What do you think?
The Hope Clinic #2
A Doctor for Lady Denby
He thinks she's a bossy shrew. She thinks he's rude beyond measure. It's hate at first sight.
England, 1823: Dr. Oliver Somersby is a man caught between two worlds, longing to be accepted—somewhere. The illegitimate son of a wealthy aristocrat and a Romani mother, he carries his shame in secret. Unwilling to commit to a relationship for fear of discovery, the high-and-mighty widow, Camilla Denby, is the last person with whom he'd wish an attachment. If only she would stay out of his thoughts.
Years after losing her great love at Waterloo, Camilla is ready to risk her heart again. If only she could find a man who stirs her blood as passionately as her deceased husband. Certainly not that exasperatingly arrogant new doctor. But when she discovers he's the captivating man she met at the masquerade, she's forced to confront her feelings.
As they're continually thrown unwittingly into each other's paths, their protective masks are slowly discarded. And they each learn first impressions are often made in haste. But will Oliver's secret parentage be too great for Camilla to accept, and if discovered, will it threaten his very life?
As they fight their way to each other, will they overcome their prejudices to find a lifetime of love?
A Doctor for Lady Denby is the exciting second book in The Hope Clinic Regency romance series. If you love brooding, but soft-hearted heroes and strong-willed, capable heroines, you'll love Trisha Messmer's enemies to lovers tale of destined souls.
England, 1823: Dr. Oliver Somersby is a man caught between two worlds, longing to be accepted—somewhere. The illegitimate son of a wealthy aristocrat and a Romani mother, he carries his shame in secret. Unwilling to commit to a relationship for fear of discovery, the high-and-mighty widow, Camilla Denby, is the last person with whom he'd wish an attachment. If only she would stay out of his thoughts.
Years after losing her great love at Waterloo, Camilla is ready to risk her heart again. If only she could find a man who stirs her blood as passionately as her deceased husband. Certainly not that exasperatingly arrogant new doctor. But when she discovers he's the captivating man she met at the masquerade, she's forced to confront her feelings.
As they're continually thrown unwittingly into each other's paths, their protective masks are slowly discarded. And they each learn first impressions are often made in haste. But will Oliver's secret parentage be too great for Camilla to accept, and if discovered, will it threaten his very life?
As they fight their way to each other, will they overcome their prejudices to find a lifetime of love?
A Doctor for Lady Denby is the exciting second book in The Hope Clinic Regency romance series. If you love brooding, but soft-hearted heroes and strong-willed, capable heroines, you'll love Trisha Messmer's enemies to lovers tale of destined souls.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 27, 2021
About the author
Trisha Messmer
23 books58 followersTrisha Messmer always had an obsession with reading, starting at the tender age of four (or so her mother told her).Finding some of the things she read lacking-or at least not ending the way she thought they should-she started making up her own stories. They lived within her vivid imagination for a long, long time until one day they broke free and put themselves on a page. Sometimes things really do take on a life of their own.She hopes you enjoy her musings as much as she enjoyed writing them, If they make you laugh, sigh, or even cry, she would love hearing about it. Sign up for her newsletter and receive free exclusive VIP content of supplemental material.
Contact her on Facebook or on her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
April 19, 2021
This was a very good read, it had such engaging characters. Camilla, Lady Denby had been a widow for eight years but had decided it was time for her to move on. Her first meeting with Dr. Oliver Somersby did not go well to say the least. However, gradually their feelings change. Oliver has many secrets that he fears of revealing because of people’s prejudices. I had a soft spot for little Pockets, Camilla’s ward and he sometimes brought a tear to my eye. This was a captivating read that addresses some prejudices that are with us still. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 8, 2022
This book was okay but it was just nothing like the first book.. and I really struggled with finishing it.. that's why I gave it 4 stars. It just wasn't the story for me.. but don't let my review deter you from reading it.. just because I didn't like doesn't mean you won't.
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February 1, 2022I mean, sure, why not.
This isn't really an indictment of this novel in particular, but I have yet to find a(n) historical romance to deal convincingly with the Romani. Largely they're treated as rank caricatures. When they're not, their characterization swings too hard in the opposite direction, speechifying about how gypsy is a slur etc.
But then, weirdly, I feel like everything is still wrong about the Romani? I'm not even pretending to understand Romani culture, especially historical Romani culture, but I can say, with feeling, that the characterization of this people is all outsider bullocks, all of it. I'm not expecting Bury Me Standing, but come the hell on.
Which is a shame, because I felt like the second Hope Clinic book had a lot going for it, i/r/t ye olde class warfare and recovery from grief and the like. I'm always down for an enemies to lovers plot, and double points for a masquerade ball, but the initial energy of this mismatched pair bled out to some serious wish fulfillment nonsense.
Like, for real, why are we redeeming an upper class twit who abandoned his family? Who does that serve? And when a whole bunch of upper class dickheads raced to save a Romani encampment from being hate-crimed by poorly drawn working class people, it really set my teeth. Oh those terrible lower class idiots who need to be stopped from their brutish nature by their betters! Bah, my heart is too black for this.
I've often and regularly said I'm not much of a stickler about historical accuracy in historical romance, but here I just couldn't stomach who was being redeemed and why.
This isn't really an indictment of this novel in particular, but I have yet to find a(n) historical romance to deal convincingly with the Romani. Largely they're treated as rank caricatures. When they're not, their characterization swings too hard in the opposite direction, speechifying about how gypsy is a slur etc.
But then, weirdly, I feel like everything is still wrong about the Romani? I'm not even pretending to understand Romani culture, especially historical Romani culture, but I can say, with feeling, that the characterization of this people is all outsider bullocks, all of it. I'm not expecting Bury Me Standing, but come the hell on.
Which is a shame, because I felt like the second Hope Clinic book had a lot going for it, i/r/t ye olde class warfare and recovery from grief and the like. I'm always down for an enemies to lovers plot, and double points for a masquerade ball, but the initial energy of this mismatched pair bled out to some serious wish fulfillment nonsense.
Like, for real, why are we redeeming an upper class twit who abandoned his family? Who does that serve? And when a whole bunch of upper class dickheads raced to save a Romani encampment from being hate-crimed by poorly drawn working class people, it really set my teeth. Oh those terrible lower class idiots who need to be stopped from their brutish nature by their betters! Bah, my heart is too black for this.
I've often and regularly said I'm not much of a stickler about historical accuracy in historical romance, but here I just couldn't stomach who was being redeemed and why.
June 10, 2022
Lots going on in this book. The hero's life was all over the place. He is a doctor in the East End, not making a lot of money. Secret #1: He has everyone thinking that his daughter is his sister. Secret #2: He is a gypsy. Secret #3: He is a bastard, and his father is a Lord. I also think he needs anger management.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2021
The blurb summarizes the book very well, so I won't summarize it here also. But I will ground you in the story by saying that Oliver Somersby is the ship's surgeon from The Reluctant Duke's Dilemma, and Camilla is the heroine's best friend from that book.
Anywho, here's what I liked about this book:
--Oliver is a doctor, and a good and caring one.
--Oliver is a tortured hero
--Oliver has many secrets that are revealed slowly
--We see the duke again!
--Without their masks, literally and figuratively, Oliver and Camilla are a perfect match
--Camilla is a caring heroine who sees beyond a person's place in society
--There's at least one modern reference--watch for it. The author likes to add them to her stories.
What I didn't like:
Nothing to see here
Don't miss The Reluctant Duke's Dilemma and A Doctor for Lady Denby.
Anywho, here's what I liked about this book:
--Oliver is a doctor, and a good and caring one.
--Oliver is a tortured hero
--Oliver has many secrets that are revealed slowly
--We see the duke again!
--Without their masks, literally and figuratively, Oliver and Camilla are a perfect match
--Camilla is a caring heroine who sees beyond a person's place in society
--There's at least one modern reference--watch for it. The author likes to add them to her stories.
What I didn't like:
Nothing to see here
Don't miss The Reluctant Duke's Dilemma and A Doctor for Lady Denby.
February 14, 2023
This is book 2 in the 5 book series plus a prequel. I highly recommend reading these books in order because the characters do reappear and become somewhat secondary or tertiary in the story. Knowing their backgrounds helps immensely. Also, at the end of books 1 and 2 there are extended epilogues available for free through the author's website. Be sure to get them because they end the stories nicely and set up the next book. I really enjoy this author's writing style, characters, and stories, but this book in particular was kind of meh for me in places. I mean, it's a page turner and all, but it's a slow burn and I was getting really frustrated with our hero. I'll explain...
Camilla and Oliver's story is very much an enemy to lovers trope but there is a lot going on in this story... a masquerade, music, Romani gypsies, unique family dynamics, class differences, assumptions, some pride and prejudice, violin lessons, and I'm just getting started. We first met Dr. Oliver Somersby briefly in book 1 as the surgeon on board ship. Camilla is Margaret's best friend from book 1.
While their blossoming relationship is very touchy, their friendship is best described as on-again/off-again. What tamped down my excitement was the fact that Oliver is so secretive about his past... And boy does the man have secrets! But it's like pulling teeth for Camilla to get anything personal out of him. Then when she asks perfectly reasonable questions in the whole 'getting to know you' part of their budding relationship, he shuts her down. So what does she do? What a woman in love does ... she tries to find answers on her own. And since Google wasn't a thing back then, she visits the gypsy camp she had spied Oliver visiting and speaks to his grandmother herself. But when Oliver finds out about this, he's angry and feels betrayed because she did so. WTF dude? Oliver was really his own villain in this story. Now, I love that Harry called him out on it and called him a coward because Oliver definitely needed to hear it. But I noticed too that a lot of the dialogue between Camilla and Oliver was answering a lot of questions with more questions, so at times I felt like we weren't getting anywhere and for me it just got tedious. I totally sympathized with Camilla because weeks or months would pass and, in her place, I probably would have moved on. Overall, this was an excellent story... we just had a very stubborn hero. But I will continue reading the series. I have book 3 queued up and I'm excited to dive in!
4 stars from me because it is excellently written and a darn good story. Steam is maybe 2 🔥🔥. This author sticks to one short love scene per book, which is fine. She makes the scenes justified by the story, which I like - not just tossed in clumsily to call it a steamy read. On to book 3!
*****Edited to add a review of The Baron's Runaway Bride, which is a prequel specific to book 2, A Doctor for Lady Denby, involving Camilla's parents and their romance. It is available for free on the author's website.*****
The Baron's Runaway Bride is a secondary prequel to the Hope Clinic Series and it's a lovely little short story. Camilla is the heroine from A Doctor for Lady Denby (book 2) and this is specifically the backstory on how Camilla's parents, Robert Barlowe, Lord Harcourt, and Georgiana come together. While not imperative to read before book 2 (as this book was an afterthought by the author), it's still worth the read if you love the series and crave more about the characters.
In this book we meet Georgiana who has just learned that an arranged marriage is imminent and the contract is to be signed when her betrothed and his father, Baron Harcourt, arrive in three days time. Disheartened that she is given no choice in the matter, she pleads with her parents but to no avail. Boldly deciding to choose her own destiny, she sneaks out of the house in the middle of the night and makes her way towards Bath where she has high hopes of making it on her own and seek employment.
Robert Barlowe has just received a letter from his ailing father with news of a marriage arrangement. As his father's last wish, Robert doesn't want to refuse outright, but he's not excited either, so he begins his journey to Dorset to meet his potential bride.
On his way to Dorset, and on her way to Bath, their paths meet when Robert comes to Georgiana's aid and they feel an instant connection. But an overnight stay at a coaching inn makes them both question their fates, especially when Robert has a sneaking suspicion that Georgiana might just be the bride he is traveling to meet. What are the odds they are actually intended for each other? Is there a future for Georgiana and Robert after one night of passion? Will Georgiana's father bend to let her make her own choice?
I really enjoyed this sweet little story. Predictable, totally, but the getting there was fun, especially since Georgiana doesn't know that Robert is facing an arranged marriage himself. Robert keeps the reason for his journey vague in conversation, and I love that he keeps his suspicion a secret. Her reason for running was because she wasn't given a choice in the matter, and if she is indeed running away from an arranged marriage to him, Robert wants her to have every opportunity to make her own choice.
At 24, Georgiana's maturity and overindulged upbringing really leave her innocent in the ways of the world, and we have no backstory on her except mention of an older sister who apparently married for love. But you can see her wilfulness and bravery to take her life into her own hands and Robert respects her for it. When it comes time to part ways, both struggle with their fates but he sees her situated on the coach headed for Bath before continuing his own journey. Vacillating between hope that his bride is the runaway heading to Bath, and hope that if she isn't that his father would allow him his own choice, Robert forges ahead and arrives at the Sherwood home. Robert is disappointed to learn that his intended is indeed at home awaiting his arrival, but a pleasant surprise greets him when Georgiana runs straight into his arms.
I give this 4 stars for what it is... cute and predictable, with insta-lust/love but this is still a great story to add to the Hope Clinic series. Low steam, maybe 1.5 🔥🔥, with the author's signature singular love scene.
With all the books, extended epilogues, and prequels, you have a collection of 12 works to pour over in this Hope Clinic series, and I have loved all of them. I look forward to more on the way in the upcoming spin-off series that will begin with Honoria (from book 5)!
Camilla and Oliver's story is very much an enemy to lovers trope but there is a lot going on in this story... a masquerade, music, Romani gypsies, unique family dynamics, class differences, assumptions, some pride and prejudice, violin lessons, and I'm just getting started. We first met Dr. Oliver Somersby briefly in book 1 as the surgeon on board ship. Camilla is Margaret's best friend from book 1.
While their blossoming relationship is very touchy, their friendship is best described as on-again/off-again. What tamped down my excitement was the fact that Oliver is so secretive about his past... And boy does the man have secrets! But it's like pulling teeth for Camilla to get anything personal out of him. Then when she asks perfectly reasonable questions in the whole 'getting to know you' part of their budding relationship, he shuts her down. So what does she do? What a woman in love does ... she tries to find answers on her own. And since Google wasn't a thing back then, she visits the gypsy camp she had spied Oliver visiting and speaks to his grandmother herself. But when Oliver finds out about this, he's angry and feels betrayed because she did so. WTF dude? Oliver was really his own villain in this story. Now, I love that Harry called him out on it and called him a coward because Oliver definitely needed to hear it. But I noticed too that a lot of the dialogue between Camilla and Oliver was answering a lot of questions with more questions, so at times I felt like we weren't getting anywhere and for me it just got tedious. I totally sympathized with Camilla because weeks or months would pass and, in her place, I probably would have moved on. Overall, this was an excellent story... we just had a very stubborn hero. But I will continue reading the series. I have book 3 queued up and I'm excited to dive in!
4 stars from me because it is excellently written and a darn good story. Steam is maybe 2 🔥🔥. This author sticks to one short love scene per book, which is fine. She makes the scenes justified by the story, which I like - not just tossed in clumsily to call it a steamy read. On to book 3!
*****Edited to add a review of The Baron's Runaway Bride, which is a prequel specific to book 2, A Doctor for Lady Denby, involving Camilla's parents and their romance. It is available for free on the author's website.*****
The Baron's Runaway Bride is a secondary prequel to the Hope Clinic Series and it's a lovely little short story. Camilla is the heroine from A Doctor for Lady Denby (book 2) and this is specifically the backstory on how Camilla's parents, Robert Barlowe, Lord Harcourt, and Georgiana come together. While not imperative to read before book 2 (as this book was an afterthought by the author), it's still worth the read if you love the series and crave more about the characters.
In this book we meet Georgiana who has just learned that an arranged marriage is imminent and the contract is to be signed when her betrothed and his father, Baron Harcourt, arrive in three days time. Disheartened that she is given no choice in the matter, she pleads with her parents but to no avail. Boldly deciding to choose her own destiny, she sneaks out of the house in the middle of the night and makes her way towards Bath where she has high hopes of making it on her own and seek employment.
Robert Barlowe has just received a letter from his ailing father with news of a marriage arrangement. As his father's last wish, Robert doesn't want to refuse outright, but he's not excited either, so he begins his journey to Dorset to meet his potential bride.
On his way to Dorset, and on her way to Bath, their paths meet when Robert comes to Georgiana's aid and they feel an instant connection. But an overnight stay at a coaching inn makes them both question their fates, especially when Robert has a sneaking suspicion that Georgiana might just be the bride he is traveling to meet. What are the odds they are actually intended for each other? Is there a future for Georgiana and Robert after one night of passion? Will Georgiana's father bend to let her make her own choice?
I really enjoyed this sweet little story. Predictable, totally, but the getting there was fun, especially since Georgiana doesn't know that Robert is facing an arranged marriage himself. Robert keeps the reason for his journey vague in conversation, and I love that he keeps his suspicion a secret. Her reason for running was because she wasn't given a choice in the matter, and if she is indeed running away from an arranged marriage to him, Robert wants her to have every opportunity to make her own choice.
At 24, Georgiana's maturity and overindulged upbringing really leave her innocent in the ways of the world, and we have no backstory on her except mention of an older sister who apparently married for love. But you can see her wilfulness and bravery to take her life into her own hands and Robert respects her for it. When it comes time to part ways, both struggle with their fates but he sees her situated on the coach headed for Bath before continuing his own journey. Vacillating between hope that his bride is the runaway heading to Bath, and hope that if she isn't that his father would allow him his own choice, Robert forges ahead and arrives at the Sherwood home. Robert is disappointed to learn that his intended is indeed at home awaiting his arrival, but a pleasant surprise greets him when Georgiana runs straight into his arms.
I give this 4 stars for what it is... cute and predictable, with insta-lust/love but this is still a great story to add to the Hope Clinic series. Low steam, maybe 1.5 🔥🔥, with the author's signature singular love scene.
With all the books, extended epilogues, and prequels, you have a collection of 12 works to pour over in this Hope Clinic series, and I have loved all of them. I look forward to more on the way in the upcoming spin-off series that will begin with Honoria (from book 5)!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2021
This is the first novel I’ve read by this author and it’s a very enjoyable read. I fell in love with the characters and it touches on a subject I haven’t read before - the gypsies and how they were treated.
Dr. Oliver Somersby is the bastard son of Lord Trentwith and a gypsy woman who very much feels the separation in society between classes. He works at Hope Clinic along with doctor and friend, Dr. Harrison (Harry) Radcliffe for the less fortunate.
Camilla, Lady Demby, is a widow who lost her love at Waterloo, she doesn’t feel she’s ready to move on with another man until she meets someone at a masquerade ball. Who is this man that intrigues her and how does she find him? Harry’s wife, Lady Margaret and Lady Demby are best friends and helps each other with what life throws at them.
When Dr Somersby & Lady Demby literary runs into each other, sparks fly. Will these sparks turn into a burning fire, or will the separation of classes keep them apart? How will Camilla break through the walls that Oliver has around his heart? A great story of love and lost with interesting, strong characters.
Dr. Oliver Somersby is the bastard son of Lord Trentwith and a gypsy woman who very much feels the separation in society between classes. He works at Hope Clinic along with doctor and friend, Dr. Harrison (Harry) Radcliffe for the less fortunate.
Camilla, Lady Demby, is a widow who lost her love at Waterloo, she doesn’t feel she’s ready to move on with another man until she meets someone at a masquerade ball. Who is this man that intrigues her and how does she find him? Harry’s wife, Lady Margaret and Lady Demby are best friends and helps each other with what life throws at them.
When Dr Somersby & Lady Demby literary runs into each other, sparks fly. Will these sparks turn into a burning fire, or will the separation of classes keep them apart? How will Camilla break through the walls that Oliver has around his heart? A great story of love and lost with interesting, strong characters.
April 16, 2021
A full-length novel with lots of secrets before our couple gets to HEA. The writing is excellent and free of most of the punctuation and word-choice errors that so many authors in this genre make.
Oliver holds many secrets but is an excellent physician. Lady Denby, Camilla, is still mourning her husband after 8 years and afraid to love again. The story details all the problems they both have to deal with before committing to each other. He hates himself, hates his father, doesn't know what to make of his heritage. She is determined and confused by her feelings for him. He makes a lot of assumptions about what she is thinking. He gets angry at her attempts to figure him out and spends a lot of time avoiding her to avoid lusty encounters.
(There is a reasonable amount of explicit sex, all kind, nothing kinky.)
The best thing here is the writing and the numerous storylines, which the author juggles masterfully!
I received a copy of this book from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Oliver holds many secrets but is an excellent physician. Lady Denby, Camilla, is still mourning her husband after 8 years and afraid to love again. The story details all the problems they both have to deal with before committing to each other. He hates himself, hates his father, doesn't know what to make of his heritage. She is determined and confused by her feelings for him. He makes a lot of assumptions about what she is thinking. He gets angry at her attempts to figure him out and spends a lot of time avoiding her to avoid lusty encounters.
(There is a reasonable amount of explicit sex, all kind, nothing kinky.)
The best thing here is the writing and the numerous storylines, which the author juggles masterfully!
I received a copy of this book from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 5, 2021
Pride can take your future
Lady Denby Aka Camilla is a beautiful, gifted widow. She has an adopted son Pockets and loving friends and family but she wants more.
Oliver is a proud, intelligent stubborn Doctor who has layers of secrets! He has so many ones he’s kept from his own family. Oliver is a very angry man who has so many regrets! There are times I fear it will be his undoing in this story! He absolutely hates the aristocracy and believes all are tainted with the same brush! Harry (previous story) is a Duke and he and his wife love Oliver and Camilla as they are both their friends. Their initial meeting does not go well at all! This is much more than enemies to lovers!
Oliver secret heritage lead to truth about his mother and sister!?? This a very rocky road to HEA! Oliver almost missed it and almost his life in the process some due to his very stubborn pride!
Camilla is willing to open her heart but Oliver blows hot and cold at almost every turn! I wanted to reach through the pages and smack him several times!! Will Oliver allow himself to put aside his prejudices? The truth comes to light on his own father and Tori father in the story! Can there be a HEA? Love is worth the risk! Will Oliver take it?
Lady Denby Aka Camilla is a beautiful, gifted widow. She has an adopted son Pockets and loving friends and family but she wants more.
Oliver is a proud, intelligent stubborn Doctor who has layers of secrets! He has so many ones he’s kept from his own family. Oliver is a very angry man who has so many regrets! There are times I fear it will be his undoing in this story! He absolutely hates the aristocracy and believes all are tainted with the same brush! Harry (previous story) is a Duke and he and his wife love Oliver and Camilla as they are both their friends. Their initial meeting does not go well at all! This is much more than enemies to lovers!
Oliver secret heritage lead to truth about his mother and sister!?? This a very rocky road to HEA! Oliver almost missed it and almost his life in the process some due to his very stubborn pride!
Camilla is willing to open her heart but Oliver blows hot and cold at almost every turn! I wanted to reach through the pages and smack him several times!! Will Oliver allow himself to put aside his prejudices? The truth comes to light on his own father and Tori father in the story! Can there be a HEA? Love is worth the risk! Will Oliver take it?
April 29, 2021
⚙️⚙️ONE WICKED ROLLER COASTER RIDE⚙️⚙️
Blooming bungles boo! Trisha laid this bad boy out in stunning wonder, delivering one sinfully delicious, addictively enticing and delightfully compelling rock-my-world tempest, weaving through all the captivating heat, flaming desire and sizzling passion, launching this baby to staggering heights. Attributes and perceptions in each thread you unravel with every page your drawn into this tangled web so intricately and precise, cognizant of the daunting struggles and thrilling triumphs while attentive to the dramatic twists and stunning turns unfolding, secrets are confessed and revelations are disclosed, putting our characters through their paces, wrapping this jewel up sleek, shiny and tight. Unpredictable occurrences and unnerving events merge, mindful of the soaring ups and agonizing down, impressive in it's simplicity and wondrous in it's depth, sketchy lines and weakened barriers heightened as promises are pledged and amplified, vigilant of the taunting quirks and defying bents, jetting this jewel to life flawlessly. The characters dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits that balance out smoothly and fluid, adding depth and diversity, transforming into outstanding personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Amazing job Trisha, thanks for sharing this awesome little gem with us.
Blooming bungles boo! Trisha laid this bad boy out in stunning wonder, delivering one sinfully delicious, addictively enticing and delightfully compelling rock-my-world tempest, weaving through all the captivating heat, flaming desire and sizzling passion, launching this baby to staggering heights. Attributes and perceptions in each thread you unravel with every page your drawn into this tangled web so intricately and precise, cognizant of the daunting struggles and thrilling triumphs while attentive to the dramatic twists and stunning turns unfolding, secrets are confessed and revelations are disclosed, putting our characters through their paces, wrapping this jewel up sleek, shiny and tight. Unpredictable occurrences and unnerving events merge, mindful of the soaring ups and agonizing down, impressive in it's simplicity and wondrous in it's depth, sketchy lines and weakened barriers heightened as promises are pledged and amplified, vigilant of the taunting quirks and defying bents, jetting this jewel to life flawlessly. The characters dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits that balance out smoothly and fluid, adding depth and diversity, transforming into outstanding personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Amazing job Trisha, thanks for sharing this awesome little gem with us.
April 16, 2021
A wonderful story of Camilla and Oliver. Lady Camilla still is missing the lost of her husband who died in Waterloo. They were only married a few months, but it’s been eight years and her friend Margaret told her maybe it’s time to move on. She adopted a lovable young boy Pockets, but still not the same as birthing your own child.
Dr. Oliver Somersby works at a clinic in the poor end of London. He has many secrets and doing the best he can to keep them. One day Lady Camilla stops by the clinic as she promised the Duke who is out of town and also a doctor there. Things definitely did not click when Oliver met Camilla.
Sparks fly, but the secrets Oliver is hiding will not allow anything to progress.
Love the stubborn man! The characters are realistic, parts are sadly true and parts are a bit unbelievable, but woven together into a beautiful story.
I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story.
Dr. Oliver Somersby works at a clinic in the poor end of London. He has many secrets and doing the best he can to keep them. One day Lady Camilla stops by the clinic as she promised the Duke who is out of town and also a doctor there. Things definitely did not click when Oliver met Camilla.
Sparks fly, but the secrets Oliver is hiding will not allow anything to progress.
Love the stubborn man! The characters are realistic, parts are sadly true and parts are a bit unbelievable, but woven together into a beautiful story.
I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story.
April 23, 2021
A wonderful story Oliver and Camilla catch your heart with their heartaches and the capacity to love. Fearing the reaction to his
family lines because he is Romani made me think about the present times we have not grown much when it comes to judging people based on their color or religion but if like in this book we took the time to know people and embrace different culture's life could be as good as Oliver's and Camilla's. This is a love story on many levels and how so many problems can be overcome makes for a good read. Keep the great books coming Trisha Messmer
family lines because he is Romani made me think about the present times we have not grown much when it comes to judging people based on their color or religion but if like in this book we took the time to know people and embrace different culture's life could be as good as Oliver's and Camilla's. This is a love story on many levels and how so many problems can be overcome makes for a good read. Keep the great books coming Trisha Messmer
September 1, 2021
Finding love again.
I absolutely loved Oliver and Camillas story. After looking her husband at Waterloo she never thought to marry again. But when she encounters an arrogant Doctor who loves his family dearly can she realize herself a wife again.
Oliver has so many secrets that could destroy his and his family’s life. Not only is he a bastard but a Romani Gypsy Bastard. He hates the aristocracy and what it stands for since they murdered his grandfather. How can her over his insecurities to win the woman he loves. A wonderful story with a beautiful ending.
I absolutely loved Oliver and Camillas story. After looking her husband at Waterloo she never thought to marry again. But when she encounters an arrogant Doctor who loves his family dearly can she realize herself a wife again.
Oliver has so many secrets that could destroy his and his family’s life. Not only is he a bastard but a Romani Gypsy Bastard. He hates the aristocracy and what it stands for since they murdered his grandfather. How can her over his insecurities to win the woman he loves. A wonderful story with a beautiful ending.
April 25, 2021
A well-written novel with well-rounded characters and a great storyline. Following Dr. Oliver Somersby and Lady Camilla Denby as they navigate the rough waters to a HEA makes for an engrossing read. As their attraction grows can they overcome their prejudices and find out that first impressions are not always to be relied upon? I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2021
This story is well written with wonderful character descriptions. You can almost feel you are there. This story shows how the class distinction can affect how people look at one another without knowing anything about the other person. Doctor Oliver Somersby is keeping many secrets from his friends and his place of work. After Lady Camilla Denby comes into his place of work, Dr. Somersby realizes what effect keeping all these things to himself is doing to his life. Sparks good and bad begin to fly between these two different people, but will or can they do anything about them. Does Lady Denby have a few secrets of her own? You will need to read this story to find all the secrets these two have.
April 12, 2021
This is a heartwarming story of Oliver Somersby, a medical doctor, who is the son of a gypsy woman and the illegitimate son of an Earl. He struggles with not belonging in either world, and not feeling accepted anywhere. When he encounters the infuriating Lady Denby, sparks fly. They can’t stand one another, but neither can they stop thinking of each other either. Oliver has a lot in his past, and his heritage that he needs reconcile, and can’t ever see a future with a lady of the ton. It was satisfying seeing how everything pulled together for the two lovers to be able to reach their HEA.
May 17, 2022
Paperback
New to me Author
Unique: I love it that the Doctor is untitled and not rich.
Love the Roma aspect
Both characters are likable
Will definitely read this Author again
New to me Author
Unique: I love it that the Doctor is untitled and not rich.
Love the Roma aspect
Both characters are likable
Will definitely read this Author again
June 16, 2021
This is my first read of this author. I'm so happy to have found her. Trisha's writing style draws you in and has you see and feel this world and her characters. That's a huge thing with me. I need to have feeling when I read. I want to be invested. This was a story line that was unique. I love Camilla and Oliver. The progression of their hate to love story is perfect. Both are struggling with opening their heart to one another. Oliver also hold a secret that could be very damaging. Can he trust Camilla with it? Can she take it? Camilla is afraid to open her heart to another after she lost her husband. Will she let Oliver in and discover a love she can trust in?
May 23, 2021
A story of secrets, prejudices, and letting them go. Two people who dislike each other in their everyday guises, but find attraction at a masquerade. How they come to discover love is worth letting the past go is an intriguing read. I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 28, 2021
Poignant and Loving
Oliver and Camilla story is one filled with passion and love which triumphs.
Trisha Messmer has written an exciting story about tragedy and love which triumphs.
Oliver and Camilla story is one filled with passion and love which triumphs.
Trisha Messmer has written an exciting story about tragedy and love which triumphs.
April 29, 2021
As two well meaning people find out first impressions are not everything. Just because you have that first impression doesn't mean that you know everything about the other person. They could surprise you as Lady Denby and the Doctor find out. I enjoyed the balance and surprises of this book.
August 7, 2021
4 1/2 stars rounded to 5. This author is new to Regencies, and I'm so glad I stumbled upon her series. I didn't love this book quite as much as the first, which I gave 5 stars, but it's still an excellent read. I do love the idea of focusing on men who are doctors during the Regency period, instead of the typical "bored rakes of the nobility."
It took me a bit longer to warm up to this h than the h in the first book; Cam seemed a bit brittle, intrusive, and judgmental at first. But she does go through a transformation. I liked her feisty side and the sexy banter at the masquerade ball. One thing I noticed is that this author likes to put a slight spin on tropes. Instead of the ball turning into the expected make-out session between H/h, they become interested in each other as people, and a twist occurs when they plan to meet later that evening. (Neither discusses this later, though, which I thought was odd.)
The H, Ollie, is not titled and has had to fight his way through life since childhood, contending with the fact that not only is he a bastard, but of Romani blood. He is trained in medicine and must continue to be a professional and follow his oath, even when ugly prejudice rears its head. I enjoyed the cultural insights and his relationship with his mother and grandmother. The author eschews the Regency stereotype of the titled biological father who is dismissive and cold for a more realistic character, and the relationship between Ollie and his father is well fleshed out. I was also moved by the bonds H/h and their fathers formed with Pockets and Manny.
The plot starts off a bit on the slow side, but as the tension builds in the final chapters, the story becomes gripping and emotional. There's a message here regarding prejudice that I feel is extremely important in this day and age. POSSIBLE SPOILER: I did wonder about the author's decision to turn a character who was despicable in the first book into someone semi-heroic and the ending seemed a tad rushed.
The only other criticism I have is that the writing style of this book isn't quite as elegant or polished at the first; the dialog and descriptions are a bit plainer and more "American" and there are a few grammar and punctuation errors (nothing glaring).
The romance is slow-burn and there is one sex scene, which, as in the first book, is tastefully written.
Bottom line: Snatch this up if you like intelligent heroes and heroines and Regency plots that are a bit different and grab you emotionally. I definitely will read more by this author!
It took me a bit longer to warm up to this h than the h in the first book; Cam seemed a bit brittle, intrusive, and judgmental at first. But she does go through a transformation. I liked her feisty side and the sexy banter at the masquerade ball. One thing I noticed is that this author likes to put a slight spin on tropes. Instead of the ball turning into the expected make-out session between H/h, they become interested in each other as people, and a twist occurs when they plan to meet later that evening. (Neither discusses this later, though, which I thought was odd.)
The H, Ollie, is not titled and has had to fight his way through life since childhood, contending with the fact that not only is he a bastard, but of Romani blood. He is trained in medicine and must continue to be a professional and follow his oath, even when ugly prejudice rears its head. I enjoyed the cultural insights and his relationship with his mother and grandmother. The author eschews the Regency stereotype of the titled biological father who is dismissive and cold for a more realistic character, and the relationship between Ollie and his father is well fleshed out. I was also moved by the bonds H/h and their fathers formed with Pockets and Manny.
The plot starts off a bit on the slow side, but as the tension builds in the final chapters, the story becomes gripping and emotional. There's a message here regarding prejudice that I feel is extremely important in this day and age. POSSIBLE SPOILER: I did wonder about the author's decision to turn a character who was despicable in the first book into someone semi-heroic and the ending seemed a tad rushed.
The only other criticism I have is that the writing style of this book isn't quite as elegant or polished at the first; the dialog and descriptions are a bit plainer and more "American" and there are a few grammar and punctuation errors (nothing glaring).
The romance is slow-burn and there is one sex scene, which, as in the first book, is tastefully written.
Bottom line: Snatch this up if you like intelligent heroes and heroines and Regency plots that are a bit different and grab you emotionally. I definitely will read more by this author!
March 14, 2025
This one didn't really come together for me. There was very little focus on romance and instead this was a book about Oliver (physician and bastard child of a Romani woman and a nobleman) finding peace with his father, mother, and daughter, coming to terms with his Romani heritage, and learning not to hate all aristocrats. He had a bad temper and was pretty nasty toward Cam through most of the book; honestly, I wanted her to stop chasing him. Harry and Maggie from the first book appeared frequently in this one (we also witness them become parents), as did various adopted kids and Cam's father; while I enjoyed seeing these characters, there was a bit too much of them and they detracted from the romance. I had a hard time staying immersed and almost DNF-ed several times.
December 4, 2021
Lady Camilla Denby is a widow who has struggled to open her heart to another man. Doctor Oliver Somersby is a stubborn mule with a secret he believes would ruin him with the Ton. Sparks definitely are not flying when Oliver literally runs right into Lady Denby on his way to Hope Clinic, but can these two set aside their differences long enough to fall in love?
One of my favorite people told me once that the mark of a good writer is the ability to create characters that make you feel. Lady Denby and Dr. Somersby are definitely characters that give me ALL the feels.
Trisha Messmer is a fantastic author, and her books are worth more than 5 stars in my opinion. If you read nothing else this year, you've got to read the Hope Clinic series.
One of my favorite people told me once that the mark of a good writer is the ability to create characters that make you feel. Lady Denby and Dr. Somersby are definitely characters that give me ALL the feels.
Trisha Messmer is a fantastic author, and her books are worth more than 5 stars in my opinion. If you read nothing else this year, you've got to read the Hope Clinic series.
January 23, 2022
I loved this story because of the class issues--especially Oliver's gypsy background. It was a unique and fresh read. I actually fell in love with Oliver before Camilla did. lol His complexity and brooding (at times) character, drew me in. I loved Camilla and Oliver's differences and how they came together. Ms. Messmer has a real gift of drawing a person into the time period of the characters, as she makes that era believable and realistic. And Ms. Messmer is an expert at showing her characters' emotions. A most enjoyable read. I recommend this book!
January 28, 2022
I accidentally read this book first, and instantly fell in love with Trisha Messmer's writing style and books. She makes historical fiction romantic, fun, and enjoyable to read.
Oliver and Camilla were wonderful characters that felt like real people to me. While I didn't fall in love with Oliver like I did Harry, he was an enjoyable character to get to know. Camilla made me laugh numerous times, and I loved all the misunderstandings and assumptions between the two.
This book was excellent and had me frantically searching the internet for more of Trisha Messmer's books!
Oliver and Camilla were wonderful characters that felt like real people to me. While I didn't fall in love with Oliver like I did Harry, he was an enjoyable character to get to know. Camilla made me laugh numerous times, and I loved all the misunderstandings and assumptions between the two.
This book was excellent and had me frantically searching the internet for more of Trisha Messmer's books!
January 28, 2022
I thought this book was excellent and enjoyed both the story line and the main characters. Oliver and Camilla had numerous misunderstandings that hurt my heart and made me laugh at the same time. I love that they ironed everything out by the end of the book.
The book was filled with drama and excitement, as well as real-life characters that had me unable to put it down. Several side characters were interesting enough that I hope to later read their stories.
Excellent book that I plan on reading again and again!
The book was filled with drama and excitement, as well as real-life characters that had me unable to put it down. Several side characters were interesting enough that I hope to later read their stories.
Excellent book that I plan on reading again and again!
March 21, 2025
It was sweet. However, I'm always saddened by authors of romance books who write of a good marriage before the death of a partner--but almost always find fault in something the prior love had done /was. I like it much better when the new love is enriching, often because parties are older. One can hold a love of a deceased spouse/partner in one's heart even with a new life/love--just as one can genuinely love all of their children, siblings. Love is a big pie.
Applaud the author for showing the discrimination against the Romani which still occurs in many Euro countries even to this date.
Applaud the author for showing the discrimination against the Romani which still occurs in many Euro countries even to this date.
December 8, 2025
A most aggravating doctor!
Oliver Somersby cannot seem to let go of his past, risking losing a potentially wonderful love and life with Camilla Denby. Can she win his love and repair her heart as well after losing her first husband many years ago? While this story was frustrating during the first part of the story as we suffer through Oliver seething over what happened in his earlier life, all is eventually explained, providing the reasons for his anger. Camilla is so patient with him, she is a saint and fortunately, love overcomes in the end.
Oliver Somersby cannot seem to let go of his past, risking losing a potentially wonderful love and life with Camilla Denby. Can she win his love and repair her heart as well after losing her first husband many years ago? While this story was frustrating during the first part of the story as we suffer through Oliver seething over what happened in his earlier life, all is eventually explained, providing the reasons for his anger. Camilla is so patient with him, she is a saint and fortunately, love overcomes in the end.
September 14, 2022
Crossing boundaries
Since the beginning of time there have always been good and evil in the area of biggotry. The Hope Clinic series especially the book a Doctor for Lady Denby recognizes the selfishness of people. Ms. Messner shows how love and understanding of others can bring peace and harmony. Enjoy Oliver and Camilla as they navigate their way through misunderstandings and painful past history to a love we can all strive to find.
Since the beginning of time there have always been good and evil in the area of biggotry. The Hope Clinic series especially the book a Doctor for Lady Denby recognizes the selfishness of people. Ms. Messner shows how love and understanding of others can bring peace and harmony. Enjoy Oliver and Camilla as they navigate their way through misunderstandings and painful past history to a love we can all strive to find.
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