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The Harcourts #2
Dalton's Challenge
She's cold as ice with a grudge she vows to take to her grave.
He just wants to enjoy life as much as possible before his fate catches up with him.
Can they show each other new ways to love?
Having spent half her life in her younger brother's shadow, Miss Winifred Thirley has tried so hard to be perfect in order to win back her parents' love. Unfortunately for Winnie, her attempts at perfection have practically turned her to stone. Is it so wrong for Winnie to value responsibility, decorum, and a serious approach to life? According to the foolish and carefree Mr. Harcourt, it is.
In a cruel twist of fate, Winnie's family is invited to spend the summer at Attwood Manor—Mr. Harcourt's home. How will Winnie survive an entire summer living under the same roof as the gentleman she's sworn to hate forever?
Mr. Dalton Harcourt will become a baron one day. Until then, he plans on having fun and living life to the fullest. That's easier said than done when Miss Thirley glares daggers at him every time they cross paths. She's hated him for the past two years after a very brief and disastrous courtship.
At least Dalton doesn't have to deal with her outside of London...until his mother invites the Thirley family to spend the summer with them in the country.
Will Winnie be able to forgive and see a brighter side to life in the process?
Can Dalton overcome his fears in order to face life's challenges head on?
He just wants to enjoy life as much as possible before his fate catches up with him.
Can they show each other new ways to love?
Having spent half her life in her younger brother's shadow, Miss Winifred Thirley has tried so hard to be perfect in order to win back her parents' love. Unfortunately for Winnie, her attempts at perfection have practically turned her to stone. Is it so wrong for Winnie to value responsibility, decorum, and a serious approach to life? According to the foolish and carefree Mr. Harcourt, it is.
In a cruel twist of fate, Winnie's family is invited to spend the summer at Attwood Manor—Mr. Harcourt's home. How will Winnie survive an entire summer living under the same roof as the gentleman she's sworn to hate forever?
Mr. Dalton Harcourt will become a baron one day. Until then, he plans on having fun and living life to the fullest. That's easier said than done when Miss Thirley glares daggers at him every time they cross paths. She's hated him for the past two years after a very brief and disastrous courtship.
At least Dalton doesn't have to deal with her outside of London...until his mother invites the Thirley family to spend the summer with them in the country.
Will Winnie be able to forgive and see a brighter side to life in the process?
Can Dalton overcome his fears in order to face life's challenges head on?
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 18, 2020
169 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
December 20, 2020
One English Countryside Summer🏰🌳🌹
A Hate👺 to Love💘 , CLEAN Regency Romance💕
Two wealthy families spend a summer together at the Baron's estate in the English countryside. The two young people, Winnie💃 and Dalton🐺, the future Baron, had gotten off on the wrong foot in the past, and they must both learn to forgive and grow up.
This is a very long book in which a lot of normal day to day living of the upper class of British Regency society is chronicled. There is a lot of introspection into themselves by both main characters.
The book seemed somewhat rambling to me but it all comes around to a point of true love💘 in the end.
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
A Hate👺 to Love💘 , CLEAN Regency Romance💕
Two wealthy families spend a summer together at the Baron's estate in the English countryside. The two young people, Winnie💃 and Dalton🐺, the future Baron, had gotten off on the wrong foot in the past, and they must both learn to forgive and grow up.
This is a very long book in which a lot of normal day to day living of the upper class of British Regency society is chronicled. There is a lot of introspection into themselves by both main characters.
The book seemed somewhat rambling to me but it all comes around to a point of true love💘 in the end.
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
December 17, 2020
I really enjoyed this clean regency romance! First, can we just admire this cover for a minute? It's gorgeous and I love that it matches Winnie's character description. The title is also very clever as Dalton's challenge changes as the book progresses but encompasses Winnie throughout. His challenge at first is to convince her to forgive him for insulting her two years prior, then it is to put up with her company all summer, and then, well, I don't want to spoil anything, but I loved their "enemies-to-lovers" romance and how much they helped each other become better versions of themselves.
This book is a calm, easy read and does not have a lot of action but rather lots of introspection and conversations between family and friends so if that appeals to you, then this book is for you!
This was a fun, easy read and I look forward to more in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but a review was not required.
This book is a calm, easy read and does not have a lot of action but rather lots of introspection and conversations between family and friends so if that appeals to you, then this book is for you!
This was a fun, easy read and I look forward to more in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but a review was not required.
September 13, 2022
Again, I wanted to like it. Plot sounded good. But heroine again crumbled too soon. Hero was immature too long. And “mumbling”! Sigh.
December 14, 2020
Dalton’s Challenge by Penny Fairbanks
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
____________________________________________________________
Story Notes
Penny Fairbanks’ second book of the Harcourt’s series is one that takes at look at what happens when we assume we know someone’s story and why they act as they do.
Having the opportunity to review this book for this very kind and clearly creative writer was very welcome. I like stories that break from the traditional roles of writing to take on tougher topics and examine them at length. This story does just that with Dalton Harcourt and Winne Thirley. Two years previous, Dalton foolishly insulted Winne while at a ball and she has hated his very existence since. Dalton is regretful about the slight he paid her but cannot seem to get a chance to apologize properly. Deciding to make a concerted effort to change Winne’s opinion of him, he seeks the help of his mother to make arrangements with her friend, Mrs. Thirley to place him and Winne together at a designated time. Wishing herself anywhere but in Dalton’s presence, Winne agrees to meet him to please her mother. His heartfelt apology removes some of her anger and hurt but she is still wary of him and his carefree ways. Why can he not be serious and focused on learning his duties as a future baron? They are further to be thrown together when Dalton’s mother invites the Thirley’s to visit for the summer at the Harcourt home, Attwood Manor. Neither Dalton nor Winne are very amenable to the arrangements but they have no say in them. As they spend reluctant time together, they will each find that what they assumed the other was thinking and doing was really just a façade to keep others at arms’ length. If Winne can let go of her carefully held shield around her heart, she just might find that love is not as terrifying as she believes. And if Dalton can move beyond his fears of loss and confinement, he might see that those of a more serious bent are more loving than he ever thought. I really did enjoy reading this story. Dalton was a good character from the first book and his story turned out to be a good one. He was facing fears that many others have in trying to live up to someone’s expectations and legacies but he had become someone bitter and angry towards others in the process. Winne challenged him to see that his fear was both legitimate and able to be overcome if he was willing to work on it. I liked that he was a realistic character that was given enough voice to work through his issues and desire to be a good man. Winne was also a good character that displayed what happens when parents favor one child over another. She had come to expect that she was forgettable and unimportant. But Dalton and his family were able to see that not only did Winne have a good heart and excellent ideas for helping others, she also is willing to befriend those who others overlook. The only thing I didn’t like in the story was that there wasn’t a resolution/confrontation between Winne and her parents. Perhaps that will come in a later book in the series but I would have liked to have seen Winne or Dalton or both of them confront the Thirley’s about their dismissiveness towards their daughter who did so much for them and her brother. But other than that issue, I enjoyed the book very much and am looking forward to the next in the series. I will certainly be recommending this story to others who enjoy regency stories in the hope that they will enjoy it as well.
I received this temporary, complimentary E-book from Penny Fairbanks via BookFunnel in order to provide a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
____________________________________________________________
Story Notes
Penny Fairbanks’ second book of the Harcourt’s series is one that takes at look at what happens when we assume we know someone’s story and why they act as they do.
Having the opportunity to review this book for this very kind and clearly creative writer was very welcome. I like stories that break from the traditional roles of writing to take on tougher topics and examine them at length. This story does just that with Dalton Harcourt and Winne Thirley. Two years previous, Dalton foolishly insulted Winne while at a ball and she has hated his very existence since. Dalton is regretful about the slight he paid her but cannot seem to get a chance to apologize properly. Deciding to make a concerted effort to change Winne’s opinion of him, he seeks the help of his mother to make arrangements with her friend, Mrs. Thirley to place him and Winne together at a designated time. Wishing herself anywhere but in Dalton’s presence, Winne agrees to meet him to please her mother. His heartfelt apology removes some of her anger and hurt but she is still wary of him and his carefree ways. Why can he not be serious and focused on learning his duties as a future baron? They are further to be thrown together when Dalton’s mother invites the Thirley’s to visit for the summer at the Harcourt home, Attwood Manor. Neither Dalton nor Winne are very amenable to the arrangements but they have no say in them. As they spend reluctant time together, they will each find that what they assumed the other was thinking and doing was really just a façade to keep others at arms’ length. If Winne can let go of her carefully held shield around her heart, she just might find that love is not as terrifying as she believes. And if Dalton can move beyond his fears of loss and confinement, he might see that those of a more serious bent are more loving than he ever thought. I really did enjoy reading this story. Dalton was a good character from the first book and his story turned out to be a good one. He was facing fears that many others have in trying to live up to someone’s expectations and legacies but he had become someone bitter and angry towards others in the process. Winne challenged him to see that his fear was both legitimate and able to be overcome if he was willing to work on it. I liked that he was a realistic character that was given enough voice to work through his issues and desire to be a good man. Winne was also a good character that displayed what happens when parents favor one child over another. She had come to expect that she was forgettable and unimportant. But Dalton and his family were able to see that not only did Winne have a good heart and excellent ideas for helping others, she also is willing to befriend those who others overlook. The only thing I didn’t like in the story was that there wasn’t a resolution/confrontation between Winne and her parents. Perhaps that will come in a later book in the series but I would have liked to have seen Winne or Dalton or both of them confront the Thirley’s about their dismissiveness towards their daughter who did so much for them and her brother. But other than that issue, I enjoyed the book very much and am looking forward to the next in the series. I will certainly be recommending this story to others who enjoy regency stories in the hope that they will enjoy it as well.
I received this temporary, complimentary E-book from Penny Fairbanks via BookFunnel in order to provide a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
January 12, 2021
Pure Regency Delight
I have read a number of this author's books over the past few years. They are hit or miss for me. But this book exemplifies precisely why I still read every book she puts out. Regency is my favorite romance subgenre. Lately I've been feeling a little annoyed because I've seen so many of the same tropes used in the precise same way... over and over ad nauseam to the point where sometimes I feel as if I have read that exact book before... even when I haven't.
So this book was so refreshing in that it was NOT like that. What made it so? There are a couple of factors. The biggest one might be the hero. Like many young gentlemen in Regency romance, he does not believe he is ready for marriage. Most authors take this to an extreme, making the heroes rakes or rogues. I can almost say that “Rogue Regency” is a sub-sub-genre of romance! But this hero is just a happy-go-lucky guy who enjoys hanging out with his friends and family. He is the heir, but he only wants to consider that responsibility (and the responsibilities of a wife and family of his own) in the far distant future. No obvious roguish or rakish shades to his character.
The heroine is his exact opposite in that she is wound up tighter than a drum. Because of her family circumstances—which I'll let you discover—she believes she always has to act perfect—rigidly so—hoping to regain her parents' affections. The only true bright spot in her life is her much younger brother Warren, who she deeply loves and cares for in an almost motherly fashion. Two years prior to the book starting, the hero and heroine had a disastrous carriage ride, which was followed by a Darcy-like insult at a dance.
And so the enemies-to-lovers trope begins. That trope is often used in contemporary romance but not as often in Regency or historical romance... unless it's more about families being enemies, not the individual people in a potential couple as such. The propriety of the Regency era would typically keep people apart—not able to develop such negative feelings on such a personal level. That's another way this book differs from most Regency romances. The H and h were certainly NOT getting along at the start of the book, and it had nothing to do with their families, class distinctions, or any other typical reason. In this book, it was personal between the couple.
The book is a proper novel, so the author artfully showed the gradual change in the way they saw each other. It was realistic and believable. They both came to understand where the other came from and saw more subtleties in each other's characters. Each character had a growth arc as well, particularly the heroine as she came out of her shell and began to enjoy life. It was simply a delight to read. If you enjoy Regency romances that truly do take unique spins on worn-out tropes and character types, you may enjoy this book as much as I did.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
I have read a number of this author's books over the past few years. They are hit or miss for me. But this book exemplifies precisely why I still read every book she puts out. Regency is my favorite romance subgenre. Lately I've been feeling a little annoyed because I've seen so many of the same tropes used in the precise same way... over and over ad nauseam to the point where sometimes I feel as if I have read that exact book before... even when I haven't.
So this book was so refreshing in that it was NOT like that. What made it so? There are a couple of factors. The biggest one might be the hero. Like many young gentlemen in Regency romance, he does not believe he is ready for marriage. Most authors take this to an extreme, making the heroes rakes or rogues. I can almost say that “Rogue Regency” is a sub-sub-genre of romance! But this hero is just a happy-go-lucky guy who enjoys hanging out with his friends and family. He is the heir, but he only wants to consider that responsibility (and the responsibilities of a wife and family of his own) in the far distant future. No obvious roguish or rakish shades to his character.
The heroine is his exact opposite in that she is wound up tighter than a drum. Because of her family circumstances—which I'll let you discover—she believes she always has to act perfect—rigidly so—hoping to regain her parents' affections. The only true bright spot in her life is her much younger brother Warren, who she deeply loves and cares for in an almost motherly fashion. Two years prior to the book starting, the hero and heroine had a disastrous carriage ride, which was followed by a Darcy-like insult at a dance.
And so the enemies-to-lovers trope begins. That trope is often used in contemporary romance but not as often in Regency or historical romance... unless it's more about families being enemies, not the individual people in a potential couple as such. The propriety of the Regency era would typically keep people apart—not able to develop such negative feelings on such a personal level. That's another way this book differs from most Regency romances. The H and h were certainly NOT getting along at the start of the book, and it had nothing to do with their families, class distinctions, or any other typical reason. In this book, it was personal between the couple.
The book is a proper novel, so the author artfully showed the gradual change in the way they saw each other. It was realistic and believable. They both came to understand where the other came from and saw more subtleties in each other's characters. Each character had a growth arc as well, particularly the heroine as she came out of her shell and began to enjoy life. It was simply a delight to read. If you enjoy Regency romances that truly do take unique spins on worn-out tropes and character types, you may enjoy this book as much as I did.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
January 3, 2021
Miss Winifred Thirley (Winnie) is the firstborn of the Thirley’s and is loved until her brother, Warren arrives. Now Winnie is an after thought of her parents and has lost their love to her brother. Even though she has lost her parents love to Warren, she loves him dearly. To hide her hurt, she builds walls around her heart & becomes prim & proper young lady in hopes of winning her parents love again.
Dalton Harcourt is the oldest son of the Harcourt’s and will eventually be the Baron of Welsted. Dalton loves life and goes through everyday with carefree abandonment enjoying life while he can before taking on the responsibilities of becoming Baron. Between a carriage ride and an unfortunate overhearing of Dalton talking to his friends about Winnie, Winnie has developed a hate for Dalton, however the Harcourt’s and the Thirley’s have become close friends & the Harcourt’s invites the Thirley’s to their country estate for the summer. Winnie is now dreading the summer. How can she go all summer avoiding Dalton and his carefree look at life? As the summer progresses, Winnie witnesses a family that loves each other which Winnie’s family is lacking and Dalton starts breaking down her wall around her heart. Will Dalton & Winnie. Eco earth friends? Will Winnie find love? I received this free through BookFunnel for my honest opinion. It’s a good story with Dalton & Winnie both soul searching, but it moves slowly.
Dalton Harcourt is the oldest son of the Harcourt’s and will eventually be the Baron of Welsted. Dalton loves life and goes through everyday with carefree abandonment enjoying life while he can before taking on the responsibilities of becoming Baron. Between a carriage ride and an unfortunate overhearing of Dalton talking to his friends about Winnie, Winnie has developed a hate for Dalton, however the Harcourt’s and the Thirley’s have become close friends & the Harcourt’s invites the Thirley’s to their country estate for the summer. Winnie is now dreading the summer. How can she go all summer avoiding Dalton and his carefree look at life? As the summer progresses, Winnie witnesses a family that loves each other which Winnie’s family is lacking and Dalton starts breaking down her wall around her heart. Will Dalton & Winnie. Eco earth friends? Will Winnie find love? I received this free through BookFunnel for my honest opinion. It’s a good story with Dalton & Winnie both soul searching, but it moves slowly.
December 19, 2020
I've just finished Dalton’s Challenge, and it’s truly delightful. A worthy sequel to Anna’s Choice. This is a novel driven by character. In fact, much of the drama is internal for our hero and heroine. The character development in Winnie and Dalton was particularly well done, I thought. It was not as though they originally argued because they were secretly attracted; Winnie’s antagonism was palpably real. But a true transformation took place. It was a real twist to find that as the Ice Queen allowed warmth to permeate her being, Dalton’s internal walls were as rigid as Winnie’s. Just not as visible. Hidden under all that bonhomie. And without Winnie, he might never have developed that self awareness for a long time. I did wonder how the author was going to unravel that contretemps. The heart breaking rift appeared to irrevocable. Yet the denouement was so in character.
It was lovely to meet all the Harcourts again, while Patrick, too, is as delightful as ever I hope one day he’ll have his own story told. It’s a joy to read a book that is so well edited, punctuated, and resplendent with authentic historical detail. In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book as an ARC copy, for an honest review. Much to my relief, this book has all the features I so enjoy in Fairbank’s work and my angst that it might not be up to her usual standards completely unnecessary.
It was lovely to meet all the Harcourts again, while Patrick, too, is as delightful as ever I hope one day he’ll have his own story told. It’s a joy to read a book that is so well edited, punctuated, and resplendent with authentic historical detail. In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book as an ARC copy, for an honest review. Much to my relief, this book has all the features I so enjoy in Fairbank’s work and my angst that it might not be up to her usual standards completely unnecessary.
January 6, 2021
👣👣ONE INCREDIBLE DELIGHT👣👣
Blazing blizzards! Penny delivers with this turbulent tilt-a-wheel, divvying out some fervent facts, harsh lessons and relentless determination, raising the stakes and keeping it real, hooking you from start to finish, launching this gem to a whole new level. Difficulty and disappointment descend in a flurry of subtle maneuvers and cunning strategy, broken perimeters and crushed barriers solidify as limitations are amplified and exploited, kicking this gem into the eye of the storm, booting it into a tailspin with astonishing impacts, bursting this baby to life brilliantly. Attributes and mannerisms in layer upon layer that you peel back with each page your drawn into this tangled web so intricately and precise till nothing else exists, secrets confessed, revelations unmasked and promises made, reaching deeper with every ounce of strength of determination, merging this gem together seamlessly. The characters, dialogue, interactions and electrified atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits adding depth and diversity, transforming into charismatic personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels like you can just reach out and touch it. Remarkable job Penny, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
Blazing blizzards! Penny delivers with this turbulent tilt-a-wheel, divvying out some fervent facts, harsh lessons and relentless determination, raising the stakes and keeping it real, hooking you from start to finish, launching this gem to a whole new level. Difficulty and disappointment descend in a flurry of subtle maneuvers and cunning strategy, broken perimeters and crushed barriers solidify as limitations are amplified and exploited, kicking this gem into the eye of the storm, booting it into a tailspin with astonishing impacts, bursting this baby to life brilliantly. Attributes and mannerisms in layer upon layer that you peel back with each page your drawn into this tangled web so intricately and precise till nothing else exists, secrets confessed, revelations unmasked and promises made, reaching deeper with every ounce of strength of determination, merging this gem together seamlessly. The characters, dialogue, interactions and electrified atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits adding depth and diversity, transforming into charismatic personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels like you can just reach out and touch it. Remarkable job Penny, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
December 20, 2020
I always love picking up something by Ms. Fairbanks. Her stories are always so entertaining and well-crafted, I get lost in the stories and am sad when they end. This was no different. It is a delightful story that pulled me in right from the start and I became captivated till the very end. When Winnie and Dalton met, they did not get along at first. He said some harsh things about her which she overheard and she did not forgive him. Then in the summer, Winnie's family was invited to a house party hosted by Dalton's mother. Along with other challenges Dalton had to face, one of them was to gain Winnie's forgiveness. The pair faces many ups and downs while they continue to grow closer and start to care for one another. This is such a sweet , clean, and charming story, I thoroughly enjoyed it, and like I mentioned before, I was sad to see it end. Absolutely loved this delightful story! And might I just add as a side note, what a gorgeous cover! If you love sweet Regency stories, this is definitely one you want to add to your collection!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 19, 2020
Miss Winifred Thirley (“Winnie”) became unimportant to her parents as they turned their full love and attention to their son. In an effort to win their love, Winnie tried to be a perfect young lady and instead made herself cold and unapproachable.
Mr. Dalton Harcourt will become a baron one day. When Winnie met Dalton, who believed in living his life freely and enjoying every moment while he can, there was a definite clash in their personalities. He made some harsh comments about her which she overheard and she refused to forgive him.
Both were content with their situations until the summer his mother invited the Thirley family to spend the months at their country home. Dalton had several challenges presented to him, one of which was to gain her forgiveness. With the summer to work out their differences, will the two of them grow to care for each other? Or will an unpleasant summer be all they can hope for?
Mr. Dalton Harcourt will become a baron one day. When Winnie met Dalton, who believed in living his life freely and enjoying every moment while he can, there was a definite clash in their personalities. He made some harsh comments about her which she overheard and she refused to forgive him.
Both were content with their situations until the summer his mother invited the Thirley family to spend the months at their country home. Dalton had several challenges presented to him, one of which was to gain her forgiveness. With the summer to work out their differences, will the two of them grow to care for each other? Or will an unpleasant summer be all they can hope for?
December 19, 2020
Dalton was immature at times in this book, even if he is only 21. He made fun of Winnie at a ball to his friends. When he gets to know her at his family's estate he hurts again through his words and pushing her away even though they become friends. He's afraid to put aside his carefree ways and marry and assume responsibilities for his father's estate. Winnie had to feel the pain of his rejection when ten years earlier her parents cast her aside when he brother was born. She is lucky they didn't try to marry her off since they didn't seem to care about her feelings and what she wanted. Visiting the Harcourt's country estate for the summer and spending time with such a loving happy family allowed Winnie to open up, laugh, and enjoy life again. I loved Dalton's siblings especially free-spirited preteen Harriet and her adorable puppy Sandy. This was a sweet historical romance with ups and downs, funny, and emotional moments.
December 24, 2020
An endearing story of enemies to lovers. Winnie went from being loved and adored to living in the shadow of her brother. She strives for perfection, if only to please her parents and regain their favor. In the process, she has become a shadow of herself, one that others perceive as made of stone. Until Dalton. Despite his best intentions, Dalton is drawn to Winnie and is able to see the real Winnie beneath the veneer. They are forced to spend the summer together, which is where the fun really begins. I loved the little moments of each of them truly seeing the other person as their friendship blossomed into more. Both characters have layers and depth waiting to be revealed as you read. Thoroughly enjoyable and highly recommended! It was a delight to revisit and catch up on characters from Anna’s Decision (not necessary to enjoy Dalton’s Challenge). I received a complimentary copy from the author and all opinions expressed are my own and freely given.
December 22, 2020
First off, I love the cover with the model facing away so I can create her picture in my mind. The Harcourt family are delightfully loving, present, and fun in the lives of each other, especially the fun-loving Dalton who is the second child/eldest son of the family. The Thurley family is small, with a daughter who basically gets ignored by her parents who dote on their only son, 10 years younger than his sister. Winnie has been trying to earn back her parents love by being the most proper, graceful, and ladylike young women possible. So, two years earlier, Dalton insulted Winnie at a ball and she is determined to hate him forever.
I love Ms. Fairbanks' characters and how they learn to see themselves and each other with kindness that grows to appreciation and... I also enjoyed seeing Anna and her "most observant" husband, again. Looking forward to Caroline's story.
I love Ms. Fairbanks' characters and how they learn to see themselves and each other with kindness that grows to appreciation and... I also enjoyed seeing Anna and her "most observant" husband, again. Looking forward to Caroline's story.
May 28, 2021
Lovely and Sweet
This was another wonderful installment of the Harcourt Family series. Both Dalton and Winnie are wonderfully round and dynamic characters, and many of the supporting characters are round and dynamic as well, making this a rich tale that compels the reader to want more. I’ll definitely be reading the next installment. The one thing that was distracting, though, is how flat Winnie’s parents are, and as key antagonists, their conflict should have been more fully addressed if not resolved in some way. The resolution for the problem they cause does not involve them at all, not even during Winnie’s final recognition of overcoming her struggles. It’s a loose end that I struggled with accepting. Other than that, though, this was a wonderful, light if not a little emotional read. 4.5 out of 5 stars!
This was another wonderful installment of the Harcourt Family series. Both Dalton and Winnie are wonderfully round and dynamic characters, and many of the supporting characters are round and dynamic as well, making this a rich tale that compels the reader to want more. I’ll definitely be reading the next installment. The one thing that was distracting, though, is how flat Winnie’s parents are, and as key antagonists, their conflict should have been more fully addressed if not resolved in some way. The resolution for the problem they cause does not involve them at all, not even during Winnie’s final recognition of overcoming her struggles. It’s a loose end that I struggled with accepting. Other than that, though, this was a wonderful, light if not a little emotional read. 4.5 out of 5 stars!
December 17, 2020
Can someone who is” irksome” change?
In many ways, this was a very touching piece. Winnie only wanted her parent's love but really did not even see her. Perhaps because during this time setting daughters were not seen as important or for these characters the son was the most important. Reading this tale you can understand Winnie's character better. I liked Dalton he had his own demons to face but with Winnie's help, he worked through them this made for a very interesting read. It is not a book full of action but more of one that looks at what was and what is. Perhaps also a special remembering of Caroline she was a lovely sister. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
In many ways, this was a very touching piece. Winnie only wanted her parent's love but really did not even see her. Perhaps because during this time setting daughters were not seen as important or for these characters the son was the most important. Reading this tale you can understand Winnie's character better. I liked Dalton he had his own demons to face but with Winnie's help, he worked through them this made for a very interesting read. It is not a book full of action but more of one that looks at what was and what is. Perhaps also a special remembering of Caroline she was a lovely sister. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
December 23, 2020
I really found this to be a delightful story. Winnie tries to be perfect to win the love of her parents back. She is serious and very staid. Dalton knows he will be a Barron one day so he is out to live life and have fun. They tried courting but it did not work out and Winnie is holding a grudge. At least they will not have to see each other until his mother invites her family to their estate for the summer. This is a great story and I loved how Winnie over came her grudge. The characters were well developed and wonderful and the interaction between the two was great. The story flowed and it was simply a nice sweet regency read. fd
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 18, 2020
Winnie was forgotten by her parents after they had their long waited for son. She tried to be perfect to make them notice her but in the act of being perfect she encased herself in ice. Along came Dalton and he was a free-spirit that did about anything he wanted. The two collided and Dalton said some terrible things to his friends about Winnie while she was standing behind him. He tried for years to apologize to no avail.
Then one summer their were forced to spent it together because their mothers were good friends. The course to them becoming friends and more was not a smooth one.
This is a very good book that I think anyone that love a romance will enjoy. This is my honest review.
Then one summer their were forced to spent it together because their mothers were good friends. The course to them becoming friends and more was not a smooth one.
This is a very good book that I think anyone that love a romance will enjoy. This is my honest review.
December 28, 2020
I loved this enemies to lovers romance. I loved how both Dalton and Winnie needed to let down their walls in order to be together. I liked how Winnie helped Dalton to work through his fears and then be willing to take a chance on love. I also loved how Dalton helped Winnie to realize that she was lovable just the way she was and that she didn’t have to always be perfect. I like how they loved each other for who they were and helped each other become their best selves.
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.
December 24, 2020
Average
Well Winnie got the marriage suited for her. As a strong female she will have all her married life to dominate her weak husband Dalton. Dalton probably has to ask permission to go to the necessary because decisions and he are not compatible. I skimmed through the last chapters of this book because I couldn't stomach reading about poor Dalton's problems anymore and since the plot was so predictable I didn't need to. This was a very average book that was too long and dwelled on and on about a man's failings and his need for a strong woman to prop him up.
Well Winnie got the marriage suited for her. As a strong female she will have all her married life to dominate her weak husband Dalton. Dalton probably has to ask permission to go to the necessary because decisions and he are not compatible. I skimmed through the last chapters of this book because I couldn't stomach reading about poor Dalton's problems anymore and since the plot was so predictable I didn't need to. This was a very average book that was too long and dwelled on and on about a man's failings and his need for a strong woman to prop him up.
February 3, 2021
I really enjoyed Dalton's character in the first book of this series, so I was looking forward to reading this book with him front and center. You find out through the book that even though he is carefree and fun- natured, he has his own walls built up, shielding his fears from those that love him most. I think the author does a good job portraying the emotional drama that plays out in the latter half of the book between the hero and heroine. It's enjoyable to read about the other Harcourt family members, and I'm looking forward to reading the 3rd book about Caroline.
Read
February 19, 2021Fear not
I give this book 3.5 stars. Dalton is the heir to Baron Welsted. At an outing in London Dalton spreads gossip about Miss Thirley. Now two years later Mrs Thirley has worked really hard to become great friends with the Baroness Welsted. The Baroness has invited the the whole Thirley family home to their country estate for the ,
I like the Harcourt family. It was fun to see each character grow. A long with MissThirley and her little brother Warren.
I recommend this book.
I give this book 3.5 stars. Dalton is the heir to Baron Welsted. At an outing in London Dalton spreads gossip about Miss Thirley. Now two years later Mrs Thirley has worked really hard to become great friends with the Baroness Welsted. The Baroness has invited the the whole Thirley family home to their country estate for the ,
I like the Harcourt family. It was fun to see each character grow. A long with MissThirley and her little brother Warren.
I recommend this book.
December 16, 2022
It took several days to read this book as I read it intermittently between books in another series. This story line was fairly predictable. There were no other adult males to make you think Winnie might turn her attention to anyone else. There were no previous adult females that Dalton had a relationship with to muddy the scene and cause drama. It was all introspection and self realization.
Dealing with family and whether they were loving and kind or cold and loveless. A look at status of a first born male from the love and adoration to the pressure of reaching the burden of the title.
Dealing with family and whether they were loving and kind or cold and loveless. A look at status of a first born male from the love and adoration to the pressure of reaching the burden of the title.
December 19, 2020
The second book in The Harcourts series a well written story with a very good storyline, the story flowed smoothly across the pages. I enjoyed seeing Miss Winifred Thirley and Mr. Dalton Harcourt's story came together. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2021
Winne was a challenge for Dalton. They seemed to meet at all kinds of parties in London. She was so cold to him and then their mothers became good friends and they found themselves spending the summer at Dalton's family home. With the whole summer to get to know each other better they learn a lot about each other. Will this draw them closer together?
April 26, 2021
The scenarios portrayed in this novel will resonate with many young adults. There is definitely a lot of drama. If it isn't Winnie having issues, it's Dalton. I'm sure that I would have liked the book more had it been a novella. It was all a little too much for me, but I can't give the book three point five stars, so four it is.
May 2, 2022
Dalton’s Challenge book 2 4.5 *
A lovely historical romance with humour, snark, witty banter,and misunderstandings with a double dose of stubbornness for flavour and a wonderful HEA with heart ♥️ and soul.Does need a little editing though , but I still enjoyed the story and will read book 3 next 💔❣️💃🏻👍🏻🤷🏻♀️🙏🏻
A lovely historical romance with humour, snark, witty banter,and misunderstandings with a double dose of stubbornness for flavour and a wonderful HEA with heart ♥️ and soul.Does need a little editing though , but I still enjoyed the story and will read book 3 next 💔❣️💃🏻👍🏻🤷🏻♀️🙏🏻
December 23, 2020
This would be a 4.5 star. It was so enjoyable to read! I loved the reality that was the relationship between Winnie and Dalton. Dalton might have seemed care free but he wore a mask just as much as Winnie did. Seeing them help each other overcome that was wonderful!
May 3, 2021
Clean sweet read
This is about Dalton and the young lady he eventually learns to know well and fall in love with. Of course he needs to deal with his own inner conflict before making her his bride
This is about Dalton and the young lady he eventually learns to know well and fall in love with. Of course he needs to deal with his own inner conflict before making her his bride
October 18, 2021
A “pondering” book
Through the character’s interactions, I had many thoughts realizing how our regrets of the past and fears of the future can prevent us from living our lives to the fullest in the present. Hat’s off to the author.
Through the character’s interactions, I had many thoughts realizing how our regrets of the past and fears of the future can prevent us from living our lives to the fullest in the present. Hat’s off to the author.
January 30, 2022
Well developed story.
I felt I was able to follow the characters on their personal journeys; the flow of their thoughts, their personal discoveries and growth made sense to me and therefore more enjoyable to read. Thank you Penny for your careful writing
I felt I was able to follow the characters on their personal journeys; the flow of their thoughts, their personal discoveries and growth made sense to me and therefore more enjoyable to read. Thank you Penny for your careful writing
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