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Love's Second Chance Complete Series #8
Destroyed & Restored: The Baron's Courageous Wife
A fearful lady. A shamed lord. And a hand at cards that will change both their lives. Terrified of her father's temper, LADY ADELAIDE has lived a life of complete obedience. However, now, when her father threatens to gamble away her hand in marriage in the next card game, she turns to a trusted friend for help. A plan is hatched and put into motion to save Adelaide from an unfortunate marriage...by marrying her to a suitable man...by a young woman's standards. After allowing his father to manipulate him all his life, MATTHEW TURNER, BARON WHITWORTH, sees himself as the black sheep of the family, distrusted by all. So, when his cousin asks for his help to save a raven-haired lady from a painful marriage, he agrees immediately. Before long, Matthew comes to realise that the woman he is to protect is the very woman he has been admiring from afar for a while. What will Matthew do when his cousin urges him to marry Lady Adelaide in order to free her from her father's influence? Will he confess his love? Or will they live side by side forever?
Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2020
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Bree Wolf
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Excited for my new series? The Flames of Winter Series:
An epic love story that spans across an entire series. Ensure that you have a good cup of tea, something to nibble on and perhaps a box of tissues at hand before you dive into this slow-burn Regency romance full of enchanting moments between Sarah and Keir, the little wisp and the highlander.
Excited for my new series? The Flames of Winter Series:
An epic love story that spans across an entire series. Ensure that you have a good cup of tea, something to nibble on and perhaps a box of tissues at hand before you dive into this slow-burn Regency romance full of enchanting moments between Sarah and Keir, the little wisp and the highlander.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
April 11, 2022
A Tedious and a Tired Trope
I found this book very hard to get through. The hero was one of the sweetest heroes ever and I really liked that part. The heroine annoyed me. I understand fear but after all he did she kept believing he was going to hurt her. I was so glad at the end And he again proved what a noble man he was. The big secret was way too easy to figure out. I decided that from the start. The Father was vile, until he wasnt. Everyone has secrets and pain that No one else can see and I liked at the end he did try to do the right thing. Too late perhaps and I definitely didn't like the outcome. He was pretty irredeemable but at least he tried. No spoilers but it is a good book, even with the tedious prose, and it's free in KU. I do like this series.
I found this book very hard to get through. The hero was one of the sweetest heroes ever and I really liked that part. The heroine annoyed me. I understand fear but after all he did she kept believing he was going to hurt her. I was so glad at the end And he again proved what a noble man he was. The big secret was way too easy to figure out. I decided that from the start. The Father was vile, until he wasnt. Everyone has secrets and pain that No one else can see and I liked at the end he did try to do the right thing. Too late perhaps and I definitely didn't like the outcome. He was pretty irredeemable but at least he tried. No spoilers but it is a good book, even with the tedious prose, and it's free in KU. I do like this series.
January 5, 2021
I'd give this 4.5 stars if it was allowed. A historical romance with a happily ever. The author delves into the victory over family abuse and coming out the other side to find healing.
October 14, 2019
Matthew Turner, Baron Whitworth, feels less than worthy. Of family, of friends, of happiness. His father manipulated him into believe that his cousin was a wastrel and disappoint, but all the while was sabotaging his successes and safety; hoping to eliminate him from the inheriting the baronetcy. After realizing his father's true nature and his own inability to see through his deception. Determined to redeem himself he jumps at the opportunity to prove himself, to help his cousin and to save a beautiful woman from the unscrupulous plotting of her father.
Lady Adelaide's father, prone to angry violence and drunken gambling, has lost her hand in marriage in an unwise game of cards. But Lady Elton steps in to protect her, plotting to keep Lady Adelaide from a miserable and unsuitable marriage. But what if the only way to help her is for Matthew to marry her himself?
_______________________________
I enjoyed reading about both Matthew and Adelaide, plus seeing Tristain and Beth again. I wasn't quite expecting there to be a book in the series telling Matthew's story. Although we met him in the sixth book as a bakground character, we didn't see him too much. But now I am glad we did get his story. And if I'm being honest I was more invested in Matthew's side of the story than I was Adelaide. I think this is because I am disappointed in her for holding back her secret for SO long, even after others counseled her to come clean about it and Matthew had showed in more ways than one that he would accept her, past and all.
I think my biggest complaint would be that, although both main characters have undergone a sizable amount of trauma, the book almost solely focuses on Adelaide and her trauma, her growth. Matthew is given very little room to work through his own trust issues, whereas Adelaide is given so much. I found this to be quite unfair to his characater. The only way we can truly see any growth in his character is by comparing him to the Matthew of "Betrayed & Blessed."
Although not entirely necesary, I would recommend reading the sixth book in the series(Betrayed & Blessed) before reading this one because then you can see the growth that Matthew undergoes and better understand the extent of the connection between Adelaide and Beth.
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Many thanks to Bree Wolf, who shared an electronic copy of this book with me for reviewing purposes. This is my honest review.
Lady Adelaide's father, prone to angry violence and drunken gambling, has lost her hand in marriage in an unwise game of cards. But Lady Elton steps in to protect her, plotting to keep Lady Adelaide from a miserable and unsuitable marriage. But what if the only way to help her is for Matthew to marry her himself?
_______________________________
I enjoyed reading about both Matthew and Adelaide, plus seeing Tristain and Beth again. I wasn't quite expecting there to be a book in the series telling Matthew's story. Although we met him in the sixth book as a bakground character, we didn't see him too much. But now I am glad we did get his story. And if I'm being honest I was more invested in Matthew's side of the story than I was Adelaide. I think this is because I am disappointed in her for holding back her secret for SO long, even after others counseled her to come clean about it and Matthew had showed in more ways than one that he would accept her, past and all.
I think my biggest complaint would be that, although both main characters have undergone a sizable amount of trauma, the book almost solely focuses on Adelaide and her trauma, her growth. Matthew is given very little room to work through his own trust issues, whereas Adelaide is given so much. I found this to be quite unfair to his characater. The only way we can truly see any growth in his character is by comparing him to the Matthew of "Betrayed & Blessed."
Although not entirely necesary, I would recommend reading the sixth book in the series(Betrayed & Blessed) before reading this one because then you can see the growth that Matthew undergoes and better understand the extent of the connection between Adelaide and Beth.
___
Many thanks to Bree Wolf, who shared an electronic copy of this book with me for reviewing purposes. This is my honest review.
February 25, 2019
Terrified of her father’s temper, Lady Adelaide has lived a life of complete obedience. Now her father threatens to gamble away her hand in marriage in the next card game. Her grandmother hears of the plan & hatches her own plan. After allowing his father to manipulate him all his life, Matthew Turner, Baron Whitworth, sees himself as the black sheep of the family, distrusted by all. So, when his cousin Tristan asks for his help to save a raven-haired lady from a painful marriage, he agrees immediately. Before long, Matthew comes to realise that the woman he is to protect is the very woman he has been admiring from afar for a while.
A lovely, delightful gentle romance, I must admit I thought Adelaide was wishy washy to begin with but the further I read the more I admired her & the gradual way she reacted to Matthew's teasing was beautifully handled. Of course we met Matthew in Tristan’s story. I liked him, eventually, in that story but I loved how he had matured & now became the man he wanted to be. Another captivating read, this series goes from strength to strength. One of the delights of the series is how characters from previous books make appearances so building & enlarging Bree’s Regency world. Very well portrayed characters, a well paced story everything for another brilliant read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A lovely, delightful gentle romance, I must admit I thought Adelaide was wishy washy to begin with but the further I read the more I admired her & the gradual way she reacted to Matthew's teasing was beautifully handled. Of course we met Matthew in Tristan’s story. I liked him, eventually, in that story but I loved how he had matured & now became the man he wanted to be. Another captivating read, this series goes from strength to strength. One of the delights of the series is how characters from previous books make appearances so building & enlarging Bree’s Regency world. Very well portrayed characters, a well paced story everything for another brilliant read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
February 21, 2019
Gambled away by her father! Rescued by a virtual stranger!
SETTING: 1807 (or there about), the lives of a young woman at the mercy of her gambling father and a young man whose father shot him change course. Both are scared from their earlier lives, albeit in different ways. Adelaide’s good friend Beth is married to Matthew’s cousin Tristan. When Adelaide confides to Beth the circumstances surrounding her father’s intention of gambling of her hand to try to regain some of his lost fortune, Beth and Tristan ask Matthew to observe Lord Radcliff as he gambles, so that Adelaide can be forewarned if the worst happens. (As it happens, Matthew and Adelaide have never been formally introduced, although Matthew has observed Adelaide at various social functions in the past). Thus, the stage is set for Matthew and Adelaide to meet.
An additional storyline that is woven throughout is that of 2 year old Tillie, who was brought to Adelaide’s house to be raised as the child of her brother. Adelaide has taken over the care of Tillie, and fears for Tillie should she be married off to an uncaring man who wins her in gambling. Tillie’s story takes on more importance as the story progresses. Will Lord Radcliff really gamble Adelaide? Will Matthew be able to intervene in time to save Adelaide from a life under the thumb of a lecherous old man? What will happy to Tillie when Adelaide does marry?
CRITIQUE: The heartbreak of families is brought out for study in the romance story. How Matthew manages to sort out his feelings over his father shooting him, then being killed right in front of him, is examined very sensitively. Adelaide’s life has not been a bed of roses to this point either. She is a young woman who suffered abuse by a selfish, heartless young man who still poses a threat to her (on top of the threat of being gambled away by her father!) This story helps us appreciate how difficult life could be in 1807 for a young woman. The storylines are good, being smoothly woven together. There is a HEA, and the problems are worked out by the end.
I received a free copy of this book. I am voluntarily writing this review.
SETTING: 1807 (or there about), the lives of a young woman at the mercy of her gambling father and a young man whose father shot him change course. Both are scared from their earlier lives, albeit in different ways. Adelaide’s good friend Beth is married to Matthew’s cousin Tristan. When Adelaide confides to Beth the circumstances surrounding her father’s intention of gambling of her hand to try to regain some of his lost fortune, Beth and Tristan ask Matthew to observe Lord Radcliff as he gambles, so that Adelaide can be forewarned if the worst happens. (As it happens, Matthew and Adelaide have never been formally introduced, although Matthew has observed Adelaide at various social functions in the past). Thus, the stage is set for Matthew and Adelaide to meet.
An additional storyline that is woven throughout is that of 2 year old Tillie, who was brought to Adelaide’s house to be raised as the child of her brother. Adelaide has taken over the care of Tillie, and fears for Tillie should she be married off to an uncaring man who wins her in gambling. Tillie’s story takes on more importance as the story progresses. Will Lord Radcliff really gamble Adelaide? Will Matthew be able to intervene in time to save Adelaide from a life under the thumb of a lecherous old man? What will happy to Tillie when Adelaide does marry?
CRITIQUE: The heartbreak of families is brought out for study in the romance story. How Matthew manages to sort out his feelings over his father shooting him, then being killed right in front of him, is examined very sensitively. Adelaide’s life has not been a bed of roses to this point either. She is a young woman who suffered abuse by a selfish, heartless young man who still poses a threat to her (on top of the threat of being gambled away by her father!) This story helps us appreciate how difficult life could be in 1807 for a young woman. The storylines are good, being smoothly woven together. There is a HEA, and the problems are worked out by the end.
I received a free copy of this book. I am voluntarily writing this review.
March 2, 2019
Bree Wolf has done another amazing job of telling a story. The title is so spot on. Destroyed and Restored aptly describes the hero and heroine. They were both destroyed by their abusive father's but we're restored through the love of each other. Well worth reading.
February 22, 2019
Two Broken Hearts Mended Into One Loving Heart
Her father has all but gambled away the family's fortune. Now he plans to gamble away her hand in marriage. Winner may take all, but she stands to lose everything she holds dear.
His family has forgiven him, but he can't forgive himself. He fears he will become his father and hurt anyone close to him. He longs for peace, joy and happiness, but is he willing to risk his heart.
I am a ardent fan of Bree Wolf's writing. Her stories are emotional, her characters are vibrant, her writing is clean and descriptive, and her endings are satisfying. Her latest work, Destroyed and Restored did not disappoint. It is truly another five star read.
If you read Betrayed & Blessed and wondered what happened to Matthew Turner – where was his happy ending? – well Destroyed & Restored is his and Lady Adelaide Cartwright's sweet love story. As with her other books, Ms. Wolf allows her interesting characters to make either pivotal or cameo appearances in subsequent stories within a series. Which is what she did with this book. I loved getting reacquainted with Tristan and Beth, and catching up with their love match.
I look forward to the next book in Ms. Wolf's Love's Second Chance series.
Disclosure: I received a complementary copy of this book via Prolific Works from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review. I also submitted this review to Amazon
Her father has all but gambled away the family's fortune. Now he plans to gamble away her hand in marriage. Winner may take all, but she stands to lose everything she holds dear.
His family has forgiven him, but he can't forgive himself. He fears he will become his father and hurt anyone close to him. He longs for peace, joy and happiness, but is he willing to risk his heart.
I am a ardent fan of Bree Wolf's writing. Her stories are emotional, her characters are vibrant, her writing is clean and descriptive, and her endings are satisfying. Her latest work, Destroyed and Restored did not disappoint. It is truly another five star read.
If you read Betrayed & Blessed and wondered what happened to Matthew Turner – where was his happy ending? – well Destroyed & Restored is his and Lady Adelaide Cartwright's sweet love story. As with her other books, Ms. Wolf allows her interesting characters to make either pivotal or cameo appearances in subsequent stories within a series. Which is what she did with this book. I loved getting reacquainted with Tristan and Beth, and catching up with their love match.
I look forward to the next book in Ms. Wolf's Love's Second Chance series.
Disclosure: I received a complementary copy of this book via Prolific Works from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review. I also submitted this review to Amazon
July 19, 2020
Enjoyable story. 4☆
March 20, 2021
Overwrought, overly emotional and humourless. Not for fans of Georgette Heyer!
January 12, 2021
Dnf at 22%
I'm sorry to give a poor review but they didn't meet until 17-20% and it is sooooo slow and repetitive.
I'm sorry to give a poor review but they didn't meet until 17-20% and it is sooooo slow and repetitive.
May 14, 2021
5 stars
I received a free copy of the clean historical novel Love’s Second Chance Series book #12: Destroyed & Restored The Baron’s Courageous Wife by Bree Wolf and this review was given freely.
Matthew suffering from regret, insecurity regarding his self worth and nightmares after a duel gone wrong vows to do anything his cousin Tristan requires.
Coincidence and a threat to use Lady Adelaide as collateral at a card game embroils Matthew the Baron Whitworth in a marriage of convenience to the woman he has been secretly attracted to. Complexed, interesting and easy flowing this novel focuses on such topics as legitimacy and birthright vs blood and emotions as the true meaning of family and recovering from abuse. There are some twists and secrets but the end is ultimately heartwarming.
I received a free copy of the clean historical novel Love’s Second Chance Series book #12: Destroyed & Restored The Baron’s Courageous Wife by Bree Wolf and this review was given freely.
Matthew suffering from regret, insecurity regarding his self worth and nightmares after a duel gone wrong vows to do anything his cousin Tristan requires.
Coincidence and a threat to use Lady Adelaide as collateral at a card game embroils Matthew the Baron Whitworth in a marriage of convenience to the woman he has been secretly attracted to. Complexed, interesting and easy flowing this novel focuses on such topics as legitimacy and birthright vs blood and emotions as the true meaning of family and recovering from abuse. There are some twists and secrets but the end is ultimately heartwarming.
August 15, 2019
Adelaide's father was a gambler. When he had run out of coin, he offered his daughter's hand in marriage to allow him to keep playing. When it is discovered her father lost her hand at the table, a plan is quickly put in place to save her. Adelaide is afraid all is lost and her secret will be discovered. This story kept me turning the pages. It is full of mystery and suspense with a very happy ending.
July 31, 2021
My goodness, I can't remember the last time I read a book with 2 MC who made self-flagellation such a main life goal. It frankly quickly became tiresome. There were also so many unbelievable and contradictory plot elements, which ultimately spoiled the book for me.
First off there's Adelaide. I didn't get her at all. She is afraid of her own shadow because her father has an anger management issue and frequently has outbursts of temper. I'm not trying to downplay growing up with that (been there, done that) but she acts as if he physically beat her regularly - cringing away from people, afraid to make eye contact, afraid to speak at times, and I think she spent at least 30% of her time on the page trembling over something or other.
Yet! She allowed She plays the part of the trembling (always trembling)
Then there's Tillie. Tillie was supposed to be 2 years old, yet she spoke full and complex sentences rather more like a 4-5 year old. Why would her father, allow a bastard child to live in their house and be raised as
And speaking of Bart, what was the point of
The ending was a complete wtf for me. She finally decides to Nope, I don't buy it. Similarly with Also nope.
There were so many things that I just didn’t buy:
First off there's Adelaide. I didn't get her at all. She is afraid of her own shadow because her father has an anger management issue and frequently has outbursts of temper. I'm not trying to downplay growing up with that (been there, done that) but she acts as if he physically beat her regularly - cringing away from people, afraid to make eye contact, afraid to speak at times, and I think she spent at least 30% of her time on the page trembling over something or other.
Yet! She allowed She plays the part of the trembling (always trembling)
Then there's Tillie. Tillie was supposed to be 2 years old, yet she spoke full and complex sentences rather more like a 4-5 year old. Why would her father, allow a bastard child to live in their house and be raised as
And speaking of Bart, what was the point of
The ending was a complete wtf for me. She finally decides to Nope, I don't buy it. Similarly with Also nope.
There were so many things that I just didn’t buy:
March 11, 2019
If you like tropes...
It’s a well known trope of romance novels that one or more of the main characters feels guilty about something. Often the sense of guilt may be reasonably rational at the outset but just as often it becomes an overblown obstacle to the happiness of the H/h. Oh, I know, there has to be something to create dramatic tension, but in the case of Matthew, our hero, his guilt and sense of responsibility is seriously overblown and unbelievable. He is plagued by self doubt and possesses a near groveling, anxious-to-please personality.
Another well used romance novel trope is “damsel-in-distress.” Matthew, when presented with the dilemma facing Lady Adelaide, itself yet another literary chestnut, feels he “must do something” for a woman he’s seen but never met. She’s being forced into marriage because her father wagers her “hand” in a card game as a last ditch effort to turn around his losing streak. Continuing to beat this trope into the ground, it is a coarse man-of-trade who wins consigning Adelaide to becoming the reluctant wife of an elderly commoner (gasp!). Matthew, observing the game, feels guilty which is something he does quite regularly. His valet must really struggle to keep his hair shirts pressed. If course, he is promoted to come to the rescue, the detail of which I will spare you.
Let’s talk about Adelaide. I started writing this review at Chapter 4. So far, she is a hand-wringing mess, self described as lacking in courage and all too willing to be her father’s victim. Thankfully, her grandmother displays a little moxie in trying to mitigate the problem. I have a string dislike of milk-and-water Misses who wait for someone to “save” them. Even though her friends have jumped through hoops and have saved her from her father’s uncaring machinations, she is still weeping and wringing her hands over what MIGHT happen is she marries Matthew. Besides that that and the AWFUL SECRET she’s hiding. Trust me, if you’ve read even one Regency romance you’ll quickly figure out the AWFUL SECRET.
Bottom line: The book’s title, Destroyed and Restored refers to the destructive parenting each protagonist experienced and the restoration of their souls, if you will, by coming to love one another. I get that. But the only thing that lifts this book beyond one star is Matthew’s transformation as he works to raise Adelaide from her extreme hand-wringing, self-doubting mindset. His growth is believable but Adelaide continues to cling to her self-flagellation, distrust and handwringing throughout more of the story than I thought necessary. My enjoyment of the novel is hampered by the author’s excesses. Had, she not TROWELED ON Adelaide’s insecurities so thickly, coating nearly every page with it through two-thirds of the novel, it would have been a much better read.
It’s a well known trope of romance novels that one or more of the main characters feels guilty about something. Often the sense of guilt may be reasonably rational at the outset but just as often it becomes an overblown obstacle to the happiness of the H/h. Oh, I know, there has to be something to create dramatic tension, but in the case of Matthew, our hero, his guilt and sense of responsibility is seriously overblown and unbelievable. He is plagued by self doubt and possesses a near groveling, anxious-to-please personality.
Another well used romance novel trope is “damsel-in-distress.” Matthew, when presented with the dilemma facing Lady Adelaide, itself yet another literary chestnut, feels he “must do something” for a woman he’s seen but never met. She’s being forced into marriage because her father wagers her “hand” in a card game as a last ditch effort to turn around his losing streak. Continuing to beat this trope into the ground, it is a coarse man-of-trade who wins consigning Adelaide to becoming the reluctant wife of an elderly commoner (gasp!). Matthew, observing the game, feels guilty which is something he does quite regularly. His valet must really struggle to keep his hair shirts pressed. If course, he is promoted to come to the rescue, the detail of which I will spare you.
Let’s talk about Adelaide. I started writing this review at Chapter 4. So far, she is a hand-wringing mess, self described as lacking in courage and all too willing to be her father’s victim. Thankfully, her grandmother displays a little moxie in trying to mitigate the problem. I have a string dislike of milk-and-water Misses who wait for someone to “save” them. Even though her friends have jumped through hoops and have saved her from her father’s uncaring machinations, she is still weeping and wringing her hands over what MIGHT happen is she marries Matthew. Besides that that and the AWFUL SECRET she’s hiding. Trust me, if you’ve read even one Regency romance you’ll quickly figure out the AWFUL SECRET.
Bottom line: The book’s title, Destroyed and Restored refers to the destructive parenting each protagonist experienced and the restoration of their souls, if you will, by coming to love one another. I get that. But the only thing that lifts this book beyond one star is Matthew’s transformation as he works to raise Adelaide from her extreme hand-wringing, self-doubting mindset. His growth is believable but Adelaide continues to cling to her self-flagellation, distrust and handwringing throughout more of the story than I thought necessary. My enjoyment of the novel is hampered by the author’s excesses. Had, she not TROWELED ON Adelaide’s insecurities so thickly, coating nearly every page with it through two-thirds of the novel, it would have been a much better read.
March 28, 2019
This was distressing to read. When I was about a third of the way in, I did not think I could finish the book. I am glad I did. It is hard to express the damage that the Earl of Radcliff did to his daughter Adelaide Cartwright. He terrorized her with his anger to force her submission. She grew up shutting down her emotions so she could survive. Despite her father, Adelaide was kind and loving. She doted on her niece Tillie. When the Earl gambled Adelaide's hand in marriage away, the man who won the card game was like her father. Due to the love of her grandmother and her friend Lady Beth Elton, they figured out a way to save Adelaide from a horrible fate. Matthew Turner, Baron Whitworth, became Adelaide's knight in shining armor. They wed so she could escape her father. The Earl was furious because he was to financially gain from Adelaide's marriage to the other man. Matthew had his demons. He father was a ruthless man who cared nothing for anyone. He was greedy and loved money and status above all else. A situation of life and death came about and that opened Matthew's eyes. He realized he did not want to be like his father. So, when he wed, he feared his own anger. He would never raise a hand to any woman but that did not mean he would not act out. After he wed Adelaide, he realized how much she feared him. She did not trust any man. Matthew with his demons and Adelaide with her secret, he tried to forge a path for them. He wanted to be happy. He wanted Adelaide to trust him, not to fear him. It was not easy. Adelaide was so messed up with fear, she knew no other way to behave. Then Adelaide's grandmother, who had always been her champion, held a secret from her. Too many secrets, too many worries, too many fears. This is a very emotional book. It is an easy and quick read, moderately paced. It held my attention from page to page. As painful as it was to read about Adelaide and Matthew, also about the Earl, her brother John, her mother and Matthew's mother, it had a most satisfying end. The conclusion was not over the top and was very realistic. This is an inspiration to read. The way the human spirit can overcome tremendous odds against it, is amazing. I enjoyed reading this and highly recommend it.
February 26, 2019
A fearful lady. A shamed lord. And a hand at cards that will change both their lives.
Terrified of her father’s temper, LADY ADELAIDE has lived a life of complete obedience. However, now, when her father threatens to gamble away her hand in marriage in the next card game, she turns to a trusted friend for help.
A plan is hatched and put into motion to save Adelaide from an unfortunate marriage…by marrying her to a suitable man…by a young woman’s standards.
After allowing his father to manipulate him all his life, MATTHEW TURNER, BARON WHITWORTH, sees himself as the black sheep of the family, distrusted by all. So, when his cousin asks for his help to save a raven-haired lady from a painful marriage, he agrees immediately. Before long, Matthew comes to realise that the woman he is to protect is the very woman he has been admiring from afar for a while.
Once again we have a beautiful story of life and learning to be ones' own self.
I have really enjoyed this unique story line and how it focused on the mental abuse and the constraints that were put upon women during this era.
I loved seeing the cross over of the characters from a previous story; the characters were just wonderful and you feel such emotion for them.
This story was just so well written and compelling and I felt as if I was there with them. I just have to say the author has produced such a jewel of a story and I just loved reading and watching the characters bloom in this one.
I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest voluntary review.
Terrified of her father’s temper, LADY ADELAIDE has lived a life of complete obedience. However, now, when her father threatens to gamble away her hand in marriage in the next card game, she turns to a trusted friend for help.
A plan is hatched and put into motion to save Adelaide from an unfortunate marriage…by marrying her to a suitable man…by a young woman’s standards.
After allowing his father to manipulate him all his life, MATTHEW TURNER, BARON WHITWORTH, sees himself as the black sheep of the family, distrusted by all. So, when his cousin asks for his help to save a raven-haired lady from a painful marriage, he agrees immediately. Before long, Matthew comes to realise that the woman he is to protect is the very woman he has been admiring from afar for a while.
Once again we have a beautiful story of life and learning to be ones' own self.
I have really enjoyed this unique story line and how it focused on the mental abuse and the constraints that were put upon women during this era.
I loved seeing the cross over of the characters from a previous story; the characters were just wonderful and you feel such emotion for them.
This story was just so well written and compelling and I felt as if I was there with them. I just have to say the author has produced such a jewel of a story and I just loved reading and watching the characters bloom in this one.
I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest voluntary review.
February 21, 2019
It always amazes me how two people who have been belittled and trampled down, can become the source of healing and restoration for one another. Perhaps it is that they have an understanding of brokenness and are therefore protective of the person they love. Matthew has admired Adelaide from afar, but when he realises that her future happiness is at stake, he is willing to overcome his own fears to save her from her father's reckless gambling. The story is fairly dark in parts and when past secrets come to the fore, one wonders how Matthew will handle Adelaide's revelations. It horrifies me to realise that Adelaide was no more than a gambling chip in her father's estimation, and his careless disregard for his family's safety and wellbeing is appalling. However, are circumstances any different today for people caught in the cycle of addictions? One could only admire and respect Adelaide, especially when she had the courage to expose her deepest secrets. On the other hand, Matthew is the kind of hero every woman needs, one who will accept her as she is and love her unconditionally. Although this book is part of a series and some of the characters from previous books appear in this one too, it is nevertheless a standalone and comes to pleasing conclusion. I received a copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
February 21, 2019
ONE DELIGHTFUL READ!!!
Ok guys, here we go. This is one fantastic page turning bombshell that grabs your attention from start to finish. You have your whirlwind of emotions and adventures that keep your head spinning. If you can't sink into a good book, its not worth reading. And let me be frank, this is definitely an absolutely amazing tale. The characters are intriguing, complex and realistic. Their personalities and individual qualities that carry them forward and progressed them through the roles created for each one. Well developed, balanced and perfectly relatable. The scenes so vividly detailed. They flowed smoothly and each scene described to perfection that made for a remarkable bockdrop. Varying contrasts added a little spice to the mix for full flavored appeal. Bree definitely knows her stuff. Not a dull moment. I loved the banter and chemistry between the two main characters. All the twists, turns and unexpected surprises kept it fresh and exciting. Bree did a remarkable job bringing this read to life flawlessly. A word of advice my friends, when you grab your copy, pull up a comfy seat, a snack, kick back and relax. You won't be putting this little jewel down for a while. To top it off if you're like me you'll read it again and again. Yes my friends it is that good. Great job Bree, thanks for sharing this awesome read with us.
Ok guys, here we go. This is one fantastic page turning bombshell that grabs your attention from start to finish. You have your whirlwind of emotions and adventures that keep your head spinning. If you can't sink into a good book, its not worth reading. And let me be frank, this is definitely an absolutely amazing tale. The characters are intriguing, complex and realistic. Their personalities and individual qualities that carry them forward and progressed them through the roles created for each one. Well developed, balanced and perfectly relatable. The scenes so vividly detailed. They flowed smoothly and each scene described to perfection that made for a remarkable bockdrop. Varying contrasts added a little spice to the mix for full flavored appeal. Bree definitely knows her stuff. Not a dull moment. I loved the banter and chemistry between the two main characters. All the twists, turns and unexpected surprises kept it fresh and exciting. Bree did a remarkable job bringing this read to life flawlessly. A word of advice my friends, when you grab your copy, pull up a comfy seat, a snack, kick back and relax. You won't be putting this little jewel down for a while. To top it off if you're like me you'll read it again and again. Yes my friends it is that good. Great job Bree, thanks for sharing this awesome read with us.
February 26, 2019
Destroyed & Restored, the 12th book in Bree Wolf’s Second Chance series is a well written, emotionally gripping story of two souls who were held hostage by the sins of their fathers. Though his father died, Matthew Turner cannot escape the guilt he carries for his father’s actions and the resultant emotional scars they caused. Lady Adelaide Cartwright’s father has brought his family to the brink of financial ruin through his gambling habits and intends to barter her off for the most lucrative marriage offer.
Matthew and Adelaide’s story is very heartwarming. They were both tortured souls. Matthew had a problem dealing with his anger. Adelaide had no reason to trust men. Together, they were able to overcome their fears, bring secrets to light, establish trust with one another, and form a lasting, loving relationship.
Destroyed & Restored was a most satisfying read. Highly recommended by this reader. I was fortunate to receive an advance reader copy from the author and offer this voluntary review.
Reasons I enjoyed this book: realistic; wonderful characters; page-turner; romantic
Matthew and Adelaide’s story is very heartwarming. They were both tortured souls. Matthew had a problem dealing with his anger. Adelaide had no reason to trust men. Together, they were able to overcome their fears, bring secrets to light, establish trust with one another, and form a lasting, loving relationship.
Destroyed & Restored was a most satisfying read. Highly recommended by this reader. I was fortunate to receive an advance reader copy from the author and offer this voluntary review.
Reasons I enjoyed this book: realistic; wonderful characters; page-turner; romantic
February 21, 2019
Adelaide's and Matthews marriage begins a little strange her father loses her in a card game as a favor to his cousin and his wife Matthew tricks the man that won her in another game of cards he wins her and after talking with his cousin agrees to marry him to protect her from a father that may used her badly in the future. She agrees to the wedding because she is terrified of her father and he seems a nice man. Once they are wed they both begin to see the damage and fear they both carry because of their fathers with a good deal of patience they begin to know and trust each other, This story has many levels love one old history from both Matthew and Adelaide's lives will tell the story of how they got to be. Another great book by Bree Wolf.
I received this book as an Arc and have given my honest thoughts
I received this book as an Arc and have given my honest thoughts
August 25, 2019
Series
Before you read #12 (Adelaide and Matthew, Baron Whitworth), I would recommend reading #6 (Tristan's, the Baron's cousin, and Beth's story) and maybe even #4 (Henrietta's Story- Matthew's cousin)
Loved this one cause the hero was so amazing. He gave the heroine time to rediscover herself, to find the strength she has always had, ...
That, however, meant that he would leave her alone in the beginning (not physically but they just didn't really talk at all for a while).
So, I would have also liked for them to talk more. There were no incidents of miscommunication that resulted in drama or so and yet, I wanted him to talk to her a bit more.
Unfortunately, there is also a kid involved in this novel who didn't really play a major role, something I am usually not fond of.
But all in all, pretty great
Before you read #12 (Adelaide and Matthew, Baron Whitworth), I would recommend reading #6 (Tristan's, the Baron's cousin, and Beth's story) and maybe even #4 (Henrietta's Story- Matthew's cousin)
Loved this one cause the hero was so amazing. He gave the heroine time to rediscover herself, to find the strength she has always had, ...
That, however, meant that he would leave her alone in the beginning (not physically but they just didn't really talk at all for a while).
So, I would have also liked for them to talk more. There were no incidents of miscommunication that resulted in drama or so and yet, I wanted him to talk to her a bit more.
Unfortunately, there is also a kid involved in this novel who didn't really play a major role, something I am usually not fond of.
But all in all, pretty great
February 26, 2019
I'm giving this 2 stars (= it was ok) as while the language was very good, I can't honestly say I liked this. Just not my cup of tea. If you are in the mood to read a very quiet, sedate story, this fits the bill.
Adelaide and her mother have been browbeaten by her belligerent father for years, making Adelaide quite meek. However, among her friends she is less retiring. Her friends design a rescue plan when they learn her father intends to wager her hand if need be. So Matthew comes to the rescue.
I found the start of their rushed marriage rather odd. They didn't know each other and while she was acted like she was afraid of her shadow, Matthew did not even try to court her or talk with her.
I read an advance copy and voluntarily post my review.
Adelaide and her mother have been browbeaten by her belligerent father for years, making Adelaide quite meek. However, among her friends she is less retiring. Her friends design a rescue plan when they learn her father intends to wager her hand if need be. So Matthew comes to the rescue.
I found the start of their rushed marriage rather odd. They didn't know each other and while she was acted like she was afraid of her shadow, Matthew did not even try to court her or talk with her.
I read an advance copy and voluntarily post my review.
February 26, 2019
Oh Wow!
In this story we have one very abused young lady whose life is carelessly gambled away by her father, yet at times she seems to show a certain kind of strength as she manages to rekindle her trust of others with the gentle coaxing and nudges in the right direction by her new husband.
His is a character that has to fight to overcome his own demons and one who, with his gentle prodding's and teasings, helps her to overcome her mistrust of him and others in her life.
This was an amazing story, one that will remain with me for a long time to come.
I voluntarily read a free copy of this ebook and the above is my unbiased review.
In this story we have one very abused young lady whose life is carelessly gambled away by her father, yet at times she seems to show a certain kind of strength as she manages to rekindle her trust of others with the gentle coaxing and nudges in the right direction by her new husband.
His is a character that has to fight to overcome his own demons and one who, with his gentle prodding's and teasings, helps her to overcome her mistrust of him and others in her life.
This was an amazing story, one that will remain with me for a long time to come.
I voluntarily read a free copy of this ebook and the above is my unbiased review.
February 26, 2019
This is another great book from Bree Wolf. I loved Adelaide & Matthew in previous stories & wanted to know what would happen to them & Bree did not disappoint. Two damaged individuals who help each other to heal & move forward. The love leaves a warm feeling & you can not help but fall in love with Adelaide & Matthew & want the best for them.
I love the cross over to other stories & although you do not have to read the rest, they are all worth it as each are different and well written.
The characters come alive & by now all feel part of the family & you can’t wait to finish. If you love historic romances, do not miss this series
I love the cross over to other stories & although you do not have to read the rest, they are all worth it as each are different and well written.
The characters come alive & by now all feel part of the family & you can’t wait to finish. If you love historic romances, do not miss this series
March 30, 2019
Read any book from Bree Wolf and you are sure to get an entertaining and enthralling romance. She writes character driven tales where the reader follows a journey to love. What sets her apart is that the reader is also taken to a place where friendship and family surrounds the characters.
The tale of Mathew and Adelaide's relationship is beautifully written. I especially enjoyed the transformation of Mathew from the previous book and how he faces guilt from the past. I also enjoyed the development of Adelaide as she becomes empowered. I have read every book in this series and can not recommend them highly enough.
The tale of Mathew and Adelaide's relationship is beautifully written. I especially enjoyed the transformation of Mathew from the previous book and how he faces guilt from the past. I also enjoyed the development of Adelaide as she becomes empowered. I have read every book in this series and can not recommend them highly enough.
April 29, 2019
Another winner by Bree Wolf. We have two fathers from hell, numerous women and children who have had their lives destroyed by these men, and a glimmer of hope for some of them. What I really enjoy is that she always brings back previous characters from her other books. Her characters may seem very superficial at times. However, as you continue to get deeper into the story, you become aware of just how complicated they are. You can read these books in any order and you won’t feel confused, but I would suggest reading them in order to get the most out of them. Bree Wolf, please don’t ever stop writing!
February 21, 2019
Lovely, well-written storyline which makes you think about family structures in Regency England. Matthew and Adelaide both had abusive fathers who ruled their families with an iron rod. Matthew’s father ruled by manipulation and trickery whereas Abigail’s father ruled by fear. When Matthew steps in to help Abigail out of an undesirable situation, he has to tread warily and allow Abigail time to trust him. How he does this and how Abigail comes into her own, makes for a wonderful story which kept my interest from start to finish. Bree has another winner on her hand with this book.
March 6, 2019
Included in a scheme to save the raven haired beauty, Adelaide Cartwright the daughter to the Earl of Radcliff, whom he had never met yet dreamt of often, Matthew Turner, the Baron Whitworth, agreed to a plot to save her from the machinations of her bitterly cruel and desperate father. The story unfolds and centers around Adelaide's fears and hidden secrets. Will she overcome her trepidations with the love and support of her rescuer or forever remove herself from her suppressed emotions living but a timid shadow of herself?
September 18, 2020
Arranged Romance
If you have been reading this series, this romance is about Henrietta and Connor. Henrietta is strong willed, opinionated and not really interested in marrying. Her tyrant of an uncle plans to wed her off anyway. Estranged from her brother, Tristan, she has no choice but to marry Connor, who is a much better man than she deserves. In her story she comes across as whiny, stubborn and not much of a heroine. By the time she redeemed herself in the story I did not care.
If you have been reading this series, this romance is about Henrietta and Connor. Henrietta is strong willed, opinionated and not really interested in marrying. Her tyrant of an uncle plans to wed her off anyway. Estranged from her brother, Tristan, she has no choice but to marry Connor, who is a much better man than she deserves. In her story she comes across as whiny, stubborn and not much of a heroine. By the time she redeemed herself in the story I did not care.
January 15, 2021
I enjoyed reading this book as I have many of this author’s work. Adelaide’s father is very cruel. He has gambled away most of his fortune. Now he has been heard threatening to toss Adelaide’s hand into the pot. Friends plan to help her. So when her father loses her in a game of cards Matthew steps in and wins her from the man her father lost her to. He married her so that her father has no control over her. Can they learn to live together and can Matthew find out Adelaide’s secret. Another excellent book.
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