a thought. She’s right, to a point. I love the way both Abigail and Percy grow into their relationship and how bright and funny each of them can be.
I loved this wonderfully entertaining and well-written story and I hope you will as well.
In addition to the main story, you get to read and love fourteen short-stories. Each of them is unique and special and a really fun addition to the book. They have interesting titles like – Arrival, Beguiled, Highwayman, Shipwreck, Entangled, Midsummer, Candor, Requited, Persephone, Haunted, Masquerade, Homecoming, Beneficence, and Gorgeous.
July 29, 2020
A Dash of Romance is my first Paullett Golden book. Not my last! This was a delightful read full of sweetness and laugh out loud humor.
The story involves a fake betrothal and "two dreamers who write their love story one scene at a time."
Percy and Abby were interesting characters individually, but together they grow in confidence and finding their purpose in life. Percy wore his heart on his sleeve and I love a hero that so unexpectedly falls hard for the heroine. Love hit him like a ton of bricks, but he didn't back down.
After the book included several pieces of "flash fiction." This concept is new to me, but I enjoyed most of the short stories (some were only a page or two long) and nice illustrations.
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for a copy of this book. The thoughts and opinions are all my own.
The story involves a fake betrothal and "two dreamers who write their love story one scene at a time."
Percy and Abby were interesting characters individually, but together they grow in confidence and finding their purpose in life. Percy wore his heart on his sleeve and I love a hero that so unexpectedly falls hard for the heroine. Love hit him like a ton of bricks, but he didn't back down.
After the book included several pieces of "flash fiction." This concept is new to me, but I enjoyed most of the short stories (some were only a page or two long) and nice illustrations.
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for a copy of this book. The thoughts and opinions are all my own.
August 22, 2020
This was an entertaining read. Some parts made me chuckle, in particular, the writings from Mr. Stitch and Mrs Button in the local paper. Abigail had a vivid imagination and loved writing novels. It was this imagination that caused her troubles when she invented a fiancé to prevent a marriage to Lord Dunley. Percival Randall, the second son of an earl, needed a wife to please his father. I loved their interaction and how when their feelings deepened, Percy sought to convince Abbie that his feelings were true.
The quick read stories at the end were enjoyable but I prefer more depth that a longer story provides.
I received a copy from eBooks Discovery and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The quick read stories at the end were enjoyable but I prefer more depth that a longer story provides.
I received a copy from eBooks Discovery and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 15, 2021
Abigail Walsley dreams of publishing her work than marriage. Then she has to betrothal with a man she has never met. Percival and Abigail who fall in love in this great story. “If her ladyship wanted, she could make life unpleasant for the Walsleys. If truly put out, she could have the bishop relocate the Reverend Walsley to another parish. Abbie could not imagine her ladyship going to such extremes, and certainly not because Abbie refused to serve as her companion, but the worry lingered on the fringes of Abbie’s mind. So insistent her ladyship had been of late, Abbie wondered to what lengths the viscountess might go to obtain what she wanted.” It also have fourteen bonus chapters and I enjoyed reading this book. This was a great book in this fast paced book.
July 22, 2020
Heard💕 It Through the Grapevine🍇
Georgian Era Romantic Comedy💕.
Abigail Walsely💃, the third daughter of a widowed vicar in a small village days from London, is a secretly frustrated writer📚, and nearly a spinster.
She paints herself into a corner when she refuses the stiff and out of the blue marriage👰 proposal of the local dowager vicountess's foppish son, the Viscount Dunley. The Dowager wants Abbie💃 for a companion in her old age. Her son doesn't want her at all, he likes men! It would be a sad, unfulfilled marriage.
To combat the Dowager, she tells the Viscount she is already betrothed to Percival🐺🔪. He is her imaginary knightly hero🐺🔪 character from the unpublished novels📚 she writes. The Viscount wants to please his mother by marrying, so he tries to find this Percival🐺🔪 and break the nonexistent betrothal!
He comes up with Percival Randal🐺🍇⛲, the 30 year old wastrel and rakish second son of the Earl of Camforth! Dunley's letter to Percy🐺🍇⛲ includes a bribe of 100£ if he will somehow break the betrothal.
WHAT Betrothal?!
Percy🐺🍇⛲ is caught off guard when every one around him already knows of the betrothal except him! Thanks to the rampant gossip🍇 among the ton, He loses his long time girlfriend and infuriated her father. Then his mistress dumps him too! He decides he better go see this Walsely woman💃 when his father congratulates him!
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱 AND Book📚 Sirens💃.
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is a wonderful, mostly lighthearted book about learning to get to know someone and then falling in 💘love! Learning about and loving💕 them as they are, not as you want them to be. Accepting their faults and bringing out the good in them. That's true 💘love!
Georgian Era Romantic Comedy💕.
Abigail Walsely💃, the third daughter of a widowed vicar in a small village days from London, is a secretly frustrated writer📚, and nearly a spinster.
She paints herself into a corner when she refuses the stiff and out of the blue marriage👰 proposal of the local dowager vicountess's foppish son, the Viscount Dunley. The Dowager wants Abbie💃 for a companion in her old age. Her son doesn't want her at all, he likes men! It would be a sad, unfulfilled marriage.
To combat the Dowager, she tells the Viscount she is already betrothed to Percival🐺🔪. He is her imaginary knightly hero🐺🔪 character from the unpublished novels📚 she writes. The Viscount wants to please his mother by marrying, so he tries to find this Percival🐺🔪 and break the nonexistent betrothal!
He comes up with Percival Randal🐺🍇⛲, the 30 year old wastrel and rakish second son of the Earl of Camforth! Dunley's letter to Percy🐺🍇⛲ includes a bribe of 100£ if he will somehow break the betrothal.
WHAT Betrothal?!
Percy🐺🍇⛲ is caught off guard when every one around him already knows of the betrothal except him! Thanks to the rampant gossip🍇 among the ton, He loses his long time girlfriend and infuriated her father. Then his mistress dumps him too! He decides he better go see this Walsely woman💃 when his father congratulates him!
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱 AND Book📚 Sirens💃.
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is a wonderful, mostly lighthearted book about learning to get to know someone and then falling in 💘love! Learning about and loving💕 them as they are, not as you want them to be. Accepting their faults and bringing out the good in them. That's true 💘love!
September 7, 2020
Absolutely adorable! A Regency for my mom's own heart, she would have enjoyed this :) I loved the characters and the plot, the setting and the stage> definitely would recommend, and must dig up a few more. For fans of Jane Austen as well
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 2, 2022
After reading many fantasy books or books with heavy themes, this book was a breath of fresh air. This book has absolutely no spice but that was completely ok! I sincerely enjoyed the innocence of it, if that’s even the right word to use. No murders, no villain, just a man and a woman trying to figure out how to get out of a predicament. I almost consider this book a palate cleanser. I really liked Abigail because she wanted to write books and have them published regardless of what Society demanded of her. That’s not to say that she was completely free from the standards of the day. She had to contend with the fact that she was considered a spinster. If you’re looking for clean, innocent romance, this is the book for you!
August 13, 2020
Simply delightful. Abigail tells a small lie in order to refuse a marriage proposal. She keeps her lie very simple and vague but fate intervenes and suddenly she is betrothed to a man she has never met.
Percival is shocked and angry to discover that some unknown woman has claimed to be his betrothed and intends to make her admit her lies and free him keeping his good name intact.
I laughed and cringed and sighed. A wonderful and funny romance.
Percival is shocked and angry to discover that some unknown woman has claimed to be his betrothed and intends to make her admit her lies and free him keeping his good name intact.
I laughed and cringed and sighed. A wonderful and funny romance.
September 13, 2020
This book is dedicated to the seekers among us. The seekers of self-improvement, the ones who strive for more without losing sight of who they are but in an effort to become who they were meant to be; to become better. When I read this dedication before jumping into the book my bruised heart leapt. I am going through a rough patch right now, with a lot of change that feels grotesquely like failure, with a lot of uncertainty and teenage angst even though I can be considered a full grown adult by now. So to find this book celebrating me and my struggle was like a much needed balm on my soul. I think it's save to say that we were off to a great start.
~Opinions and possible spoilers ahead~
I got myself an arc for this one btw, in exchange for an honest review. My first arrangement of this kind. Let's see how well I will fare.
Welcome to a world where ink stained fingers rule, dreams are big, romance (at least the fictional kind) alive and at the age of four and twenty you are considered an old maid! At 26 and currently single as a pringle (and they come in a pack!) I could relate to Abbie (the 24 year old FP) at once. She was a likeable main character which wasn't surprising given that she loves books and loves to write and is witty, resourceful and self-sufficient in all the right ways. I like my regency romances to feature somewhat modern-thinking ladies. It's the kick I am looking for. Abbie dreams about her fictional book boyfriends as much as I do and is completely satisfied with the love she creates by imagining it. I wonder if that is because that's how she stays in control. Of course, it doesn't stay like that.
It was my first book by Golden and it was, well...golden. A great reading experience. Dunley made me laugh so much. Especially his letter writing cracked me up. Percy was fun too, with his aversion to "vulgar country noises" and his entertaining thoughts on everything that happened, occasionally being hung up on what did or did not qualify as a hill or a cottage. Quite charming. In general, the book had a great variety of absurd characters and I was here for it. There was enough drama, confusion and happiness mixed with all the right plot twists and absurdity one might expect in such a novel. A well executed marriage of convenience trope, bordering on the mistaken marrige/lovers trope that I enjoyed. Think Pride and Prejudice with an additional P for Proposal(s).
I especially loved the Ladies Literature Club and could totally agree with them when they complained about one dimensional male heroes in romance novels. It's not enough for them just to be generically good looking and dashing! Amen!!!
But to be honest, it irritated me that a well-off Papa would be so over the moon at hearing that his second son is to marry a vicar's daughter. Social standing not of an issue here? I doubt it. While the historical accuracy of such books is usually lacking, this just seemed like too big a breech. Also I found that for Percy to find plain Abbie attractive would have needed more build up and development. One moment she is the most plain of her friends and the next moment he thinks her beautiful. Nah.
Other than that: 3.5 stars from me. If you are curious as to what happens when you encounter that your book boyfriend you accidentally make everyone believe is your secret betrothed is in fact quite real and quite furious with you for dragging him into a social mess-- read this. It was an easy read, an in-between read almost. A book you can finish in one sitting on a sunny fall afternoon. It made me smile and laugh and even squeal and squirm. Lovely!
~Opinions and possible spoilers ahead~
I got myself an arc for this one btw, in exchange for an honest review. My first arrangement of this kind. Let's see how well I will fare.
Welcome to a world where ink stained fingers rule, dreams are big, romance (at least the fictional kind) alive and at the age of four and twenty you are considered an old maid! At 26 and currently single as a pringle (and they come in a pack!) I could relate to Abbie (the 24 year old FP) at once. She was a likeable main character which wasn't surprising given that she loves books and loves to write and is witty, resourceful and self-sufficient in all the right ways. I like my regency romances to feature somewhat modern-thinking ladies. It's the kick I am looking for. Abbie dreams about her fictional book boyfriends as much as I do and is completely satisfied with the love she creates by imagining it. I wonder if that is because that's how she stays in control. Of course, it doesn't stay like that.
It was my first book by Golden and it was, well...golden. A great reading experience. Dunley made me laugh so much. Especially his letter writing cracked me up. Percy was fun too, with his aversion to "vulgar country noises" and his entertaining thoughts on everything that happened, occasionally being hung up on what did or did not qualify as a hill or a cottage. Quite charming. In general, the book had a great variety of absurd characters and I was here for it. There was enough drama, confusion and happiness mixed with all the right plot twists and absurdity one might expect in such a novel. A well executed marriage of convenience trope, bordering on the mistaken marrige/lovers trope that I enjoyed. Think Pride and Prejudice with an additional P for Proposal(s).
I especially loved the Ladies Literature Club and could totally agree with them when they complained about one dimensional male heroes in romance novels. It's not enough for them just to be generically good looking and dashing! Amen!!!
But to be honest, it irritated me that a well-off Papa would be so over the moon at hearing that his second son is to marry a vicar's daughter. Social standing not of an issue here? I doubt it. While the historical accuracy of such books is usually lacking, this just seemed like too big a breech. Also I found that for Percy to find plain Abbie attractive would have needed more build up and development. One moment she is the most plain of her friends and the next moment he thinks her beautiful. Nah.
Other than that: 3.5 stars from me. If you are curious as to what happens when you encounter that your book boyfriend you accidentally make everyone believe is your secret betrothed is in fact quite real and quite furious with you for dragging him into a social mess-- read this. It was an easy read, an in-between read almost. A book you can finish in one sitting on a sunny fall afternoon. It made me smile and laugh and even squeal and squirm. Lovely!
February 13, 2021
4.5 Stars!
For a list of content/trigger warnings, tropes, and representation found in this book, check out its page on BookTriggerWarnings.com!
Thank you so much to Paullett Golden and BookTasters for providing me with a complimentary digital copy in exchange for an honest review!
A Dash of Romance consists of one historical romance novella and several short stories. My review is going to be focused on the novella since I feel like it’s the main part of the book and that the short stories are more like fun additions. I’ve actually read a few of them already and they’re also really good so really this book is a treasure all around!
The novella in the book revolves around the story of Percival Randall and Abigail Walsley. When Abigail is proposed to by a man she has no interest in, she quickly makes up the perfect imaginary fiance. Unfortunately (or perhaps fortunately) for her, she basically manages to describe a man named Percival whom she’s never met. Suddenly the two of them find themselves forced to fake an engagement to avoid a social scandal–with the plan to call it off as quickly as possible, of course.
What happens next is basically exactly what you think would happen next, but it was done in a way that was so lovely that I loved reading every trope-y second of it! Percival and Abigail had such playful chemistry that the book managed to somehow be dramatic, entertaining, and light at the same time. I can definitely imagine myself rereading this book over and over again as a comfort read.
You can read my review on my blog here
For a list of content/trigger warnings, tropes, and representation found in this book, check out its page on BookTriggerWarnings.com!
Thank you so much to Paullett Golden and BookTasters for providing me with a complimentary digital copy in exchange for an honest review!
A Dash of Romance consists of one historical romance novella and several short stories. My review is going to be focused on the novella since I feel like it’s the main part of the book and that the short stories are more like fun additions. I’ve actually read a few of them already and they’re also really good so really this book is a treasure all around!
The novella in the book revolves around the story of Percival Randall and Abigail Walsley. When Abigail is proposed to by a man she has no interest in, she quickly makes up the perfect imaginary fiance. Unfortunately (or perhaps fortunately) for her, she basically manages to describe a man named Percival whom she’s never met. Suddenly the two of them find themselves forced to fake an engagement to avoid a social scandal–with the plan to call it off as quickly as possible, of course.
What happens next is basically exactly what you think would happen next, but it was done in a way that was so lovely that I loved reading every trope-y second of it! Percival and Abigail had such playful chemistry that the book managed to somehow be dramatic, entertaining, and light at the same time. I can definitely imagine myself rereading this book over and over again as a comfort read.
You can read my review on my blog here
May 4, 2021
I'm giving this book 5 stars because it's amazing. I actually haven't finished it yet (life is busy at the moment) but I can't wait to finish it.
Book is anthology, which means it has one main story and then there are quick one's that author sent them in newsletter.
The story of A Dash of romance is somehow comedy of errors.
Abigail is young writer, vicar's daughter who dreams of falling in love and doing what she loves- writes. She's occasionally visiting older female neighbor, who wants her as her companion. Abigail doesn't want to give up on her dreams, but neighbor sends her grandson with marriage proposal, strictly business, not love.
Abigail is surprised and out of the blue, she waves him off with little lie, that's she's already promised to her knight- actually her hero in book.
Due to comedy of errors, her suitor finds and thins she's betrothed to Percival- young man, who is actually under father's pressure to marry as soon as possible.
First, greatly surprised about hidden engagement, and ready to call it off, they come to the conclusion, that this would be great idea for both Percy and Abigail.
Slowly they connect, become friends and quickly seek for each other's affection.
I was positively surprised about this story, I was drawn in a second, I love it so far and I really look forward to read more about this author.
I received an advance review copy for free from Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Book is anthology, which means it has one main story and then there are quick one's that author sent them in newsletter.
The story of A Dash of romance is somehow comedy of errors.
Abigail is young writer, vicar's daughter who dreams of falling in love and doing what she loves- writes. She's occasionally visiting older female neighbor, who wants her as her companion. Abigail doesn't want to give up on her dreams, but neighbor sends her grandson with marriage proposal, strictly business, not love.
Abigail is surprised and out of the blue, she waves him off with little lie, that's she's already promised to her knight- actually her hero in book.
Due to comedy of errors, her suitor finds and thins she's betrothed to Percival- young man, who is actually under father's pressure to marry as soon as possible.
First, greatly surprised about hidden engagement, and ready to call it off, they come to the conclusion, that this would be great idea for both Percy and Abigail.
Slowly they connect, become friends and quickly seek for each other's affection.
I was positively surprised about this story, I was drawn in a second, I love it so far and I really look forward to read more about this author.
I received an advance review copy for free from Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 25, 2020
This author is new to me and I was intrigued by the cover and the summary of the story.
I enjoyed the full length novel. I liked the male character more than the female one. She was a bit annoying near the end of the book. I liked all the supporting characters in particular her father. Her father was pretty fleshed out for a supporting character. One of my favorite parts is the letters back and forth involving Miss Lucy, Mrs. Button and Mr. Stitch.
The short snippets of stories were very entertaining. I thought several would have been pretty good as novella length or longer stories. My favorite part was the little drawings at the beginning of each story. They gave a hint of what the story was about and added a touch of whimsy.
I think my favorite has to be Haunted. I really enjoyed the heroine and was rolling my eyes at the efforts to weed out the unsuitable ladies. I also enjoyed Highwayman. The letters were so funny and entertaining.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed the full length novel. I liked the male character more than the female one. She was a bit annoying near the end of the book. I liked all the supporting characters in particular her father. Her father was pretty fleshed out for a supporting character. One of my favorite parts is the letters back and forth involving Miss Lucy, Mrs. Button and Mr. Stitch.
The short snippets of stories were very entertaining. I thought several would have been pretty good as novella length or longer stories. My favorite part was the little drawings at the beginning of each story. They gave a hint of what the story was about and added a touch of whimsy.
I think my favorite has to be Haunted. I really enjoyed the heroine and was rolling my eyes at the efforts to weed out the unsuitable ladies. I also enjoyed Highwayman. The letters were so funny and entertaining.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 20, 2020
Devonshire - 1795
Miss Abigail (Abbie) Walsley, 24, is the daughter of The Reverend Leland Walsley. the vicar of Sidvale. She enjoys writing romance novels and also writes a column for the newspaper under the nom de plume, Mrs. Buttons. Abbie has kindly been reading to her neighbor, a viscountess, but now the woman is insisting that Abbie become her full-time companion. Abbie is totally against it until the woman’s foppish son shows up and proposes marriage to her. His plan is to have her live permanently with his mother while he carries on his life in London. Refusing him, she says she is betrothed to a Knight which confuses her father.
Mr. Percival (Percy) Randall, second son of the Earl of Camforth. He has been given until his 30th birthday to find a bride. When he meets Abbie, through some lies, he ends up becoming betrothed to her.
Percy enjoys making Abbie uncomfortable by attending her women’s writing group. He says things that tend to somewhat embarrass her but always in a teasing manner. He is intrigued by this young woman and is determined to win her love.
A sweet, clean romance which is always a plus for me. I didn’t fully understand the way Abbie and Percy became engaged making it seem somewhat implausible. I get somewhat bored with the hard-to-get scenario I find in some books such as this one. However, the added Flash Fiction is certainly an interesting concept.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Miss Abigail (Abbie) Walsley, 24, is the daughter of The Reverend Leland Walsley. the vicar of Sidvale. She enjoys writing romance novels and also writes a column for the newspaper under the nom de plume, Mrs. Buttons. Abbie has kindly been reading to her neighbor, a viscountess, but now the woman is insisting that Abbie become her full-time companion. Abbie is totally against it until the woman’s foppish son shows up and proposes marriage to her. His plan is to have her live permanently with his mother while he carries on his life in London. Refusing him, she says she is betrothed to a Knight which confuses her father.
Mr. Percival (Percy) Randall, second son of the Earl of Camforth. He has been given until his 30th birthday to find a bride. When he meets Abbie, through some lies, he ends up becoming betrothed to her.
Percy enjoys making Abbie uncomfortable by attending her women’s writing group. He says things that tend to somewhat embarrass her but always in a teasing manner. He is intrigued by this young woman and is determined to win her love.
A sweet, clean romance which is always a plus for me. I didn’t fully understand the way Abbie and Percy became engaged making it seem somewhat implausible. I get somewhat bored with the hard-to-get scenario I find in some books such as this one. However, the added Flash Fiction is certainly an interesting concept.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 13, 2020
I don’t think I’ve ever actually read an anthology before so I was a little unsure of what to expect. I have also never really read flash fiction or micro fiction, I’ve seen the phrase thrown around, but wasn’t even positive what it was. That said, I really enjoyed it and flash fiction is what I thought it would be. I loved the long story, the characters were rich and warm, and a pleasure to read. The flash fiction was a fun addition to see more into the thoughts of the author. To see what other ideas we might enjoy from this author in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
February 13, 2022
I could not put this down. This book is fantastic!! The writing is lovely and I felt like I was right there in the middle of it all. You know an author has created wonderful characters when you start to hate the villains and love the heroes with all your heart.
Abby is a wonderful main character. She is strong, independent, resilient and real. She is smart and kind, a wonderful writer.
Percy is rakeish, charming and handsome, yet vulnerable. He is the perfect gentleman when he has to be and such a flirt. But in my opinion he is also lost.
How these two came to know each other is a wonderful mess and I enjoyed every moment of it. As I mentioned before, I could not put this book down and honestly did not expect to love it this much. I look forward to reading more books from this author.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only.
Abby is a wonderful main character. She is strong, independent, resilient and real. She is smart and kind, a wonderful writer.
Percy is rakeish, charming and handsome, yet vulnerable. He is the perfect gentleman when he has to be and such a flirt. But in my opinion he is also lost.
How these two came to know each other is a wonderful mess and I enjoyed every moment of it. As I mentioned before, I could not put this book down and honestly did not expect to love it this much. I look forward to reading more books from this author.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only.
August 27, 2024
The storyline of this book was so beautifully written. I don’t know how this book is not more popular! The precious story of Abigail as an author, and somehow literally writes her own knight in shining armor, who turns out to actually be real in a sense. It was so cute seeing them come together and figure out ways to fix what she had done only to find out, of course that there was something there between them. I loved the letters back-and-forth in the paper, and the town gathered at the Inn to all read together. Reminds me of lady whistledown. Ugh so cute!!! Get it!
March 3, 2021
The story is set in 1795 - Devonshire. It revolves around Ms. Abigail Walsley - a young aspiring novelist and Mr. Percival Randall - a fun-loving Londoner.. And how a fib becomes a fact.
The author has described all the chapters in detail and it takes one directly to the 18th century life and lifestyle. The simple language and all the little details set in 18th century makes it easy for one to relate. Though once you start reading it, the end is totally predictable but the storytelling is not.
The author has made this an anthology i.e. when you buy the book, you not just read this novel but also a good number of flash fictions.
The flash fictions in this book are fictional stories from 500 - 2000 words. Each is based on a theme and a treat to read. I loved these more as, though the stories are succinct but they give you the complete experience of a good novel.
A word of caution - given the era it has been written in, it may not be enjoyable for all romance genre lovers but still I'll ask you to read and slow down and feel the love - the charm and wooing of the days gone by.
I can simply sum it up as - LOVELY!
The author has described all the chapters in detail and it takes one directly to the 18th century life and lifestyle. The simple language and all the little details set in 18th century makes it easy for one to relate. Though once you start reading it, the end is totally predictable but the storytelling is not.
The author has made this an anthology i.e. when you buy the book, you not just read this novel but also a good number of flash fictions.
The flash fictions in this book are fictional stories from 500 - 2000 words. Each is based on a theme and a treat to read. I loved these more as, though the stories are succinct but they give you the complete experience of a good novel.
A word of caution - given the era it has been written in, it may not be enjoyable for all romance genre lovers but still I'll ask you to read and slow down and feel the love - the charm and wooing of the days gone by.
I can simply sum it up as - LOVELY!
July 20, 2020
Golden typically writes historical romance with a bit more angst and conflict but, A Dash of Romance takes a different direction from her enchantresses. Don’t fret! Percy and Abigail are a joy to watch as they move from a fake relationship between an aimless second son and vicar’s daughter (on the shelf) to friendship and more. It is the perfect storm of tropes to help readers escape from reality for a while with a lighthearted, perfectly sweet romance. Percival never failed to make me smile. His confusion over his attraction to the somewhat drab vicar’s daughter brought me so much joy.
True to form, there is always one half of the couple that I don’t like quite as much. Practical and (mostly) content, Abigail reminded me a bit of Jane Austen’s Elizabeth, whom I also struggled with… so you know I have no taste. Her internal debate regarding Percival’s intentions and personality seemed to exist on a pendulum. Fickle woman! That said, I’m positive a significant portion of my grumpiness comes from me being irretrievably smitten with Percival. Any time Abbie tried to call him a rake, I was outraged. I’m talking pitchforks and torches irritable.
All good romances have some type of obstacle. Without Abbie’s wishy-washy denial, the story wouldn’t have been as perfectly cozy. Golden made up for it with the playful banter between Percival and Abbie, crafting absurd stories or revising her novel. They are a perfectly suited couple!
Side highlight: I was so pleased with the fathers, the vicar, and the Earl! They were both sweet and supportive when providing guidance, and even the ultimatum from the Earl comes from good intentions. It was a nice change from the typical cold, overbearing fathers that we often see in historical romance.
I don’t think I can stress enough how much I enjoyed A Dash of Romance. Mr. B always knew when I was reading it because I had a goofy smile on my face instead of “the typical neutral robot face” (this is romance, friends). Golden also includes some of the beloved newsletter flash-fiction! My favorites were Entangled, Candor, Persephone, Haunted, and Masquerade. I didn’t adore all of them, but that comes down to my hang-ups. No matter how well-written, if there is a reference to pregnancy, loss of pregnancy, or babies younger than three, I get twitchy. Don’t let that put you off, Golden handles the topics with care.
Overall, this romantic collection was a sweet distraction from what has shaped up to be an incredibly stressful year. If you are looking for a low-angst read with notes of Jane Austen, I am sure Percy and Abigail’s romance will enchant you!
**I badgered the author into allowing me to voluntarily read and review an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
True to form, there is always one half of the couple that I don’t like quite as much. Practical and (mostly) content, Abigail reminded me a bit of Jane Austen’s Elizabeth, whom I also struggled with… so you know I have no taste. Her internal debate regarding Percival’s intentions and personality seemed to exist on a pendulum. Fickle woman! That said, I’m positive a significant portion of my grumpiness comes from me being irretrievably smitten with Percival. Any time Abbie tried to call him a rake, I was outraged. I’m talking pitchforks and torches irritable.
All good romances have some type of obstacle. Without Abbie’s wishy-washy denial, the story wouldn’t have been as perfectly cozy. Golden made up for it with the playful banter between Percival and Abbie, crafting absurd stories or revising her novel. They are a perfectly suited couple!
Side highlight: I was so pleased with the fathers, the vicar, and the Earl! They were both sweet and supportive when providing guidance, and even the ultimatum from the Earl comes from good intentions. It was a nice change from the typical cold, overbearing fathers that we often see in historical romance.
I don’t think I can stress enough how much I enjoyed A Dash of Romance. Mr. B always knew when I was reading it because I had a goofy smile on my face instead of “the typical neutral robot face” (this is romance, friends). Golden also includes some of the beloved newsletter flash-fiction! My favorites were Entangled, Candor, Persephone, Haunted, and Masquerade. I didn’t adore all of them, but that comes down to my hang-ups. No matter how well-written, if there is a reference to pregnancy, loss of pregnancy, or babies younger than three, I get twitchy. Don’t let that put you off, Golden handles the topics with care.
Overall, this romantic collection was a sweet distraction from what has shaped up to be an incredibly stressful year. If you are looking for a low-angst read with notes of Jane Austen, I am sure Percy and Abigail’s romance will enchant you!
**I badgered the author into allowing me to voluntarily read and review an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 8, 2020
Tired of the vicissitudes of life in 2020? Looking for an escape to a simpler time? Want an entertaining and light-hearted romance to whisk you away like a knight in shining armor? A Dash of Romance is the book for you.
Sometimes readers want something new – for an author to break the mold with their writing and a plot that is completely different from anything they’ve ever read. And sometimes readers want a book that fits like a favorite pair of jeans – comfortable and reliable. This book is that pair of jeans.
We’re in Devonshire in 1795 when we meet Abbie, a vicar’s daughter and closeted writer who dreams of a star-crossed romance to ignite her soul. Instead, the son of an elderly woman looking for a live-in companion offers her a proposal of marriage that will serve but one purpose – to get his own mother off his back. He has no interest in Abbie, and she has no interest in him. But how does a woman who is brushing up against the limits of marriageable age (at the whopping age of 24!)? She tells the lord that she is already engaged, describing the main character of the novel she is working on – her ideal mate.
But, by a series of coincidences, the man she describes actually exists, and now both Abbie and her new, fake fiancée must figure out how to disentangle themselves from each other without ruining their respective reputations. If you’ve ever read a romance novel, you know how it ends.
Romances can be predictable, and that’s part of why we love them. We want to see that traditional story arc, we want the two lovers to be together in the end, to realize all their dreams were right in front of them. We want a happy ending. What sets apart good romance writing from bad romance writing, in my opinion, is the characters. Write me a compelling set of lead characters, and I’ll follow the plot wherever it goes. Write characters I don’t care about, and I’m not finishing the book.
Here is where the author truly succeeds. I love Abbie and I love the trouble she gets herself into. And I love Percy. On the surface you think he’s some arrogant playboy, but it’s clear that he is much deeper than even he knows. He’s playful and mischievous, without ever coming across as mean or spiteful. He has morals and scruples and is a great foil for Abbie. They play off each other well, and I just ended really caring about them. This book was a joy to read!
So, need to give your brain a vacation? Go back in time and fall in love with Abbie and Percy!
Sometimes readers want something new – for an author to break the mold with their writing and a plot that is completely different from anything they’ve ever read. And sometimes readers want a book that fits like a favorite pair of jeans – comfortable and reliable. This book is that pair of jeans.
We’re in Devonshire in 1795 when we meet Abbie, a vicar’s daughter and closeted writer who dreams of a star-crossed romance to ignite her soul. Instead, the son of an elderly woman looking for a live-in companion offers her a proposal of marriage that will serve but one purpose – to get his own mother off his back. He has no interest in Abbie, and she has no interest in him. But how does a woman who is brushing up against the limits of marriageable age (at the whopping age of 24!)? She tells the lord that she is already engaged, describing the main character of the novel she is working on – her ideal mate.
But, by a series of coincidences, the man she describes actually exists, and now both Abbie and her new, fake fiancée must figure out how to disentangle themselves from each other without ruining their respective reputations. If you’ve ever read a romance novel, you know how it ends.
Romances can be predictable, and that’s part of why we love them. We want to see that traditional story arc, we want the two lovers to be together in the end, to realize all their dreams were right in front of them. We want a happy ending. What sets apart good romance writing from bad romance writing, in my opinion, is the characters. Write me a compelling set of lead characters, and I’ll follow the plot wherever it goes. Write characters I don’t care about, and I’m not finishing the book.
Here is where the author truly succeeds. I love Abbie and I love the trouble she gets herself into. And I love Percy. On the surface you think he’s some arrogant playboy, but it’s clear that he is much deeper than even he knows. He’s playful and mischievous, without ever coming across as mean or spiteful. He has morals and scruples and is a great foil for Abbie. They play off each other well, and I just ended really caring about them. This book was a joy to read!
So, need to give your brain a vacation? Go back in time and fall in love with Abbie and Percy!
October 2, 2020
This is a fabulous book. I very much enjoyed the stories, especially the first, longer one. There was a perfect blend of suspense and romance and all around good writing that I could hardly put it down. The characters in Golden's novels are always wonderful and richly developed, and this book was no exception. I give this book four stars because I found the one-chapter stories at the end a bit confusing, as I would have liked to learn more about the characters and their stories than just one chapter. Besides that, this was a wonderful read, and I would recommend it.
Thank you to BookSirens, the publisher, and author for sending me a free ARC of this novel. This has not affected my review and I leave this review willingly.
Thank you to BookSirens, the publisher, and author for sending me a free ARC of this novel. This has not affected my review and I leave this review willingly.
May 13, 2021
*I received a free ecopy in exchange for an honest review. No compensation has been given and I write this book review willingly. A big thanks to Paullett Golden and BookTasters!*
Introduction
I’m not an avid romance reader… In fact, I dislike that all books have strong romance storylines. So, I read a few per year, and they must be different from the get-go. When I was offered by BookTasters to review A Dash of Romance by Paullett Golden, the charming cover caught my attention as well as the clever, sweet title. I read the blurb and… A regency-era romance with a lie surrounding their marriage, a big misunderstanding, and a young woman strong enough to write in those times?
Sign me up! I mean, yes, please, let me read this!
Let me tell you it didn’t simply meet my high expectations of a romance book… it exceeded them!
The Positive Sides
First, let’s talk about the unusual format of this book. It’s an anthology featuring a short novel with a collection of flash fictions. I found it rather interesting! I enjoyed that there was a novel and that there were several flash fictions accompanied by drawings. It felt like a big treasure followed by smaller but amusing discoveries in the same world. Quite uncommon but highly enjoyable.
As for the writing, the choice of words is precise, and immersive in that era and each situation. Plus, several sentences were fun and well-written. I particularly loved this one, which, I think, is very reflective of an author with her characters and of a romance as well: “The good knight needed her as much as she needed him.” I’d say Miss Golden hit two birds with one stone here.
So, here’s my review and why you should totally give this book a read!
Moreover, the characters are charming, lovable, hilarious, strong, clever, and multidimensional. I loved them dearly and even believed in them as though they’re real, which I bet in the author’s heart and mind is true as well as mine now that I’ve read this great book. Also, I love that Abigail, the main character, is a writer herself. And she is part of a ladies’ literary society where the ladies talk about real writing issues and weaknesses, such as characters being one dimensional. It was wonderful to see our reality as writers and authors reflected in this book and I laughed. Speaking of Abigail, I love her strong and flawed personality with good values and feminism for her time. She’s also got a lot of courage as well as a head on her shoulders. Her father, the vicar, is charming and loving. As for Percival, her dandy knight, he’s hard to resist, funny, gentleman, but he’s got his own flaws which make him even more rounded as a character and intriguing… It’s like you’re discovering a new layer of him with each chapter.
Lastly, I curled up in bed with my Kobo every night and often told myself I’d read this book for fifteen minutes only because I was too tired… and each and every time I found it was an hour later!!! This is a huge compliment because usually I barely read for fifteen minutes when I’m that tired (and I have been exhausted these last weeks due to university and personal events) but this book had me hooked, laughing, smiling, and enjoying the moment. As pure and simple as this may be.
The Negative Sides
Alas, there is one negative point. I noticed that when Percival meets Abigail, he finds her drab… But in the next chapter when he talks to her, she’s suddenly interesting and charming. But then, this goes back to a reasonable balance in the following chapters… It was confusing and offsetting on the moment. However, it was not essential enough to take away a star or even a half star.
In Conclusion
As I mentioned, the single negative point isn’t worth taking a star off this delightful book, which leads me to giving it .a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. for all its amazing positive sides! It made me smile, laugh, stay up late to get to the next chapter! But most importantly, it made me stop aching for a while, made me forgot I cried a lot at night just while reading it, and it gave me friends I couldn’t wait to get back to as well as their misfortunes… or were they fortunes in the end? ;)
Introduction
I’m not an avid romance reader… In fact, I dislike that all books have strong romance storylines. So, I read a few per year, and they must be different from the get-go. When I was offered by BookTasters to review A Dash of Romance by Paullett Golden, the charming cover caught my attention as well as the clever, sweet title. I read the blurb and… A regency-era romance with a lie surrounding their marriage, a big misunderstanding, and a young woman strong enough to write in those times?
Sign me up! I mean, yes, please, let me read this!
Let me tell you it didn’t simply meet my high expectations of a romance book… it exceeded them!
The Positive Sides
First, let’s talk about the unusual format of this book. It’s an anthology featuring a short novel with a collection of flash fictions. I found it rather interesting! I enjoyed that there was a novel and that there were several flash fictions accompanied by drawings. It felt like a big treasure followed by smaller but amusing discoveries in the same world. Quite uncommon but highly enjoyable.
As for the writing, the choice of words is precise, and immersive in that era and each situation. Plus, several sentences were fun and well-written. I particularly loved this one, which, I think, is very reflective of an author with her characters and of a romance as well: “The good knight needed her as much as she needed him.” I’d say Miss Golden hit two birds with one stone here.
So, here’s my review and why you should totally give this book a read!
Moreover, the characters are charming, lovable, hilarious, strong, clever, and multidimensional. I loved them dearly and even believed in them as though they’re real, which I bet in the author’s heart and mind is true as well as mine now that I’ve read this great book. Also, I love that Abigail, the main character, is a writer herself. And she is part of a ladies’ literary society where the ladies talk about real writing issues and weaknesses, such as characters being one dimensional. It was wonderful to see our reality as writers and authors reflected in this book and I laughed. Speaking of Abigail, I love her strong and flawed personality with good values and feminism for her time. She’s also got a lot of courage as well as a head on her shoulders. Her father, the vicar, is charming and loving. As for Percival, her dandy knight, he’s hard to resist, funny, gentleman, but he’s got his own flaws which make him even more rounded as a character and intriguing… It’s like you’re discovering a new layer of him with each chapter.
Lastly, I curled up in bed with my Kobo every night and often told myself I’d read this book for fifteen minutes only because I was too tired… and each and every time I found it was an hour later!!! This is a huge compliment because usually I barely read for fifteen minutes when I’m that tired (and I have been exhausted these last weeks due to university and personal events) but this book had me hooked, laughing, smiling, and enjoying the moment. As pure and simple as this may be.
The Negative Sides
Alas, there is one negative point. I noticed that when Percival meets Abigail, he finds her drab… But in the next chapter when he talks to her, she’s suddenly interesting and charming. But then, this goes back to a reasonable balance in the following chapters… It was confusing and offsetting on the moment. However, it was not essential enough to take away a star or even a half star.
In Conclusion
As I mentioned, the single negative point isn’t worth taking a star off this delightful book, which leads me to giving it .a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. for all its amazing positive sides! It made me smile, laugh, stay up late to get to the next chapter! But most importantly, it made me stop aching for a while, made me forgot I cried a lot at night just while reading it, and it gave me friends I couldn’t wait to get back to as well as their misfortunes… or were they fortunes in the end? ;)
August 28, 2020
4.5 stars as reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-1hy
Abigail Walsley, at the advanced age of twenty-four, has long since given up thoughts of marriage. She fills her time with helping her father, the vicar, writing her novel, and visiting with the lonely Lady Dunley. Lately, the viscountess has become more and more insistent that Abbie leave her home and come stay with her as a full time companion. When Abbie continues to refuse, Lady Dunley orders her son to come and propose marriage. The viscount is even more stubborn than his mother, refusing to accept her refusal. In desperation, Abbie blurts out that she’s already engaged. Dunley demands more information, and Abbie creates a fictitious fiancé modeled after the hero in her novel. That’s harmless enough – once the viscount finds another bride, Abbie will quietly become unengaged. Only, the viscount is not letting things end there.
Percival Randall is the second son of an earl. He’s a charming man about town, but leading a shallow life with no vocation or genuine purpose. He’s currently trying to avoid selecting a bride, as his father is exerting pressure on him to settle down and start his own family. He receives a letter from Viscount Dunley, informing him that he’s aware of his engagement to a certain Miss Abigail Walsley, and a demand that he end it. It’s only Dunley’s erroneous train of thought that led him to conclude that Percy is the mysterious fiancé, but the rumor mill never stops, and soon everyone, it seems, is congratulating Percy on his engagement. When his father sends his happy felicitations, Percy knows it’s time to find this mysterious Miss Walsley before he finds himself a married man.
Percy expects to find a scheming, beautiful, seductress, one intent on becoming attached to his respected family name by any means. He doesn’t expect to find a plainly dressed, ordinary vicar’s daughter. As Percy confronts her, and finds out the truth of the situation, they agree to work together temporarily in order than neither of their reputations will suffer when their sham engagement ends. At first, Percy is bored to tears with life in the small village, but he soon becomes involved with Abbie’s literary society, and other events in her day to day life. Surprisingly, he even becomes fast friends with the vicar. Percy develops an interest in the town’s industry, small though it is, and even finds a vacant manor that calls to him. Through all this, he comes to see Abbie through the eyes of love, and wants to make their engagement real, but she can’t believe he’s sincere, or will change from the town-loving society man.
A DASH OF ROMANCE is a pure delight to read! Percy is the physical embodiment of her fictional hero, so Abbie is quite taken with his looks, which he is not shy about using to his advantage. But it’s his metamorphosis from a somewhat shallow, albeit charming, rogue to a man with goals and a purpose that is so breathtaking. He hides his own self doubts and vulnerability beneath his sunny exterior, as he works to find a way to have the future with Abbie he so desires. Abbie can’t accept that an ordinary woman like her could possibly secure the love and devotion of a man so opposite herself. But, as they say, opposites attract, and Abbie and Percy have an attraction that goes beyond the physical. They just fit as a couple, each complementing the other. They have a genuine joy being with each other, and have fun! A DASH OF ROMANCE is such a pleasure to read. I recommend it for readers who enjoy a light read, but also one that is full of heart and wonderful characters, and will leave you with a smile.
Abigail Walsley, at the advanced age of twenty-four, has long since given up thoughts of marriage. She fills her time with helping her father, the vicar, writing her novel, and visiting with the lonely Lady Dunley. Lately, the viscountess has become more and more insistent that Abbie leave her home and come stay with her as a full time companion. When Abbie continues to refuse, Lady Dunley orders her son to come and propose marriage. The viscount is even more stubborn than his mother, refusing to accept her refusal. In desperation, Abbie blurts out that she’s already engaged. Dunley demands more information, and Abbie creates a fictitious fiancé modeled after the hero in her novel. That’s harmless enough – once the viscount finds another bride, Abbie will quietly become unengaged. Only, the viscount is not letting things end there.
Percival Randall is the second son of an earl. He’s a charming man about town, but leading a shallow life with no vocation or genuine purpose. He’s currently trying to avoid selecting a bride, as his father is exerting pressure on him to settle down and start his own family. He receives a letter from Viscount Dunley, informing him that he’s aware of his engagement to a certain Miss Abigail Walsley, and a demand that he end it. It’s only Dunley’s erroneous train of thought that led him to conclude that Percy is the mysterious fiancé, but the rumor mill never stops, and soon everyone, it seems, is congratulating Percy on his engagement. When his father sends his happy felicitations, Percy knows it’s time to find this mysterious Miss Walsley before he finds himself a married man.
Percy expects to find a scheming, beautiful, seductress, one intent on becoming attached to his respected family name by any means. He doesn’t expect to find a plainly dressed, ordinary vicar’s daughter. As Percy confronts her, and finds out the truth of the situation, they agree to work together temporarily in order than neither of their reputations will suffer when their sham engagement ends. At first, Percy is bored to tears with life in the small village, but he soon becomes involved with Abbie’s literary society, and other events in her day to day life. Surprisingly, he even becomes fast friends with the vicar. Percy develops an interest in the town’s industry, small though it is, and even finds a vacant manor that calls to him. Through all this, he comes to see Abbie through the eyes of love, and wants to make their engagement real, but she can’t believe he’s sincere, or will change from the town-loving society man.
A DASH OF ROMANCE is a pure delight to read! Percy is the physical embodiment of her fictional hero, so Abbie is quite taken with his looks, which he is not shy about using to his advantage. But it’s his metamorphosis from a somewhat shallow, albeit charming, rogue to a man with goals and a purpose that is so breathtaking. He hides his own self doubts and vulnerability beneath his sunny exterior, as he works to find a way to have the future with Abbie he so desires. Abbie can’t accept that an ordinary woman like her could possibly secure the love and devotion of a man so opposite herself. But, as they say, opposites attract, and Abbie and Percy have an attraction that goes beyond the physical. They just fit as a couple, each complementing the other. They have a genuine joy being with each other, and have fun! A DASH OF ROMANCE is such a pleasure to read. I recommend it for readers who enjoy a light read, but also one that is full of heart and wonderful characters, and will leave you with a smile.
December 1, 2020
I really enjoyed "A Dash of Romance" - I usually like my romance novels a little "spicier," for lack of a better word, but this one was clean - which ultimately, is to its credit, because it didn't need any of the typical tropes "trashy" romance novels seem to rely upon to move their plots forward. This one just used interesting characters and their growth throughout the story to keep me involved.
I really liked the Hero in this story. He seemed to be everything you want your H to be: handsome, honest, talented, ambitious, creative, intelligent, humble, family-oriented, and true to the heroine - but the author doesn't reveal all of these sterling qualities at once, so peeling back his layers through the interaction of our H, and his family, the townspeople, the h, and the h's father (the Vicar), is all quite enjoyable. I really enjoyed the H and h writing back and forth to each other via anonymous advice columns in the town's local newsletter, too! Such a unique concept!
The heroine was less fleshed out - I couldn't picture her in my mind as well as as I could the Hero. We see equally promising character development for her throughout the novel, as well, though.
The only things that kept me from giving this book 5 stars were the fact that it was so clean - barely even kissing or holding hands. Which, I guess, for some may be a plus. But even those few times where the H & h did engage in some kind of acknowledgement of the physical attraction between them, it seemed very....tepid. I've read some romances where The Act was never committed, but the thoughts and feelings were so well and steamily described that you had no doubt that there was great physical attraction there! This romance seemed very cerebral in nature. Is it too much to ask, to have both mental AND physical attraction in the same couple at an equal level of intensity?
And, [POTENTIAL SPOILER ALERT] although I was very intrigued by the concept of the way the town's newsletter worked, with anonymous submissions, etc., someone still has to typeset all that copy and run it on a press, given the era in which the story is set. How did the taproom owner have time to do all that and STILL run his alehouse? Either I missed something there, or that part wasn't as fleshed out as the rest of the story, and it left kind of a logic hole for me. I don't like stories that leave unanswered questions.
I also didn't understand how people could just "show up" unannounced and uninvited and demand betrothal dinners, especially during the era when the story takes place. I understand that rank has its privileges, but it still seems like traveling would take more time, as would the planning of the dinner, itself, and housing the guests, and that there would be a great deal of correspondence and communication required. I feel like some of these details were glossed over/lost to the plot - and granted, they aren't main plot points, but having them be a little more realistic/researched/accurate to the time period would have made an already good novel that much stronger.
Those are relatively minor detractions, though, and I would still recommend this book to anyone looking for a light, charming, romance novel. I wouldn't hesitate to read other novels by this author.
I thank both the author and the publisher for providing me with an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really liked the Hero in this story. He seemed to be everything you want your H to be: handsome, honest, talented, ambitious, creative, intelligent, humble, family-oriented, and true to the heroine - but the author doesn't reveal all of these sterling qualities at once, so peeling back his layers through the interaction of our H, and his family, the townspeople, the h, and the h's father (the Vicar), is all quite enjoyable. I really enjoyed the H and h writing back and forth to each other via anonymous advice columns in the town's local newsletter, too! Such a unique concept!
The heroine was less fleshed out - I couldn't picture her in my mind as well as as I could the Hero. We see equally promising character development for her throughout the novel, as well, though.
The only things that kept me from giving this book 5 stars were the fact that it was so clean - barely even kissing or holding hands. Which, I guess, for some may be a plus. But even those few times where the H & h did engage in some kind of acknowledgement of the physical attraction between them, it seemed very....tepid. I've read some romances where The Act was never committed, but the thoughts and feelings were so well and steamily described that you had no doubt that there was great physical attraction there! This romance seemed very cerebral in nature. Is it too much to ask, to have both mental AND physical attraction in the same couple at an equal level of intensity?
And, [POTENTIAL SPOILER ALERT] although I was very intrigued by the concept of the way the town's newsletter worked, with anonymous submissions, etc., someone still has to typeset all that copy and run it on a press, given the era in which the story is set. How did the taproom owner have time to do all that and STILL run his alehouse? Either I missed something there, or that part wasn't as fleshed out as the rest of the story, and it left kind of a logic hole for me. I don't like stories that leave unanswered questions.
I also didn't understand how people could just "show up" unannounced and uninvited and demand betrothal dinners, especially during the era when the story takes place. I understand that rank has its privileges, but it still seems like traveling would take more time, as would the planning of the dinner, itself, and housing the guests, and that there would be a great deal of correspondence and communication required. I feel like some of these details were glossed over/lost to the plot - and granted, they aren't main plot points, but having them be a little more realistic/researched/accurate to the time period would have made an already good novel that much stronger.
Those are relatively minor detractions, though, and I would still recommend this book to anyone looking for a light, charming, romance novel. I wouldn't hesitate to read other novels by this author.
I thank both the author and the publisher for providing me with an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 21, 2020
This was one of the funniest and lightest stories I've read in recent times.
Everything happens due to a big misunderstanding that, in the end, brings wonderful surprises for the couple.
We are introduced to Mr. Percival Randall, the second son of the Earl of Camforth, and Freddie's brother, Baron Monkworth.
Percy was a bon-vivant, a rake, who still maintained his mistress Clarice, despite courting Miss Merriweather.
The truth was, Percy was being forced by his father to abandon his wanton life and get married, or he was going to lose his allowance.
However, on arriving at the Merriweather house, Percy was literally kicked out by the girl's father, screaming.
To relax, he immediately went to his mistress's house, and for some reason, she also throws him out.
Only White's was left, where he could have a drink in the company of friends. And it is there that he learns that the news that was running through the city was of his secret engagement.
Now, we go to West Sidvale, in Devonshire, where we are introduced to Miss Abigail Walsley, daughter of Reverend Leland Walsley, whose other three oldest daughters were already well married.
Abby stays with her father, a widower, and on certain days of the week, she went to the Viscountess Lady Dunley's house to keep her company and read books.
But Abby's great desire was to be a published writer, and she was already writing a novel, whose main character was a handsome gentleman named Sir Bartholomew.
When Abby receives a visit from Viscount, son of Lady Dunley, communicating (that's what you read) that the two should marry because it was her mother's wish that she always wanted Abby's company, the writer freaked out and to get rid of the imposed commitment, she said she was betrothed in secret.
Abby refused to say the name of her fiance, however from her description of him, Dunley soon discovered that it was a certain rake that lived in London. And he wrote to several people, until he reached Percy. Dunley demanded that the engagement be ended so that he could marry Abby.
The big problem was not that Percy was mistaken for a (fictional) fiance. It was that the news reached the ears of his father, who was extremely happy with the news, besides that his engagement was practically announced throughout London.
The only solution? Go personally to resolve this matter with Miss Walsley.
Can you imagine the mess?
Have fun discovering how "curtains" ended up being the most important issue for a crazy couple.
5 stars
Everything happens due to a big misunderstanding that, in the end, brings wonderful surprises for the couple.
We are introduced to Mr. Percival Randall, the second son of the Earl of Camforth, and Freddie's brother, Baron Monkworth.
Percy was a bon-vivant, a rake, who still maintained his mistress Clarice, despite courting Miss Merriweather.
The truth was, Percy was being forced by his father to abandon his wanton life and get married, or he was going to lose his allowance.
However, on arriving at the Merriweather house, Percy was literally kicked out by the girl's father, screaming.
To relax, he immediately went to his mistress's house, and for some reason, she also throws him out.
Only White's was left, where he could have a drink in the company of friends. And it is there that he learns that the news that was running through the city was of his secret engagement.
Now, we go to West Sidvale, in Devonshire, where we are introduced to Miss Abigail Walsley, daughter of Reverend Leland Walsley, whose other three oldest daughters were already well married.
Abby stays with her father, a widower, and on certain days of the week, she went to the Viscountess Lady Dunley's house to keep her company and read books.
But Abby's great desire was to be a published writer, and she was already writing a novel, whose main character was a handsome gentleman named Sir Bartholomew.
When Abby receives a visit from Viscount, son of Lady Dunley, communicating (that's what you read) that the two should marry because it was her mother's wish that she always wanted Abby's company, the writer freaked out and to get rid of the imposed commitment, she said she was betrothed in secret.
Abby refused to say the name of her fiance, however from her description of him, Dunley soon discovered that it was a certain rake that lived in London. And he wrote to several people, until he reached Percy. Dunley demanded that the engagement be ended so that he could marry Abby.
The big problem was not that Percy was mistaken for a (fictional) fiance. It was that the news reached the ears of his father, who was extremely happy with the news, besides that his engagement was practically announced throughout London.
The only solution? Go personally to resolve this matter with Miss Walsley.
Can you imagine the mess?
Have fun discovering how "curtains" ended up being the most important issue for a crazy couple.
5 stars
August 17, 2020
Abigail Walsley is a Vicar’s daughter and a writer who is trying to get her book published. She is not your typical woman of that age. She had her own Women’s literacy society that her and her friends hosted in a public place and they all read their own writings. She spent time with people and was fine being a spinster. One of the lady’s that she spent time with was the Dowager Viscountess and when she turned down a full time job of being a companion to her the Dowager Viscountess sent her son to propose to Abigail. The man would not take no for an answer so she panicked and made up a guy (which a lot of men could have fit the description) that she was secretly engaged to.
Percival Randall is a second son that has been given the ultimatum to get married or lose all of his money. Since he has no labor skills he was going for marriage to a mild mannered woman that did not really spark any feelings in him. When he goes to visit her he gets a rude treatment from that woman’s family. His mistress also refused to see him. It was not until he got home that he found a letter stating that he had been found out that he was engaged unbeknownst to him. So he tracks down Abigail and their story together starts from there. Neither one of them gives each other an easy way out and they both give as good as they get.
This book was funny to read. I enjoyed reading it. It drew me in right away and made me want to keep reading it. Most of the people save a few (dowager viscountess, the viscount, Percival’s friends, and Percival’s sister in law) were lovable,especially the families of both characters. I liked that Percival was willing to actually sully his name by working in the trade instead of still trying to live off of his dad’s money. I liked that Abigail continued to write her books no matter what anyone said.
I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review. The opinions in this review are 100% my own
Percival Randall is a second son that has been given the ultimatum to get married or lose all of his money. Since he has no labor skills he was going for marriage to a mild mannered woman that did not really spark any feelings in him. When he goes to visit her he gets a rude treatment from that woman’s family. His mistress also refused to see him. It was not until he got home that he found a letter stating that he had been found out that he was engaged unbeknownst to him. So he tracks down Abigail and their story together starts from there. Neither one of them gives each other an easy way out and they both give as good as they get.
This book was funny to read. I enjoyed reading it. It drew me in right away and made me want to keep reading it. Most of the people save a few (dowager viscountess, the viscount, Percival’s friends, and Percival’s sister in law) were lovable,especially the families of both characters. I liked that Percival was willing to actually sully his name by working in the trade instead of still trying to live off of his dad’s money. I liked that Abigail continued to write her books no matter what anyone said.
I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review. The opinions in this review are 100% my own
August 4, 2020
A Dash of Romance
Paulette Golden
Historical Romance
Abigail Walsley is the spinster daughter of a small town vicar. This does not bother Abbie who is happy to write her novel, help her father and help out those in need around the village. So when a very unappealing proposal comes her way Abbie does the only thing she can think of and make of a fake fiance. Unfortunately her lies become something much more when a man resembling her fake fiance shows up wanting to know why she is claiming they are engaged. Will Abbie finally find romance outside her book or will she confess her lie to everyone and set the stranger free?
I truly enjoyed the main story in the book. Both Abbie and Percy were amazing characters. Also there was a lot of character development for both of them. I enjoyed reading and imagining as these two characters became more than they ever imagined they could become. I also loved watching their love grow over time. I love a slow burn romance where you can see how they slowly build on a friendship and admiration and it becomes so much more.
I had mixed feelings about the flash romances. The artwork that accompanied each story was amazing and I truly enjoyed each image. A few of the stories really made me smile and happy. Then others just left me unsatisfied and wanting to know more. I had more questions than answers. Many of the flash stories would be amazing as a longer story.
I truly enjoyed reading my first book by Paulette Golden and I look forward to reading more in the future. I recommend this story to romance lovers who love a slow developing romance. I also recommend this to those who prefer a romance without sensual scenes.
I received a free ecopy of this book from BookSirens for my honest opinion.
Paulette Golden
Historical Romance
Abigail Walsley is the spinster daughter of a small town vicar. This does not bother Abbie who is happy to write her novel, help her father and help out those in need around the village. So when a very unappealing proposal comes her way Abbie does the only thing she can think of and make of a fake fiance. Unfortunately her lies become something much more when a man resembling her fake fiance shows up wanting to know why she is claiming they are engaged. Will Abbie finally find romance outside her book or will she confess her lie to everyone and set the stranger free?
I truly enjoyed the main story in the book. Both Abbie and Percy were amazing characters. Also there was a lot of character development for both of them. I enjoyed reading and imagining as these two characters became more than they ever imagined they could become. I also loved watching their love grow over time. I love a slow burn romance where you can see how they slowly build on a friendship and admiration and it becomes so much more.
I had mixed feelings about the flash romances. The artwork that accompanied each story was amazing and I truly enjoyed each image. A few of the stories really made me smile and happy. Then others just left me unsatisfied and wanting to know more. I had more questions than answers. Many of the flash stories would be amazing as a longer story.
I truly enjoyed reading my first book by Paulette Golden and I look forward to reading more in the future. I recommend this story to romance lovers who love a slow developing romance. I also recommend this to those who prefer a romance without sensual scenes.
I received a free ecopy of this book from BookSirens for my honest opinion.
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