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The Storme Brothers #1
The Soul of a Storme
An intelligent man realizes that letting go of his anger makes him stronger.
Welcome to book 1 in the exciting new series from USA Today Bestselling Author Sandra Sookoo.
Andrew Charles Storme—ninth Earl of Hadleigh—has been in a monstrous temper for the better part of two years. Unable to join the fight against Napoleon due to the declining health and subsequent death of his father, his rotten mood worsened when his two brothers survived the war with life-changing injuries. Ashamed, Drew retreats to his country estate in Derbyshire to spare them his ire. Why the devil was he not worth more than his title?
Miss Sarah Copeland is a poor relation. In exchange for room and board, she’s become the governess to her great-uncle’s two rambunctious offspring. It was better than being tossed in the street, but only just. Freedom and imagination are found in playing a flute, especially since dreams of her future died long ago. When she meets her handsome, growling neighbor, she believes she’s finally found her purpose. After all, didn’t music soothe the savage beast?
While Drew battles with his guilt and anxiety, he finds safety and solace in Sarah’s company. As they enter into a surprising marriage of convenience, the earl’s temper slowly begins to improve, as does her outlook. But while an unexpected romance blooms over the summer weeks, responsibility to the title rears its ugly head, and his temper flares anew, threatening to tear apart everything they’ve built.
Only patience, trust, and love will see them through to a happy ending.
Welcome to book 1 in the exciting new series from USA Today Bestselling Author Sandra Sookoo.
Andrew Charles Storme—ninth Earl of Hadleigh—has been in a monstrous temper for the better part of two years. Unable to join the fight against Napoleon due to the declining health and subsequent death of his father, his rotten mood worsened when his two brothers survived the war with life-changing injuries. Ashamed, Drew retreats to his country estate in Derbyshire to spare them his ire. Why the devil was he not worth more than his title?
Miss Sarah Copeland is a poor relation. In exchange for room and board, she’s become the governess to her great-uncle’s two rambunctious offspring. It was better than being tossed in the street, but only just. Freedom and imagination are found in playing a flute, especially since dreams of her future died long ago. When she meets her handsome, growling neighbor, she believes she’s finally found her purpose. After all, didn’t music soothe the savage beast?
While Drew battles with his guilt and anxiety, he finds safety and solace in Sarah’s company. As they enter into a surprising marriage of convenience, the earl’s temper slowly begins to improve, as does her outlook. But while an unexpected romance blooms over the summer weeks, responsibility to the title rears its ugly head, and his temper flares anew, threatening to tear apart everything they’ve built.
Only patience, trust, and love will see them through to a happy ending.
271 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2021
135 people are currently reading
277 people want to read
About the author
Sandra Sookoo
337 books273 followersSandra Sookoo is a bestselling author who firmly believes every person deserves acceptance and a happy ending. Most days you can find her creating scandal and mischief in the Regency-era, serendipity and happenstance in Victorian America or snarky humor in the contemporary world. Reading romance is a lot like eating fine chocolates—you can’t just have one. Good thing books don’t have calories!
When she’s not wearing out computer keyboards, Sandra spends time with her real life Prince Charming in central Indiana where she’s been known to goof off and make moments count because the key to life is laughter. A Disney fan since the age of ten, when her soul gets bogged down and her imagination flags, a trip to Walt Disney World is in order. Nothing fuels her dreams more than the land of eternal happy endings, hope and love stories.
When she’s not wearing out computer keyboards, Sandra spends time with her real life Prince Charming in central Indiana where she’s been known to goof off and make moments count because the key to life is laughter. A Disney fan since the age of ten, when her soul gets bogged down and her imagination flags, a trip to Walt Disney World is in order. Nothing fuels her dreams more than the land of eternal happy endings, hope and love stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
January 26, 2023
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥 (2-3 – one scene was more unpleasant and I’m not sure everyone would count it)
Humor: Not much
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and heroine
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
This is the first book in Sookoo’s The Storme Brothers series.
Basic plot:
Andrew Storme, the Earl of Hadleigh, takes himself off to the countryside after fighting with his brothers in London. Here, he meets impoverished Miss Sarah Copeland and a marriage of convenience blossoms.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency time period (1817)
- countryside setting
- hero suffers from bouts of anxiety
- a bit of Cinderella vibes – heroine is a governess to her own family members
- bespectacled heroine that enjoys playing the flute
- celibate hero (hasn’t had a woman in his bed for a few years)
- emotionally strong hero (hero cries)
- medium steam – 2-3 full scenes (the first one, some might not count as it’s an unpleasant wedding night with some dubious consent)
Ages:
- Heroine is 34, hero is 40
My thoughts:
I struggled so hard with this book. Perhaps it was my mood, because honestly this whole week has been depressing for me and then everything in this book seemed depressing too.
I never grew to care about Andrew. I found him unpleasant. He seemed to be filled with self pity and self loathing and never became a strong enough person for me to care about. He has anxiety and anger issues, and seriously kudos to Sookoo for writing an anxiety ridden hero because I love seeing that represented especially in a man. But the bouts of anxiety weren’t developed enough for me – I wanted to understand his anxiety better. I just thought the fact that he blames himself for all the family’s problems because he didn’t deny war commissions a bit of a stretch for the attitude and problems the he had.
I liked Sarah all right, but I did think she was lacking a bit of depth. She’s a musician and her love is for the flute, but I wasn’t getting a musician’s heart from her. There was a lot of focus on the two of them, which I really appreciated, but it was more a lot of negativity, trying to get Andrew to deal with what has been dealt to him in life.
I would definitely try Sookoo again even though this one didn’t work the best for me.
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥 (2-3 – one scene was more unpleasant and I’m not sure everyone would count it)
Humor: Not much
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and heroine
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
This is the first book in Sookoo’s The Storme Brothers series.
Basic plot:
Andrew Storme, the Earl of Hadleigh, takes himself off to the countryside after fighting with his brothers in London. Here, he meets impoverished Miss Sarah Copeland and a marriage of convenience blossoms.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency time period (1817)
- countryside setting
- hero suffers from bouts of anxiety
- a bit of Cinderella vibes – heroine is a governess to her own family members
- bespectacled heroine that enjoys playing the flute
- celibate hero (hasn’t had a woman in his bed for a few years)
- emotionally strong hero (hero cries)
- medium steam – 2-3 full scenes (the first one, some might not count as it’s an unpleasant wedding night with some dubious consent)
Ages:
- Heroine is 34, hero is 40
My thoughts:
I struggled so hard with this book. Perhaps it was my mood, because honestly this whole week has been depressing for me and then everything in this book seemed depressing too.
I never grew to care about Andrew. I found him unpleasant. He seemed to be filled with self pity and self loathing and never became a strong enough person for me to care about. He has anxiety and anger issues, and seriously kudos to Sookoo for writing an anxiety ridden hero because I love seeing that represented especially in a man. But the bouts of anxiety weren’t developed enough for me – I wanted to understand his anxiety better. I just thought the fact that he blames himself for all the family’s problems because he didn’t deny war commissions a bit of a stretch for the attitude and problems the he had.
I liked Sarah all right, but I did think she was lacking a bit of depth. She’s a musician and her love is for the flute, but I wasn’t getting a musician’s heart from her. There was a lot of focus on the two of them, which I really appreciated, but it was more a lot of negativity, trying to get Andrew to deal with what has been dealt to him in life.
I would definitely try Sookoo again even though this one didn’t work the best for me.
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
June 9, 2021
Disappointing
I was distracted from line one of the book where the character's name and rank did not match the promotional description of the book. Then the author tried to tell me that a great-uncle is the brother of one's father - when it is commonly known to be one's uncle. A great-uncle is the brother of one's grandfather. Okay, this could be a case of English is not the first language of the author. I
The writing itself did not draw me into sympathy with either of the main characters. And the "meet cute" was not cute"; it was not in the manner of Recency England; and, it was not realistic. Skipping to the last chapter, I was uninterested in their sexual encounter. I have up on this book.
I feel a slight loss that I will not get to meet and understand the three Storme brothers. With a more engaging writing style (and I apologize that I cannot describe my meaning more clearly), I might have been drawn into each of their stories. That will not happen now.
I was distracted from line one of the book where the character's name and rank did not match the promotional description of the book. Then the author tried to tell me that a great-uncle is the brother of one's father - when it is commonly known to be one's uncle. A great-uncle is the brother of one's grandfather. Okay, this could be a case of English is not the first language of the author. I
The writing itself did not draw me into sympathy with either of the main characters. And the "meet cute" was not cute"; it was not in the manner of Recency England; and, it was not realistic. Skipping to the last chapter, I was uninterested in their sexual encounter. I have up on this book.
I feel a slight loss that I will not get to meet and understand the three Storme brothers. With a more engaging writing style (and I apologize that I cannot describe my meaning more clearly), I might have been drawn into each of their stories. That will not happen now.
June 4, 2021
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋
This story was enjoyable for the most part, although I did have problems liking the main character The Earl.
I know he has his own problems, but after his outburst at his brother in the first chapters of the book, it sort of put my back up against him and I couldn’t get Past it.
That was a shame because the majority of the cast and story was good and held my attention.
Put it down to a personal opinions.
I hope to read more in the series and would definitely tell others to give it a go.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
June 3, 2021
Keep in mind this is just my personal opinion. This book had great promise and I understand the concept behind overcoming and dealing with crippling anxiety, but the hero came off more as an arse than just anxious. Anxiety is mentioned throughout the book. Never once was Andrew mentioned having seen a doctor. The term "anxiety" wasn't even used until 1869 if I'mnot mistaken.
When he was being a gentleman, I liked Andrew. I also liked Sarah quite a bit. I think their personalities were lost in all the arguments. I expected some arguments, but it got old. Every cliche thing from a romance novel was probably in this book.
I wasn't really impressed and not sure if I'm interested in book two.
I received this book from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for an honest review.
When he was being a gentleman, I liked Andrew. I also liked Sarah quite a bit. I think their personalities were lost in all the arguments. I expected some arguments, but it got old. Every cliche thing from a romance novel was probably in this book.
I wasn't really impressed and not sure if I'm interested in book two.
I received this book from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2021
This is my first story by author Sandra Sookoo and I had a little bit of trouble with the first 65% of the book. I found myself very put off by the Earls behavior and honestly hoped he may die during one of his attacks. I skimmed over a lot of his parts simply because his behavior was so appalling.
The Earl does start to pull his head out of his ….. in the last third of the story. He is able to overcome the demons he has been battling and he starts learning to live for the future.
I am curious about his brothers stories so I will probably check them out. Overall, I am just not sure about this book, and no epilogue.
2.5 Stars | 3 Flames | Content warning for a horrible wedding night with dubious consent & for a male MC who is a grade A Jerk.
The Earl does start to pull his head out of his ….. in the last third of the story. He is able to overcome the demons he has been battling and he starts learning to live for the future.
I am curious about his brothers stories so I will probably check them out. Overall, I am just not sure about this book, and no epilogue.
2.5 Stars | 3 Flames | Content warning for a horrible wedding night with dubious consent & for a male MC who is a grade A Jerk.
June 3, 2021
This romance deals with a number of real-life issues, from survivor's guilt to depression and abuse of privilege. In the beginning, I felt sorry for the Earl of Hadleigh, then I hated him and finally came to admire him. His irrational rages upset me and I felt for Sarah having to deal with the fallout from his unresolved issues. Sarah remains constant throughout. Whilst she is taken for granted and abused by your uncle's family, she rises above her circumstances and finds peace and pleasure where she can. Her initial meeting with Andrew was just what he needed, although Sarah was left with some disquiet over the incident. I found the angry words and arguments in the first part of the book a little tedious but was glad when the couple finally came to a place where they could talk without ranting. This is the first book in a new series, and I look forward to seeing how the Storme brothers come through their background and history and am trusting for a good outcome. I received a copy of this novel as a gift through DragonBlade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
November 6, 2021
Fans of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ will adore the fresh twist Sandra Sookoo has put on "The Soul of a Storme"!
Read full review in the 2021 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2021 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 7, 2021
A Storme is brewing in more ways than one and that describes out hero, who has stepped into his responsibility as an Earl, feeling he could never live up to the title or take care of the family. He was overwhelmed, stressed and angry.. Very angry.
She had her own problems being a governess to two unruly children. Her life had not turned out as she thought when her parents had died and left her penniless, with all her dreams coming to an end.
Then in an unexpected, almost collison, they met. Let the banter and adventure begin!
I have to say I really did not like the Earl at all, but the two definately needed each other and it kept me wondering how it would turn out! Really interest in the other brothers so cannot wait for their stories!
She had her own problems being a governess to two unruly children. Her life had not turned out as she thought when her parents had died and left her penniless, with all her dreams coming to an end.
Then in an unexpected, almost collison, they met. Let the banter and adventure begin!
I have to say I really did not like the Earl at all, but the two definately needed each other and it kept me wondering how it would turn out! Really interest in the other brothers so cannot wait for their stories!
June 9, 2021
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for giving me an arc copy. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I saw a lot of appeal in this book, I’m a huge lover of historical fiction especially of the romance kind. I enjoyed the writing and thought it was excellently written. I liked how Sarah, the main character was strong willed, and rather feisty. But I was just not as connected to Andrew. Anxiety is awful and there were quite a few moments when I felt bad for the character, however he just came across extremely rude and hateful and I just was not a fan of it. I think largely because of this, I wasn’t rooting for their relationship and therefore majority of the book I was waiting for something to spark. The writing made it more enjoyable for me and I did like the idea of a ‘contracted’ marriage but I didn’t enjoy the execution.
I saw a lot of appeal in this book, I’m a huge lover of historical fiction especially of the romance kind. I enjoyed the writing and thought it was excellently written. I liked how Sarah, the main character was strong willed, and rather feisty. But I was just not as connected to Andrew. Anxiety is awful and there were quite a few moments when I felt bad for the character, however he just came across extremely rude and hateful and I just was not a fan of it. I think largely because of this, I wasn’t rooting for their relationship and therefore majority of the book I was waiting for something to spark. The writing made it more enjoyable for me and I did like the idea of a ‘contracted’ marriage but I didn’t enjoy the execution.
September 9, 2021
I may be biased on my view point of emotional turmoil having gone through it, but her responses felt very modern. The way that she was approaching his mental health doesn't seen like a historical response. It also started to feel quiet preachy as it went along. It was just very jarring.
May 31, 2021
3.75 Stars
Andrew Charles Storme, ninth Earl of Hadleigh has been in a monstrous temper for the better part of two years in fact since his father died. Unable to join the fight against Napoleon due to the declining health and subsequent death of his father, his rotten mood worsened when his two brothers survived the war with life-changing injuries. Andrew retreats to his country estate in Derbyshire to spare them his ire. Miss Sarah Copeland is a poor relation. In exchange for room and board, she’s become the governess to her great-uncle’s two rambunctious offspring. It was better than being tossed in the street, but only just. Freedom and imagination are found in playing a flute. Then she’s nearly mown down by her handsome, growling neighbour & sparks fly. While Andrew battles with his guilt and anxiety, he finds safety and solace in Sarah’s company. As they enter into a surprising marriage of convenience, the earl’s temper slowly begins to improve, as does her outlook. But while an unexpected romance blooms over the summer weeks, responsibility to the title rears its ugly head, and his temper flares anew, threatening to tear apart everything they’ve built.
This is the start of a new series & is a well written book that had me sitting on the fence whilst I liked Andrew I wanted to give him a good shake but it was Sarah who I loved, she made the best of things & saw to the heart of what was causing Andrew’s panic attacks but their fledgling relationship was nearly derailed. I enjoyed their road to a HEA & look forward to the rest of the series.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Andrew Charles Storme, ninth Earl of Hadleigh has been in a monstrous temper for the better part of two years in fact since his father died. Unable to join the fight against Napoleon due to the declining health and subsequent death of his father, his rotten mood worsened when his two brothers survived the war with life-changing injuries. Andrew retreats to his country estate in Derbyshire to spare them his ire. Miss Sarah Copeland is a poor relation. In exchange for room and board, she’s become the governess to her great-uncle’s two rambunctious offspring. It was better than being tossed in the street, but only just. Freedom and imagination are found in playing a flute. Then she’s nearly mown down by her handsome, growling neighbour & sparks fly. While Andrew battles with his guilt and anxiety, he finds safety and solace in Sarah’s company. As they enter into a surprising marriage of convenience, the earl’s temper slowly begins to improve, as does her outlook. But while an unexpected romance blooms over the summer weeks, responsibility to the title rears its ugly head, and his temper flares anew, threatening to tear apart everything they’ve built.
This is the start of a new series & is a well written book that had me sitting on the fence whilst I liked Andrew I wanted to give him a good shake but it was Sarah who I loved, she made the best of things & saw to the heart of what was causing Andrew’s panic attacks but their fledgling relationship was nearly derailed. I enjoyed their road to a HEA & look forward to the rest of the series.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
April 1, 2022
This is the wonderful first book of an equally wonderful series.
I think Sandra Sooko dealt with the anxiety and anger issues of the hero very, very well. Andrew is not an agreeable character at the beginning and the fact that I came to love him and root for his redemption at the end is all due to the author’s beautiful writing and astounding character development. I heartily recommend to read the following books, because they are even better!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I think Sandra Sooko dealt with the anxiety and anger issues of the hero very, very well. Andrew is not an agreeable character at the beginning and the fact that I came to love him and root for his redemption at the end is all due to the author’s beautiful writing and astounding character development. I heartily recommend to read the following books, because they are even better!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 25, 2021
A beautiful mess
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end. The Earl was a character I connected with personally because of his anxiety. It's truly amazing how Sandra brings awareness to mental health in this story and she has a heroine who is strong enough to stand by the earl during the darkest moments.. I definitely look forward to the next book in the Storme brother series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end. The Earl was a character I connected with personally because of his anxiety. It's truly amazing how Sandra brings awareness to mental health in this story and she has a heroine who is strong enough to stand by the earl during the darkest moments.. I definitely look forward to the next book in the Storme brother series.
December 28, 2021
I did not understand what the hero's problem was. Didn't care too much for neither the hero nor the heroin. Also, a lot of gibber jabber. And worst of all the hero took the heroin's virginity in a crude way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2021
Calming the storm within
Andrew is angry because he never dealt properly with his emotions! Sarah is a spinster and governess to her great Uncles brats I mean ungrateful mouthy children! Andrew never matured emotionally to handle all that life can throw at you! His anger was actually panic attacks because of fear of failure! I'm amazed he reached his age of 40! He was stressed out just thinking of what he needed to accomplish and his responsibilities! Then he met Sarah who was fearless and uncompromising!
Sarah came in like a breath of fresh air and a blanket of common sense! They had immediate sexual chemistry after day 2! But Sarah’s music and her approach to life literally soothed the savage beast! Andrew was worried about his brothers but his concern came out caustic,angry and even biting! He didn’t know what to say or how to reach them until Sarah! I can't wait to read his brothers stories!!
Andrew is angry because he never dealt properly with his emotions! Sarah is a spinster and governess to her great Uncles brats I mean ungrateful mouthy children! Andrew never matured emotionally to handle all that life can throw at you! His anger was actually panic attacks because of fear of failure! I'm amazed he reached his age of 40! He was stressed out just thinking of what he needed to accomplish and his responsibilities! Then he met Sarah who was fearless and uncompromising!
Sarah came in like a breath of fresh air and a blanket of common sense! They had immediate sexual chemistry after day 2! But Sarah’s music and her approach to life literally soothed the savage beast! Andrew was worried about his brothers but his concern came out caustic,angry and even biting! He didn’t know what to say or how to reach them until Sarah! I can't wait to read his brothers stories!!
September 12, 2023
Stuff your kindle find.
I enjoyed this historical romance read . Our Male MC has some major anger issues, and is trying to work through those when he meets the female MC. Some of this angry outbursts make him a little less likable.
Sarah he is helping him find ways to cope with his anger and calm him self. He makes incredible progress, but when familial pressures increase his anger, flares and almost drives her away.
I enjoyed this historical romance read . Our Male MC has some major anger issues, and is trying to work through those when he meets the female MC. Some of this angry outbursts make him a little less likable.
Sarah he is helping him find ways to cope with his anger and calm him self. He makes incredible progress, but when familial pressures increase his anger, flares and almost drives her away.
September 15, 2021
Story about an Asshole
It became obvious very quickly that Storme #1 is too much of an asshole to bother reading this book. Redemption of men like him is just too unlikely..
It became obvious very quickly that Storme #1 is too much of an asshole to bother reading this book. Redemption of men like him is just too unlikely..
June 4, 2021
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you NetGalley, Dragonblade Publishing and Sandra Sooko.
The Soul of a Storme by Sandra Sookoo is a historical romance novel that aims to tackle real life issues such as anxiety and the way it affects their lives.
The hero is Andrew Charles Storme who has inherited the title of Earl two years prior after the death of his father. The pressure of his new position, his perceived inability to protect his his brothers and the fear that he will never be able to live up to his father causes him great anxiety. This presents in panic attacks and fits of rage to the point that it is becoming detrimental to his life. Enter the heroine Sarah Copeland. Sarah has reached spinsterhood at the age of 34 and is a less then ideal position as her great uncles Governess. After they meet and both feel an undeniable attraction they enter into a deal which they will both benefit. However, Sarah loves a challenge and hopes to help Andrew become a better man.
I struggled a bit with my rating for this book. I do think it is more of a 3.5 in my mind but decided that it deserved to be bumped up to a 4. There are some great quiet moments in this book that have Sarah and Andrew learning about each other while also helping them both unpack their trauma. The author does also really know how to write banter which is a good thing because the two characters argue a lot. Most of the time it is Sarah calling Andrew out for being 'beastly' while other times are misunderstandings brought on because they characters don't know each other well enough yet. On that note it definitely comes across as a loose adaption of a Beauty and the Beast story as much of it is trying to help the hero control his temper.
A few things to note... the timing of the book didn't always make sense. Without spoiling it Sarah makes a decision in which I felt was too quick as their arrangement hadn't been going on that long. I also think anxiety was used a little too much to excuse his anger issues. I understand the context and its not a big issue to me just something I wanted to note. Though there is a laughable scene where a button goes flying.
I want to include a trigger warning for the first sex scene. In my opinion it had some aspects of questionable consent that be a bit uncomfortable for some readers.
The Soul of a Storme by Sandra Sookoo is a historical romance novel that aims to tackle real life issues such as anxiety and the way it affects their lives.
The hero is Andrew Charles Storme who has inherited the title of Earl two years prior after the death of his father. The pressure of his new position, his perceived inability to protect his his brothers and the fear that he will never be able to live up to his father causes him great anxiety. This presents in panic attacks and fits of rage to the point that it is becoming detrimental to his life. Enter the heroine Sarah Copeland. Sarah has reached spinsterhood at the age of 34 and is a less then ideal position as her great uncles Governess. After they meet and both feel an undeniable attraction they enter into a deal which they will both benefit. However, Sarah loves a challenge and hopes to help Andrew become a better man.
I struggled a bit with my rating for this book. I do think it is more of a 3.5 in my mind but decided that it deserved to be bumped up to a 4. There are some great quiet moments in this book that have Sarah and Andrew learning about each other while also helping them both unpack their trauma. The author does also really know how to write banter which is a good thing because the two characters argue a lot. Most of the time it is Sarah calling Andrew out for being 'beastly' while other times are misunderstandings brought on because they characters don't know each other well enough yet. On that note it definitely comes across as a loose adaption of a Beauty and the Beast story as much of it is trying to help the hero control his temper.
A few things to note... the timing of the book didn't always make sense. Without spoiling it Sarah makes a decision in which I felt was too quick as their arrangement hadn't been going on that long. I also think anxiety was used a little too much to excuse his anger issues. I understand the context and its not a big issue to me just something I wanted to note. Though there is a laughable scene where a button goes flying.
I want to include a trigger warning for the first sex scene. In my opinion it had some aspects of questionable consent that be a bit uncomfortable for some readers.
June 4, 2021
The Soul of a Storme by Sandra Sookoo is the first in a new Series" The Storme Brothers. It is a different kind of regency romance. Andrew, Earl of Hadleigh is the eldest of three damaged men in his family. The other two suffer wounds from fighting in the war but Andrew's are more psychological: anxiety and guilt, and his are not fun to live with. His mother is threatening to have the title taken from him and given to a cousin if he doesn't mend his ways. He has retreated to his house in Derbyshire where the servants all remember him as a boy and are broken-hearted at what has happened to him as an adult. There he meets Sarah, rather her nearly runs her over when he is galloping his horse. He is an earl and can ride where he wants, after all. She doesn't see it that way and reprimands him with the clearest possible words. All he can see is the first person in years that has dared speak to him that way and he immediately feels drawn to her, and some lust for her as well. Beyond all odds he appears at her uncle's house the next day and proposes to her. She is aghast, but upon thinking it through decides it can be no worse than her present situation and so, accepts.
Andrew is truly a mess. His self-esteem is at a low point and he feels totally incapable of carrying out his duties or even being the head of his family. He is drawn to Sarah, but that affinity frightens him into behaving even more poorly than he normally does, thereby backing her into a corner. Sarah is not one to be mistreated, now that she has a legal document backing her up. She is angry and hurt and doesn't know what to do when the valet comes to her and tells her Andrew is on the edge and she may be the only one who can help him. This is an intriguing novel with headstrong people trying to navigate a relationship fraught with time bombs. Sarah and Andrew both want to be loved, but feel they are unlovable. Andrew especially. It is like he wants to be the worst he can be so people will have an excuse to not love him. He knows it and wants to change but doesn't know how. Sarah has had to listen to herself being denigrated by her uncle and aunt and even the children until it is difficult to know what to do. She wants to help Andrew, but she doesn't know how. This was a different, intriguing book. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free E-ARC of The Soul of a Storme by Dragonblade through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #thesouldofastorme
Andrew is truly a mess. His self-esteem is at a low point and he feels totally incapable of carrying out his duties or even being the head of his family. He is drawn to Sarah, but that affinity frightens him into behaving even more poorly than he normally does, thereby backing her into a corner. Sarah is not one to be mistreated, now that she has a legal document backing her up. She is angry and hurt and doesn't know what to do when the valet comes to her and tells her Andrew is on the edge and she may be the only one who can help him. This is an intriguing novel with headstrong people trying to navigate a relationship fraught with time bombs. Sarah and Andrew both want to be loved, but feel they are unlovable. Andrew especially. It is like he wants to be the worst he can be so people will have an excuse to not love him. He knows it and wants to change but doesn't know how. Sarah has had to listen to herself being denigrated by her uncle and aunt and even the children until it is difficult to know what to do. She wants to help Andrew, but she doesn't know how. This was a different, intriguing book. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free E-ARC of The Soul of a Storme by Dragonblade through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #thesouldofastorme
June 4, 2021
4.25 STARS
The H was VERY hard to like until about 50% of the story. Within the first few chapters I truly was thinking of requesting my money back. To say he was beyond rude and arrogant is an understatement. As the story unfolds you realize he has some mental issues with severe anxiety.
This isn't a warm and fuzzy story so be warned. The H and h clash constantly and it isn't until the last few chapter's that they declare their love. I liked the spunk and smarts of the h. She understood him because she had fought similar issues when she lost her parents.
When we first meet the h she is a Governess to her uncles children. The author states her uncle was her father's brother. Throughout the whole story the author refers to him as her great uncle, but it would only be her uncle. The children she teaches are condescending to her and tell her she is old (34) and ugly etc. Oh, how my heart ached for her to hear what these children were repeating from their parents.
No villains in this story. Just two people trying to escape their lives. I did enjoy the honest talks the h had with the H over and over on how to deal with his anxiety. He says some awful things to everyone and it was hard to feel any empathy for him, but in the end I did.
There is lovemaking within marriage, heat level 4.5 out of 5. Something happens on the wedding night with the h that is very sad.
Does the story improve with them finding peace in their marriage, Yes, I would recommend this unique story on how they each try to cope with all the pitfalls his illness causes. The Lord's name is used in vain I believe twice and some small editing errors. No cheating, no cliffhanger, nice set up for the other brother's stories, very rough road to HEA and steam. (ljb)
The H was VERY hard to like until about 50% of the story. Within the first few chapters I truly was thinking of requesting my money back. To say he was beyond rude and arrogant is an understatement. As the story unfolds you realize he has some mental issues with severe anxiety.
This isn't a warm and fuzzy story so be warned. The H and h clash constantly and it isn't until the last few chapter's that they declare their love. I liked the spunk and smarts of the h. She understood him because she had fought similar issues when she lost her parents.
When we first meet the h she is a Governess to her uncles children. The author states her uncle was her father's brother. Throughout the whole story the author refers to him as her great uncle, but it would only be her uncle. The children she teaches are condescending to her and tell her she is old (34) and ugly etc. Oh, how my heart ached for her to hear what these children were repeating from their parents.
No villains in this story. Just two people trying to escape their lives. I did enjoy the honest talks the h had with the H over and over on how to deal with his anxiety. He says some awful things to everyone and it was hard to feel any empathy for him, but in the end I did.
There is lovemaking within marriage, heat level 4.5 out of 5. Something happens on the wedding night with the h that is very sad.
Does the story improve with them finding peace in their marriage, Yes, I would recommend this unique story on how they each try to cope with all the pitfalls his illness causes. The Lord's name is used in vain I believe twice and some small editing errors. No cheating, no cliffhanger, nice set up for the other brother's stories, very rough road to HEA and steam. (ljb)
August 26, 2021
The Soul of a Storme
I loved this book. It told the story of Andrew Storme. Who lived
At home with his Mother. Father had died and left his title to Andrew. Andrew had two brothers but none of them actually got on. Phineus was the middle brother who had come home from the war with terrible injuries and which left him in a bath chair and totally disabled. The youngest brother named Brand lost an eye in the war. Andrew was continually angry due to his Father dying and his brothers being injured and the fact that their Father would not allow him to fight in the war, so he blames himself for everything. So he takes himself off to their country estate to live with servants alone. One day whilst horse riding he frightened a lady and found out that she was the nanny of the children in the next door property. He met this lady twice and she would not take any nonsense from him and they would argue
And eventually after about the third day;he asked her to marry him. She was 34 and had never been kissed, but she said yes and within a few days they were married. They had many ups and downs in their early days of marriage. But eventually he came to his senses and fell in love. This is a wonderful book to read. It is the first of the series of books of the Storme brothers. It made me feel as if I wanted to straighten them out and show them how to live. It was exciting, loving, learning, teasing by jealous people who thought he would have been better off with their daughter. Nasty, cruel remarks. Miss Sookoo. I enjoyed this book immensely, and enjoyed every word. Well done, your inspiration is first class.
I loved this book. It told the story of Andrew Storme. Who lived
At home with his Mother. Father had died and left his title to Andrew. Andrew had two brothers but none of them actually got on. Phineus was the middle brother who had come home from the war with terrible injuries and which left him in a bath chair and totally disabled. The youngest brother named Brand lost an eye in the war. Andrew was continually angry due to his Father dying and his brothers being injured and the fact that their Father would not allow him to fight in the war, so he blames himself for everything. So he takes himself off to their country estate to live with servants alone. One day whilst horse riding he frightened a lady and found out that she was the nanny of the children in the next door property. He met this lady twice and she would not take any nonsense from him and they would argue
And eventually after about the third day;he asked her to marry him. She was 34 and had never been kissed, but she said yes and within a few days they were married. They had many ups and downs in their early days of marriage. But eventually he came to his senses and fell in love. This is a wonderful book to read. It is the first of the series of books of the Storme brothers. It made me feel as if I wanted to straighten them out and show them how to live. It was exciting, loving, learning, teasing by jealous people who thought he would have been better off with their daughter. Nasty, cruel remarks. Miss Sookoo. I enjoyed this book immensely, and enjoyed every word. Well done, your inspiration is first class.
June 7, 2021
Andrew Storme The Earl of Hadleigh is is an angry and broken man. Unprepared for the guilt and responsibility that has been heaped upon him the last two years has left him a beast of a man. Forced to retreat to the country to try to quell the anger within himself has left him not only still angry, but bored.
When he almost runs over a woman with is horse he confronts her ad lays the blame at her feet. When she stands up to him and gives him a piece of her mind, Andrew can’t believe what he is hearing. This is a first for him!
Sarah Copeland is the poor relation delegated to being a governess for her great uncle. Stuck in a life he hates, but with no other alternatives she bides her time for now. When an arrogant man almost runs her dow with is horse and then blames her she lets him have it!
Andrew can’t get The feisty Sarah out of his mind, she is different than any woman he has ever met. He has only known her a short time when he proposes marriage to her, more of a business arrangement than a marriage. Andre figures he can relieve some of the stress of his life by marrying and feels like Sarah as a strong woman could take his brutishness. What Andrew finds is a strong, smart woman willing to help him heal, but will he return to his old ways when life gets tough.
This not the typical love story, but a story of love and healing. There are a lot of hard issues and subjects they have to deal with. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! All the ups and downs and yes some tears! Don’t miss reading this beautiful story!
When he almost runs over a woman with is horse he confronts her ad lays the blame at her feet. When she stands up to him and gives him a piece of her mind, Andrew can’t believe what he is hearing. This is a first for him!
Sarah Copeland is the poor relation delegated to being a governess for her great uncle. Stuck in a life he hates, but with no other alternatives she bides her time for now. When an arrogant man almost runs her dow with is horse and then blames her she lets him have it!
Andrew can’t get The feisty Sarah out of his mind, she is different than any woman he has ever met. He has only known her a short time when he proposes marriage to her, more of a business arrangement than a marriage. Andre figures he can relieve some of the stress of his life by marrying and feels like Sarah as a strong woman could take his brutishness. What Andrew finds is a strong, smart woman willing to help him heal, but will he return to his old ways when life gets tough.
This not the typical love story, but a story of love and healing. There are a lot of hard issues and subjects they have to deal with. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! All the ups and downs and yes some tears! Don’t miss reading this beautiful story!
June 24, 2021
Check out my review on my blog: http://thereadingdevil.blogspot.com/2...
Or read below!
This is the first book in a series focused around the Storme brothers. The book follows the eldest brother, Andrew Storme, and our female lead is Miss Sarah Copeland. I enjoyed this book for it's plot, but wasn't a huge fan of the characters. While I did like Miss Copeland, and enjoyed the role she played, I found it difficult to relate to Andrew. While I think it is great that this book tried to shed light on real world issues such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, etc. I found that it missed the mark with Andrew. His outbursts, rude behavior, and inability to keep his temperature in check all made it difficult to connect to him, and while there were times when I felt sorry for him, it was not enough to overcome my general dislike.
Miss Copeland, on the other hand, I enjoyed as a character much more. I understood her desire to get out of her current situation with her great uncle, and was unsurprised when she accepted Andrew's marriage proposal. While I thought she put up with much more than she should have, I admired her strength and desire to see the best in Andrew and help him see the best in himself.
Overall, I think this book had some great ideas, but execution could have been a bit better in my opinion. I like the plot twists and will definitely read the next book in the series to see if I enjoy one of the brother's stories more. I encourage you to give this a try though, if you enjoy historical romance books with older characters (late 30's, early 40's) with some real world issues brought to light.
Or read below!
This is the first book in a series focused around the Storme brothers. The book follows the eldest brother, Andrew Storme, and our female lead is Miss Sarah Copeland. I enjoyed this book for it's plot, but wasn't a huge fan of the characters. While I did like Miss Copeland, and enjoyed the role she played, I found it difficult to relate to Andrew. While I think it is great that this book tried to shed light on real world issues such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, etc. I found that it missed the mark with Andrew. His outbursts, rude behavior, and inability to keep his temperature in check all made it difficult to connect to him, and while there were times when I felt sorry for him, it was not enough to overcome my general dislike.
Miss Copeland, on the other hand, I enjoyed as a character much more. I understood her desire to get out of her current situation with her great uncle, and was unsurprised when she accepted Andrew's marriage proposal. While I thought she put up with much more than she should have, I admired her strength and desire to see the best in Andrew and help him see the best in himself.
Overall, I think this book had some great ideas, but execution could have been a bit better in my opinion. I like the plot twists and will definitely read the next book in the series to see if I enjoy one of the brother's stories more. I encourage you to give this a try though, if you enjoy historical romance books with older characters (late 30's, early 40's) with some real world issues brought to light.
May 20, 2022
Finding Anxiety's Root
As a first born and first rate worrier, I related well to Andrew Storme. However, Andrew does not appear to have been given the spiritual and family based tools to channel his fearful worries away from anxiety as I was. This book is character driven, and draws a good picture of anxiety disorder with panic attacks. I applaud author Sandra Sookoo for tackling a difficult subject in an historical context. Using Sarah as a voice of reason and coping techniques, but not the complete solution to a complex mental health disorder, keeps the story from becoming totally unrealistic. Relationships among characters is well set out for beginning a series. Some of the scenes involving Andrew's anger and rage episodes may be difficult and trigger dismay in some readers. I am sure some readers will not like Andrew at all, but others, like me, will identify, empathize, and understand his suffering and needs. I have read this book more than once, and highly recommend it to historical romance readers who like unusual issues of substance instead of grand ballrooms, carriage rides in the park, and moonlit garden kisses.
As a first born and first rate worrier, I related well to Andrew Storme. However, Andrew does not appear to have been given the spiritual and family based tools to channel his fearful worries away from anxiety as I was. This book is character driven, and draws a good picture of anxiety disorder with panic attacks. I applaud author Sandra Sookoo for tackling a difficult subject in an historical context. Using Sarah as a voice of reason and coping techniques, but not the complete solution to a complex mental health disorder, keeps the story from becoming totally unrealistic. Relationships among characters is well set out for beginning a series. Some of the scenes involving Andrew's anger and rage episodes may be difficult and trigger dismay in some readers. I am sure some readers will not like Andrew at all, but others, like me, will identify, empathize, and understand his suffering and needs. I have read this book more than once, and highly recommend it to historical romance readers who like unusual issues of substance instead of grand ballrooms, carriage rides in the park, and moonlit garden kisses.
June 2, 2021
Soothing your inner beast can be harder than you think. Andrew Storme, the recent Earl of Hadleigh is finding his new title and all the responsibilities weighing heavily upon his shoulders. Then when his two brothers come home from the war with disabling injuries he suffers even more because he feels that he has totally let his family down. Now his mother is throwing every single eligible debutante at him to peruse for marriage. He has to get away before he breaks.
At his country estates he meets a feisty governess who is actually the niece. Sarah Copeland becomes his saving grace, but for how long?
Sandra Sookoo does a realistic view at someone who has so much stress that it doesn’t take much to break them. However, a good person who is beside them can help guide, but someone has to help themselves. I love the realistic aspect of the characters and the storyline. I think the author could have possibly taken this even further if she wanted a longer book.
I received a free advanced copy from NetGalley and these are my willingly given thoughts and opinions.
At his country estates he meets a feisty governess who is actually the niece. Sarah Copeland becomes his saving grace, but for how long?
Sandra Sookoo does a realistic view at someone who has so much stress that it doesn’t take much to break them. However, a good person who is beside them can help guide, but someone has to help themselves. I love the realistic aspect of the characters and the storyline. I think the author could have possibly taken this even further if she wanted a longer book.
I received a free advanced copy from NetGalley and these are my willingly given thoughts and opinions.
June 3, 2021
3.5 stars
Our hero Drew, 40, has a huge inferiority complex, coupled with severe anxiety and panic attacks that he is hiding from everyone, or at least he thought he was.
Our heroine Sarah, 34, is a frustrated governess to a couple of small terrors who are her great uncle's kids, she's very intelligent and direct.
They meet when he almost rides her down in the road and she dives into a bush to save herself hurting her ankle. The conversation is pretty sharp on both sides as they try to put each other in their place. The name calling was quite funny as well. I don't think I've ever read a faster or more business like marriage arrangement before and it's a very intense, angry relationship as he learns to deal with his issues, Drew is so high strung it's almost painful to read.
I loved that the MC's where older and this book is basically just one big emotional pile to dig through which was alternately entertaining and stressful.
I received this ARC through NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing
Our hero Drew, 40, has a huge inferiority complex, coupled with severe anxiety and panic attacks that he is hiding from everyone, or at least he thought he was.
Our heroine Sarah, 34, is a frustrated governess to a couple of small terrors who are her great uncle's kids, she's very intelligent and direct.
They meet when he almost rides her down in the road and she dives into a bush to save herself hurting her ankle. The conversation is pretty sharp on both sides as they try to put each other in their place. The name calling was quite funny as well. I don't think I've ever read a faster or more business like marriage arrangement before and it's a very intense, angry relationship as he learns to deal with his issues, Drew is so high strung it's almost painful to read.
I loved that the MC's where older and this book is basically just one big emotional pile to dig through which was alternately entertaining and stressful.
I received this ARC through NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing
June 5, 2021
This is the first book in a new series about the Storme brothers. The eldest, Andrew, the Earl of Hadleigh, is a hard hero to like. I spent much of the book disliking him but also rooting for him at the same time. All three Storme brothers are damaged, two by war and the Earl by being the brother with survivor's guilt who did not have to go off to defend England as the heir.
Andrew is not an alpha hero. He has low self esteem, tantrums and anger issues which are calmed by Sarah, a spinster who was working as an unpaid governess to a distant family member. Sarah and Andrew both just want to be loved, but also don't feel that they deserve love or a happily ever after.
This book also sets the stage for the brothers' stories and I am very excited to see where Ms. Sookoo takes these characters as each will need an unconventional and strong woman to see past their internal and external scars.
The tropes are class difference, PTSD, and mental health issues.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing. This is my honest opinion.
Andrew is not an alpha hero. He has low self esteem, tantrums and anger issues which are calmed by Sarah, a spinster who was working as an unpaid governess to a distant family member. Sarah and Andrew both just want to be loved, but also don't feel that they deserve love or a happily ever after.
This book also sets the stage for the brothers' stories and I am very excited to see where Ms. Sookoo takes these characters as each will need an unconventional and strong woman to see past their internal and external scars.
The tropes are class difference, PTSD, and mental health issues.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing. This is my honest opinion.
June 11, 2021
Do to his health of his father Andrew Charles Storme, the ninth Earl of Hadleigh was unable to join the fight against Napoleon, instead his two brothers went to war. His two brothers came back with severer injuries. Drew has a monstrous temper, the weight of the title is weighing heavy on his mind, can he be the same kind of Earl his father was, can he become the Earl he knows he can be? Out for a morning ride at his country estate he little runs over Miss Sarah Copeland a poor relation to his neighbor the Baron. Oh I love a feisty woman, one who keep Drew on his toes with her witty banter. Drew is quite intrigued with Sarah and proceeds to befriend her and continue their acquaintance, maybe even marriage. He continues to have a monstrous temper, most of the time he has anxiety over his responsibilities they overwhelms him, but Sarah is more than ready to tame the beast within. I voluntarily read and reviewed this excellent book filled adventure and romance.
June 4, 2021
Andrew Charles Storme,(Drew) the ninth Earl of Hadleigh, suffers from panic attacks and anxiety, yet manages to hide his emotions from his family. All that they can see is a man prone to anger. After an argument with his brother, Drew decides to retreat to his country estate in Derbyshire. It is there that he meets Miss Sarah Copeland, who is acting a governess to her great-uncle’s two children. As they enter in a marriage of convenience, struggles with his emotions, which threatens to destroy their blossoming relationship.
An interesting book, with many confronting issues. Drew’s character was at first difficult to warm to but through Sarah’s eye’s, came an understanding of his emotions. As the first book in the series, I look forward to reading more about the Storme brothers.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
An interesting book, with many confronting issues. Drew’s character was at first difficult to warm to but through Sarah’s eye’s, came an understanding of his emotions. As the first book in the series, I look forward to reading more about the Storme brothers.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
February 2, 2023
good start to series
I found the storme brothers series when I read the anthology ‘a duke in winter’. In that book, the author writes about the storme brother’s mother. Good Novella. And so, I had to check out the series.
Andrew, the Earl, suffered anxiety and it resulted in serious anger issues. He was angry with everyone and consequently, isolated the whole family from him. His mother tried to help him and was considering having him temporarily replaced by a cousin because of his outrageous behavior. Sarah understood the signs of depression and anxiety and tried to help him and their marriage. This was a page turner because of the way the author gradually worked out Andrew’s problems.
Good read. There was sex within marriage. However, one scene might disturb some people. Will be reading other books in this series.
I found the storme brothers series when I read the anthology ‘a duke in winter’. In that book, the author writes about the storme brother’s mother. Good Novella. And so, I had to check out the series.
Andrew, the Earl, suffered anxiety and it resulted in serious anger issues. He was angry with everyone and consequently, isolated the whole family from him. His mother tried to help him and was considering having him temporarily replaced by a cousin because of his outrageous behavior. Sarah understood the signs of depression and anxiety and tried to help him and their marriage. This was a page turner because of the way the author gradually worked out Andrew’s problems.
Good read. There was sex within marriage. However, one scene might disturb some people. Will be reading other books in this series.
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