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Promise of Forever After #2
Romancing Her Rival
He stole her inheritance. She stole his heart.
Daphne Windham has depended upon one thing her entire life: inheriting her beloved great-aunt’s estate, Cheriton Hall. With her mother desperate to marry her off to the highest bidder, Daphne is relieved to escape to Cheriton for the summer—until she learns that her aunt has decided upon a different heir entirely. Cole Everard, the steward’s son and Daphne’s childhood friend. Former friend, that is.
Raised on the grounds of Cheriton, Cole Everard never imagined he would be named heir, but he is determined to prove himself worthy of the position. Unfortunately, that is easier said than done, especially when Daphne arrives claiming he is anything but worthy. Instead of their close friendship, Cole is met with cold indifference—which would sting much less if he wasn’t entirely in love with her…
Hurt and betrayed, Daphne believes her only choice is to undermine her new rival and reclaim what is rightfully hers. But that plan becomes increasingly difficult, what with Cole’s infuriating charm and kindness. When fate offers Daphne a second chance, will she take it or risk it all for the promise of love?
Romancing Her Rival is the second in a series of books about five friends. The other four novellas will be written by authors Sally Britton, Megan Walker, Heidi Kimball, and Arlem Hawks.
Daphne Windham has depended upon one thing her entire life: inheriting her beloved great-aunt’s estate, Cheriton Hall. With her mother desperate to marry her off to the highest bidder, Daphne is relieved to escape to Cheriton for the summer—until she learns that her aunt has decided upon a different heir entirely. Cole Everard, the steward’s son and Daphne’s childhood friend. Former friend, that is.
Raised on the grounds of Cheriton, Cole Everard never imagined he would be named heir, but he is determined to prove himself worthy of the position. Unfortunately, that is easier said than done, especially when Daphne arrives claiming he is anything but worthy. Instead of their close friendship, Cole is met with cold indifference—which would sting much less if he wasn’t entirely in love with her…
Hurt and betrayed, Daphne believes her only choice is to undermine her new rival and reclaim what is rightfully hers. But that plan becomes increasingly difficult, what with Cole’s infuriating charm and kindness. When fate offers Daphne a second chance, will she take it or risk it all for the promise of love?
Romancing Her Rival is the second in a series of books about five friends. The other four novellas will be written by authors Sally Britton, Megan Walker, Heidi Kimball, and Arlem Hawks.
156 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2020
489 people are currently reading
980 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Barker
14 books1,298 followersJoanna Barker firmly believes that romance makes everything better, which is why she has fallen in love with writing Regency romances. When she’s not typing away on her next book, you’ll find her listening to podcasts, eating her secret stash of chocolate, or adding things to her Amazon cart. Joanna thinks being an author is the second-best job in the world—right after being a mom. She is just a little crazy about her husband and three wild-but-lovable kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
August 16, 2025
3.5 stars ⭐️ Clean Fiction - Regency
I don’t have too many thoughts on this novella. It was pretty cute albeit having a kiss that was a little much for my tastes (but that seems to be on par for this author) and was a quick read.
I was afraid that Daphne was going to be mean to Cole—which he completely did not deserve—and while she has a terrible plan, the book is short so it was painstaking to read when Daphne has her (mother’s) idea to discredit him so that her aunt will make her the heir again comes into play.
Because I always love the friend to more trope (even better if it’s a childhood friends to more trope), I did really like how smitten Cole was with her.
I was overall really enjoying this one but then right at the end there was unnecessary angst between our couple because Cole becomes a Stupid Idiot Man That Can’t Listen™️. Thankfully it only lasted a handful of pages or I would have been upset. 😅
I don’t think the back cover or the title do this book credit as I wasn’t very excited about it after reading those, but it was cuter than I expected.
Main Content-
Daphne and her friends share a bracelet and it’s mentioned about it bringing both luck and their friendship to the wearer (also one comment about it being a blessing to a recently married one of the girls); A discussion about physiognomy (which Daphne’s aunt says is an accurate as palm reading and to put no stock in it; Cole agrees with her aunt, but Daphne thinks the author of a book about the topic made some interesting points); Someone is called a ‘devil’ (in the phrase of ‘speak of the devil’).
Mentions of luck; A few mentions of physiognomy; A mention of a man rising above the station “God granted” him; A mention of a woman treating a man like he was the “worst man to walk the earth since Cain”; A mention of church bells; A mention of a stone bench with angels; A mention of a place seeming otherworldly.
No actual cursing or language, but regency phrases like ‘devil take it’, ‘what the devil’, ‘heavens’, ‘blast and bother’, and ‘blast/blast it all’ are said often; Other than that, ‘stupid’ is the stronger word used; Some harsh words are said in anger; Some lies/fibs and accidental eavesdropping.
Daphne’s mother is very controlling and manipulating towards her & there are many comments about it throughout the book (including some on-page; Daphne feels free when not under her mother’s heel and her mother makes her find Cole’s shortcomings to be able to exploit them to her benefit; Daphne tries and feels guilt; Towards the end, Daphne comments on wishing to never see her mother again, but her aunt warns her about speaking in “absolutes”).
After dealing with a trying person, Cole thinks that he wouldn’t refuse a glass of port, but Daphne’s aunt dislikes alcohol and rarely keeps in it the house (which makes Cole think that would perhaps be a change he would make).
Mentions of deaths; Mentions of highwaymen, thieves, & stealing; Mentions of gambling & gamblers; Mentions of lies, lying, & deceit; A few mentions of jealousy/envy; A few mentions of a friend’s oppressive brother; A couple mentions of gossip.
A mention from a young woman that women don’t need men to save them from everything; A mention of a young woman upending an entire dinner party when she mentioned that women ought to have the right to vote.
2 kisses lasting around 5+ kisses each,
Thinking about kisses/kissing, Wanting to kiss, & Staring at lips (up to a couple sentences).
Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Hand holding, Warmth, Flutters, Nearness, Smelling, Noticing, & Staring (including lightly at muscles and figures, up to a few sentences); Remembering touches & embraces (up to a couple sentences); When her hair comes undone, Cole helps Daphne pin one of her curls back and it’s an intimate moment; Blushes.
Daphne hopes to marry for love, but thinks it’s beyond her reach partially because her parents have no love in their marriage; Daphne’s married friend comments on another man being handsome and when Daphne exclaims her name, the friend says “married women can see just as well as unmarried ones”.
Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of reputations & an unmarried couple not being able to be alone together; Mentions of a romance novel and swooning over events in it; Mentions of a handsome man; A few mentions of blushes.
I don’t have too many thoughts on this novella. It was pretty cute albeit having a kiss that was a little much for my tastes (but that seems to be on par for this author) and was a quick read.
I was afraid that Daphne was going to be mean to Cole—which he completely did not deserve—and while she has a terrible plan, the book is short so it was painstaking to read when Daphne has her (mother’s) idea to discredit him so that her aunt will make her the heir again comes into play.
Because I always love the friend to more trope (even better if it’s a childhood friends to more trope), I did really like how smitten Cole was with her.
I was overall really enjoying this one but then right at the end there was unnecessary angst between our couple because Cole becomes a Stupid Idiot Man That Can’t Listen™️. Thankfully it only lasted a handful of pages or I would have been upset. 😅
I don’t think the back cover or the title do this book credit as I wasn’t very excited about it after reading those, but it was cuter than I expected.
Main Content-
Daphne and her friends share a bracelet and it’s mentioned about it bringing both luck and their friendship to the wearer (also one comment about it being a blessing to a recently married one of the girls); A discussion about physiognomy (which Daphne’s aunt says is an accurate as palm reading and to put no stock in it; Cole agrees with her aunt, but Daphne thinks the author of a book about the topic made some interesting points); Someone is called a ‘devil’ (in the phrase of ‘speak of the devil’).
Mentions of luck; A few mentions of physiognomy; A mention of a man rising above the station “God granted” him; A mention of a woman treating a man like he was the “worst man to walk the earth since Cain”; A mention of church bells; A mention of a stone bench with angels; A mention of a place seeming otherworldly.
No actual cursing or language, but regency phrases like ‘devil take it’, ‘what the devil’, ‘heavens’, ‘blast and bother’, and ‘blast/blast it all’ are said often; Other than that, ‘stupid’ is the stronger word used; Some harsh words are said in anger; Some lies/fibs and accidental eavesdropping.
Daphne’s mother is very controlling and manipulating towards her & there are many comments about it throughout the book (including some on-page; Daphne feels free when not under her mother’s heel and her mother makes her find Cole’s shortcomings to be able to exploit them to her benefit; Daphne tries and feels guilt; Towards the end, Daphne comments on wishing to never see her mother again, but her aunt warns her about speaking in “absolutes”).
After dealing with a trying person, Cole thinks that he wouldn’t refuse a glass of port, but Daphne’s aunt dislikes alcohol and rarely keeps in it the house (which makes Cole think that would perhaps be a change he would make).
Mentions of deaths; Mentions of highwaymen, thieves, & stealing; Mentions of gambling & gamblers; Mentions of lies, lying, & deceit; A few mentions of jealousy/envy; A few mentions of a friend’s oppressive brother; A couple mentions of gossip.
A mention from a young woman that women don’t need men to save them from everything; A mention of a young woman upending an entire dinner party when she mentioned that women ought to have the right to vote.
2 kisses lasting around 5+ kisses each,
Thinking about kisses/kissing, Wanting to kiss, & Staring at lips (up to a couple sentences).
Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Hand holding, Warmth, Flutters, Nearness, Smelling, Noticing, & Staring (including lightly at muscles and figures, up to a few sentences); Remembering touches & embraces (up to a couple sentences); When her hair comes undone, Cole helps Daphne pin one of her curls back and it’s an intimate moment; Blushes.
Daphne hopes to marry for love, but thinks it’s beyond her reach partially because her parents have no love in their marriage; Daphne’s married friend comments on another man being handsome and when Daphne exclaims her name, the friend says “married women can see just as well as unmarried ones”.
Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of reputations & an unmarried couple not being able to be alone together; Mentions of a romance novel and swooning over events in it; Mentions of a handsome man; A few mentions of blushes.
July 30, 2020
You absolutely cannot go wrong with a Joanna Barker book. She makes you FEEL things. Makes you love the characters, root for them, and sigh over the swoony-heart-fluttery moments. It's an absolute treat to read and enjoy Daphne's love story.
August 21, 2024
Happy sigh…
Romancing is the way to go, I am sure of it. Happy endings are a must and this one did not disappoint. My heart beats happily and I am once again in love with one of Joanna Barker’s stories.
Romancing is the way to go, I am sure of it. Happy endings are a must and this one did not disappoint. My heart beats happily and I am once again in love with one of Joanna Barker’s stories.
August 26, 2020
Once again I have not been disappointed.
Give me all the stories about life long friends becoming so much more and I’ll be one happy camper!
Daphne is a woman who has had the security of her future wellbeing stripped away from her and is out of options. Her refuge and safe haven now belongs in the hands of someone she never ever expected...the one person standing in her way is the very man she thought she knew better than most.
This novella has a lot packed into few pages. A charming and kind love interest, a delightfully romantic beach scene (my favorite), and the idea that family and home can come in many different varieties in the least expected of places.
Did I read this in a single day? I am not ashamed. I only wished it was longer. The sweet sentiment of a school girl friendship pact to marry for love was not lost of me, especially during a time when many women had very limited options. I can’t wait to read more books from this series. This book can easily be read as a stand-alone even though it’s said to be the second in the series.
Give me all the stories about life long friends becoming so much more and I’ll be one happy camper!
Daphne is a woman who has had the security of her future wellbeing stripped away from her and is out of options. Her refuge and safe haven now belongs in the hands of someone she never ever expected...the one person standing in her way is the very man she thought she knew better than most.
This novella has a lot packed into few pages. A charming and kind love interest, a delightfully romantic beach scene (my favorite), and the idea that family and home can come in many different varieties in the least expected of places.
Did I read this in a single day? I am not ashamed. I only wished it was longer. The sweet sentiment of a school girl friendship pact to marry for love was not lost of me, especially during a time when many women had very limited options. I can’t wait to read more books from this series. This book can easily be read as a stand-alone even though it’s said to be the second in the series.
August 4, 2020
The second installment of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Bracelet (this is not the series title but I now struggle to think of it another way) is delightful.
Joanna is one of the best authors at creating dynamic hooks. "Daphne Windham had never thought of herself as a thief..." Who doesn't want to know what that leads to?
Daphne is the second of five friends who is struggling to keep the pact they made four years prior to marry for love. She has no prospects and her dowry is gone. At her mother's insistence, Daphne goes to her aunt's estate to try and salvage her revoked inheritance. Unfortunately, the new heir is her old friend-turned-enemy and her plan is unstable at best.
The bracelet is now on its way to Isabel and I'm looking forward to reading the luck (or lack of) it brings to the third friend.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy! All thoughts in this review are my own.
Joanna is one of the best authors at creating dynamic hooks. "Daphne Windham had never thought of herself as a thief..." Who doesn't want to know what that leads to?
Daphne is the second of five friends who is struggling to keep the pact they made four years prior to marry for love. She has no prospects and her dowry is gone. At her mother's insistence, Daphne goes to her aunt's estate to try and salvage her revoked inheritance. Unfortunately, the new heir is her old friend-turned-enemy and her plan is unstable at best.
The bracelet is now on its way to Isabel and I'm looking forward to reading the luck (or lack of) it brings to the third friend.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy! All thoughts in this review are my own.
October 1, 2020
This was a sweet gentle love story. I have read a couple of these and they are cute. The red bracelet passed from friend to friend who need luck or love is a sweet idea. This story is good and well written. I enjoyed it.
January 6, 2024
Joanna Baker is slowly becoming one of my favorite authors for clean romances.
Here she brings a story about a girl who hopes to inherit her aunts estate, only to find out that the valet's son she grew up with does instead. Her mother is a rude woman, who tries to overstep her bounds and take control of situations wants her to crush her 'opponent' and get that house.
She is conflicted due to her emotions of friendship (and possibly something more) she had for the now newly-minted master of the house. Meanwhile her friend has no idea what has caused the dislike, and when he does find out he has no reason to back down from this position he has inherited because he loves the estate just as much as she does.
If you're a fan of character interaction and solid plot, you'd find it here. Some reviews say she is a bit of a nasty person to him. Girl seems to be sheltered somewhat and based on the story the author told, women couldn't inherit estates unless they became spinsters / widows. So, girl can be upset and nasty but probably should have talked to him about her issues more.
Here she brings a story about a girl who hopes to inherit her aunts estate, only to find out that the valet's son she grew up with does instead. Her mother is a rude woman, who tries to overstep her bounds and take control of situations wants her to crush her 'opponent' and get that house.
She is conflicted due to her emotions of friendship (and possibly something more) she had for the now newly-minted master of the house. Meanwhile her friend has no idea what has caused the dislike, and when he does find out he has no reason to back down from this position he has inherited because he loves the estate just as much as she does.
If you're a fan of character interaction and solid plot, you'd find it here. Some reviews say she is a bit of a nasty person to him. Girl seems to be sheltered somewhat and based on the story the author told, women couldn't inherit estates unless they became spinsters / widows. So, girl can be upset and nasty but probably should have talked to him about her issues more.
May 6, 2024
Well written, thoughtful, slow-moving. A little too reliant on introspection rather than action, and I actively despised Daphne from the get-go, which are the primary reasons for four stars instead of five. The heroine was deliberately portrayed as whiny and weak for about half the book, but the second half showed Daphne in a more sympathetic light as she slowly acknowledged Cole hadn’t connived against her and “stolen” her inheritance. That ought to have softened my opinion of her. However, I’m not the fan of main female characters who let themselves be manipulated, who won’t stand up for themselves or principles, and who unquestioningly bend to the will of others, until the last few pages when they suddenly develop a backbone. Her defense of Cole was not too little but it definitely was too late.
December 31, 2025
I absolutely LOVED this novella! This may be a novella, but the tension and chemistry were delicious all the same! Joanna knows how to write scrumptious romance set in Regency Era with swoony moments and the BEST MMCs.
And this one was no different. Definitely a favorite! And was my last Joanna Barker backlist book! Yay!
Highly recommend this novella!
Content Guide:
Kisses only (some passionate), overbearing/toxic mother (and father)
Nothing else major that I can remember.
And this one was no different. Definitely a favorite! And was my last Joanna Barker backlist book! Yay!
Highly recommend this novella!
Content Guide:
Kisses only (some passionate), overbearing/toxic mother (and father)
Nothing else major that I can remember.
January 22, 2022
This book is so sweet. Best friends to one-sided enemies to lovers.
The characters are put in a difficult situation. She lost her inheritance to her friend. He never asked for the inheritance. Hmmm...
I had fun reading this story. There were many instances where I couldn't stop grinning. This is a satisfying story.
The characters are put in a difficult situation. She lost her inheritance to her friend. He never asked for the inheritance. Hmmm...
I had fun reading this story. There were many instances where I couldn't stop grinning. This is a satisfying story.
August 5, 2020
It’s always fun when you can read a whole book in just one day! That was the case for me with this one.
I love the whole premise behind this series. It’s about 5 friends who made a pact that they would marry for love. And they pass around a bracelet for luck. One of my favorite things is that you don’t have to read these in order. This one is the second one. I have not read the first one…yet! And I had no problem following the story.
Daphne is the main character in this book. She’s been sure her whole life that she would inherit Cheriton from her aunt. But, when she needs it the most, she finds out that her childhood friend, Cole, has inherited it instead. And Daphne is devastated. She’s uncertain how she’s going to get out of the mess she’s in. I would have been upset, just like she was. Daphne has some fire when she sees Cole again.
But there are two sides to every story. And luckily, the reader gets to see both sides in this one. I loved seeing things from Cole’s perspective. Both characters have times when they misunderstand things and are bullheaded about it.
This book is great! I loved everything about it. Now I’m off to read the first on in the series, Letters for Phoebe.
I was sent an e-copy of Romancing Her Rival as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.
I love the whole premise behind this series. It’s about 5 friends who made a pact that they would marry for love. And they pass around a bracelet for luck. One of my favorite things is that you don’t have to read these in order. This one is the second one. I have not read the first one…yet! And I had no problem following the story.
Daphne is the main character in this book. She’s been sure her whole life that she would inherit Cheriton from her aunt. But, when she needs it the most, she finds out that her childhood friend, Cole, has inherited it instead. And Daphne is devastated. She’s uncertain how she’s going to get out of the mess she’s in. I would have been upset, just like she was. Daphne has some fire when she sees Cole again.
But there are two sides to every story. And luckily, the reader gets to see both sides in this one. I loved seeing things from Cole’s perspective. Both characters have times when they misunderstand things and are bullheaded about it.
This book is great! I loved everything about it. Now I’m off to read the first on in the series, Letters for Phoebe.
I was sent an e-copy of Romancing Her Rival as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.
March 24, 2021
Regency.
Cole, estate steward (now) & Daphne, a gentleman's dtr,
were childhood friends. Her Great Aunt Hartwell named
him her heir. Daphne had no estate expertise, but she
responded in anger. Then Daphne decided to be a faux
friend to Cole to discover his weakness if any. I liked
him much better than her. The best scene, IMO, was
Daphne confronting her controlling mother.
Cole, estate steward (now) & Daphne, a gentleman's dtr,
were childhood friends. Her Great Aunt Hartwell named
him her heir. Daphne had no estate expertise, but she
responded in anger. Then Daphne decided to be a faux
friend to Cole to discover his weakness if any. I liked
him much better than her. The best scene, IMO, was
Daphne confronting her controlling mother.
August 3, 2020
This book is a nice gentle clean read. I read it in one sitting.
I liked Daphne and loved the fact that she could face up to her own failings. She kow towed to her mother but in every other respect she was quite strong. Her character developed really well over the story.
Cole is a genuine, pleasant hero. So nice to have a hero for a change who is not arrogant or self involved, like so many are written as.
Some nice characterisation in the story and I loved that the Epilogue was summing up the story.
Lovely book.
I liked Daphne and loved the fact that she could face up to her own failings. She kow towed to her mother but in every other respect she was quite strong. Her character developed really well over the story.
Cole is a genuine, pleasant hero. So nice to have a hero for a change who is not arrogant or self involved, like so many are written as.
Some nice characterisation in the story and I loved that the Epilogue was summing up the story.
Lovely book.
June 16, 2022
Short but sweet! This little book was misleading, but pleasantly so. There was one cringe moment of misunderstanding that was so trope-y, but it was cleared up pretty quickly (short book, but didn't feel rushed). This definitely got me interested in the others of the series, especially Marah.
Clean, but if i have to read 'heat' in any way associated with attraction, i will toss the next book out the window.
Clean, but if i have to read 'heat' in any way associated with attraction, i will toss the next book out the window.
October 19, 2022
I wasn't overly invested in the main characters, and the plot felt very formulaic. I did finish it and it was a good story to read at bedtime.
April 20, 2025
⭐️4/5⭐️
This was cute, not perfect. Light on the enemies and heavier on the childhood friends. This had potential but did not deliver fully.
💕FOR THE REASONS I READ ROMANCE:
The Connection of the Couple: 5/5
Do I believe the couple will endure after the last chapter: 3/5
Couple spent enough time together: 5/5
Give and Take balance between the couple: 5/5
Couple was balanced and suited: 5/5
Banter and Fun Times: 5/5
The Ending Nailed: 3/5
🖋️THE WORDS
Show and not Tell: 3.5/5
Was I transported and enraptured: 4/5
Was the language sophisticated: 4/5
⛔️(SPOILERS BELOW)⛔️
My Personal Preference Lenses:
I love these romances that focus on the couple without the need to add a mystery or raunchy things to fill pages. For me, that’s all unnecessary stuff I have to get through to, to get to the meat of the romance.
I did like this except for the last couple of chapters, in how the main conflict was resolved. It was not as neatly tied up as I would have preferred. I needed to know more vehemently that the h chose the H for him and not because she was destitute and had no other prospects. I thought the H did not react well when times got hard and I wonder on how he will be in the future.
🌸OTHER NOTES
Characters Likability:
H: He was a thoughtful and caring, he was amiable and capable. I did think his display of anger at the end, although I can’t fault the reason, it lead me to think we did not see all sides to him. There is no way that a man can only be be good all the time. I did not like how he didn’t listen and jumped to conclusions. I would have rather he freaked out because she didn’t say anything rather than him not listening when she was explaining what happened.
h: She came across rather spoiled and entitled at first. We didn’t have enough of her before we saw her angry at her situation to like her. She does get better because she comes around. She did remain not very capable or productive of a person until the very end.
The Couple’s Connection:
The enemy portion of this was not very satisfying because it was one sided. She was angry and he was not, so we don’t get the usually fighting banter I expect from an enemies story.
Their past friendship was told to us rather than shown. I did like their interaction at the ball and it was powerful enough to make me believe in their relationship. I would have like more of that.
Push Pull:
The H spends most of the book feeling like he is not in the same league as she is. She awakens to how she feels about him. There is no breakup but there is a fight that makes me question the depth of their trust and maturity. It made me question if we were just witnessing a puppy love thusfar.
The Ending:
This ends with a clash. The way we find out once and for all about the h’s loyalty to to the H was well done. I do have to say the ending felt too short and unsatisfying compared to the pinning.
SUMMARY
My favorite thing about this book:
I loved how we stuck to the romance as the one and only item on the agenda. I enjoyed watching these two interact and fall for eachother.
I liked the grand aunt character very much.
What I didn’t like:
I found the last two or so chapters very rushed and unsatisfying. The build up was good, not the best but the ending fell short. He doesn’t react the right way. They have another confrontation, a kiss then it’s over. And we don’t even get a proper epilogue.
I also felt unresolved about: is she marrying him because she has no other options or because she truly loved him. That argument was not fully fleshed out for my liking.
Should you read this: Yes
Will this go on my favorites shelf to read again: No
Preference Checklist:
Third Act Break Up ✖️
OW/OM-Centric Drama ✖️
Cheating ✖️
h Goes Thru too Much Abuse ✖️
h was treated like a Mistress ✖️
H was a Gentleman ✔️
H did Most of the First Moves ✔️
Mystery/Suspense Side Plot ✖️
(In HRs) Sex Before Promise of Marriage ✖️
(In HRs) Modern Themes✖️
Too Many Chapters About Other Things NOT About the Couple ✖️
Too Many Allusions to Other Books in the Series ✔️ Too Much Marketing within the Chapters About the Following Book or Other Books ✔️
Other Things:
My Rating System:
6 - This was great/funny/enjoyable AND the story touched my heart.
5 - This was great/funny/enjoyable.
4 - I liked this but there was one small thing or small things I didn’t like.
3 - I liked it but it had flaws I couldn’t overlook.
2 - I was very disappointed.
1 - Terrible
This was cute, not perfect. Light on the enemies and heavier on the childhood friends. This had potential but did not deliver fully.
💕FOR THE REASONS I READ ROMANCE:
The Connection of the Couple: 5/5
Do I believe the couple will endure after the last chapter: 3/5
Couple spent enough time together: 5/5
Give and Take balance between the couple: 5/5
Couple was balanced and suited: 5/5
Banter and Fun Times: 5/5
The Ending Nailed: 3/5
🖋️THE WORDS
Show and not Tell: 3.5/5
Was I transported and enraptured: 4/5
Was the language sophisticated: 4/5
⛔️(SPOILERS BELOW)⛔️
My Personal Preference Lenses:
I love these romances that focus on the couple without the need to add a mystery or raunchy things to fill pages. For me, that’s all unnecessary stuff I have to get through to, to get to the meat of the romance.
I did like this except for the last couple of chapters, in how the main conflict was resolved. It was not as neatly tied up as I would have preferred. I needed to know more vehemently that the h chose the H for him and not because she was destitute and had no other prospects. I thought the H did not react well when times got hard and I wonder on how he will be in the future.
🌸OTHER NOTES
Characters Likability:
H: He was a thoughtful and caring, he was amiable and capable. I did think his display of anger at the end, although I can’t fault the reason, it lead me to think we did not see all sides to him. There is no way that a man can only be be good all the time. I did not like how he didn’t listen and jumped to conclusions. I would have rather he freaked out because she didn’t say anything rather than him not listening when she was explaining what happened.
h: She came across rather spoiled and entitled at first. We didn’t have enough of her before we saw her angry at her situation to like her. She does get better because she comes around. She did remain not very capable or productive of a person until the very end.
The Couple’s Connection:
The enemy portion of this was not very satisfying because it was one sided. She was angry and he was not, so we don’t get the usually fighting banter I expect from an enemies story.
Their past friendship was told to us rather than shown. I did like their interaction at the ball and it was powerful enough to make me believe in their relationship. I would have like more of that.
Push Pull:
The H spends most of the book feeling like he is not in the same league as she is. She awakens to how she feels about him. There is no breakup but there is a fight that makes me question the depth of their trust and maturity. It made me question if we were just witnessing a puppy love thusfar.
The Ending:
This ends with a clash. The way we find out once and for all about the h’s loyalty to to the H was well done. I do have to say the ending felt too short and unsatisfying compared to the pinning.
SUMMARY
My favorite thing about this book:
I loved how we stuck to the romance as the one and only item on the agenda. I enjoyed watching these two interact and fall for eachother.
I liked the grand aunt character very much.
What I didn’t like:
I found the last two or so chapters very rushed and unsatisfying. The build up was good, not the best but the ending fell short. He doesn’t react the right way. They have another confrontation, a kiss then it’s over. And we don’t even get a proper epilogue.
I also felt unresolved about: is she marrying him because she has no other options or because she truly loved him. That argument was not fully fleshed out for my liking.
Should you read this: Yes
Will this go on my favorites shelf to read again: No
Preference Checklist:
Third Act Break Up ✖️
OW/OM-Centric Drama ✖️
Cheating ✖️
h Goes Thru too Much Abuse ✖️
h was treated like a Mistress ✖️
H was a Gentleman ✔️
H did Most of the First Moves ✔️
Mystery/Suspense Side Plot ✖️
(In HRs) Sex Before Promise of Marriage ✖️
(In HRs) Modern Themes✖️
Too Many Chapters About Other Things NOT About the Couple ✖️
Too Many Allusions to Other Books in the Series ✔️ Too Much Marketing within the Chapters About the Following Book or Other Books ✔️
Other Things:
My Rating System:
6 - This was great/funny/enjoyable AND the story touched my heart.
5 - This was great/funny/enjoyable.
4 - I liked this but there was one small thing or small things I didn’t like.
3 - I liked it but it had flaws I couldn’t overlook.
2 - I was very disappointed.
1 - Terrible
August 5, 2020
Cute Regency
I really enjoyed this quick regency romance. I love this series and the bracelet sharing. Cole and Daphne’s story was fun. It’s an enemies to lovers or a friends to lovers depending on the time! A little bit of pride and prejudice involved along the way.
I really enjoyed this quick regency romance. I love this series and the bracelet sharing. Cole and Daphne’s story was fun. It’s an enemies to lovers or a friends to lovers depending on the time! A little bit of pride and prejudice involved along the way.
March 10, 2022
SMITTEN.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
An absolutely charming regency novella. I was grinning for ear to ear by the closing scenes and I am falling more in love with Barker’s books as I go!
This is a super quick read (150 pages) and is excellently paced. I liked that there was enough background mentioned between Daphne and Cole to know that they had a history prior to the book. I feel like that’s always really critical for a novella. An established past helps fuel the connection we get to see on page.
And what a connection it was!! I immediately saw the chemistry between our main couple and I loved the progression of their romance. The critical conflict scenes weren’t out of bounds I I am here for a passionate confession of feelings accidentally in front of the other person.
Super smitten with this whole read. One of those moments wondering why it took so long for me to pick it up in the first place. Can’t wait to read more!
Overall audience notes:
- Regency Romance Novella
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Trigger/Content Warnings: emotionally manipulative parenting
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
An absolutely charming regency novella. I was grinning for ear to ear by the closing scenes and I am falling more in love with Barker’s books as I go!
This is a super quick read (150 pages) and is excellently paced. I liked that there was enough background mentioned between Daphne and Cole to know that they had a history prior to the book. I feel like that’s always really critical for a novella. An established past helps fuel the connection we get to see on page.
And what a connection it was!! I immediately saw the chemistry between our main couple and I loved the progression of their romance. The critical conflict scenes weren’t out of bounds I I am here for a passionate confession of feelings accidentally in front of the other person.
Super smitten with this whole read. One of those moments wondering why it took so long for me to pick it up in the first place. Can’t wait to read more!
Overall audience notes:
- Regency Romance Novella
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Trigger/Content Warnings: emotionally manipulative parenting
January 6, 2021
I have a weakness for friends-to-lovers plots as I find it so romantic when lifelong friendships deepen to something more. Romancing Her Rival adds quite the obstacle to that trope by dividing the two friends through an issue with an inheritance, which threatens their friendship. When the two reunite, Daphne is harboring bitter feelings towards Colin and now sees him as her enemy, whereas he fears he’s lost his chance to be with the only woman he’s ever loved.
I enjoyed watching these two characters heal from the issue that threatened to divide them. Daphne especially experiences a lot of growth, going from being bitter when the security of her future is ripped away from her and trying to sabotage Colin’s, to gradually healing, to finally understanding, accepting, and sacrificing for Colin’s interests over her own. Her entire journey allows her to not only forgive Colin, but to open her heart back up to not only their friendship but the possibility of something more.
This was an enjoyable book. The rivals to lovers plot was fun and the romance was sweet. Once again Joanna Barker has created a lovely story and I’m excited to see what else she writes next.
I enjoyed watching these two characters heal from the issue that threatened to divide them. Daphne especially experiences a lot of growth, going from being bitter when the security of her future is ripped away from her and trying to sabotage Colin’s, to gradually healing, to finally understanding, accepting, and sacrificing for Colin’s interests over her own. Her entire journey allows her to not only forgive Colin, but to open her heart back up to not only their friendship but the possibility of something more.
This was an enjoyable book. The rivals to lovers plot was fun and the romance was sweet. Once again Joanna Barker has created a lovely story and I’m excited to see what else she writes next.
March 28, 2023
“… Daphne slipped her gloved hand into his, feeling the steadying pressure of his hand beneath hers as she carefully stepped down to the pebbled drive. Her heart gave a great stutter, one that certainly could not be good for her health.”
This was such a cute and sweet novella with so much packed into it. This is the second book I’ve read in this series and I’ve really enjoyed them both. This series follows a group of 5 friends as they each find true love.
Cole Everard and Daphne Windham are childhood friends, and I loved getting to know them! The memories between them were my favorite! Cole is a cinnamon roll sweetheart, and Daphne is sweet, strong, and I loved her character growth. I loved the swoony and fun moments between them!
Their journey from childhood friends to enemies to more was a joy to read!
Read for:
🤍friends to enemies to more
🤍Different social classes
🤍He falls first
🤍Beautiful settings
🤍Novella length
🤍Dual POV
🤍Memorable moments including a goat, the sea, a letter and a ball.
🤍Sweet happily ever after
This was a wonderful read, and I’m looking forward to reading the other books in this series.
4.5 stars
This was such a cute and sweet novella with so much packed into it. This is the second book I’ve read in this series and I’ve really enjoyed them both. This series follows a group of 5 friends as they each find true love.
Cole Everard and Daphne Windham are childhood friends, and I loved getting to know them! The memories between them were my favorite! Cole is a cinnamon roll sweetheart, and Daphne is sweet, strong, and I loved her character growth. I loved the swoony and fun moments between them!
Their journey from childhood friends to enemies to more was a joy to read!
Read for:
🤍friends to enemies to more
🤍Different social classes
🤍He falls first
🤍Beautiful settings
🤍Novella length
🤍Dual POV
🤍Memorable moments including a goat, the sea, a letter and a ball.
🤍Sweet happily ever after
This was a wonderful read, and I’m looking forward to reading the other books in this series.
4.5 stars
August 29, 2020
While I unfortunately did not read book one in this series, that did not stop me from loving this book, nor feeling like I was lost at any point. I'm glad I jumped in and plan to take a peek at book one at some point. Barker weaves a sweet story, with likeable characters and excitement throughout the pages.
I found it interesting that our heroine, Daphne, was looking to inherit something. Quite often in historical tales it is the hero that stands to gain something. I always love when an author puts a spin on that, and gives the heroine something that sets herself apart from the rest. Daphne was fun to get to know.
But what held my interest the most was the way Barker portrayed the storyline. Rivals to lovers? Um yes please. And while it wasn't a true "rival" per se, I still enjoyed the interactions between the characters. I'm hoping to catch more in this series! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I found it interesting that our heroine, Daphne, was looking to inherit something. Quite often in historical tales it is the hero that stands to gain something. I always love when an author puts a spin on that, and gives the heroine something that sets herself apart from the rest. Daphne was fun to get to know.
But what held my interest the most was the way Barker portrayed the storyline. Rivals to lovers? Um yes please. And while it wasn't a true "rival" per se, I still enjoyed the interactions between the characters. I'm hoping to catch more in this series! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 9, 2020
This is a thoroughly enjoyable story by author Joanna Barker. This is book two of the series and it has me eager for more! Each book follows the individual stories of five friends, together in thought even if far apart, aided by a shared bracelet that they send on to each other throughout the series. A clean Regency era story with well developed characters and such an engaging storyline, it doesn’t even feel like a novella! I can highly recommend the entire series so far. Although it can be read as a stand-alone story, I really enjoy reading these sorts of series in order. This multi author project has been excellently done in combining the information pertaining to each characters’ story as the individual novella progresses. In addition, I especially enjoy this in the introduction to each story. I have really enjoyed seeing the same scene from each friends point of view.
I received an ARC of this book from the author however this has in no way influenced my opinion and I am under no obligation to leave a review.
I received an ARC of this book from the author however this has in no way influenced my opinion and I am under no obligation to leave a review.
August 5, 2020
Daphne has long known that one day she shall inherit her Aunt's estate. But when she finds out her childhood friend, Cole, has inherited instead.... She is well beyond shocked.
Cole is the steward's son who has been helping to take care of the estate since his father died and where Daphne spent her summers.
I can understand why Daphne thought Cole somehow manipulated her aunt but it was sad to see how cold she was towards Cole. I'm glad it didn't last long. But as understandings are revealed in why Cole was chosen, you can see the friendship that they had start to come back and feelings of more.
This was a sweet novella in a series of friends who pass off a bracelet to bring each other luck in marrying for love.
Cole is the steward's son who has been helping to take care of the estate since his father died and where Daphne spent her summers.
I can understand why Daphne thought Cole somehow manipulated her aunt but it was sad to see how cold she was towards Cole. I'm glad it didn't last long. But as understandings are revealed in why Cole was chosen, you can see the friendship that they had start to come back and feelings of more.
This was a sweet novella in a series of friends who pass off a bracelet to bring each other luck in marrying for love.
August 14, 2020
Romancing Her Rival is a fun and quick romance. I loved that I could read it quickly and relax with a good story. The book was well-written, engaging and interesting. The characters were intriguing and engaging. I felt like the inheritance theme was on target with the time period. Jane Austen, Francis Burney and Maria Edgeworth addressed inheritance in their novels. The author willingly shows the characters good and bad traits as well as allows the characters room to grow and develop within the story. This is the second in a series of books.
Please note that I received a free ebook to review, however, this is my honest opinion.
Please note that I received a free ebook to review, however, this is my honest opinion.
December 22, 2020
Lovely couple! Another great installment in the series
Daphne and Cole are so very wonderful! She was supposed to inherit her great-aunt’s estate, but her aunt decided to leave it to Cole instead.
Cole and Daphne had been friends forever, and she took his acceptance of the inheritance as a betrayal of their friendship.
She went to her aunt’s home decided on reverting the situation by convincing her aunt that Cole was unsuitable to become heir.
I love how sweet and honorable Cole was and how Daphne’s strength showed up to save the day.
Lovely story! I will be checking out other books by this author.
Daphne and Cole are so very wonderful! She was supposed to inherit her great-aunt’s estate, but her aunt decided to leave it to Cole instead.
Cole and Daphne had been friends forever, and she took his acceptance of the inheritance as a betrayal of their friendship.
She went to her aunt’s home decided on reverting the situation by convincing her aunt that Cole was unsuitable to become heir.
I love how sweet and honorable Cole was and how Daphne’s strength showed up to save the day.
Lovely story! I will be checking out other books by this author.
August 2, 2020
Joanna Barker has done it again. After reading The Truth About Miss Ashbourne, Joanna immediately became a favorite regency romance author of mine. Each book and interaction after that has only endeared her more to me. This book is no exception. Daphne and Cole grew up side by side as childhood best friends. However, things take a turn for the worse when Cole is named the the heir of Cheriton - stealing Daphne's inheritance and hope for the future in one fell swoop. With such a sudden rift between them can Daphne and Cole overcome circumstance and put aside their differences to find common ground? This book, as well as this entire series, is a must read for all of my regency fans. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
August 2, 2020
This is the second book in the Promise of Forever After series. I loved how this book was a friends to lovers romance. I loved how even though Daphne was so mad at Cole for what she thought was him stealing her inheritance from her, I loved that she couldn’t forget all the good times they had as children. I love how after Daphne stopped trying to do what her mother wanted, she was able to open her heart up to love. I thought this was a cute story and I look forward to reading the other books about the other friends.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
August 3, 2020
A wonderful addition to the Forever After novella series! Joanna Barker knows how to write characters that come alive on the pages and it makes the book such a delightful emotional journey! I sympathized with Daphne AND with Cole and loved watching their journey to discover what they truly want, and what they are willing to sacrifice to make their dream come true. I am also immensely enjoying the connection between the five friends and their lucky bracelet.
This book was such a gem and I am looking forward to the rest of the series!
I received a complimentary copy but my opinions are my own.
This book was such a gem and I am looking forward to the rest of the series!
I received a complimentary copy but my opinions are my own.
August 5, 2020
I loved reading Daphne's story, even though I didn't like Daphne much at the beginning of the book. I felt she was kind of a brat. I'm glad Cole was so wonderful and helped Daphne find herself. Their story was sweet and I'm so glad Daphne learned to stand up for herself. I loved Aunt Hartwell. She was a wonderful person who really helped these two find love.
August 15, 2020
This book was a quick enjoyable read about Daphne trying to stay true to a pact she made to her friends to marry for love and the realization her inheritance and is gone. I found both characters really likable and appreciated that the story didn’t include any wild convoluted plan that result in hijinks. This stayed more realistic which I appreciated.
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