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Advertisements for Love #1-2
The Brides of London: an Advertisements for Love collection
Fans of Bridgerton will love these two Regency romances for the price of one, featuring two best friends, each determined to advertise for love.The Bittersweet Widow Theodosia Cecil needs a husband and needs one fast to protect her land, so she places an anonymous ad in the paper. She’s delighted she spends her remaining weeks exchanging flirtatious letters with the perfect man... Until she meets him and realizes he’s the son of the man trying to steal her land.The Bashful When sparks fly between timid heiress Ester Croome and a handsome actor, they’re quick to elope. But when she discovers there is so much more to him than meets the eye, in order to save the marriage the shiest woman alive must publicly woo the most desirable man in England…her husband.
Kindle Edition
First published August 24, 2021
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About the author
Vanessa Riley
46 books1,644 followersI'm Vanessa Riley, and I write Historical Fiction of dazzling multi-culture communities of the 1750s to 1830s, The Revolutionary Years. I write for readers who treasure and share with friends books that showcase women, power, strong sisterhoods, and love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 27, 2022
I enjoyed these stories by Vanessa Riley. I found the characters to be realistic, slightly flawed, full of charm, and each couple was utterly perfect for each other. The romance between our MCs was heartfelt and passionate - the perfect combination for unforgettable stories! I recommend this book to all who are historical romance lovers!
3.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 4 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥
❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*📚Review copy provided by author/publisher via Netgalley. All opinions, thoughts, comments, and interpretation of this book are my own. I am not receiving any money in exchange for this review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this book. More Reviews by Jaime can be found at Alpha Book Club and via Goodreads.🦄
3.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 4 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥
❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*📚Review copy provided by author/publisher via Netgalley. All opinions, thoughts, comments, and interpretation of this book are my own. I am not receiving any money in exchange for this review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this book. More Reviews by Jaime can be found at Alpha Book Club and via Goodreads.🦄
July 24, 2021
A ghost or is he...
A bashful bride..
These two stories are too good. Vanessa Riley has written a couple of books combined into one that entrance you.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.
This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
A bashful bride..
These two stories are too good. Vanessa Riley has written a couple of books combined into one that entrance you.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.
This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
August 27, 2021
It's a 2-n-1 so that's twice the reviewing fun!
The Bittersweet Bride
I had a hard time getting into this one initially, but once I connected, once I felt what Theo felt, once I understood where Ewan was coming from, once I knew how much each would give for the other to be simply happy, I knew I was hooked. Seeing Theo gain her footing and take strength from the name given to her while others were still trying to take it all away. Watching her protect those she loves with her body and soul, even to the detriment of her own happiness. Being there when it all comes together at book's end...definitely made for a great introduction to this series and this author's work.
The Bashful Bride
It began with a sprig of lavender and an answered newspaper advertisement that wasn't even hers, and ended with a rush to the altar, a stark realization of what changes were to come, and an understanding of how different things would be than what they ever thought. I adored Ester's character. She seemed meek and mild, but when threatened or when those she holds dear were threatened, she was a force to be reckoned with. She went from her sweet, sensible self to a temptress to a free working woman to a voice to support the cause, with the adaptability of the most seasoned actress...all in the name of love. As for Bex, he's not a bad man, just a man with a past he'd rather not be connected to, and despite his attempts to expunge the unwarranted guilt from his conscience, it never seems to be enough. But perhaps if he had one person in his corner, one person that could help him show the world that he is more than the past they hold him to...maybe, just maybe he can move forward. That determination, that pureness of heart, that ability to see every man and woman as a man or woman, all endeared him to my heart. Even when it seemed all was lost, I still held out hope for him, not something that can be said about the male lead in most of these types of stories.
*ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
The Bittersweet Bride
I had a hard time getting into this one initially, but once I connected, once I felt what Theo felt, once I understood where Ewan was coming from, once I knew how much each would give for the other to be simply happy, I knew I was hooked. Seeing Theo gain her footing and take strength from the name given to her while others were still trying to take it all away. Watching her protect those she loves with her body and soul, even to the detriment of her own happiness. Being there when it all comes together at book's end...definitely made for a great introduction to this series and this author's work.
The Bashful Bride
It began with a sprig of lavender and an answered newspaper advertisement that wasn't even hers, and ended with a rush to the altar, a stark realization of what changes were to come, and an understanding of how different things would be than what they ever thought. I adored Ester's character. She seemed meek and mild, but when threatened or when those she holds dear were threatened, she was a force to be reckoned with. She went from her sweet, sensible self to a temptress to a free working woman to a voice to support the cause, with the adaptability of the most seasoned actress...all in the name of love. As for Bex, he's not a bad man, just a man with a past he'd rather not be connected to, and despite his attempts to expunge the unwarranted guilt from his conscience, it never seems to be enough. But perhaps if he had one person in his corner, one person that could help him show the world that he is more than the past they hold him to...maybe, just maybe he can move forward. That determination, that pureness of heart, that ability to see every man and woman as a man or woman, all endeared him to my heart. Even when it seemed all was lost, I still held out hope for him, not something that can be said about the male lead in most of these types of stories.
*ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
August 25, 2021
Theodosia Cecil had thought she had seen a ghost. Her lover had died six years ago. What was he doing here now? Finally, she meets him face to face and finds out he did not die. Letters fall from her hand and she rushes to pick them up But he gets them first. She needs a new marriage to protect her son and herself. His guardian is a greedy and unkind man. She loved her husband and when he died, she was beside herself with grief.
Ewan Fitzwilliam had left to go into the military. He and Theo were secretly engaged. The Earl, his dad, had driven him away and he stayed away for six years. During that time he had been reported as dead. Even his older brother was affected by his parents. There were misunderstandings between Ewan and Theo. They needed to talk and stop accusing. I enjoyed the story but had trouble understanding the accusations and was something going to get them talking?
The Bashful Bride
This story is about Ester Croome, the daughter of a wealthy Merchant. She has always been in infatuation with Arthur Bex for years. She is very shy and embarrassed easily. One of her friends,
Frederica Burghley had advertised for a husband. It had turned out so well for her other friend,
Theodosia Cecil. When she was in the hall, she heard her father say that he had arranged a marriage for her. She believed to Charles Jordan, she could never marry him, he was a womanizer. She could never be like her mother or Mrs. Jordan. They just sat there saying nothing, waiting for their husbands to tell them what to do. She would not. All three girls were Blackamoors and they had a lot of prejudice to fight. What made it worse, as they had earned a lot of money.
Arthur Bex was an Abolitionist. He was also an actor and according to Miss Croome, a very good one. Frederica was actually the lady he wrote to. But Frederica knew how much Ester liked him. So she told Ester it was o.k. and went to wait in her carriage.
Both these stories were wonderful. The girls wanted to love and they were so kind to other people.
Theodosia had a great heart while Ester was shy and quiet and Frederica was lively, full of energy.
They all had huge barriers set against them that had to be overcome. The other characters made a wonderful backdrop for Theo and Ester.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Ewan Fitzwilliam had left to go into the military. He and Theo were secretly engaged. The Earl, his dad, had driven him away and he stayed away for six years. During that time he had been reported as dead. Even his older brother was affected by his parents. There were misunderstandings between Ewan and Theo. They needed to talk and stop accusing. I enjoyed the story but had trouble understanding the accusations and was something going to get them talking?
The Bashful Bride
This story is about Ester Croome, the daughter of a wealthy Merchant. She has always been in infatuation with Arthur Bex for years. She is very shy and embarrassed easily. One of her friends,
Frederica Burghley had advertised for a husband. It had turned out so well for her other friend,
Theodosia Cecil. When she was in the hall, she heard her father say that he had arranged a marriage for her. She believed to Charles Jordan, she could never marry him, he was a womanizer. She could never be like her mother or Mrs. Jordan. They just sat there saying nothing, waiting for their husbands to tell them what to do. She would not. All three girls were Blackamoors and they had a lot of prejudice to fight. What made it worse, as they had earned a lot of money.
Arthur Bex was an Abolitionist. He was also an actor and according to Miss Croome, a very good one. Frederica was actually the lady he wrote to. But Frederica knew how much Ester liked him. So she told Ester it was o.k. and went to wait in her carriage.
Both these stories were wonderful. The girls wanted to love and they were so kind to other people.
Theodosia had a great heart while Ester was shy and quiet and Frederica was lively, full of energy.
They all had huge barriers set against them that had to be overcome. The other characters made a wonderful backdrop for Theo and Ester.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.
September 5, 2021
I loved the premise of this book and was really hoping to like it more than I did. This is two books in one. The Bittersweet Bride and The Bashful Bride. Ewan in book 1 and Ester in book 2 were both so frustrating. They would both constantly jump to conclusions without trying to find out what was actually going on. If they would have just had a conversation each of these books could have been half as many pages. They were thinking the same things over and over again all through without really deciding anything. So frustrating 😫
Thank you, Net Galley and the publisher for allowing me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you, Net Galley and the publisher for allowing me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2021
The Bittersweet Bride 4 Stars
Widow Theodosia Cecil needs a husband to help protect her son. The former flower seller turned estate owner posts an ad in the newspaper, and no one is more surprised than she when her first love, the man she thought dead, reappears. Ewan Fitzwilliam has been at war for six years. Now, the second son of a powerful earl is back but his beloved Theo needs a husband and will not consider him.
Not your usual Regency romance by any means & it was certainly bittersweet. The story was very well written & the characters were very well fleshed. The pace of the story was also very good. I particularly liked Theo & all she had achieved. I didn’t warm to Ewan for the majority of the book but he came through in the end. The road to their HEA wasn’t smooth but was a captivating read. This was the first book I’d read by the author & it certainly wasn't the last
The Bashful Bride 3.25 Stars
A friend's newspaper advertisement for a groom nets the most famous actor in London, Arthur Bex,. Shy heiress Ester Croome proposes to elope with the handsome man, who she's secretly loved for two years, in order to escape an impending engagement arranged by her overbearing family.
Trying to outlive the shadow of his villainous uncle, Bex needs to marry quickly—to a woman of good character.
This is the second book in the series but could very easily be read on it’s own. I have mixed feelings about the book, I enjoyed reading it but didn’t love it. The characters were well portrayed & had plenty of depth, the story was well paced but everything just didn’t gel for me & what could have been so very very good just fell a bit flat. I think it was because I found the chemistry between Bex & Ester lacking.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Widow Theodosia Cecil needs a husband to help protect her son. The former flower seller turned estate owner posts an ad in the newspaper, and no one is more surprised than she when her first love, the man she thought dead, reappears. Ewan Fitzwilliam has been at war for six years. Now, the second son of a powerful earl is back but his beloved Theo needs a husband and will not consider him.
Not your usual Regency romance by any means & it was certainly bittersweet. The story was very well written & the characters were very well fleshed. The pace of the story was also very good. I particularly liked Theo & all she had achieved. I didn’t warm to Ewan for the majority of the book but he came through in the end. The road to their HEA wasn’t smooth but was a captivating read. This was the first book I’d read by the author & it certainly wasn't the last
The Bashful Bride 3.25 Stars
A friend's newspaper advertisement for a groom nets the most famous actor in London, Arthur Bex,. Shy heiress Ester Croome proposes to elope with the handsome man, who she's secretly loved for two years, in order to escape an impending engagement arranged by her overbearing family.
Trying to outlive the shadow of his villainous uncle, Bex needs to marry quickly—to a woman of good character.
This is the second book in the series but could very easily be read on it’s own. I have mixed feelings about the book, I enjoyed reading it but didn’t love it. The characters were well portrayed & had plenty of depth, the story was well paced but everything just didn’t gel for me & what could have been so very very good just fell a bit flat. I think it was because I found the chemistry between Bex & Ester lacking.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
June 21, 2021
I really really wanted to love the two novels in this Regency romance twofer because their premises were so interesting. It's rare to read a historical romance with diverse main characters (BWWM), and being someone who's a member of an underrepresented population in the romance genre, I was practically giddy. Unfortunately, neither story worked for me.
The Bittersweet Bride is a Long Lost Lovers/Parental Machinations-Now I Hate You mashup. Theodosia is a "Blackamoor" who was left in a terrible situation after her secret fiance, an earl's second son, was killed a month after joining the military. She found safety, companionship, and eventually a gentler love with an older gentleman, but after his death, she again finds herself in dire straights. In need of a husband, she places a newspaper ad, and the consequences are unexpected.
A lot of this happens before the story begins (though I believe the author produced a prequel at some point). In the first chapter, Theo runs into a "ghost" in the form of her long-lost and previously dead fiance Ewan. Ewan hates her because he thinks she cheerfully jumped from his bed into her husband's immediately after his death. It never occurs to him that she had good reason.
Anyway, the bulk of the story is I hate you, I missed you, I loved you, I'm not good enough for you, I'll ruin you, I'll save you ... Et cetera. In general, I really liked Theo; she seemed tragic and depressed for most of the story, but understandably so. Her main flaw was seeing anything redeemable about Ewan. Ewan just seemed like such an ass. Both of his parents were just so awful to Theodosia--like life-threateningly awful--but while he stands up for Theo off and on, he seems to quick to write his parents behavior off. They were horrible. (Have I said that already?)
In addition to wishing Ewan's parents had suffered more for their awfulness, I also felt like too much was missing from Theo and Ewan's story. How on earth did a near-illiterate flower seller and an earl's son meet (it's vaguely discussed), and how did their love develop? What did they have in common? Why was it so easy for Ewan to believe the worst of Theo? A prologue, perhaps, would have been helpful.
Oddly, I like Ewan more in the few scenes he has in the second book, The Bashful Bride. This second book follows Ester and Bex. Ester, one of Theo's dearest friends though it's unclear how they met, discovers her father has arranged a marriage for her with the son of a business associate. Ester, though she is both terribly shy and painfully dutiful, refuses to be tied to a womanizing jerk. Fortunately, she runs into Arthur Bex, a famous actor (and vocal abolitionist) she's loved from afar for years. Coincidentally, he's in the market for a bride. The two elope to Gretna Green.
If Ewan was aggravating in the first book, Ester had me gnashing my teeth in the second. She is all over the place--not in how she feels about Bex because that part is constant--but in how she jerks him all over the place: Let's marry, let's not, I'll be bad for you, I hate deceiving my parents, my parents deceived me. Gah. Normally, I love a shy-but-brave heroine, but Ester let me down. I felt sorry for poor Bex.
I really hope to see more romances with such diversity, especially in historical romance. I just wish these two had handled it a bit better
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!
The Bittersweet Bride is a Long Lost Lovers/Parental Machinations-Now I Hate You mashup. Theodosia is a "Blackamoor" who was left in a terrible situation after her secret fiance, an earl's second son, was killed a month after joining the military. She found safety, companionship, and eventually a gentler love with an older gentleman, but after his death, she again finds herself in dire straights. In need of a husband, she places a newspaper ad, and the consequences are unexpected.
A lot of this happens before the story begins (though I believe the author produced a prequel at some point). In the first chapter, Theo runs into a "ghost" in the form of her long-lost and previously dead fiance Ewan. Ewan hates her because he thinks she cheerfully jumped from his bed into her husband's immediately after his death. It never occurs to him that she had good reason.
Anyway, the bulk of the story is I hate you, I missed you, I loved you, I'm not good enough for you, I'll ruin you, I'll save you ... Et cetera. In general, I really liked Theo; she seemed tragic and depressed for most of the story, but understandably so. Her main flaw was seeing anything redeemable about Ewan. Ewan just seemed like such an ass. Both of his parents were just so awful to Theodosia--like life-threateningly awful--but while he stands up for Theo off and on, he seems to quick to write his parents behavior off. They were horrible. (Have I said that already?)
In addition to wishing Ewan's parents had suffered more for their awfulness, I also felt like too much was missing from Theo and Ewan's story. How on earth did a near-illiterate flower seller and an earl's son meet (it's vaguely discussed), and how did their love develop? What did they have in common? Why was it so easy for Ewan to believe the worst of Theo? A prologue, perhaps, would have been helpful.
Oddly, I like Ewan more in the few scenes he has in the second book, The Bashful Bride. This second book follows Ester and Bex. Ester, one of Theo's dearest friends though it's unclear how they met, discovers her father has arranged a marriage for her with the son of a business associate. Ester, though she is both terribly shy and painfully dutiful, refuses to be tied to a womanizing jerk. Fortunately, she runs into Arthur Bex, a famous actor (and vocal abolitionist) she's loved from afar for years. Coincidentally, he's in the market for a bride. The two elope to Gretna Green.
If Ewan was aggravating in the first book, Ester had me gnashing my teeth in the second. She is all over the place--not in how she feels about Bex because that part is constant--but in how she jerks him all over the place: Let's marry, let's not, I'll be bad for you, I hate deceiving my parents, my parents deceived me. Gah. Normally, I love a shy-but-brave heroine, but Ester let me down. I felt sorry for poor Bex.
I really hope to see more romances with such diversity, especially in historical romance. I just wish these two had handled it a bit better
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!
August 30, 2021
The Brides of London by Vanessa Riley consists of two stories The Bittersweet Bride, a second chance romance, and The Bashful Bride, an unrequited love story.
The Bittersweet Bride is a Long Lost Lovers/Parental Machinations-Now I Hate You mashup. Theodosia is a "Blackamoor" who was left in a terrible situation after her secret fiancé, an earl's second son, was killed a month after joining the military. She found safety, companionship, and a gentle love with an older gentleman, but after his death, she once again finds herself in dire straits. Desperately in need of a husband, she places a newspaper ad, and the consequences are unexpected. A lot of these events happened before the story begins. In the first chapter, Theo runs into a "ghost" in the form of her long-lost and previously dead fiancé, Ewan. Ewan hates her because he thinks she cheerfully jumped from his bed into her husband's immediately after his death. It never occurs to him that she had good reason.
The bulk of the story is I hate you, I missed you, I loved you, I'm not good enough for you, I'll ruin you, I'll save you ... and so forth. I really liked Theo; she seemed tragic and depressed for most of the story, but understandably so. Her main flaw was seeing anything redeemable about Ewan. Ewan just seemed like such an a**. Both of his parents were horrible to Theodosia, as in life-threateningly awful, but while Ewan stands up for Theo off and on, he seems too quick to write his parents behavior off. In addition to wishing Ewan's parents had suffered more for their awfulness, I felt like too much was missing from Theo and Ewan's story. How did a near-illiterate flower seller and an earl's son meet, and how did their love develop? What did they have in common? Why was it so easy for Ewan to believe the worst of Theo? A prologue, perhaps, would have been helpful.
I did find that I liked Ewan more in the few scenes he had in the second book, The Bashful Bride; featuring Ester and Bex. Ester, one of Theo's dearest friends, though it's unclear how they met, discovers that her father has arranged a marriage for her with the son of a business associate. Ester, though she is both terribly shy and painfully dutiful, refuses to be tied to a womanizing jerk. Fortunately, she runs into Arthur Bex, a famous actor, and vocal abolitionist, who she's loved from afar for years. Coincidentally, he's in the market for a bride. The two elope to Gretna Green. If Ewan was aggravating in the first book, Ester had me clenching my teeth in the second. She is all over the place, not in how she feels about Bex, as she does love him, but in how she emotionally jerks him all over the place: Let's marry, let's not, I'll be bad for you, I hate deceiving my parents, my parents deceived me. UGH!! Normally, I love a shy, but-brave heroine, but Ester let me down and I felt sorry for poor Bex.
The diversity in these books is amazing. Riley was able to incorporate reality, diversity, and plot without straying from those classic factors that makes a romance so enjoyable. It was truly amazing to see the way in which Riley was able to include conflicts such as race, discrimination, and class differences while still somehow creating a lighthearted romantic read.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
The Bittersweet Bride is a Long Lost Lovers/Parental Machinations-Now I Hate You mashup. Theodosia is a "Blackamoor" who was left in a terrible situation after her secret fiancé, an earl's second son, was killed a month after joining the military. She found safety, companionship, and a gentle love with an older gentleman, but after his death, she once again finds herself in dire straits. Desperately in need of a husband, she places a newspaper ad, and the consequences are unexpected. A lot of these events happened before the story begins. In the first chapter, Theo runs into a "ghost" in the form of her long-lost and previously dead fiancé, Ewan. Ewan hates her because he thinks she cheerfully jumped from his bed into her husband's immediately after his death. It never occurs to him that she had good reason.
The bulk of the story is I hate you, I missed you, I loved you, I'm not good enough for you, I'll ruin you, I'll save you ... and so forth. I really liked Theo; she seemed tragic and depressed for most of the story, but understandably so. Her main flaw was seeing anything redeemable about Ewan. Ewan just seemed like such an a**. Both of his parents were horrible to Theodosia, as in life-threateningly awful, but while Ewan stands up for Theo off and on, he seems too quick to write his parents behavior off. In addition to wishing Ewan's parents had suffered more for their awfulness, I felt like too much was missing from Theo and Ewan's story. How did a near-illiterate flower seller and an earl's son meet, and how did their love develop? What did they have in common? Why was it so easy for Ewan to believe the worst of Theo? A prologue, perhaps, would have been helpful.
I did find that I liked Ewan more in the few scenes he had in the second book, The Bashful Bride; featuring Ester and Bex. Ester, one of Theo's dearest friends, though it's unclear how they met, discovers that her father has arranged a marriage for her with the son of a business associate. Ester, though she is both terribly shy and painfully dutiful, refuses to be tied to a womanizing jerk. Fortunately, she runs into Arthur Bex, a famous actor, and vocal abolitionist, who she's loved from afar for years. Coincidentally, he's in the market for a bride. The two elope to Gretna Green. If Ewan was aggravating in the first book, Ester had me clenching my teeth in the second. She is all over the place, not in how she feels about Bex, as she does love him, but in how she emotionally jerks him all over the place: Let's marry, let's not, I'll be bad for you, I hate deceiving my parents, my parents deceived me. UGH!! Normally, I love a shy, but-brave heroine, but Ester let me down and I felt sorry for poor Bex.
The diversity in these books is amazing. Riley was able to incorporate reality, diversity, and plot without straying from those classic factors that makes a romance so enjoyable. It was truly amazing to see the way in which Riley was able to include conflicts such as race, discrimination, and class differences while still somehow creating a lighthearted romantic read.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 26, 2021
Two unique, innovative romances!
This book contains two standalone (but interconnected) romances. Both use marriage advertisements to bring the characters together, and both have Black female lead characters who fall for white men.
The first, The Bittersweet Bride, is a poignant second-chance romance where the widowed Theodosia gets a second chance with her first love, the father of her child. There's a whole lot of history between these two, and the reasons they were apart are bittersweet indeed. No one deserves a second chance more than Theo and Ewan, and I rejoiced with them at the end.
The second, The Bashful Bride, has Ester checking out the man her friend has been corresponding with, only to find out he's the famous actor she's been crushing on for two years. He's equally attracted to her, and instantly proposes to marry her instead of her friend. The happy veneer of their union is quickly overshadowed by some truly heartbreaking history, as well as current circumstances that force them each to be more honest and open with each other. Their road to HEA is fraught with secrets, misunderstandings, pride, and more family interference than any one couple deserves, but it all works out in the end, bringing to light more than a few truth bombs that are as relevant today as ever.
These two stories will make you think, not only of the history of racial injustices but also what constitutes a balance of power in traditional relationships. These women are more than strong enough to hold their own without diminishing their partners, and I truly enjoyed both stories. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
This book contains two standalone (but interconnected) romances. Both use marriage advertisements to bring the characters together, and both have Black female lead characters who fall for white men.
The first, The Bittersweet Bride, is a poignant second-chance romance where the widowed Theodosia gets a second chance with her first love, the father of her child. There's a whole lot of history between these two, and the reasons they were apart are bittersweet indeed. No one deserves a second chance more than Theo and Ewan, and I rejoiced with them at the end.
The second, The Bashful Bride, has Ester checking out the man her friend has been corresponding with, only to find out he's the famous actor she's been crushing on for two years. He's equally attracted to her, and instantly proposes to marry her instead of her friend. The happy veneer of their union is quickly overshadowed by some truly heartbreaking history, as well as current circumstances that force them each to be more honest and open with each other. Their road to HEA is fraught with secrets, misunderstandings, pride, and more family interference than any one couple deserves, but it all works out in the end, bringing to light more than a few truth bombs that are as relevant today as ever.
These two stories will make you think, not only of the history of racial injustices but also what constitutes a balance of power in traditional relationships. These women are more than strong enough to hold their own without diminishing their partners, and I truly enjoyed both stories. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
September 6, 2021
The Brides of London is a delightful and refreshing approach to historical romance. My absolute favorite part of this reading experience was seeing the diverse and unique backgrounds of the characters. There is rarely mention of ethnically diverse characters when one reads historical romance, so this book was quite a nice surprise. I applaud Ms. Riley for taking on difficult subject and turning it in to deliciously angsty set of romances.
The premise of having women who need the protection and support of a man advertise in the paper is a fresh take on the use of personal ads for making a match of convenience. Each of the women featured in these stories is a force to be reckoned with. They are smart and bold women who possess uncommon courage. The male characters are built especially for the challenges these women experience. I particularly liked the bond of friendship between the main females characters. Their loyalty to each other is unshakable. Their relationship is a sisterhood that outshines that of many blood relatives.
Vanessa Riley is an author whose work is new to me. I will be sure to make time to read more of her creations. She provides spectacular insights into a world and class of people who are underrepresented in literature. Her characters dispell stereotypical myths about people of color through their social status,, actions, professions, and levels of.education. The stories she has created are dramatic yet real with tragedy that is tempered by the humor and merry spirit of three strong females who care for each other in all circumstances. I have found an author whose works will be automatic adds to my library.
The premise of having women who need the protection and support of a man advertise in the paper is a fresh take on the use of personal ads for making a match of convenience. Each of the women featured in these stories is a force to be reckoned with. They are smart and bold women who possess uncommon courage. The male characters are built especially for the challenges these women experience. I particularly liked the bond of friendship between the main females characters. Their loyalty to each other is unshakable. Their relationship is a sisterhood that outshines that of many blood relatives.
Vanessa Riley is an author whose work is new to me. I will be sure to make time to read more of her creations. She provides spectacular insights into a world and class of people who are underrepresented in literature. Her characters dispell stereotypical myths about people of color through their social status,, actions, professions, and levels of.education. The stories she has created are dramatic yet real with tragedy that is tempered by the humor and merry spirit of three strong females who care for each other in all circumstances. I have found an author whose works will be automatic adds to my library.
August 27, 2021
This was actually two stories in one, involving three Blackamore friends and their adventures in trying to find husbands. The first one involves Theodosia Cecil, who fell in love with the second son of a prejudiced earl. He forces his son to go to war to prove he is an adult and then the earl turns Theo away when she tells him she is pregnant. In order to survive, she marries Mathew Cecil, who accepts her son as his own. Both families are involved in commercially growing flowers and she inherits her husband's business when he dies. Unfortunately, the evil property manager wants to marry her to control the land and money so she puts an anonymous ad in the newspaper to find a husband to help her fight to keep her son. Enter her long lost love whom she thought was dead. He wants to continue their relationship but she doesn't trust him. The story is a study in learning to trust even when it doesn't appear warranted and how love can show that it is.
The second story involves Ester Croome, the daughter of a wealthy Blackamore family who doesn't want to be forced to marry someone she finds unacceptable. She elopes with actor Arthur Bex, who is also looking for a wife. They suffer many trials and tribulations on their road to trust and understanding, but finally realize love is worth forgiving hurtful mistakes.
Both were well-written and gave some historical background I was unaware of. The characters are well-developed and interesting. I look forward to the story for the third friend and hope she is matched with the earl's older son.
#netgalley
The second story involves Ester Croome, the daughter of a wealthy Blackamore family who doesn't want to be forced to marry someone she finds unacceptable. She elopes with actor Arthur Bex, who is also looking for a wife. They suffer many trials and tribulations on their road to trust and understanding, but finally realize love is worth forgiving hurtful mistakes.
Both were well-written and gave some historical background I was unaware of. The characters are well-developed and interesting. I look forward to the story for the third friend and hope she is matched with the earl's older son.
#netgalley
November 1, 2021
I read the first of the three books in this anthology "The Bittersweet Bride" and wasn't WOW'd by it. I guess I wasn't up for the social issues it discusses. I just wanted an easy to read romance. I also didn't feel the fight between the parents and the young mother were sufficient for the feud they had. Certainly the color differences were, but I'm not sure she really told the parent's side of the color struggle well. I think that would have made this first one stronger. However the topic of mixed race isn't seen much in historical romance until recently, so perhaps she wanted to ease us into it. I appreciate where she was going with the tale, but felt it was a little soft on the topic. I also would have like to see the issues with the son be more representative of the lack of nourishment she had during her pregnancy and why didn't the babies birth bring up questions from the beginning since she was pregnant before she got married, and in those days there is no way she would have been able to keep her son's issues quiet. She also wouldn't have been able to maintain such a strong business without relying on the steward after her husbands death and she doesn't by all accounts in the book.
So a whole lot of issues in this one for me to continue with the rest of the stories. They are all about couples of color differences and I wasn't sure I could handle such soft stories on the topic.
The romance was good. It was a second chance trust romance that really played out well. The hero interprets information without the full story and blunders quiet often trying to get her to see him again. She on the other hand reads him very well and isn't willing to give an inch. A near tragedy makes them both stop being fools and give each other the truth so they can get past it to their HEA. If you want to see a socially, racially, diverse couple these books are for you. Enjoy.
So a whole lot of issues in this one for me to continue with the rest of the stories. They are all about couples of color differences and I wasn't sure I could handle such soft stories on the topic.
The romance was good. It was a second chance trust romance that really played out well. The hero interprets information without the full story and blunders quiet often trying to get her to see him again. She on the other hand reads him very well and isn't willing to give an inch. A near tragedy makes them both stop being fools and give each other the truth so they can get past it to their HEA. If you want to see a socially, racially, diverse couple these books are for you. Enjoy.
August 13, 2021
I must say I was excited for this ARC because I had seen it on IG a lot. I love the idea of people of color in historical romance especially in the England regency period and all that. This one has two stories so yay two for one! I just had issues is the problem. First in the first story especially I did not get why the hero Ewan and heroine Theo couldn't see each others side of the story. The conflict was all internal and after many chapters it got repetitive for me. I was just like get on with it already I did like the idea of Theo being a successful business owner after so many people tried to go against her. When describing Theo's friend as flirty over and over and over, I just couldn't take it. We get it she likes to flirt and sashays a lot! I just kept noticing these little things and eventually I got annoyed. The way she kept saying the R word instead of regrets then a sentence later she says it. or the ghost aspect. I never really liked Ewan so it just didn't work for me by the end. The second story follows the same system. I did like the second story more but there were more repetitive adjectives and things that overall just distracted me from the story. I would like more from Riley and hopefully she grows as an author and can avoid these things in future books.
January 17, 2022
I quite enjoyed the first book, "The Bittersweet Bride". This story was just exactly the right amount of drama and romance. Theodosia, the leading lady's, character is so compelling, and the arc that Ewan, the leading man, embarks on throughout the story was vivid and very enjoyable. The little twists that were revealed along the way we're unexpected, at least for me, and the ones that I did expect became some of my favorite details. That's all I can say without spoiling it! On another note, Ewan often refers to Theodosia as "his Circe" and after looking into this Greek Goddess a little more, I am so incredibly impressed with how fitting of a title that is for her.
As for the second book, "The Bashful Bride", the synopsis of this one doesn't even begin to cover the sheer drama of it all! It dug more into race relations and felt more like historical fiction than the first one did. I was caught up in the twists and turns of the story, but there were some moments when I was truly frustrated by the lack of communication and some inconsistencies in the characters personalities. Otherwise, I enjoyed it!
As for the second book, "The Bashful Bride", the synopsis of this one doesn't even begin to cover the sheer drama of it all! It dug more into race relations and felt more like historical fiction than the first one did. I was caught up in the twists and turns of the story, but there were some moments when I was truly frustrated by the lack of communication and some inconsistencies in the characters personalities. Otherwise, I enjoyed it!
August 22, 2021
This book is a collection of the first two novels in the Advertisements for Love series. I really liked the premise of this series - it’s sort of a 19th century dating service with people advertising for a spouse in the newspaper.
The Bittersweet Bride
Theo married for survival after her fiancé was killed in the war. Six years later, now a widow, she’s shocked to learn that her first love is still alive. Can they overcome the misunderstandings and bitterness between them to rekindle their romance?
I loved Theo and Ewan. The passion is strong between them. Given that Theo needs to marry to protect herself from her son’s guardian, it seemed odd to me that she’d prefer a stranger to Ewan, no matter how badly his parents had treated her. Both these characters have experienced a lot of suffering during their time apart, and it’s difficult to forgive.
The Bashful Bride
To avoid an arranged marriage, heiress Esther elopes with an actor she’s been crushing on for years. But can these two strangers truly find happiness together?
I liked the instant chemistry between Esther and Bex. It was clear they were well matched. I understood the reasons for Esther to be constantly second guessing her decision. Yet I felt like the societal pressures for her to go through with the ceremony would have overwhelmed them. Nevertheless, this was an entertaining read.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
The Bittersweet Bride
Theo married for survival after her fiancé was killed in the war. Six years later, now a widow, she’s shocked to learn that her first love is still alive. Can they overcome the misunderstandings and bitterness between them to rekindle their romance?
I loved Theo and Ewan. The passion is strong between them. Given that Theo needs to marry to protect herself from her son’s guardian, it seemed odd to me that she’d prefer a stranger to Ewan, no matter how badly his parents had treated her. Both these characters have experienced a lot of suffering during their time apart, and it’s difficult to forgive.
The Bashful Bride
To avoid an arranged marriage, heiress Esther elopes with an actor she’s been crushing on for years. But can these two strangers truly find happiness together?
I liked the instant chemistry between Esther and Bex. It was clear they were well matched. I understood the reasons for Esther to be constantly second guessing her decision. Yet I felt like the societal pressures for her to go through with the ceremony would have overwhelmed them. Nevertheless, this was an entertaining read.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
September 14, 2021
BITTERSWEET BRIDE: An amazing story of second chances, a complicated relationship, a business war and an evil guardian. This book will move your soul, make you question your beliefs and helps one to hope for a happy ending amidst the mess of life. A MUST READ.
THE BASHFUL BRIDE: Another home run for this author. This book is about the naivete of a young African woman who was born and raised in London. She had a two-year admiration for a young Caucasian actor with dark secrets. He also was an abolitionist. Which in those days was very dangerous. They agree to elope and fall in love after trial and trial of facing prejudice and slurs. An excellent BWWM story. Loved it. It reminds the reader that relationships are like a road; smooth sometimes, muddy other times, full of ruts that joust one about left right back and forth. But one’s devotion, love and belief in one another will help make it through anything. A MUST READ.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Great world building
Informative
Inspirational
Page-turner
Realistic
Tear-jerker
Tragic
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters
THE BASHFUL BRIDE: Another home run for this author. This book is about the naivete of a young African woman who was born and raised in London. She had a two-year admiration for a young Caucasian actor with dark secrets. He also was an abolitionist. Which in those days was very dangerous. They agree to elope and fall in love after trial and trial of facing prejudice and slurs. An excellent BWWM story. Loved it. It reminds the reader that relationships are like a road; smooth sometimes, muddy other times, full of ruts that joust one about left right back and forth. But one’s devotion, love and belief in one another will help make it through anything. A MUST READ.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Great world building
Informative
Inspirational
Page-turner
Realistic
Tear-jerker
Tragic
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters
June 26, 2021
I really enjoyed The Brides of London books by Vanessa Riley. These books were by first two books by this author but they will not be the last. This book is made up of two stories about "blackamoor" women and the white men they love. I admit that I had a little trouble getting into the book because of the language at the beginning of the book. Once I got into the story I really could not put it down. The first story is about Theodosia Cecil, a widow with a son who is going deaf. She puts an advertisement in the paper for a husband and her letter finds its way to an old love she thought was dead. In the second book, Ester Croome has been enfatuated with the actor Arthur Bex for more than two years. When he answers a matrimonial advertisement for Ester's friend, Frederica, Ester steps in and suggests they elope. This was a very good story because it had a good back story. I really can't wait to read Frederica's story after reading these two stories.
July 1, 2021
The Bittersweet Bride 4.5* - Angst riddled story (made me cry!). Young love goes awry, both have a hard path to tread and when they meet again there is bitterness and blame on both sides. Regaining her trust is a hard slog for Ewan as Theo would rather rely on almost anyone else. A good read.
The Bashful Bride 5* - A marriage of convenience arranged on the spur of the moment, is followed by a difficult journey, fears, regrets and dark secrets. Bex is a highly principled man who must follow his conscience but Ester has lived with the fear of losing a loved one all her life and does not want to take on that burden with a husband who takes risks. Can they have a happy marriage? Another good read.
Hopefully the typos found in both stories will have been addressed by the time this is published.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Bashful Bride 5* - A marriage of convenience arranged on the spur of the moment, is followed by a difficult journey, fears, regrets and dark secrets. Bex is a highly principled man who must follow his conscience but Ester has lived with the fear of losing a loved one all her life and does not want to take on that burden with a husband who takes risks. Can they have a happy marriage? Another good read.
Hopefully the typos found in both stories will have been addressed by the time this is published.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 25, 2021
2/5 stars!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The premise of this one is very interesting for me and made me anticipate the reading experience with this book. Overall, the book has a great storyline and an okay characterization. I appreciate how the author really showed the depths of these characters, however, this resulted in over-writing for me. I think this book is just too long for what it is and it could have gone another round of edits for conciseness. Most of the time, I'm not able to enjoy the story because of the very slow-paced nature of the writing style and the constant repetitions of thoughts, dialogues, monologues, and the likes. The characters, though they are characterized well, sometimes felt like they are overwritten as well. I wished this book was shorter and much more direct to the point, then I think I would really love the book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The premise of this one is very interesting for me and made me anticipate the reading experience with this book. Overall, the book has a great storyline and an okay characterization. I appreciate how the author really showed the depths of these characters, however, this resulted in over-writing for me. I think this book is just too long for what it is and it could have gone another round of edits for conciseness. Most of the time, I'm not able to enjoy the story because of the very slow-paced nature of the writing style and the constant repetitions of thoughts, dialogues, monologues, and the likes. The characters, though they are characterized well, sometimes felt like they are overwritten as well. I wished this book was shorter and much more direct to the point, then I think I would really love the book.
July 29, 2021
2.5-3 Stars! This book is actually the first 2 books from the ‘Advertisements for Love’ series. The first book, ‘The Bittersweet Bride’ was good but I did feel lost at times, like I had missed a page. I wasn’t a fan of either of the main characters. Theo and Ewan both annoyed me in different ways. Too much back and forth between ‘I love you, I hate you, I missed you, but I still hate you, I can’t trust you, I still love you, etc’. Make up your minds already! I’m just not of fan of books with an easily solved problem with communication from the 2 main characters. It usually just gets me frustrated and asking the book ‘why won’t they just communicate?!’. Communication in any kind of relationship is key! I didn’t read the 2nd book since I wasn’t a huge fan of the first.
*I received this book at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*
*I received this book at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*
August 21, 2021
I struggled a bit with these stories as I found the writing rather long-winded. The first story, The Bittersweet Bride, was complex and complicated from the start and it just didn’t grab me. I didn’t understand why Theodosia was hiding after retrieving her letters, I found Ewan’s animosity unconvincing at first and I couldn’t understand why Theodosia was working out the value of meals sold to tradesmen’s wives. There was just too much going on to allow me to build empathy with Theodosia and Ewan. I just didn’t get a chance to get to know either of them well. I’m afraid that affected my enjoyment of the whole book. That said, I did like author Vanessa Riley’s introduction of women of colour not only as regency heroines but as women with positions in society. That was well thought out and well executed.
August 29, 2021
HR is usually not my cup of tea as a subgenre, but when I read the blurbs, I was all in. These are two books in one: The Bittersweet Bride and The Bashful Bride
The first book has the dreaded miscommunication trope that irritates the stuffings out of all of us, but let's give credit where credit is due. It is still a great story.
The second book has more entertainment value due to a more fluffy trope.
I feel like this is the type of HR that I might read from now on.
Because this subgenre got too repetitive, so I am glad we have authors adding the type of topics that also belong in this subgenre.
Are the themes heavy? At times, but they are supposed to be.
These books made me think and I adore we have BIPOC protagonists, a woman landowner, and a shy but strong-willed heiress. Yes, absolutely... give me all of this, because it's what I want to read!
The first book has the dreaded miscommunication trope that irritates the stuffings out of all of us, but let's give credit where credit is due. It is still a great story.
The second book has more entertainment value due to a more fluffy trope.
I feel like this is the type of HR that I might read from now on.
Because this subgenre got too repetitive, so I am glad we have authors adding the type of topics that also belong in this subgenre.
Are the themes heavy? At times, but they are supposed to be.
These books made me think and I adore we have BIPOC protagonists, a woman landowner, and a shy but strong-willed heiress. Yes, absolutely... give me all of this, because it's what I want to read!
February 13, 2023
There are two stories in this book by Vanessa Riley. The first story The Bittersweet Bride is about Theodosia Cecil a widow who advertises for a husband so as not to lose her land. She meets her long lost love Ewan who she thought was lost in the war. She knows that Ewan is the son of the man who is trying to steal her land. Theodosia and Ewan soon learn to work out their differences to make their second chance at love work.
In the second story The Bashful Bride, Ester Croome is a shy heiress who elopes with Authur Bex a handsome actor with a dark past. As Ester grows out of her shell and becomes more mature and blossoms into a woman, Authur works on his past secrets. Ester and Arthur both come from different backgrounds and work out their problems to save their marriage. I really enjoyed reading these wonderfully written romance stories.
In the second story The Bashful Bride, Ester Croome is a shy heiress who elopes with Authur Bex a handsome actor with a dark past. As Ester grows out of her shell and becomes more mature and blossoms into a woman, Authur works on his past secrets. Ester and Arthur both come from different backgrounds and work out their problems to save their marriage. I really enjoyed reading these wonderfully written romance stories.
November 14, 2021
This book contains 2 previously written books.
For the first story, I not only enjoyed the historical aspect of a woman of color not being bound by slavery, but the growth between the two main characters. Such a phenomenal job done by the author.
For the second story, Ester Croome who is what's called a Blackamoor, is being forced to marry a philanderer to help save her father's fabric textile business. In order to escape, she runs off with Actor Arthur Bex ( who unbeknown to him, Ester has been infactuated with him for a while). They run off and trouble follows them. I kept going back and forth between liking the different characters, then not liking them or vice versa
I really enjoyed both books in the series. The author did such a great job with both stories.
For the first story, I not only enjoyed the historical aspect of a woman of color not being bound by slavery, but the growth between the two main characters. Such a phenomenal job done by the author.
For the second story, Ester Croome who is what's called a Blackamoor, is being forced to marry a philanderer to help save her father's fabric textile business. In order to escape, she runs off with Actor Arthur Bex ( who unbeknown to him, Ester has been infactuated with him for a while). They run off and trouble follows them. I kept going back and forth between liking the different characters, then not liking them or vice versa
I really enjoyed both books in the series. The author did such a great job with both stories.
August 24, 2021
Previously published, this set of two books, contains THE BITTERSWEET BRIDE and THE BASHFUL BRIDE (Advertisements for Love series). The books revolve around newspaper advertisements, a lady looking for a husband and a gentleman looking for a wife. These two books are multiracial romances. Two Blackmore women want to marry, but face challenges to marry outside their race. Where they live in reality, most of the world does not. Having money is their best advantage, but finding a husband to love and stand up for them is the greatest gift of all. Riley's characters have their flaws, but find the strength to overcome them.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
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September 2, 2021Author Vanessa Riley is an excellent storyteller of diverse historical regency romantic stories. These highly addictive reads had me glued to its pages and unable to put down. The Bittersweet Bride and The Bashful Bride are exceptional love stories of self-discovery, acceptance, real life emotions and second chances. Both books are rich in content and drama! I loved all the secrets, passion and the journey to discovering that although the road to HEA is littered with conflicts such as race, discrimination, and class differences, true love will and can prevail. #TheBridesofLondonanAdvertisementsforLovecollection #NetGalley
August 14, 2021
I thought that these were two very good romances. These stories are rich with emotion, drama and twists. The writing is well done and I found these books easy to read. I'll be honest and say the characters were a split decision for me. Some I liked and some... not so much. I thought both storylines were entertaining and they kept me engaged. The romance, feels and swoon are plentiful and I found it refreshing that these books had a more serious side to them. I am posting a candid, unsolicited review.
October 19, 2021
The Bittersweet Bride - 4 stars
I really enjoyed Theo and Ewan's story. Though choices they made and decisions from others, these two were separated when they were young. It was fun watching these two find their way back to one another!
The Bashful Bride - 5 stars
I adored Ester and Bex's story! Ester has loved watching Bex perform on stage and has fallen in love with that persona, but will she love the real man behind the actor? What a wonderful story!
I really enjoyed Theo and Ewan's story. Though choices they made and decisions from others, these two were separated when they were young. It was fun watching these two find their way back to one another!
The Bashful Bride - 5 stars
I adored Ester and Bex's story! Ester has loved watching Bex perform on stage and has fallen in love with that persona, but will she love the real man behind the actor? What a wonderful story!
August 9, 2021
As a Black female, in an interracial marriage, this read was a special treat for me! You don’t often read about interracial couples, especially not historical, and this one was done well. I recommend it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 12, 2021
I very much enjoyed both of these books and look forward to reading the remainder of the series. Both books were real and raw and emotional. In my opinion, you can't easily beat a second chance romance or a race to Gretna Green so these were both definitely up my alley. Both books dealt with issues of race and slavery in the context of the time and in my opinion did so very deftly.
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