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The Aristocrat Diaries #1
Love Language
An aristocrat and a gardener walk into a bar, and the barman says—never mind. They walked into a shed, and they’re kissing. Oops.
My father trying to set me up with every eligible bachelor in England? Check.
A crazy aunt with even crazier goats who keep eating the flowerbeds? Check.
Me secretly moonlighting as the internet’s newest agony aunt and fixing relationships one love language at a time? Check.
One grumpy, bearded gardener that I keep accidentally kissing?
Um, check…
Step into the upper-crust world of British aristocracy with Emma Hart's romping new romantic comedy series, The Aristocrat Diaries. Starting with Love Language, the tale of undercover agony aunt Lady Gabriella Hastings and Miles Kingsley, the handsome, brooding gardener at her family's estate.
Please note that Love Language is set in England with English characters and is written in British English.
My father trying to set me up with every eligible bachelor in England? Check.
A crazy aunt with even crazier goats who keep eating the flowerbeds? Check.
Me secretly moonlighting as the internet’s newest agony aunt and fixing relationships one love language at a time? Check.
One grumpy, bearded gardener that I keep accidentally kissing?
Um, check…
Step into the upper-crust world of British aristocracy with Emma Hart's romping new romantic comedy series, The Aristocrat Diaries. Starting with Love Language, the tale of undercover agony aunt Lady Gabriella Hastings and Miles Kingsley, the handsome, brooding gardener at her family's estate.
Please note that Love Language is set in England with English characters and is written in British English.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 13, 2014
317 people are currently reading
1072 people want to read
About the author
Emma Hart
132 books7,564 followersEmma Hart is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over twenty novels and has been translated into several different languages. She first put fingers to keys at the age of eighteen after her husband told her she read too much and should write her own.
Four years later, she's still figuring out what he meant when he said she 'read too much.'
She prides herself on writing smart smut that's filled with dry wit, snappy, sarcastic comebacks, but lots of heart... And sex. Sometimes, she kills people. (Disclaimer: In books. But if you bug her, she'll use your name for the victims.)
You can find her online at www.emmahart.org, www.facebook.com/emmahartbooks, or join her reader group at http://bit.ly/EmmaHartsHartbreakers.
Four years later, she's still figuring out what he meant when he said she 'read too much.'
She prides herself on writing smart smut that's filled with dry wit, snappy, sarcastic comebacks, but lots of heart... And sex. Sometimes, she kills people. (Disclaimer: In books. But if you bug her, she'll use your name for the victims.)
You can find her online at www.emmahart.org, www.facebook.com/emmahartbooks, or join her reader group at http://bit.ly/EmmaHartsHartbreakers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 218 reviews
November 11, 2025
This a well-written, entertaining contemporary romance novel. It has a likable female protagonist, an engaging male protagonist, humor, several laugh out loud moments, appealing secondary characters, family drama, a heartwarming romance, gardening, and a satisfying conclusion. This is the first entry in the Aristocrat Diaries series. I am looking forward to reading the next entry in this series with great anticipation. The narrator, Shakira Shute, does a wonderful job voicing the characters.
February 14, 2023
3.25⭐
Lady Gabriella is a British Aristocrat and her father is a Duke who is looking to marry her off. But, she has her eye on the gardener of the estate, Miles. It seems as though Miles is always grumpy, avoiding and ignoring her and won't give her the time of day. Perhaps he has his own reasons for seeming that way...
I like that Gabriella is Lady Love with her own blog for advice, buuuuuttttt what is the reason for it? Was it just to step away and escape from what is expected of her as daughter of a Duke?
She is a strong willed character that knows what she wants. Miles is a quiet fella. There were a few parts with his pov, but not too many ~ I could have went for more.
I found her Aunt to be a super fun character. I love the names of the goats too!
Overall, this was an alright listen. Shakira Shute did a good job of narrating. It was a quick listen at 7 hours and 3 minutes, but I 2x it and it worked out well for me. I will probably read the rest of the series.
*Thanks to Netgalley, Dreamscape Media LLC and the author for my audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
This and more reviews here ➡ Heather Adores Books
Lady Gabriella is a British Aristocrat and her father is a Duke who is looking to marry her off. But, she has her eye on the gardener of the estate, Miles. It seems as though Miles is always grumpy, avoiding and ignoring her and won't give her the time of day. Perhaps he has his own reasons for seeming that way...
I like that Gabriella is Lady Love with her own blog for advice, buuuuuttttt what is the reason for it? Was it just to step away and escape from what is expected of her as daughter of a Duke?
She is a strong willed character that knows what she wants. Miles is a quiet fella. There were a few parts with his pov, but not too many ~ I could have went for more.
I found her Aunt to be a super fun character. I love the names of the goats too!
Overall, this was an alright listen. Shakira Shute did a good job of narrating. It was a quick listen at 7 hours and 3 minutes, but I 2x it and it worked out well for me. I will probably read the rest of the series.
*Thanks to Netgalley, Dreamscape Media LLC and the author for my audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
This and more reviews here ➡ Heather Adores Books
February 15, 2022
I finished this a while ago and hope I remember all the things. Probably not. But I'll do my best.
The setting for this story is very constrained for all Gabby is high end wish-fulfillment being both noble and rich. But it takes place pretty much just at her father's estate and the surrounding village. Which I think worked out pretty well as it served to give a broad view of Gabby, being in her element as well as among neighbors who treated her in their own ways. So you see her dealing with all the aspects of her circumstances at various times because there are a lot of reactions from the different people we meet in the story. So Miles gets to see all that, as well.
It was slow going at first, though. Miles is highly class conscious and in a debilitating way. So he's very much a grump and keeps shutting her down, sometimes rather meanly. Which was hard for me because I have a hard time relating to that level of class consciousness. I'm a pretty thorough American and don't get the whole deal with class, frankly. So I was relieved when it came to a head. Even more so when Gabby throws his class-based resentment back in his teeth. In a nice (rather than confrontational) way.
And I ended up liking Gabby more than a little. She's determined and going out for what she wants, even if she messes up sometimes. I also liked the family dynamic that was at times supportive, at times frustrating. Like, she ends up hurting her father by keeping her ambition from him and how his issue wasn't that she wanted to work with garden design but that she hadn't felt confident bringing him into her plans.
Miles is enough of a boo to drag this down to four stars. By the end, Hart had made the class thing an interesting part of the flavor of the story. Which doesn't mitigate the early frustration, though it does pay it off a bit.
A note about Steamy: There's some explicit sex, but on the light side of my steam tolerance. I think. The sex happened after the rest of their relationship issues were taken care of, which is awesome and worked for the characters. But it also means I don't remember it very well and can't say for certain how much there actually was, in the end.
October 19, 2021
The gardener and the lady. This is set in modern-day England which took me a few pages to work out.
Lady Gabriella Hastings wants to learn about gardening. The problem is her father wishes she was looking for a husband. The gardener of their estate, Miles is trying his hardest to stay away from the beautiful upper-class lady, and this family has a few hidden secrets. Can the family be happy with modern life, or will traditions dampen their aspirations?
I really enjoyed this. It’s a little different to Emma’s usually rom-com’s. The village came to life, and I look forward to more books in the series. Love Language is a slow burn romance.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Lady Gabriella Hastings wants to learn about gardening. The problem is her father wishes she was looking for a husband. The gardener of their estate, Miles is trying his hardest to stay away from the beautiful upper-class lady, and this family has a few hidden secrets. Can the family be happy with modern life, or will traditions dampen their aspirations?
I really enjoyed this. It’s a little different to Emma’s usually rom-com’s. The village came to life, and I look forward to more books in the series. Love Language is a slow burn romance.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2022
Lady Love is sweet NA romance. With royal family as background. Miss Hart gives us a good laugh at the banter. Some of it silly stupid, some of it bit bored.
I found the overall story is OK. Good thing it ia short. And the chemistry is PG 13. Only kissing.
Overall a good read.
3 stars
I found the overall story is OK. Good thing it ia short. And the chemistry is PG 13. Only kissing.
Overall a good read.
3 stars
March 31, 2022
This is my first Emma Hart who appears to be a prolific writer with MANY books. I would say Hart seems to be an A+ writer at banter as I loved entire segments of almost entirely quotes. The book was fun and light hearted with almost no real big dramas or challenges for most of the characters which is pretty fine in such a short novel.
However, the issues that do arise seem off the wall and the most disappointing bit: no smut? I’ve read YA novels with more details of the naughty bits. I guess I shouldn’t assume romance has spice but dammit if I read about them flirting for so long I want there to be a ‘happy ending’.
Plot: Gabriella Hastings is a british aristocrat who is super into gardening and taking a class to become a garden designer (?- thats not the right words for that job…). Meanwhile, she continues to ask help from her very hot and quite surly gardener working for her estate. She also writes a relationship advice blog which has absolutely zero bearing on the plot and is kind of weird to even be included.
She lives with her eccentric and fun family that I probably could have spent most of the book with because I loved it. The love interest is a serviceable grump to her sunshine. Gabriella is likable even if a little too perfect and sweet.
I did find the conversations about classism to seem a little tone-deaf. They seem to have conversations about classism but never about money and how it might make life easier for her. It makes all the conflict seem disingenuous when money is literally never brought up as an issue, rather than her title and grounds. It also made the 'conflict' between the love interest seem not very important or conflicting. I was more worried no one was mentioning she's basically his boss.
But overall, it was cute. I imagine if you have read this author before you would like this one. I did really love the side characters in this. I think even more than the romance. But it was just generally fun and light. But NO SEX in the greenhouse WHICH I WANTED.
Thanks to Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for a review. I loved this narrator. Probably sold me on the whole book.
However, the issues that do arise seem off the wall and the most disappointing bit: no smut? I’ve read YA novels with more details of the naughty bits. I guess I shouldn’t assume romance has spice but dammit if I read about them flirting for so long I want there to be a ‘happy ending’.
Plot: Gabriella Hastings is a british aristocrat who is super into gardening and taking a class to become a garden designer (?- thats not the right words for that job…). Meanwhile, she continues to ask help from her very hot and quite surly gardener working for her estate. She also writes a relationship advice blog which has absolutely zero bearing on the plot and is kind of weird to even be included.
She lives with her eccentric and fun family that I probably could have spent most of the book with because I loved it. The love interest is a serviceable grump to her sunshine. Gabriella is likable even if a little too perfect and sweet.
I did find the conversations about classism to seem a little tone-deaf. They seem to have conversations about classism but never about money and how it might make life easier for her. It makes all the conflict seem disingenuous when money is literally never brought up as an issue, rather than her title and grounds. It also made the 'conflict' between the love interest seem not very important or conflicting. I was more worried no one was mentioning she's basically his boss.
But overall, it was cute. I imagine if you have read this author before you would like this one. I did really love the side characters in this. I think even more than the romance. But it was just generally fun and light. But NO SEX in the greenhouse WHICH I WANTED.
Thanks to Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for a review. I loved this narrator. Probably sold me on the whole book.
November 24, 2022
Love Language is the first book in the "Aristocrat Diaries" and I have to say that I absolutely adored this book. It was utterly delightful. I really enjoyed the manner in which this story was written. What I really loved about this one here is that the humor was so entertainingly displayed all throughout. This was a mix of audio and ebook. I would recommend listening to this one over physically reading, the narration was so well did and I actually wish that I had listened to this one all the way through instead of just half of it. What was also really fun about this one was how the story was so well balanced. I really connected with the characters, the relationship displayed were enchanting and the romance was on point. I do wish that the chemistry had been built up a bit more than it was, it felt super slow burn and then with only a HFN ending, didn't quite satisfy me. Quite frankly, if there is a HFN, it won't reach a five star read for me. I need my couple to have a riding off into the sunset, together forever, type of ending.
Overall I found this one to be a satisfying laugh out loud romance that knocked my socks off and I can't wait for more!
Overall I found this one to be a satisfying laugh out loud romance that knocked my socks off and I can't wait for more!
June 23, 2022
2.5 stars. It was so frustrating to see him always being super prejudice and judgemental over her because of her title and background. He just wouldn't let it go no matter how many times she tried to convince him.
October 20, 2021
As with all of Hart's rom coms, this was a low angst, fun read with plenty of banter. It was definitely lacking in the romance department for me, but makes a solid series starter for what could be an interesting series of standalones. This is technically written in British English, but I honestly didn't notice much of a difference, so don't let that hold you back from reading. This lighthearted read is sweet and playful, with a little bit of forced proximity and a little bit of opposites attract.
The story follows Gabriella, a woman who grew up as part of the British aristocracy. Her family has been pushing her to marry someone with a title, but the kind, free-spirited woman isn't all that concerned about it. She loves gardening and wants to pursue her own interests, which might come as a surprise to some - including the grumpy gardener who avoids her as much as possible. But when Gabriella and Miles get stuck together during a storm, the commoner realizes that the only one standing in the way of a potential relationship is him.
While I love the author's banter and easy writing style, I honestly just couldn't get into this. It seems to focus on everything BUT the romance, with a slow burn that felt more like a budding friendship for the vast majority of the book. And there was a surprising lack of heat, which didn't help matters - there's a distinct lack of sexual tension. This is one of those tough reviews where all I can really do is shrug and say that I didn't love it. There are no major roadblocks to enjoying this low angst rom com and I'd be curious to check out more from the series, but this was not really a win for me. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this easygoing romance.
The story follows Gabriella, a woman who grew up as part of the British aristocracy. Her family has been pushing her to marry someone with a title, but the kind, free-spirited woman isn't all that concerned about it. She loves gardening and wants to pursue her own interests, which might come as a surprise to some - including the grumpy gardener who avoids her as much as possible. But when Gabriella and Miles get stuck together during a storm, the commoner realizes that the only one standing in the way of a potential relationship is him.
While I love the author's banter and easy writing style, I honestly just couldn't get into this. It seems to focus on everything BUT the romance, with a slow burn that felt more like a budding friendship for the vast majority of the book. And there was a surprising lack of heat, which didn't help matters - there's a distinct lack of sexual tension. This is one of those tough reviews where all I can really do is shrug and say that I didn't love it. There are no major roadblocks to enjoying this low angst rom com and I'd be curious to check out more from the series, but this was not really a win for me. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this easygoing romance.
July 16, 2022
I think this has to be one of the most (in a very stereotypical way) quintessentially British books I've ever read! It was so posh, proper and polite!
A completely character-centered and driven plot line, featuring the SunshinexGrump trope, it was a cute story.
I was confused about the book title, since Gabriella secretly moonlighted as an online giver of romantic advice, but that had no influence whatsoever and was totally unrelated to the rest of the story. Why throw that in there only to then give it no further development nor any type of conclusion?
It was one example of how messy and seemingly half-baked this book could appear at times. Each small conflict was used as a plot device to force Gabby and Miles together, and without fail they all got dragged out too much. Which meant things stopped feeling fun and exciting and turned instead mundane and boring. Another example was the conversations taking weird seemingly totally out-of the-blue turns into unrelated topics. Or perhaps that was my British-less-ness coming into play and preventing me from following along. No way to know, I guess.
I generally enjoy the forbidden romance trope, but it felt kinda forced in this instance, since there was no real conflict between Gabby and Miles, or anything keeping them apart for that matter, besides their own prejudices and fears.
All in all, Gabby and Miles were nice characters, and their love story totally adorable. Were there things I wished would have been done differently? Yes. But this was still an enjoyable read, perfect if you're looking for something lighthearted and charming.
March 29, 2022
1.5 stars
I gave up at 60%. The plot was weak, the characters two-dimensional, and I was bored. I think it was supposed to be funny, but just felt scattered instead. There were more questions than answers: why in the world was she qualified to write an advice column, and why was that even included in the book when it had nothing to do with the MC's relationship? And if she really wanted to do landscape design why didn't she have a single idea in her head for a garden design? The whole thing just felt like it was dashed off without much of a thought. And certainly no 2nd thoughts.
I gave up at 60%. The plot was weak, the characters two-dimensional, and I was bored. I think it was supposed to be funny, but just felt scattered instead. There were more questions than answers: why in the world was she qualified to write an advice column, and why was that even included in the book when it had nothing to do with the MC's relationship? And if she really wanted to do landscape design why didn't she have a single idea in her head for a garden design? The whole thing just felt like it was dashed off without much of a thought. And certainly no 2nd thoughts.
March 27, 2022
3.5 STARS. Audio. British narrator. I couldn't speed up too much. The banter and humor was very cute. I love British humor.
This is opposites attract Miles and Gabriela.
I don't know if was my mood, but the chemistry was a little off for me.
This very well written. There were quite a few American expressions. I'm not sure if that was intentional or of Brits & American have a few of the same expressions.
I really love RomComs & was happy to get some enjoyment at a stressful time.
Thank you #Netgalley for the ARC of the audio.
This is opposites attract Miles and Gabriela.
I don't know if was my mood, but the chemistry was a little off for me.
This very well written. There were quite a few American expressions. I'm not sure if that was intentional or of Brits & American have a few of the same expressions.
I really love RomComs & was happy to get some enjoyment at a stressful time.
Thank you #Netgalley for the ARC of the audio.
December 23, 2021
ARC Provided by the Author***
I don't know why, but there's something about this one being set in England that makes me happy...maybe it's that I miss travel. But anyway, I loved the setting of this one.
Gabriella and Miles are fabulous together. I love how upset she is that he doesn't like her (so human to know not everyone will like us but being upset when they don't) and I completely related to Miles and his reasons for keeping her at a distance.
Watching them figure out that there was something between them and that it wasn't going away was a lot of fun, especially in the forced proximity scenes where you can feel how much it hurts her that he doesn't like her.
The supporting characters were a strong addition to the story and, as th8s is the 1st in the series, it's a safe bet we will be seeing them again.
I enjoyed and recommend this title.
I don't know why, but there's something about this one being set in England that makes me happy...maybe it's that I miss travel. But anyway, I loved the setting of this one.
Gabriella and Miles are fabulous together. I love how upset she is that he doesn't like her (so human to know not everyone will like us but being upset when they don't) and I completely related to Miles and his reasons for keeping her at a distance.
Watching them figure out that there was something between them and that it wasn't going away was a lot of fun, especially in the forced proximity scenes where you can feel how much it hurts her that he doesn't like her.
The supporting characters were a strong addition to the story and, as th8s is the 1st in the series, it's a safe bet we will be seeing them again.
I enjoyed and recommend this title.
October 24, 2021
*3-3.5 Stars*
ARC kindly received for an honest review.
This one took me a while to get into, and I'm, not really too sure how I feel about the characters. They were likeable enough, and they had some great discussions, but I'm just not sure. My frame of mind at the moment with personal things may be affecting my reading, so don't take too much stock into this review, as I'm not sure it would be the same as my normal reviews.
The main character had some great values and opinions and wasn't afraid to voice them - this was something I really liked.
I do like Emma Hart books, and they're always really easy to read, and don't have too much angst. There's always a loveable quirky character (usually a relative) thrown in, and just some fun bits and pieces happening through. This was an interestingly written royal/aristocrat story, and I would certainly be interested in reading more from this series.
Review also on my blog - Love Language by Emma Hart
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ARC kindly received for an honest review.
This one took me a while to get into, and I'm, not really too sure how I feel about the characters. They were likeable enough, and they had some great discussions, but I'm just not sure. My frame of mind at the moment with personal things may be affecting my reading, so don't take too much stock into this review, as I'm not sure it would be the same as my normal reviews.
The main character had some great values and opinions and wasn't afraid to voice them - this was something I really liked.
I do like Emma Hart books, and they're always really easy to read, and don't have too much angst. There's always a loveable quirky character (usually a relative) thrown in, and just some fun bits and pieces happening through. This was an interestingly written royal/aristocrat story, and I would certainly be interested in reading more from this series.
Review also on my blog - Love Language by Emma Hart
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TikTok
October 19, 2021
5 star review Love Language (The Aristocrat Diaries #1) by Emma Hart
If Love Language is anything to go by, Emma Hart has a winning series on her hands. From the first chapter I was fully immersed in the story Ms.Hart wove. This was a fun story that was entertaining with characters who I found easy to relate to.
All it takes is one kiss; it was entertaining to watch as Lady Gabriella Hastings and the gardener at her family’s estate Miles Kingsley cross the line. Her father wants her to marry a man with the same social standing but Gabriella has different plans. Despite their social position the connection between them is real and and I loved the witty banter between them.
What follows is an entertaining story that had me laughing out loud on numerous occasions and ticked the boxes for me. I love Miles, he might be grumpy but there is so much more to him, he was so swoon worthy. The chemistry between them is intense and I really enjoyed watching their relationship progress.
The secondary characters were quirky an added an additional layer to the story. Love Language is a great example of the RomCom genre.
If Love Language is anything to go by, Emma Hart has a winning series on her hands. From the first chapter I was fully immersed in the story Ms.Hart wove. This was a fun story that was entertaining with characters who I found easy to relate to.
All it takes is one kiss; it was entertaining to watch as Lady Gabriella Hastings and the gardener at her family’s estate Miles Kingsley cross the line. Her father wants her to marry a man with the same social standing but Gabriella has different plans. Despite their social position the connection between them is real and and I loved the witty banter between them.
What follows is an entertaining story that had me laughing out loud on numerous occasions and ticked the boxes for me. I love Miles, he might be grumpy but there is so much more to him, he was so swoon worthy. The chemistry between them is intense and I really enjoyed watching their relationship progress.
The secondary characters were quirky an added an additional layer to the story. Love Language is a great example of the RomCom genre.
May 17, 2025
There was a lot going on for such a short book. So many plots, so many side characters. It took away from the romance.
Overall: 2.5
Overall: 2.5
January 22, 2022
Everybody needs an Aunt Cat in their family. I really liked this, great banter, sarcasm and so witty.
This is my first book by this author and I'll read the second one for sure.
This is my first book by this author and I'll read the second one for sure.
December 23, 2014
The Love Game
This sentence is the start of the whole game, playing the player. When I saw The Love Game on bookbridgr I was intrigued, not only about the book itself but also about the author, who I had not really heard about before. Maddie and Braden are complete opposites of each other in all aspects of their life, yet a game has sent this duo into each others arms in order to win the game. What ensues is a game of love, that gets more serious as the time goes on.
The Love Game is told in a dual perspective, giving us insight into both Maddie and Braden's minds, their plans, but also into each others circle of friendship. Both have plans to play the other, and I loved how the other person thought they had the other wrapped around their finger. This was never going to be an easy game to play, and there was never going to be a loser, but I definitely had fun following this duo as they attempt to thwart the other.
My initial thoughts of Braden were not the best, I thought he was a player and would not change himself for anyone, but as we know him more and see him falling, we get to see not only the caring side of him, but also his protective side, especially when Maddie's brother makes an unwanted appearance. Maddie was someone who I had a soft spot for, even though she is hiding things from her friends about her past. Seeing these two people slowly begin to fall for each other was funny, but also deserved by both of them for thinking they could do this, that they could play this game without becoming emotionally invested in the other. I really enjoyed seeing this plan play out throughout the pages, but also how it failed spectacularly in another sense.
The Love Game is the first book I have read by this author, and it wont be the last. If I didn't have to work, or eat, or even sleep I would have had this book finishing in one sitting. I am so glad I got the bind up edition as now I can dive straight into the next book.
Since I began the review with a quote, it's only fair that I end it with one that is really meaningful.
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Playing For Keeps
I was extremely eager to make a start on Playing For Keeps after finishing The Love Game. I could not wait to meet Aston and Megan again, and get into their heads. It's pretty clear once we start the book that the sparks will fly quickly for this couple, and fly they do, as well as burning hot. But with Braden an ever constant presence it's not only hard for Aston and Megan to act on these sparks, but also makes them feel guilty for even thinking of going behind Braden's back.
Playing For Keeps was just as good as the previous book, and I really like how it can be read both as a stand alone without you feel like you are missing out, but also as a next in series.
As Playing For Keeps progresses we get to see some of Aston's past through flashbacks, and his past wasn't exactly a bed of roses. Seeing what he experienced really broke my heart, but it explains so much about his 'hump them and dump them' attitude and why he is fighting his feelings towards Megan so hard. Megan also has her own issues, she knows what she feels for Aston, but doesn't want to upset her best friend Braden, and is worried that by being together, Braden will take it out on Aston....or more likely Aston's face.
Playing For Keeps was an entertaining, and an emotional read. I loved how non judgmental Megan is of Ashton's background, how she is supportive of him, and helps him through a lot of tough times.
But I also felt sorry for Ashton, going through what he has, but proud of what he has achieved and plans to achieve. Ashton and Megan make a perfect couple, but one you would not initially put together, and I am looking forward to catching up with them if they make guest appearances in the next books in this series.
Maddie Stevens. Your mission, should you choose to accept it......is to play the player at his own game. Do you accept?
This sentence is the start of the whole game, playing the player. When I saw The Love Game on bookbridgr I was intrigued, not only about the book itself but also about the author, who I had not really heard about before. Maddie and Braden are complete opposites of each other in all aspects of their life, yet a game has sent this duo into each others arms in order to win the game. What ensues is a game of love, that gets more serious as the time goes on.
The Love Game is told in a dual perspective, giving us insight into both Maddie and Braden's minds, their plans, but also into each others circle of friendship. Both have plans to play the other, and I loved how the other person thought they had the other wrapped around their finger. This was never going to be an easy game to play, and there was never going to be a loser, but I definitely had fun following this duo as they attempt to thwart the other.
My initial thoughts of Braden were not the best, I thought he was a player and would not change himself for anyone, but as we know him more and see him falling, we get to see not only the caring side of him, but also his protective side, especially when Maddie's brother makes an unwanted appearance. Maddie was someone who I had a soft spot for, even though she is hiding things from her friends about her past. Seeing these two people slowly begin to fall for each other was funny, but also deserved by both of them for thinking they could do this, that they could play this game without becoming emotionally invested in the other. I really enjoyed seeing this plan play out throughout the pages, but also how it failed spectacularly in another sense.
The Love Game is the first book I have read by this author, and it wont be the last. If I didn't have to work, or eat, or even sleep I would have had this book finishing in one sitting. I am so glad I got the bind up edition as now I can dive straight into the next book.
Since I began the review with a quote, it's only fair that I end it with one that is really meaningful.
Friendship means never having to be alone, it means there's a constant wall of solidarity even when everything else is crumbling around you.
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Playing For Keeps
I was extremely eager to make a start on Playing For Keeps after finishing The Love Game. I could not wait to meet Aston and Megan again, and get into their heads. It's pretty clear once we start the book that the sparks will fly quickly for this couple, and fly they do, as well as burning hot. But with Braden an ever constant presence it's not only hard for Aston and Megan to act on these sparks, but also makes them feel guilty for even thinking of going behind Braden's back.
Playing For Keeps was just as good as the previous book, and I really like how it can be read both as a stand alone without you feel like you are missing out, but also as a next in series.
As Playing For Keeps progresses we get to see some of Aston's past through flashbacks, and his past wasn't exactly a bed of roses. Seeing what he experienced really broke my heart, but it explains so much about his 'hump them and dump them' attitude and why he is fighting his feelings towards Megan so hard. Megan also has her own issues, she knows what she feels for Aston, but doesn't want to upset her best friend Braden, and is worried that by being together, Braden will take it out on Aston....or more likely Aston's face.
Playing For Keeps was an entertaining, and an emotional read. I loved how non judgmental Megan is of Ashton's background, how she is supportive of him, and helps him through a lot of tough times.
Just because someone's past and upbringing is fucked up doesn't mean the person is, Aston.
But I also felt sorry for Ashton, going through what he has, but proud of what he has achieved and plans to achieve. Ashton and Megan make a perfect couple, but one you would not initially put together, and I am looking forward to catching up with them if they make guest appearances in the next books in this series.
October 19, 2021
I was a tiny bit leery due to the last part of the synopsis, sometimes the British English can be a bit confusing for me when I’m reading just a fun story. But other than one or two words I had to Google, I didn’t have any issues with this in that way! The image above my review kind of is perfect to go along with one of the quotes that I had to save from the book.
“Stop Queen Victoria! She’s going on a rampage!”
So the hilarious aunt in this story had two goats, the names in the excerpt above, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. So just their names alone made for some laugh out loud moments in this story. But as usual it was more than that from this author that made me fall in love with the story. First you have wonderful characters. They have some of the best thoughts and ideas and of course dialogue. One of my favorite parts of any Emma Hart book is the banter, filled with sarcasm and wit, and that was here in spades! Also as you would expect in this author’s book you have wonderful secondary characters, ones that you know will have their own books since this is the first in a series! Yay! And family members, especially the more elderly ones, such as Aunt Cat, and even Miles’s grandfather are a part of the story that we don’t miss out on, as Hart writes them in such fun ways!
This being set in England has a different aspect to the story, with your true aristocracy that one doesn’t truly have in the US. And that was a fun change. Oh, speaking of side characters, there is even a young girl, Gabriella’s nieces, who adds some of the fun to the story. I liked the things we learned about her that are leading into the next story as well.
My only complaint, what made it a 4.5 instead of full 5 stars for me, was that the ahem, steamy scenes, weren’t quite as many as I think we get usually. It was a little sweeter romance overall in that way. Which might be more of a British type of thing? Maybe? I don’t know. But overall I adored this, a smile on my face as I read and loved the whole thing.
Review first published on Lisa Loves Literature.
“Stop Queen Victoria! She’s going on a rampage!”
So the hilarious aunt in this story had two goats, the names in the excerpt above, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. So just their names alone made for some laugh out loud moments in this story. But as usual it was more than that from this author that made me fall in love with the story. First you have wonderful characters. They have some of the best thoughts and ideas and of course dialogue. One of my favorite parts of any Emma Hart book is the banter, filled with sarcasm and wit, and that was here in spades! Also as you would expect in this author’s book you have wonderful secondary characters, ones that you know will have their own books since this is the first in a series! Yay! And family members, especially the more elderly ones, such as Aunt Cat, and even Miles’s grandfather are a part of the story that we don’t miss out on, as Hart writes them in such fun ways!
This being set in England has a different aspect to the story, with your true aristocracy that one doesn’t truly have in the US. And that was a fun change. Oh, speaking of side characters, there is even a young girl, Gabriella’s nieces, who adds some of the fun to the story. I liked the things we learned about her that are leading into the next story as well.
My only complaint, what made it a 4.5 instead of full 5 stars for me, was that the ahem, steamy scenes, weren’t quite as many as I think we get usually. It was a little sweeter romance overall in that way. Which might be more of a British type of thing? Maybe? I don’t know. But overall I adored this, a smile on my face as I read and loved the whole thing.
Review first published on Lisa Loves Literature.
October 24, 2021
"Love Language" had a slightly different feel and tone than Emma Hart's last several books, which makes sense since it's set in England and written in British English, but it still contained every bit of the wit and charm I've come to expect from Hart's writing, and I absolutely adored it.
Lady Gabriella Hastings, daughter of the Duke of Bath, is expected to marry well and let her husband take care of her for the rest of her life, but she'd much prefer to spend her time doing the things she loves, including gardening and giving relationship advice through her secret blog. Her father is upset to learn that Gabi has secretly been studying horticulture at the local university, but he eventually agrees that if she can successfully design and install a new section of their estate's public gardens in only two weeks, he will stop his matchmaking efforts and pay for whatever courses she'd like to take. If not, Gabi must agree to go on whatever dates he sets up for her. Gabi accepts her father's challenge even though it means working with the grumpy head gardener, Miles Kingsley, who has never seemed to like her.
I loved Gabi's sarcastic sense of humor and the witty banter between her and Miles, who was very much the grump to her sunshine. Gabi was determined to figure out why Miles didn't like her, not just because she needed his help with school assignments and her father's challenge, but also because she secretly had a crush on him. It turned out that Miles secretly had a crush on Gabi too but thought that if he was rude to her, she'd leave him alone, which would make it easier to get over his inconvenient feelings. Things changed between them after they were unexpectedly stranded together during a storm, though at first it wasn't clear if it would bring them closer or drive them further apart.
One of Hart's particular strengths is creating lovable, quirky secondary characters, and the ones in this book were no exception. From the sweet elderly butler, Arthur, to Gabi's wacky Aunt Cat, all of Miles and Gabi's friends and family were a ton of fun. Gabi's cousin Alex and her best friend Adelaide will be featured in the next book of the series, and I can't wait to get my hands on it!
In summary, "Love Language" might just be my favorite Emma Hart book yet, and I highly recommend it for all romantic comedy fans.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
Lady Gabriella Hastings, daughter of the Duke of Bath, is expected to marry well and let her husband take care of her for the rest of her life, but she'd much prefer to spend her time doing the things she loves, including gardening and giving relationship advice through her secret blog. Her father is upset to learn that Gabi has secretly been studying horticulture at the local university, but he eventually agrees that if she can successfully design and install a new section of their estate's public gardens in only two weeks, he will stop his matchmaking efforts and pay for whatever courses she'd like to take. If not, Gabi must agree to go on whatever dates he sets up for her. Gabi accepts her father's challenge even though it means working with the grumpy head gardener, Miles Kingsley, who has never seemed to like her.
I loved Gabi's sarcastic sense of humor and the witty banter between her and Miles, who was very much the grump to her sunshine. Gabi was determined to figure out why Miles didn't like her, not just because she needed his help with school assignments and her father's challenge, but also because she secretly had a crush on him. It turned out that Miles secretly had a crush on Gabi too but thought that if he was rude to her, she'd leave him alone, which would make it easier to get over his inconvenient feelings. Things changed between them after they were unexpectedly stranded together during a storm, though at first it wasn't clear if it would bring them closer or drive them further apart.
One of Hart's particular strengths is creating lovable, quirky secondary characters, and the ones in this book were no exception. From the sweet elderly butler, Arthur, to Gabi's wacky Aunt Cat, all of Miles and Gabi's friends and family were a ton of fun. Gabi's cousin Alex and her best friend Adelaide will be featured in the next book of the series, and I can't wait to get my hands on it!
In summary, "Love Language" might just be my favorite Emma Hart book yet, and I highly recommend it for all romantic comedy fans.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 19, 2021
4.5 Stars for Love Language (The Aristocrat Diaries #1)
If you are looking for a fun, entertaining read look no further than Miles and Gabriella’s story. Coming from England I adored the typical English snarky humour and it was a story that captivated me from the first page to the last line. It’s a wonderful start to Emma Hart’s new series and I highly recommend it to all rom com lovers.
Gabriella is destined to marry someone who mixes in the same social circles, she wasn’t meant to fall for the grumpy gardener. Problem is we don’t control our hearts and in this case the heart was determined to win so what will happen when her father realises she has fallen for the help.
The chemistry is sizzling and as this couple spend time together their feeling grow, the banter is witty and there are plenty of laugh out loud moments, add in the secondary characters and the goats and you end up with a funny, entertaining read to escape with. Looking forward to the next story in what looks like a hit series for this very talented author.
If you are looking for a fun, entertaining read look no further than Miles and Gabriella’s story. Coming from England I adored the typical English snarky humour and it was a story that captivated me from the first page to the last line. It’s a wonderful start to Emma Hart’s new series and I highly recommend it to all rom com lovers.
Gabriella is destined to marry someone who mixes in the same social circles, she wasn’t meant to fall for the grumpy gardener. Problem is we don’t control our hearts and in this case the heart was determined to win so what will happen when her father realises she has fallen for the help.
The chemistry is sizzling and as this couple spend time together their feeling grow, the banter is witty and there are plenty of laugh out loud moments, add in the secondary characters and the goats and you end up with a funny, entertaining read to escape with. Looking forward to the next story in what looks like a hit series for this very talented author.
October 21, 2021
***Review can also be found at Jackie's Book World. :)***
Hart’s new romantic comedy, Love Language, is the first book in The Aristocrat Diaries. A series that takes place within the British aristocracy and gives us a more witty and entertaining look into this upper-class.
At the beginning of the story we get to meet twenty-seven year old, Lady Gabriella Hastings, whose father wants her to get married and is constantly trying to set her up with eligible bachelors. But that’s not what Gabriella wants and she is scared of how her father is goin to react to her plans. She has a passion for gardening and wants to take a horticultural course. It is well known that Gabriella won’t inherit the family estate and she is trying to make something of her life. Yet, the problem is that nobody cares about what she thinks is best for her. Until Miles Kingsley, her grumpy and handsome head gardener believes in what she can do and decides to help her. He might be quiet and reserved, but there is something about him that keeps her drawn to him. The more time they spend together, the more she develops feelings for Miles. Soon he gets invited into her world and she doesn’t know how to react to him getting all the attention. He has made it clear that their worlds are different, but Gabriella doesn’t care, she just needs to convince Miles to give them a shot.
Miles Kingsley has been working as head gardener for the Arrowwood Estate for the past six months. Taking care of the family’s personal garden makes him happy to not be surrounded by people all the time. He is good at what he does and has worked hard to be where he is. He never expected to like Gabriella so much, but he knows that they can never work. They come from two different worlds and no matter how much he wants her, Miles needs to act uninterested in order to get her to back away. But that’s not exactly what happens and soon he is kissing her and getting pulled into her world. He is afraid that he might not be able to offer Gabriella what she wants and he needs to figure out if he is strong enough to let her go or start a future together.
I always have such a great time reading any of Emma Hart’s books, she has a great sense of humor in her stories that have me hooked from beginning to end. There is lots of witty banter in the story and laugh-out-loud moments between Gabriella and her Aunt Cat. I loved the concept as a whole, but I do wish the author could have developed a few things further. Still, Gabriella’s relationship with Miles was cute and the ending was hilarious. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series! :)
***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own***
Hart’s new romantic comedy, Love Language, is the first book in The Aristocrat Diaries. A series that takes place within the British aristocracy and gives us a more witty and entertaining look into this upper-class.
At the beginning of the story we get to meet twenty-seven year old, Lady Gabriella Hastings, whose father wants her to get married and is constantly trying to set her up with eligible bachelors. But that’s not what Gabriella wants and she is scared of how her father is goin to react to her plans. She has a passion for gardening and wants to take a horticultural course. It is well known that Gabriella won’t inherit the family estate and she is trying to make something of her life. Yet, the problem is that nobody cares about what she thinks is best for her. Until Miles Kingsley, her grumpy and handsome head gardener believes in what she can do and decides to help her. He might be quiet and reserved, but there is something about him that keeps her drawn to him. The more time they spend together, the more she develops feelings for Miles. Soon he gets invited into her world and she doesn’t know how to react to him getting all the attention. He has made it clear that their worlds are different, but Gabriella doesn’t care, she just needs to convince Miles to give them a shot.
Miles Kingsley has been working as head gardener for the Arrowwood Estate for the past six months. Taking care of the family’s personal garden makes him happy to not be surrounded by people all the time. He is good at what he does and has worked hard to be where he is. He never expected to like Gabriella so much, but he knows that they can never work. They come from two different worlds and no matter how much he wants her, Miles needs to act uninterested in order to get her to back away. But that’s not exactly what happens and soon he is kissing her and getting pulled into her world. He is afraid that he might not be able to offer Gabriella what she wants and he needs to figure out if he is strong enough to let her go or start a future together.
I always have such a great time reading any of Emma Hart’s books, she has a great sense of humor in her stories that have me hooked from beginning to end. There is lots of witty banter in the story and laugh-out-loud moments between Gabriella and her Aunt Cat. I loved the concept as a whole, but I do wish the author could have developed a few things further. Still, Gabriella’s relationship with Miles was cute and the ending was hilarious. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series! :)
***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own***
April 2, 2022
Wow what A brilliant read!!!!
The Narrator Shakira Shute was Absolutely Fatastic, she voiced every character so on point to how i imagined they would sound! A new favorite Narrator to start looking for her Audio books!!!!
The story... A high class Lady falls for her Gardener....
This is Downton meets Bridgerton, with a green thumb in Modern day!!!
🌱 Lady Gabriella.... Although her Inner monolouge is far from a ladies and frankly so funny!
🌱 Miles... Hes a bit of a grunter but comes across nicely by the end!
🌱 The Aunt!!!! Oh dont we all wish we had an aunt like this... Shes Nutty as a fruit cake, While being one of the most observant characters at the same time!
🌱 Miles Greenhouse and Ahem...... Gabbys secret garden!!!!!! Finally meet!
🌱 Never forgetting the royal Goats appetite for strawberries
Brilliant feel good Novel for spring! Huge 5 star!
April 4, 2022
3.4
I am not a big romcom fan but sometimes a little comedy is just what I need!
This is first in the Aristocrat Diaries series. Original title of this store was “Love Language”.
However, it could easily be called “The Gardener and the Lady.
Lady Gabriella Hastings is not a typical British Aristocrat, Daughter of a Duke, she is known as “Lady Love’ on her advice blog. Additionally she wants to go to college and learn about plants and design gardens as a career.
Miles the gardener at the estate wants to stay away from the beautiful Lady of the house.
However, it appears opposites do attract.
The characters and story was fun at times but other times not so much!
Narrator Shakira Shute does a good job performing the characters.
Want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this audio eGalley. This file has been made available to me before publication in an early form for an honest professional review. Publishing Release Date scheduled for April 5, 2022.
I am not a big romcom fan but sometimes a little comedy is just what I need!
This is first in the Aristocrat Diaries series. Original title of this store was “Love Language”.
However, it could easily be called “The Gardener and the Lady.
Lady Gabriella Hastings is not a typical British Aristocrat, Daughter of a Duke, she is known as “Lady Love’ on her advice blog. Additionally she wants to go to college and learn about plants and design gardens as a career.
Miles the gardener at the estate wants to stay away from the beautiful Lady of the house.
However, it appears opposites do attract.
The characters and story was fun at times but other times not so much!
Narrator Shakira Shute does a good job performing the characters.
Want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this audio eGalley. This file has been made available to me before publication in an early form for an honest professional review. Publishing Release Date scheduled for April 5, 2022.
October 18, 2021
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
Love Language is the first book in Emma Hart’s new series The Aristocrat Diaries and follows Gabriella and Miles.
Gabriella comes, unlike Miles, from high society and is being expected to marry someone in the near future from the same social status. But instead of following those „orders“, Gabriella is studying horticulture and does not like to think about marrying anyone any soon.
Miles is the employee of Gabriellas father he couldn’t be any more different than Gabriella. Although he seems like he doesn’t like her very much in the beginning, they have one thing in common: their love for gardening, what makes him help her with her project.
I totally enjoyed reading this book. I loved the characters, animals included, the banter between Gabriella and Miles and of course their relationship development. I loved the scenes with her crazy Aunt Cat and the whole family dynamic.
Love Language is a really good opposites attract rom com and a really fast but enjoyable read. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Love Language is the first book in Emma Hart’s new series The Aristocrat Diaries and follows Gabriella and Miles.
Gabriella comes, unlike Miles, from high society and is being expected to marry someone in the near future from the same social status. But instead of following those „orders“, Gabriella is studying horticulture and does not like to think about marrying anyone any soon.
Miles is the employee of Gabriellas father he couldn’t be any more different than Gabriella. Although he seems like he doesn’t like her very much in the beginning, they have one thing in common: their love for gardening, what makes him help her with her project.
I totally enjoyed reading this book. I loved the characters, animals included, the banter between Gabriella and Miles and of course their relationship development. I loved the scenes with her crazy Aunt Cat and the whole family dynamic.
Love Language is a really good opposites attract rom com and a really fast but enjoyable read. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
October 23, 2021
Love Language is book 1 in the newest series "The Aristocrat Diaries " by Emma Hart. This is Gabriella and Miles's story. This is a modern day slow burn twist on the Pride And Prejudice style writing. It's a romcom with more biting humor. Gabriella is an aristocrat, while Miles is the family gardener. It's opposite attract yet It's how they get to that attraction and how they start off vs how they end up is night and day. The snark, the biting humor, the chemistry, the sassiness, the back and forths just make this a great start off to a new series. Miles is a character, has charm but he can be quite rude when he wants. Gabriella is sassy, sweet and stubborn. Loved how everything wrapped up and am looking forward to book 2!!
My Rating: 4.5 stars **********
My Rating: 4.5 stars **********
October 19, 2021
This is a charming foray into upperclass England with quite a lot of humorous over exaggeration….a very lighthearted romp through the English countryside!
A bit too much Downton that could have done with a bit more Lady Chaterley’s but otherwise some fun characters and it made me chuckle!!
A bit too much Downton that could have done with a bit more Lady Chaterley’s but otherwise some fun characters and it made me chuckle!!
April 15, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for access to this title!
Emma Hart's "Lady Love" is a fun, breezy romance that would satisfy most romance readers. Hart's writing is simplistic, but never boring. The characters are all familiar romance tropes and fodder, and this novel isn't doing anything new. But still. I very much enjoyed it.
Emma Hart's "Lady Love" is a fun, breezy romance that would satisfy most romance readers. Hart's writing is simplistic, but never boring. The characters are all familiar romance tropes and fodder, and this novel isn't doing anything new. But still. I very much enjoyed it.
October 30, 2021
This is a cute love story of royalty and the commoner. What happens when you belong to royalty and you fall for the gardener? Read this book to find out.
May 3, 2022
Cute, predictable romance.
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