What do you think?
Rate this book
The Brazen Beauties #3
Mr. West and the Widow
He’s a powerful landowner...
She's an irresistible bluestocking...
For over a year Victoria Leighton has shut out the world. Her sole focus has been to manage her estate and grow the small fortune she inherited from her husband. Unaccustomed to independence, to stepping out into Society and gettinging noticed, she ignores the cravings of her heart. Until a stranger arrives on her doorstep and presents her with a daring invitation.
Colin West hates complications. But when he seeks shelter from a storm and meets a reclusive widow, instinct compels him to save her from her self-imposed prison. Soon, he’s hosting a house party and doing his best not to fall for the quick-witted lady. To do so would be disastrous. For if the scars he received in war have taught him anything, it is that he is incapable of instilling desire in any woman, never mind love...
She's an irresistible bluestocking...
For over a year Victoria Leighton has shut out the world. Her sole focus has been to manage her estate and grow the small fortune she inherited from her husband. Unaccustomed to independence, to stepping out into Society and gettinging noticed, she ignores the cravings of her heart. Until a stranger arrives on her doorstep and presents her with a daring invitation.
Colin West hates complications. But when he seeks shelter from a storm and meets a reclusive widow, instinct compels him to save her from her self-imposed prison. Soon, he’s hosting a house party and doing his best not to fall for the quick-witted lady. To do so would be disastrous. For if the scars he received in war have taught him anything, it is that he is incapable of instilling desire in any woman, never mind love...
Unknown Binding
First published March 21, 2023
54 people are currently reading
1171 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Barnes
67 books1,753 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Sophie Barnes writes historical romance novels in which the characters break away from social expectations in their quest for happiness and love. Having written for Avon, an imprint of Harper Collins, her books have been published internationally in eight languages. With a fondness for travel, Sophie has lived in six countries, on three continents, and speaks English, Danish, French, Spanish, and Romanian with varying degrees of fluency. Ever the romantic, she married the same man three times—in three different countries and in three different dresses.
When she’s not busy dreaming up her next swoon worthy romance novel, Sophie enjoys spending time with her family, practicing yoga, baking, gardening, watching romantic comedies and, of course, reading.
For all the latest releases, promotions, and exclusive story updates, subscribe to Sophie Barnes’ newsletter today: www.sophiebarnes.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSophie...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Sophie-Barnes/...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
February 13, 2024
4.5/5.0
What a lovely way to spend a few hours! I especially loved the fact that the author kept the story more realistic to the actual era than most regency romances do. I actually quit reading my here-to-fore favorite genre because the vast majority have just become contemporaries in costume and that drives me nuts! This rich and enjoyable story did a beautiful job of keeping all the things one loves about the genre while still allowing for the challenging and sometimes harsh realities of the era to be addressed.
There were times when the plot stalled a bit, but overall it was is everything historical romance readers should gobble up!
What a lovely way to spend a few hours! I especially loved the fact that the author kept the story more realistic to the actual era than most regency romances do. I actually quit reading my here-to-fore favorite genre because the vast majority have just become contemporaries in costume and that drives me nuts! This rich and enjoyable story did a beautiful job of keeping all the things one loves about the genre while still allowing for the challenging and sometimes harsh realities of the era to be addressed.
There were times when the plot stalled a bit, but overall it was is everything historical romance readers should gobble up!
March 13, 2023
By chance!
A young widow struggling to make ends meet as her estate groans under the debts her dead husband had accrued, and for which she is now responsible.
A survivor of the Egyptian Campaign against Napoleon, West is badly disfigured and hides away from all. Returning home from an inn during a storm he’s forced to detour and seeks shelter at a property that turns out to be inhabited by his fallen comrade Richard’s sister. A woman he and his comrades had looked for for twenty years.
Victoria doesn’t shy away immediately from his injuries but neither is she comfortable, but that’s for her own reasons.
In transpires she needs guidance in estate management and Colin West makes an offer for her to come to his home and learn. With the reassurance of company to act as chaperones, Victoria agrees.
Of course there’s a cad about and Victoria is somewhat shaken at that encounter.
A Beauty and the Beast trope, with sidelines of second chance romance, the story was at times a little stilted. Was that because both leading characters are hesitant, or because the chemistry between them was a tad unsure?
I’m conflicted.
A well told tale though not as pleasing to me as Mr. Grier and the Governess.
An Independently Published ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
A young widow struggling to make ends meet as her estate groans under the debts her dead husband had accrued, and for which she is now responsible.
A survivor of the Egyptian Campaign against Napoleon, West is badly disfigured and hides away from all. Returning home from an inn during a storm he’s forced to detour and seeks shelter at a property that turns out to be inhabited by his fallen comrade Richard’s sister. A woman he and his comrades had looked for for twenty years.
Victoria doesn’t shy away immediately from his injuries but neither is she comfortable, but that’s for her own reasons.
In transpires she needs guidance in estate management and Colin West makes an offer for her to come to his home and learn. With the reassurance of company to act as chaperones, Victoria agrees.
Of course there’s a cad about and Victoria is somewhat shaken at that encounter.
A Beauty and the Beast trope, with sidelines of second chance romance, the story was at times a little stilted. Was that because both leading characters are hesitant, or because the chemistry between them was a tad unsure?
I’m conflicted.
A well told tale though not as pleasing to me as Mr. Grier and the Governess.
An Independently Published ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
March 18, 2023
For nearly a year, Victoria Leighton has shut out the world. Her sole focus has been on paying off the debt she inherited from her husband and securing a comfortable income. Then in the middle of a storm a stranger arrives on her doorstep and presents her with a daring invitation. Colin West hates complications. But when he seeks shelter from a storm and meets a reclusive widow, duty compels him to save her from her self-imposed prison. Soon, he's hosting a house party and doing his best not to fall for the kind hearted beauty.
This is the third & final book in the trilogy, whilst it’s easily read on its own the series follows a group of close friends who fought together at the turn of the nineteenth century. A well written slow burn romance, the characters have depth & are well portrayed. I loved both Colin & Victoria who were perfect for each other, both had self esteem issues so it took some time & some urging from Colin's friends for them to realise how the other was feeling. Everything is progressing when disaster strikes and Victoria comes into her own. I’ve loved the whole series but this is my favourite, not a short book but the pages flew by. I loved the epilogue & also cameo appearances from a couple of previous characters from another series
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the third & final book in the trilogy, whilst it’s easily read on its own the series follows a group of close friends who fought together at the turn of the nineteenth century. A well written slow burn romance, the characters have depth & are well portrayed. I loved both Colin & Victoria who were perfect for each other, both had self esteem issues so it took some time & some urging from Colin's friends for them to realise how the other was feeling. Everything is progressing when disaster strikes and Victoria comes into her own. I’ve loved the whole series but this is my favourite, not a short book but the pages flew by. I loved the epilogue & also cameo appearances from a couple of previous characters from another series
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 19, 2023
Brazen Beauties is a series by Sophie Barnes. The third book in this series is called Mr West and the Widow. The book focuses on Colin West and Victoria Leighton. VIctoria’s brother was friends, however he died in the war. Colin and his brothers in arms looked for Victoria for years to share his story and offer their support. Victoria was gone with no way to track her.
Years later, on his way home, Colin needed shelter during a massive storm. His hostess was Victoria and through the conversation, he realized it was the sister that they had been looking for. He also realized that she was in over her head paying back loans he hapless husband took out and left her with. Colin and his friends take her under their wings helping her learn about taking care of her property. Only Colin realized he was really really interested in her!
Mr. West was a perfect fit for Victoria, if only they can find their way to each other! The book was a fun read and I enjoyed it! Mr. West and the Widow by Sophie Barnes was a good read.
Years later, on his way home, Colin needed shelter during a massive storm. His hostess was Victoria and through the conversation, he realized it was the sister that they had been looking for. He also realized that she was in over her head paying back loans he hapless husband took out and left her with. Colin and his friends take her under their wings helping her learn about taking care of her property. Only Colin realized he was really really interested in her!
Mr. West was a perfect fit for Victoria, if only they can find their way to each other! The book was a fun read and I enjoyed it! Mr. West and the Widow by Sophie Barnes was a good read.
March 21, 2023
Victoria Leighton has long been out of society. Being a widow hasn't been easy for her, largely due to the debt her late husband left her. Victoria has been doing everything in her power to make her land profitable. Colin West couldn't have picked a more opportune time to enter her life.
Colin meets Victoria by accident, but he's grateful he did when he discovers she is a good friend's sister. It is obvious she is in dire need of help, and who better to provide assistance. Colin invites her to a small gathering in his home to help ease her back into society. Meanwhile, he plans to help teach her how to manage her land and find a way to turn a profit. Colin isn't counting on the strong attraction he feels for her? Could she possibly feel it to?
Although romances involving widows or widowers are not usually my go-to, I could not turn down a new read by author Sophie Barnes. Ms. Barnes is an author who doesn't disappoint. She always delivers a beautifully written novel that will leave you longing for more, and MR. WEST AND THE WIDOW is no exception. It is a very touching tale of two very differently scarred people, learning to find and accept love once again, this time with the right people.
Colin meets Victoria by accident, but he's grateful he did when he discovers she is a good friend's sister. It is obvious she is in dire need of help, and who better to provide assistance. Colin invites her to a small gathering in his home to help ease her back into society. Meanwhile, he plans to help teach her how to manage her land and find a way to turn a profit. Colin isn't counting on the strong attraction he feels for her? Could she possibly feel it to?
Although romances involving widows or widowers are not usually my go-to, I could not turn down a new read by author Sophie Barnes. Ms. Barnes is an author who doesn't disappoint. She always delivers a beautifully written novel that will leave you longing for more, and MR. WEST AND THE WIDOW is no exception. It is a very touching tale of two very differently scarred people, learning to find and accept love once again, this time with the right people.
March 19, 2023
What a fantastic conclusion to this series! The characters are carefully crafted with depth and intelligence. The banter is witty and delightful. The longing between Colin and Victoria is simply perfect. I loved everything about this book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 1, 2023
Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.
I really enjoyed this series because the characters were mature couples who were different from the typical rakish aristocrat and innocent debutante of so many other historical romances. This is the third of the series, and the last book I presume.
This is a beauty and the beast type of story, and the story of the third friend of the group Colin West. He and his friends had survived the war many years prior, having lost their good friend Richard. Colin was literally at his side when Richard was shot down, and he himself suffered grievous wounds in that battle, causing terrible scars across his face and body, changing Colin from a handsome, gregarious young man, to a quiet, brooding man who shies away from others, especially having suffered heartache and disappointment after the war.
One day, when trying to reach his home during a storm, he is forced to seek shelter at a local run down estate. When he eventually meets his host, he finds out that she is Victoria Leighton, a widow who, after years of being married to an emotionally abusive man, inherited his debts and beleaguered estate. She does not have the background or knowledge on how to run it profitably and has been selling off what she could to pay the debts and keep the estate. As they share their stories, Colin finds out that she is also the sister of their fallen comrade, whom he and his friends had tried to seek out on their return to England many years before. But because she married, they could not track her down, not knowing her married name.
Colin wants to help Victoria, in memory of her brother, and offers to teach her if she would join him at his estate, on how to manage her home and land. For the sake of propriety, he would make it a houseparty, inviting his friends and their families, especially as they knew her brother as well and would want to help her.
Victoria is a beautiful woman who does not know her own worth, questions herself, and is severely lonely after years of being hidden away, stifled, and downtrodden by her husband. He did not physically abuse her, but he did emotionally abuse her, cheating on her, and making her think she does not have any intelligence, grace, or any other talents. She is starved for kindness and attention. Colin is a man who is shunned and mistreated by others because of the scars he bears and this has deeply affected his sense of self worth and also makes him lonely; and even though he craves love and attention, he questions if he deserves it or be cynical about it, unless it if from his two friends and their wives. After all, what woman could love a man with his horrific scars?
I am a sucker for a beauty and the beast story line, and very much so enjoyed this one. I love that it was an older couple as well, bringing with them the physical and emotional scars of their past experiences, and both overly sensitive to rejection and emotional angst because of their pasts. I enjoyed the foil of the other couples, from the previous books, in the story. This was a lovely ending to the series.
4 stars out of 5
I really enjoyed this series because the characters were mature couples who were different from the typical rakish aristocrat and innocent debutante of so many other historical romances. This is the third of the series, and the last book I presume.
This is a beauty and the beast type of story, and the story of the third friend of the group Colin West. He and his friends had survived the war many years prior, having lost their good friend Richard. Colin was literally at his side when Richard was shot down, and he himself suffered grievous wounds in that battle, causing terrible scars across his face and body, changing Colin from a handsome, gregarious young man, to a quiet, brooding man who shies away from others, especially having suffered heartache and disappointment after the war.
One day, when trying to reach his home during a storm, he is forced to seek shelter at a local run down estate. When he eventually meets his host, he finds out that she is Victoria Leighton, a widow who, after years of being married to an emotionally abusive man, inherited his debts and beleaguered estate. She does not have the background or knowledge on how to run it profitably and has been selling off what she could to pay the debts and keep the estate. As they share their stories, Colin finds out that she is also the sister of their fallen comrade, whom he and his friends had tried to seek out on their return to England many years before. But because she married, they could not track her down, not knowing her married name.
Colin wants to help Victoria, in memory of her brother, and offers to teach her if she would join him at his estate, on how to manage her home and land. For the sake of propriety, he would make it a houseparty, inviting his friends and their families, especially as they knew her brother as well and would want to help her.
Victoria is a beautiful woman who does not know her own worth, questions herself, and is severely lonely after years of being hidden away, stifled, and downtrodden by her husband. He did not physically abuse her, but he did emotionally abuse her, cheating on her, and making her think she does not have any intelligence, grace, or any other talents. She is starved for kindness and attention. Colin is a man who is shunned and mistreated by others because of the scars he bears and this has deeply affected his sense of self worth and also makes him lonely; and even though he craves love and attention, he questions if he deserves it or be cynical about it, unless it if from his two friends and their wives. After all, what woman could love a man with his horrific scars?
I am a sucker for a beauty and the beast story line, and very much so enjoyed this one. I love that it was an older couple as well, bringing with them the physical and emotional scars of their past experiences, and both overly sensitive to rejection and emotional angst because of their pasts. I enjoyed the foil of the other couples, from the previous books, in the story. This was a lovely ending to the series.
4 stars out of 5
March 28, 2023
Twenty years ago, Colin West came back from Egypt scarred from the war. Two of his friends also made it, but one didn't. After all this time, Colin can't get past the guilt of his survival and the fear from others seeing his scarred face. On his way to his estate from London, he is caught in an extremely bad storm. Unbeknownst to him, he finds shelter at the home of the widowed sister of the friend he lost. Both are scarred from their previous experiences with marriage and have no desire to marry again. The more time they spend depending on each other, the attraction, then love breaks down their objections. Not an easy road to a happy ending, but a very interesting read to get there.
This is a couple in their late thirties, early forties.
Some heat.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout
This is a couple in their late thirties, early forties.
Some heat.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout
March 17, 2023
I definitely recommend reading books 1 and 2 in the series before reading this, however, you can read this book as a standalone.
I absolutely loved the way Victoria and Colin found each other. It is definitely not a love-at-first-sight story and I adored following along with them as they found their self-confidence. There's a very mini love story in the background as well that finishes off the trilogy quite well.
5 stars for sure, for this book and for the whole series!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I absolutely loved the way Victoria and Colin found each other. It is definitely not a love-at-first-sight story and I adored following along with them as they found their self-confidence. There's a very mini love story in the background as well that finishes off the trilogy quite well.
5 stars for sure, for this book and for the whole series!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 23, 2023
An easy 4.5! It felt a little slow at first, and a little depressing with Colin and Victoria having such sad personal issues to get through. But before I knew it, I couldn't put this book down and stayed up almost all night having to know what was going to happen next! Such a great story! I haven't read the first 2 books in this series but I will now.
*I received an ARC but my review is my own. I'm just a lady reviewing a book. I don't have a blog or do this professionally or anything*
*I received an ARC but my review is my own. I'm just a lady reviewing a book. I don't have a blog or do this professionally or anything*
March 20, 2023
Good story with interesting characters. I did receive this as an arc and look forward to more books by Sophie Barnes
March 20, 2023
Sophie Barnes' stories are so wonderful. I was extremely fortunate to receive an ARC of Mr.West and the Widow from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Colin West, war hero whose face is badly damaged, is forced to hunker down at the nearest home when he is stuck in a torrential downpour. He ends up at Victoria Leighton's home, a widow who is trying her best to make ends meet. She turns out to be his friend's sister and volunteers to help her learn how to run a successful estate. What ensues when next they meet at his estate is immediate magnetism with an abundance of misunderstandings and miscues. He feels she is repulsed by his face and touch. She feels she is not worthy of anyone's love. I thoroughly enjoyed this older couple love story with a second chance for love for both of them.
March 14, 2023
Thanks to net galley for an ARC of Mr. West and the Widow. My opinions are my own.
Mr. West and the Widow reads like Cinderella meets Beauty and the Beast.
The hero, Colin West, a hero of the Napoleonic Wars, is scarred in body and soul. He avoids people whenever he can. Luckily for him, he gets caught in a severe storm and stops at a rundown house to ask for shelter in the barn. Instead, he is invited inside and treated very hospitably by the servants.
Victoria Leighton, the widow, is also carrying a lot psychological damage from her late husband who told her how inept and unworthy she was before he died (and not a moment too soon) leaving her with no money and a pile of debt. She is so shy and unsure that she doesn't introduce herself to Colin at first.
When they finally meet it is a happy occurrence. By accident, they discover that she is the sister of Colin's dear friend who did not survive the battle that wounded Colin.
He decides to help Victoria learn the skills she needs to make her farm profitable.
As one can guess, during the process, they fall in love, but each is reluctant to tell the other for fear of rejection.
If not for a supporting cast of characters who can clearly see the writing on the wall, I don't believe there would have been a HEA. I liked this book. Two lonely people find the courage to move beyond fear and reach for the love and acceptance they want.
Mr. West and the Widow reads like Cinderella meets Beauty and the Beast.
The hero, Colin West, a hero of the Napoleonic Wars, is scarred in body and soul. He avoids people whenever he can. Luckily for him, he gets caught in a severe storm and stops at a rundown house to ask for shelter in the barn. Instead, he is invited inside and treated very hospitably by the servants.
Victoria Leighton, the widow, is also carrying a lot psychological damage from her late husband who told her how inept and unworthy she was before he died (and not a moment too soon) leaving her with no money and a pile of debt. She is so shy and unsure that she doesn't introduce herself to Colin at first.
When they finally meet it is a happy occurrence. By accident, they discover that she is the sister of Colin's dear friend who did not survive the battle that wounded Colin.
He decides to help Victoria learn the skills she needs to make her farm profitable.
As one can guess, during the process, they fall in love, but each is reluctant to tell the other for fear of rejection.
If not for a supporting cast of characters who can clearly see the writing on the wall, I don't believe there would have been a HEA. I liked this book. Two lonely people find the courage to move beyond fear and reach for the love and acceptance they want.
March 18, 2023
I liked how the book started a slow burn with the emotion building between Colin and Victoria. By about 50% though it started to get a bit too slow burn for me and the pace seemed to drag too much. However things did pick up from the ball onwards when if anything too much happened at much and it was like a runaway carriage from their onwards. I would have preferred a more even pace. Overall though I id enjoy it very much as this is one of my favourite tropes and both were likeable character's and I felt invested in their story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 6, 2023
Rating: 4.5/5.0
What a wonderful Regency romance! It is a perfect story for those who enjoy a more realistic look and flow to the era the characters inhabit.
Read full review in the 2023 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
What a wonderful Regency romance! It is a perfect story for those who enjoy a more realistic look and flow to the era the characters inhabit.
Read full review in the 2023 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
March 12, 2023
Note: this is the third book of the series, but works fine as a standalone.
Trigger warning for attempted rape.
Tropes: scarred war hero, bluestocking, brother's friend, forbidden romance (subplot)
3 1/2 stars rounded to 4. Ooof, lots to unpack here. The first 65% of this book is the slowest-burn romance I've come across recently, but it's well-written and enjoyable. Then it's like the book drank a bit too much caffeine, with a steady dose of steam along with plot-points popping up all over until you get to the epilogue.
First off, I'm a sucker for scarred war heroes, so I was sympathetic toward Colin right away. And I was intrigued by Victoria, who's beyond introverted and is basically agoraphobic. She was so verbally harangued by her late husband during her decades-long marriage that she has no sense of confidence or self-worth. She never socializes or leaves her house.
Victoria takes Colin in on a stormy night, and he ends up saving her life. She discovers that Colin was best friends with her late brother; in fact, her brother died in the very battle that Colin was wounded in, when Colin tried to save HIS life. Colin and his other two friends--the MMC's in the previous books--had been looking for Victoria since they returned to London twenty years before, but hadn't been able to locate her, since she'd been cloistered away by her now-deceased husband. Victoria inherited the property she's living on now from the jerk of a man, but it's falling apart and the debt collectors he owed when he was alive are hounding her. Colin offers to have Victoria join him, and his two other friends and their wives, at a house party at his residence, where he will educate her on how to salvage and run her estate.
I have to give the author credit, I was drawn into Colin and Victoria's "will-they-won't-they" for quite a while, even though they did nothing more intimate than touch hands. The MFC's of the previous books try to draw Victoria out of her shell, while their husbands try to provide Colin some moral support as well as assisting him when he encounters a disease that threatens to kill his crops and his livelihood. Colin and Victoria bond over this problem, and gradually begin to open up to each other. Also, a cute romance starts budding between Mr. Frost, Colin's steward, and Juliana, the ward of the MC's from the previous book, which serves as a second subplot.
Around the 60% point, when everyone attends a ball, was when I started to feel frustrated with Colin and Victoria. Despite her new friends and gown, she's still super mousy and won't express to him the depth of her attraction (plus she's startlingly rude when she pulls away from him to dance with the ball's host. Not exactly showing solidarity there). Yes, she has issues from her past marriage, but you can see Colin's point of view. Then Colin can't take the slow-burn anymore and becomes a jerk. I wanted to shake them both. All they had to do was talk as adults would. (Example. Him: Do you mind if I kiss you? I'll take it slow. She: That sounds good. Yes.)
When the angst breaks loose, this almost feels like a different book.
There's a rape attempt that was long enough to make me uncomfortable (the baddie is a thinly developed character whose egregious behavior is chalked up to being a nasty drunk). I was hoping that this might be Victoria's scene to rise up, but no. To her credit, she does stand up to Colin's detractors, but this just creates more angst, along the "is she trying to trap me?" and "I don't want to be forced into marriage" variety.
It's unfortunate that the couple's first kiss and their first attempt to further things physically happen at the most awkward point in the plot possible. The reader has been looking forward to it for so long, expecting something sweet and maybe --hopefully--steamy, but the attempted rape really changed the tone for me here. (I must mention that I have an issue with the idea that a woman would want to get physical with any man right after an assault, even if the rape wasn't carried out.)
At this point, more bad things befall the characters, all in a row. There's revelations of past relationship woes, a duel, a fever, a scandal, nasty debt collector, and I might be missing something else. I wanted the MC's to have a chance to regain their bond under lighthearted circumstances, similar to their "water fight" scene earlier in the book, and felt a bit cheated that it didn't happen. Yes, there are a number of open-door sex scenes as the plot winds down, but I didn't feel relaxed enough to truly enjoy them.
Overall: I liked how the book started, with the emotion building between Colin and Victoria. I do wish there had been steam and fun before the angst set in (at least a kiss?) and the characters had been more emotionally accessible to each other earlier.
I read an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary review. Opinions are my own.
Trigger warning for attempted rape.
Tropes: scarred war hero, bluestocking, brother's friend, forbidden romance (subplot)
3 1/2 stars rounded to 4. Ooof, lots to unpack here. The first 65% of this book is the slowest-burn romance I've come across recently, but it's well-written and enjoyable. Then it's like the book drank a bit too much caffeine, with a steady dose of steam along with plot-points popping up all over until you get to the epilogue.
First off, I'm a sucker for scarred war heroes, so I was sympathetic toward Colin right away. And I was intrigued by Victoria, who's beyond introverted and is basically agoraphobic. She was so verbally harangued by her late husband during her decades-long marriage that she has no sense of confidence or self-worth. She never socializes or leaves her house.
Victoria takes Colin in on a stormy night, and he ends up saving her life. She discovers that Colin was best friends with her late brother; in fact, her brother died in the very battle that Colin was wounded in, when Colin tried to save HIS life. Colin and his other two friends--the MMC's in the previous books--had been looking for Victoria since they returned to London twenty years before, but hadn't been able to locate her, since she'd been cloistered away by her now-deceased husband. Victoria inherited the property she's living on now from the jerk of a man, but it's falling apart and the debt collectors he owed when he was alive are hounding her. Colin offers to have Victoria join him, and his two other friends and their wives, at a house party at his residence, where he will educate her on how to salvage and run her estate.
I have to give the author credit, I was drawn into Colin and Victoria's "will-they-won't-they" for quite a while, even though they did nothing more intimate than touch hands. The MFC's of the previous books try to draw Victoria out of her shell, while their husbands try to provide Colin some moral support as well as assisting him when he encounters a disease that threatens to kill his crops and his livelihood. Colin and Victoria bond over this problem, and gradually begin to open up to each other. Also, a cute romance starts budding between Mr. Frost, Colin's steward, and Juliana, the ward of the MC's from the previous book, which serves as a second subplot.
Around the 60% point, when everyone attends a ball, was when I started to feel frustrated with Colin and Victoria. Despite her new friends and gown, she's still super mousy and won't express to him the depth of her attraction (plus she's startlingly rude when she pulls away from him to dance with the ball's host. Not exactly showing solidarity there). Yes, she has issues from her past marriage, but you can see Colin's point of view. Then Colin can't take the slow-burn anymore and becomes a jerk. I wanted to shake them both. All they had to do was talk as adults would. (Example. Him: Do you mind if I kiss you? I'll take it slow. She: That sounds good. Yes.)
When the angst breaks loose, this almost feels like a different book.
There's a rape attempt that was long enough to make me uncomfortable (the baddie is a thinly developed character whose egregious behavior is chalked up to being a nasty drunk). I was hoping that this might be Victoria's scene to rise up, but no. To her credit, she does stand up to Colin's detractors, but this just creates more angst, along the "is she trying to trap me?" and "I don't want to be forced into marriage" variety.
It's unfortunate that the couple's first kiss and their first attempt to further things physically happen at the most awkward point in the plot possible. The reader has been looking forward to it for so long, expecting something sweet and maybe --hopefully--steamy, but the attempted rape really changed the tone for me here. (I must mention that I have an issue with the idea that a woman would want to get physical with any man right after an assault, even if the rape wasn't carried out.)
At this point, more bad things befall the characters, all in a row. There's revelations of past relationship woes, a duel, a fever, a scandal, nasty debt collector, and I might be missing something else. I wanted the MC's to have a chance to regain their bond under lighthearted circumstances, similar to their "water fight" scene earlier in the book, and felt a bit cheated that it didn't happen. Yes, there are a number of open-door sex scenes as the plot winds down, but I didn't feel relaxed enough to truly enjoy them.
Overall: I liked how the book started, with the emotion building between Colin and Victoria. I do wish there had been steam and fun before the angst set in (at least a kiss?) and the characters had been more emotionally accessible to each other earlier.
I read an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary review. Opinions are my own.
March 22, 2023
This is Colin's story; he is the last of the three surviving friends who served in the British Army and suffered though a horrendous battle while fighting Napoleon's troops. If you haven't read the other Brazen Beauties books, you don't have to, but they are both excellent and add background to this one. Grayson and James and Colin all suffer mental wounds from battle, but Colin also has disfiguring wounds that cause people to shrink away in fear from him. As a result, he has given up on his life's dreams of marriage and a family and focuses on helping his lands prosper. One night he is stuck in a storm and seeks shelter in a nearby cottage. Serendipitously, it is owned by the sister of the friend the three lost in the war. Colin and his friends had tried to find Richard's sister after the war but could find no trace of her. Now he finds Victoria, who is a lovely woman, a widow. She has her own mental issues, thanks to her much older now-deceased husband, who repeatedly belittled her and waved off her opinions as silly. She is also struggling to make ends meet at her home. Colin is thankful he can finally offer aid to Richard's sister and suggests she come to his home for a house party, during which he can also teach her about managing an estate. Victoria is happy for the assistance, but notices how flustered Colin makes her feel, and has no idea what to make of these feelings (having never experienced attraction before) - so she backs off. Colin is attracted to Victoria but takes her retreat as a sign that he disgusts her physically. When Grayson and James and their wives meet Victoria, they see a spark between the pair and encourage a romance, but Colin resents them pushing him toward Victoria when he feels she does not reciprocate his feelings. It is so painful to read what Colin went through due to his facial scars. I was in the military myself and knew someone whose face was disfigured in war, I think he had a lot of anger as a result of his injuries and no doubt of how others treated him, even in current times. Victoria is Colin's staunch defender, though - surprising herself at her show of strength when she had never been allowed to do that before in her marriage. Can there be a future for these two souls, though they have both sworn off marriage? Theirs is a beautiful and emotional story. I wish there would be a few more Brazen Beauties books, I've really enjoyed all of them!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 25, 2023
This is the last book in The Brazen Beauties series. A cross between Beauty and the beast and Cinderella. You do not have to read the books in order but to fully understand all the characters and how they interact it bests too. Four young gentlemen become soldiers to fight in the Napoleon wars only three come home. The four made a pack to look out for the others family if any of them did not make it back. All three looked for Richard's sister but could never find her. Grayson, James and Colin all have scars from the war. Grayson and James are mental while Colin was horribly scared on his face and left side of his body. He has become a wealthy landowner in the twenty years since the war. Having been hurt by a Lady in his past he has given up on ever finding love. Colin hates it when things are out of his control, finding himself stuck in the middle of a storm he seeks shelter at a rundown manor house. He is shocked by the lack of things in the house, pictures, furnishings and its disrepair. When he finally meets the widow of the house he is shocked by her beauty. She is very nervous and shy around him. He blames the way he looks for that, which could not be further from the truth. Victoria lost the only two people who loved her. Her brother, Richard died in the war and her father could never get over the loss of his only son. Before he died, he married her to a friend of his so she would be taken care of. Unfortunately, it didn’t work out that way. He was much older than her and verbally abused her. Always putting her down and hiding her away in county while he played in London with woman and Gamblin. Leaving her with Hugh debts and no money, she had tried to pay it all back by selling items in the house. When Colin shows up it's almost too late. He learns she is Richard's sister and take her under his wing, and has Grayson, James and their wives to help. Victoria doesn’t understand why when Colin touches her or when they are alone together, she feels warm and lightheaded. Colin believes she is put off by his scars. These two have a lot of baggage to work through, both need to learn to trust and see beyond their fears. This story lets us know how people are treated with scars and how it hurts them. This is an intriguing story of growth, passion, feelings and love. We also get two romances in one (hint) you will have to read this great story to find out what. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my long but honest opinion. I hope you don’t miss this story it is one of the best I’ve read this year.
March 21, 2023
This story was part of a series, but definitely a stand alone story. It did not rely on previous stories to tell this tale.
They may be spoilers in this review.
The heroine of this story is a widow, about 31 years old. On a cold and.rainy night, a man was at her front door asking for a room for the night, even if it was in the barn, because the bridge gave out and he would have to travel 5 miles out of his way. Her servants took care of him and she did not meet him until the next day when the weather became worse and her dog escaped the stables and ran away into the storm. She decided to help her servant look for the dog and she found him, but was not able to get him out of a flooded canal. She went back to get a ladder from the garden shed and the wind whipped the door out of her grasp and cracked her on the head and knocked her unconscious. The maid asked the man for help. The man came in the dark and it wasn't until the light of day that he showed himself to the maid and she saw his facial scars. He was in a war 20 years prior and was next to an explosion. He had additional scars on his shoulder and lower hip. But the facial scars caused women and children to cry out in fright and the men to walk the opposite side of the street. The man is the hero of this story. He is one of a group of four friends who went to war and the friend next to him was shot in the head by a sniper. The other two friends and the hero survived the war. They all had deep emotional scars. The hero goes to carry the heroine in and she asks him to get her dog. So he goes back out into the storm and saves the dog, but is covered in muck. The heroine is not friendly because she is emotionally scarred by her husband who was 30 years older than her and left her in the country to go to London to gamble and wench. She is an extraordinary beauty, but her husband lead her to believe that she is ugly and worthless.
I really enjoyed this story. And the previous two stories also. They did not rely too much on each other, but the characters interacted. The heroines are all older women with men who are of a similar age. The heroines have to be strong and support themselves anyway they can. The men all have some sort of PTSD, but are able to work and live in the real world. These books were not overly dramatic or have strange plot lines. It was a good, solid read that I could immerse myself into and really enjoy. I give this 5 stars and recommend reading.
They may be spoilers in this review.
The heroine of this story is a widow, about 31 years old. On a cold and.rainy night, a man was at her front door asking for a room for the night, even if it was in the barn, because the bridge gave out and he would have to travel 5 miles out of his way. Her servants took care of him and she did not meet him until the next day when the weather became worse and her dog escaped the stables and ran away into the storm. She decided to help her servant look for the dog and she found him, but was not able to get him out of a flooded canal. She went back to get a ladder from the garden shed and the wind whipped the door out of her grasp and cracked her on the head and knocked her unconscious. The maid asked the man for help. The man came in the dark and it wasn't until the light of day that he showed himself to the maid and she saw his facial scars. He was in a war 20 years prior and was next to an explosion. He had additional scars on his shoulder and lower hip. But the facial scars caused women and children to cry out in fright and the men to walk the opposite side of the street. The man is the hero of this story. He is one of a group of four friends who went to war and the friend next to him was shot in the head by a sniper. The other two friends and the hero survived the war. They all had deep emotional scars. The hero goes to carry the heroine in and she asks him to get her dog. So he goes back out into the storm and saves the dog, but is covered in muck. The heroine is not friendly because she is emotionally scarred by her husband who was 30 years older than her and left her in the country to go to London to gamble and wench. She is an extraordinary beauty, but her husband lead her to believe that she is ugly and worthless.
I really enjoyed this story. And the previous two stories also. They did not rely too much on each other, but the characters interacted. The heroines are all older women with men who are of a similar age. The heroines have to be strong and support themselves anyway they can. The men all have some sort of PTSD, but are able to work and live in the real world. These books were not overly dramatic or have strange plot lines. It was a good, solid read that I could immerse myself into and really enjoy. I give this 5 stars and recommend reading.
March 26, 2023
Left a widow with her husband's debts, Victoria is a sheltered homebody with a good heart. Colin is a scarred war hero and her brothers best friend from the war. A chance meeting sets them off to a house party in which Colin attempts to help Victoria gain knowledge in running her estate. Characters from the previous books make appearances. And everyone tries to help Victoria in her predicament. While neither Victoria or Colin intend to fall for each other, sometimes, love cannot be stopped.
This is a very, very slow burn, back and forth, will they wont they, Beauty and the (scarred) Beast, second chance type story. It starts off well and Sophie Barnes' writing pulls you right into the story. While I like stories they don't rush the growing love, this one took it a bit too far in the will they/wont they category. In short, this book is very redundant with lots of points repeated and written about many times. It could have been a much shorter and to the point story had the author written more succinctly. And because of the hesitation from both main characters, I never really felt the love connection between Colin and Victoria. However, I will say that the storyline is a very good one but you cannot wait for them just to get on with it.
Once the book does pick up the book is really good and moves along quickly with some exciting scenes. Then towards the end, another sub plot for Mr. Frost and Julianna is throw in and everything just comes to a halt because the story almost seems like a different one. While I liked their parts, and I liked Julianna in the previous book, it was distracting from the original plot and really didn't seem to be anything other than filler. It was like reading two books in one sometimes. I would have much rather have the focus be on Colin and Victoria and then have a novella for Julianna because it was just too disruptive.
Overall, I didn't really care much for this story, but because I had read the previous books in this series, I wanted to read it. It does have some nice moments, I liked having the other characters from previous books in it and I liked the epilogue.
This can be read as a stand alone, there is attempted rape, and on the page bedroom scenes but they are not explicit.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a very, very slow burn, back and forth, will they wont they, Beauty and the (scarred) Beast, second chance type story. It starts off well and Sophie Barnes' writing pulls you right into the story. While I like stories they don't rush the growing love, this one took it a bit too far in the will they/wont they category. In short, this book is very redundant with lots of points repeated and written about many times. It could have been a much shorter and to the point story had the author written more succinctly. And because of the hesitation from both main characters, I never really felt the love connection between Colin and Victoria. However, I will say that the storyline is a very good one but you cannot wait for them just to get on with it.
Once the book does pick up the book is really good and moves along quickly with some exciting scenes. Then towards the end, another sub plot for Mr. Frost and Julianna is throw in and everything just comes to a halt because the story almost seems like a different one. While I liked their parts, and I liked Julianna in the previous book, it was distracting from the original plot and really didn't seem to be anything other than filler. It was like reading two books in one sometimes. I would have much rather have the focus be on Colin and Victoria and then have a novella for Julianna because it was just too disruptive.
Overall, I didn't really care much for this story, but because I had read the previous books in this series, I wanted to read it. It does have some nice moments, I liked having the other characters from previous books in it and I liked the epilogue.
This can be read as a stand alone, there is attempted rape, and on the page bedroom scenes but they are not explicit.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 12, 2023
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion*
This was my favorite book in the series - which is saying a lot because I really enjoyed the other two books. I loved watching Victoria come out of her shell and learn to believe in herself. The author does a great job of slowly shedding light on just how awful Victoria's marriage was. Her experience in that relationship explained so much about her and why she shied away from getting involved with Colin (at least early on). And once you know the facts of what happened with Colin's very short marriage you understand why he tends to interpret everything Victoria says and does as a rejection of him. It was also so great to see how they built one another up. I think Colin sums it up perfectly when he is thinking about what Victoria means to him and realizes that she has always been his partner and ally - that's what their relationship was about right from the beginning. It was nice to get to see the couples from the previous books. The references to some of Sophie Barnes's other books was a nice addition for fans. With this book you also get the bonus romance between Juliana and Daniel which is very sweet as well - another story about finding the person who accepts you for who you are rather than how to fit into society's expectations and rules. And raise your hand if you wanted to smack Grayson when he blamed Olivia for the situation with Juliana? I was so glad to see everyone point out what an ass he was being. The only thing I would have liked included in this book was more about Victoria's pregnancy. Given her history and fears about becoming pregnant I would have liked an epilogue or chapter about that experience for her and Colin.
This was my favorite book in the series - which is saying a lot because I really enjoyed the other two books. I loved watching Victoria come out of her shell and learn to believe in herself. The author does a great job of slowly shedding light on just how awful Victoria's marriage was. Her experience in that relationship explained so much about her and why she shied away from getting involved with Colin (at least early on). And once you know the facts of what happened with Colin's very short marriage you understand why he tends to interpret everything Victoria says and does as a rejection of him. It was also so great to see how they built one another up. I think Colin sums it up perfectly when he is thinking about what Victoria means to him and realizes that she has always been his partner and ally - that's what their relationship was about right from the beginning. It was nice to get to see the couples from the previous books. The references to some of Sophie Barnes's other books was a nice addition for fans. With this book you also get the bonus romance between Juliana and Daniel which is very sweet as well - another story about finding the person who accepts you for who you are rather than how to fit into society's expectations and rules. And raise your hand if you wanted to smack Grayson when he blamed Olivia for the situation with Juliana? I was so glad to see everyone point out what an ass he was being. The only thing I would have liked included in this book was more about Victoria's pregnancy. Given her history and fears about becoming pregnant I would have liked an epilogue or chapter about that experience for her and Colin.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2023
The following are my thoughts as I read this book. Colin West…a former member of the military, horribly scarred on the left side of face from cannon blast, retiring to the country to run a farm and avoid society. Victoria Leighton…widow of Gavin Leighton, lives alone with her housekeeper and butler, not an active participant in society. Inclement weather has a way of forcing close proximity. Throw in an unfortunate accident and acknowledgment of the other person is unavoidable. Small world, the H was good friends and fellow soldier with the brother of the h. The h is confused and unsettled by the feelings the H is causing. The H is wrong in his assessment of the h and her feelings. Ahhh friends are always being so helpful when it is not wanted, LOL. Ooh a new potential mate for the h has entered the picture, the H is not happy. The h is experiencing attraction and desire for the first time and she is confused. The H has an unforeseen problem and the h surprises him with her willingness to help him solve his problem. Awww a budding romance story within a blooming romance story. Ooh the H is being a real jerk right now and the h is now in danger. Whew the emotional baggage. Well the H redeemed himself quite publicly. The h surprised herself and everyone with her determination and bravery. Yep you guessed, an HEA. I’m going to classify this as a second chance at love story. The MCs were similar in their way of thinking about commitment and marriage but for different reasons. The romance builds slowly and will almost make you groan in frustration, LOL. There is a villain but they are not the main focus of the story, it is mostly centered around theMCs. I enjoyed this story. There is light steam.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 12, 2023
Mr. West and the Widow is a sweet story and a fitting end to the Brazen Beauties series. (FYI, I didn't think Victoria was particularly brazen.) It's definitely got the Beauty-and-the-Beast trope going on, along with a new interpretation of best-friend's-sister. Where it lacked for me was that the slow burn was way too slow.
Colin is very convinced that he's more beast than man, and he is sure no one could ever love him. Therefore, whenever Victoria so much as twitches in his presence--usually due to feeling sparks--he's certain he is repulsing her. That concern dominates the bulk of the plot, though there are some agrarian issues and a secondary romance subplot that also move the story along. It takes a while for Victoria to convince Colin she really desires him, and it then takes him longer to convince her he wants to marry her. See, she has a few (not insurmountable) issues that are alluded to that don't surface until much later in the book. In short, their road to an HEA is a bit rocky but does move forward.
Reading the previous two books is not necessary for appreciating this one, though if you have read them, you'll enjoy seeing both other couples again here. They play a fairly significant role. (Grayson is still a little assholey but redeemable, btw.) A few characters from other Barnes'series have cameos as well, and I just love that.
Overall, a good read with lovely characters, and a very nice epilogue to round things out.
I received an ARC of this book for free from the publisher and Netgalley. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion.
Colin is very convinced that he's more beast than man, and he is sure no one could ever love him. Therefore, whenever Victoria so much as twitches in his presence--usually due to feeling sparks--he's certain he is repulsing her. That concern dominates the bulk of the plot, though there are some agrarian issues and a secondary romance subplot that also move the story along. It takes a while for Victoria to convince Colin she really desires him, and it then takes him longer to convince her he wants to marry her. See, she has a few (not insurmountable) issues that are alluded to that don't surface until much later in the book. In short, their road to an HEA is a bit rocky but does move forward.
Reading the previous two books is not necessary for appreciating this one, though if you have read them, you'll enjoy seeing both other couples again here. They play a fairly significant role. (Grayson is still a little assholey but redeemable, btw.) A few characters from other Barnes'series have cameos as well, and I just love that.
Overall, a good read with lovely characters, and a very nice epilogue to round things out.
I received an ARC of this book for free from the publisher and Netgalley. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion.
March 20, 2023
Wiltshire, 1820
Colin West is heading to home to Woodstone Park when he runs into a severe rainstorm that blocks the road. Crossing fields, he sees a cottage ahead and asks for shelter for his horse and himself. He is given a room, a hot bath, and food. The home is rather bare and shabby. He later meets Victoria Leighton, a widow of just a year. Her husband had spent all of the money including her dowry leaving her in debt.
As they talk, Colin realizes that she is the sister of one of his best friends who fought beside him in the war. The man was killed and Colin was injured leaving half of his face scarred. He and his other men he fought with vowed to take care of the families of those who were lost.
Victoria is a very proud woman and wants to learn about agriculture and finance so she can take care of herself and her home. When Colin suggests that she attend a house party at his home where she can meet the men he fought with and their wives, along with instruction from him on things to help her learn to make money, she agrees.
The group at the house party helps Victoria to come out of herself. In addition, when a serious problem with Colin’s wheat crop occurs, she is more than happy to lend a hand to help solve the problem. Togetherness is bound to bring Colin and Victoria closer and hopefully end in something wonderful.
This is a truly delightful book from Sophie Barnes. She perfectly expresses the emotions of the characters and describes the events in detail. I have long admired this author and thoroughly enjoyed this book. I know other readers will as well.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Colin West is heading to home to Woodstone Park when he runs into a severe rainstorm that blocks the road. Crossing fields, he sees a cottage ahead and asks for shelter for his horse and himself. He is given a room, a hot bath, and food. The home is rather bare and shabby. He later meets Victoria Leighton, a widow of just a year. Her husband had spent all of the money including her dowry leaving her in debt.
As they talk, Colin realizes that she is the sister of one of his best friends who fought beside him in the war. The man was killed and Colin was injured leaving half of his face scarred. He and his other men he fought with vowed to take care of the families of those who were lost.
Victoria is a very proud woman and wants to learn about agriculture and finance so she can take care of herself and her home. When Colin suggests that she attend a house party at his home where she can meet the men he fought with and their wives, along with instruction from him on things to help her learn to make money, she agrees.
The group at the house party helps Victoria to come out of herself. In addition, when a serious problem with Colin’s wheat crop occurs, she is more than happy to lend a hand to help solve the problem. Togetherness is bound to bring Colin and Victoria closer and hopefully end in something wonderful.
This is a truly delightful book from Sophie Barnes. She perfectly expresses the emotions of the characters and describes the events in detail. I have long admired this author and thoroughly enjoyed this book. I know other readers will as well.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
April 15, 2023
Second Chances for Worthy Characters
I read a lot of historical romance, and there are some authors from whom I know I will get a well-done, emotional, well-researched story that is just a pleasure to read. Sophie Barnes is one of my go-to authors of such romances. This story did not disappoint. I love that the couple is older, and each has scars—literal and figurative—and complicated pasts that make them richer as characters. The hero is one of my favorite types in historical romance, the wounded warrior who gave so much of himself for his country and his beliefs but doesn't see himself worthy of a woman, love, or an HEA. The heroine has suffered a marriage to a much older man who left her with little financial security, but she is determined to improve her circumstances. The hero literally shows up at her doorstep, seeking refuge, and they soon come to understand that each could offer the other so much more than he initially sought. I love how this author does research and effortlessly incorporates it into the story. Here, she’s clearly researched Regency agricultural practices, and we learn about them along with the heroine! I also love how she seamlessly incorporates characters from her other books into new ones. Here, we not only get to see the other couples brought together in this series but also characters from other series. I love well-imagined worlds that have interconnections within the larger world of the author's imagination. I thoroughly enjoyed this couple’s story as well as the secondary romance of a character I enjoyed in the previous book of the series. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
I read a lot of historical romance, and there are some authors from whom I know I will get a well-done, emotional, well-researched story that is just a pleasure to read. Sophie Barnes is one of my go-to authors of such romances. This story did not disappoint. I love that the couple is older, and each has scars—literal and figurative—and complicated pasts that make them richer as characters. The hero is one of my favorite types in historical romance, the wounded warrior who gave so much of himself for his country and his beliefs but doesn't see himself worthy of a woman, love, or an HEA. The heroine has suffered a marriage to a much older man who left her with little financial security, but she is determined to improve her circumstances. The hero literally shows up at her doorstep, seeking refuge, and they soon come to understand that each could offer the other so much more than he initially sought. I love how this author does research and effortlessly incorporates it into the story. Here, she’s clearly researched Regency agricultural practices, and we learn about them along with the heroine! I also love how she seamlessly incorporates characters from her other books into new ones. Here, we not only get to see the other couples brought together in this series but also characters from other series. I love well-imagined worlds that have interconnections within the larger world of the author's imagination. I thoroughly enjoyed this couple’s story as well as the secondary romance of a character I enjoyed in the previous book of the series. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
March 19, 2023
WHAT A WAY TO END A SERIES!!! Mr. West and the Widow by Sophie Barnes is the last in her series The Brazen Beauties. Though in a series this book can be read as a standalone. W@hat I loved about this book is that Sophie included characters for another series and I just love reading about old friend in a story. This Beauty and the Beast regency is probably my new favorite of Sophie. This 2 romances in one was such a rollercoaster of emotion. I laughed, I cried and at times I just got angry. Sophie is one of the most talented writers of today and I always enjoy reading her books and Mr. West and the Widow did not disappoint. I found this book to be easy to read, had me from page 1 to the very end, vivid descriptions, had the real feel of the regency era, so very well written, original, at times just charming and at times so very sad. I know will will enjoy Collin and Victoria’s story as much as I did. This story has a widow that was left with nothing but debt, 4 brothers in arms, death, a promise, finding them my chance, scars, feeling very self conscious, always being put down, being secluded by her husband, friends pulling together to get the work done, and diseased crop, a duel, an injury that leads to infection, being caught in a compromising position, acceptance of who they are and filing in love. I am so highly recommending you read this book. I know would will lost in another time and place with this book.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
April 5, 2023
Mr. West and the Widow is a wonderful addition to The Brazen Beauties series. It tells the story of Colin West and Victoria Leighton, both of whom have had very bad experiences in their previous marriages and are determined not to make themselves vulnerable again.
But when Colin discovers that Victoria is the sister of one of his closest friends who died in war, he strives to make her life better by imparting to her the knowledge which will help her have an independent and affluent life, free of other personal complications. Thus enter the principal characters of the previous books in the series, to make the situation Colin propsed to Victoria more respectable, and I must say it was lovely to know more about their lives after we last saw them.
The journey Victoria and Colin take to travel towards each other after the crushing disappointment of their previous bad relationship has been handled in a naturally organic way. Every one of the readers who have gone through bad relationships will find the pain, self- doubt, lack of self- worth and the turbulent emotions they go through completely relatable.
I did feel the story could have been cut short at certain places; still, I loved the characters so much that I didn't mind that very much. And I was left with a wonderful moment of happiness when I completed the book which compensated for the intermittent lag in pace. It has been a fantastic reading experience and I wouldn't say no to reading more books in this series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But when Colin discovers that Victoria is the sister of one of his closest friends who died in war, he strives to make her life better by imparting to her the knowledge which will help her have an independent and affluent life, free of other personal complications. Thus enter the principal characters of the previous books in the series, to make the situation Colin propsed to Victoria more respectable, and I must say it was lovely to know more about their lives after we last saw them.
The journey Victoria and Colin take to travel towards each other after the crushing disappointment of their previous bad relationship has been handled in a naturally organic way. Every one of the readers who have gone through bad relationships will find the pain, self- doubt, lack of self- worth and the turbulent emotions they go through completely relatable.
I did feel the story could have been cut short at certain places; still, I loved the characters so much that I didn't mind that very much. And I was left with a wonderful moment of happiness when I completed the book which compensated for the intermittent lag in pace. It has been a fantastic reading experience and I wouldn't say no to reading more books in this series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 24, 2023
Fate is a great vehicle for finding a HEA. I appreciate when an author can bring a couple together like Colin, wounded emotionally and physically by war, and Victoria, wounded emotionally by loss and being ill used by her dead husband. They both need the healing good solid love, understanding and acceptance bring. Because of their wounds they have self-doubt and that adds layers to the healing and their journey. I enjoy watching them work through things and find what they need in the other.
Bringing James and Greyson in to protect Victoria's reputation was brilliant. Their wives accepted Victoria and brought her into the "family" so beautifally. These two couples are the types of friends anyone would want in their lives. Supportive, understanding and not afraid the let ypu know when you need a good kick in the pants!
Since it was the final book in the series, we get to see Juliana, Greyson's ward find her HEA as well. It was fun to see Greyson's reaction. While it was understandable, i still enjoyed seeing him at a loss. I was very impressed with the solution Colin and Victoria came up with to ease the way.
Ms. Barnes brought the series to a close in a most perfect way allowing Greyson, James, and Victoria to have a closure that helped each of them. It was handled in such a kind and grace-filled way. I had tears. Thank you Ms. Barnes for a lovely ending.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Bringing James and Greyson in to protect Victoria's reputation was brilliant. Their wives accepted Victoria and brought her into the "family" so beautifally. These two couples are the types of friends anyone would want in their lives. Supportive, understanding and not afraid the let ypu know when you need a good kick in the pants!
Since it was the final book in the series, we get to see Juliana, Greyson's ward find her HEA as well. It was fun to see Greyson's reaction. While it was understandable, i still enjoyed seeing him at a loss. I was very impressed with the solution Colin and Victoria came up with to ease the way.
Ms. Barnes brought the series to a close in a most perfect way allowing Greyson, James, and Victoria to have a closure that helped each of them. It was handled in such a kind and grace-filled way. I had tears. Thank you Ms. Barnes for a lovely ending.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 27, 2023
Overcoming Difficulties Together . . .
A widow struggling with the debt her husband left behind, Victoria Leighton is out of her comfort zone. She is a shy wallflower type who has isolated herself for the past year. The marriage her father had arranged for her before his death did not work out well. Her husband hid her away and went out to find his own fun with others, incurring a large gambling debt before his death. Her brother’s friend, Colin West, is burdened with scars from the war and doesn’t feel that a woman could ever desire or love him. So he is not looking to find love anymore. And he misinterprets all of her physical reactions to his touch as disgust over his scars rather than the attraction to him it actually is.
However, at their initial inadvertent meeting when he seeks shelter in a bad storm, Colin learns that she is Richard's sister and wants to take her out of her isolation and help her learn to run the estate properly. So he brings her to a house party and he and his other friends and their wives help her gain some confidence and independence. But will he find himself falling in love with her? And will she find herself trusting and loving him as well? Will they be able to deal with the issues that have been unnecessarily holding them back from happiness?
A widow struggling with the debt her husband left behind, Victoria Leighton is out of her comfort zone. She is a shy wallflower type who has isolated herself for the past year. The marriage her father had arranged for her before his death did not work out well. Her husband hid her away and went out to find his own fun with others, incurring a large gambling debt before his death. Her brother’s friend, Colin West, is burdened with scars from the war and doesn’t feel that a woman could ever desire or love him. So he is not looking to find love anymore. And he misinterprets all of her physical reactions to his touch as disgust over his scars rather than the attraction to him it actually is.
However, at their initial inadvertent meeting when he seeks shelter in a bad storm, Colin learns that she is Richard's sister and wants to take her out of her isolation and help her learn to run the estate properly. So he brings her to a house party and he and his other friends and their wives help her gain some confidence and independence. But will he find himself falling in love with her? And will she find herself trusting and loving him as well? Will they be able to deal with the issues that have been unnecessarily holding them back from happiness?
April 26, 2023
This is the third installment of the Brazen Beauties, and can be easily read as a standalone. Victoria has been out of society's spotlight for a while now. She is a widow who is burdened with paying off the debts left by her late husband and trying to secure a comfortable life for herself. By chance, she meets Colin West when he seeks shelter from a storm in her home. He is a war survivor and is badly disfigured, and he also keeps to himself, away from society. While staying with Victoria, he learns she is the sister of one of his fallen comrades, and someone he has been looking for for years. He realizes how much help she needs in managing her estate, so he and his friends decide to help her and give her some guidance. He invites her to a house party and it doesn't take long for him to realize he has really fallen for her.
Colin and Victoria were a wonderful pair and I enjoyed seeing their feelings for each other blossom and grow. The pair is well-matched and the chemistry between them is amazing. The story was well-written and the characters and depth and personality and I couldn't help but fall in love with them. This was an emotional, heartwarming story and I am glad to have had the opportunity to read it.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Colin and Victoria were a wonderful pair and I enjoyed seeing their feelings for each other blossom and grow. The pair is well-matched and the chemistry between them is amazing. The story was well-written and the characters and depth and personality and I couldn't help but fall in love with them. This was an emotional, heartwarming story and I am glad to have had the opportunity to read it.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews