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Pursuing Miss Hall
Nathaniel Blake has been in love with his best friend, Meg, for as long as he can remember. Though a gentleman himself, his status in Society is inarguably below Meg’s own. Determined to avoid the label of “fortune hunter,” Nathaniel has long concealed the feelings of his heart. But when Meg’s parents determine to throw a house party for the sole purpose of marrying her off, it is clear that idleness is no longer an option.
The daughter of a wealthy baronet, Margaret Hall has always known she is expected to marry well. After illness forced Meg to miss her first London Season, her mother is not willing to allow her to sit off the marriage mart for too long. There is to be a house party that will include three eligible men for her to choose from. Meg is determined to make her parents proud. Still, she cannot help but be grateful that her closest friend, Nathan, has been invited as well. But when Meg begins to develop feelings that are far beyond friendship, will she have the courage to choose her own happiness over duty?
The daughter of a wealthy baronet, Margaret Hall has always known she is expected to marry well. After illness forced Meg to miss her first London Season, her mother is not willing to allow her to sit off the marriage mart for too long. There is to be a house party that will include three eligible men for her to choose from. Meg is determined to make her parents proud. Still, she cannot help but be grateful that her closest friend, Nathan, has been invited as well. But when Meg begins to develop feelings that are far beyond friendship, will she have the courage to choose her own happiness over duty?
102 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 12, 2021
134 people are currently reading
782 people want to read
About the author
Karen Thornell
10 books323 followersKaren Thornell grew up reading when she should have been sleeping, but it wasn't until 2019 that she started writing. Tired of ending books and saying 'goodbye' to beloved characters, she wondered what it would be like to have her own characters that lived in her head always. It was probably a mark of sleep deprivation that she wanted people living in her head, but the idea was planted regardless.
Karen lives in Utah with her husband and kids. When not writing contemporary or regency romance, she spends her free time doing endless loads of laundry, playing board games, and, yes, talking to those characters in her head.
You can connect with Karen on Instagram, Facebook, or on her site at www.karenthornell.com
Karen lives in Utah with her husband and kids. When not writing contemporary or regency romance, she spends her free time doing endless loads of laundry, playing board games, and, yes, talking to those characters in her head.
You can connect with Karen on Instagram, Facebook, or on her site at www.karenthornell.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
May 18, 2021
Dear Mrs. Thornell,
I have been smitten in the very best of ways by the utter delight and beauty that is your little book. From the very first page I was pulled in and just wouldn’t—couldn’t—put it down. You have so masterfully packed a full and delightful story into very few pages. This tender book had me laughing and swooning and biting my nails (figuratively of course, as I am a most proper lady...most of the time) and rooting for my favorite characters.
Meg is such a sweet little character and I just adored her personality. She was really a gem and it was so fun to see her grow in her confidence and personal strength. And of course I love Nathan (excuse me, I mean Mr. Blake, naturally). I do believe he would make for very good drawing room conversation. Of course the silliest girls would giggle themselves sick, while the rest of us (for, of course, I am never silly) will merely swoon and blush from our necks to our hairlines. He really is quite dashing and so dedicated. One cannot help but notice and admire all his wonderful qualities, even if he doesn’t come with a title. But if we are being truly fair, a title is a mere trifle when compared to other important qualities (all of which Mr. Blake has in abundance).
The house party was a perfectly clever backdrop for this lovely story and the guest list was most convenient. You truly thought of everything.
My dear Mrs. Thornell, you may consider yourself as having a devoted and loving admirer of your works. I shall sing your praises in every drawing room I enter for the rest of time and look forward most passionately for further offerings from your hands.
Yours ever,
Jessica
P.S. I simply must gush with enthusiasm over the very good kissing scene. I could just read it over and over (I’m not blushing; you’re blushing). And the epilogue is what all epilogue dreams are made of!
*****************************************************
Quotes I loved (quotes contain spoilers):
“Losing continuously can also bring a man pride, you know. It is a mark of consistency.”
Numbers were a safe retreat from the pain she felt. They always made perfect sense. Her eyes grazed the page. Well. They generally made perfect sense.
“Admit it, you would be alarmed if I ever consistently arrived at your front step.”
... Meg retreated to Papa’s desk, standing in front of it, still struggling against her smile.
“Alarmed? Unlikely. Relieved more like.”
“Ha! You know you love the excitement I bring to your day.”
She spent far too much time gazing out windows these days. “Yes. I know they do it because they love me but...”
“But you wish they loved you less?”
She shot him a dry look. “No.” Then she sighed. “But maybe, yes.”
The dimple just to the left of her mouth never ceased to set his heart to pounding. He attempted a few surreptitious breaths to calm it. It didn’t work. Belligerent organ.
Nathan swallowed around the lump in his throat. “Of course. I would be delighted.” He would certainly not be delighted.
How could he managed to elevate their friendship when she was being courted by half a dozen men? She was perfect, utterly perfect, and it would not take long for those other men to realize it and wish to make her their own.
How could he ever allow her to marry another when she would be taking his heart with her? How could he watch as she married a man who would not strive to care for and protect her as he would?
Meg needed someone who would recognize her worth, it was true, but more than that, she needed someone who would put her first always, since she would never put her self ahead of anyone. She needed someone who would make her laugh when she was sad and listen when she needed to be heard. And he needed to be that man.
“Me, out of sorts? That of a state of feeling I do not believe in.”
“But you must let her make her own choices. You do not want her to choose you because you are her only choice—you want to be only choice she desires.”
“I think your hair looks perfect.”
His voice was pitched low to avoid detection from the party members, and a strange warmth swept through Meg. She laughed it off, tucking her hands behind her back. “That is because I have already fixed it. Go on and join the party. I will follow in a moment.”
He looked over his shoulder with a slight grimace. “No, thank you. I much prefer the present company.”
She hit him on the arm with the back of her hand. “No, you foolish man. I meant to imply that we cannot enter together. What would everyone think?”
“That we were enjoying a romantic repose in the darkened dining room, perhaps?”
“Oh, I assure you I would be just as terrible at loo. It seems I am not destined to be a successful card player in this lifetime. I hope you will forgive my faults.”
The viscount’s coat was far too close-fitting to climb through windows.
Which everyone knew was the mark of a true man.
The sun broke through the canopy in occasional pillars of light, and there was that stillness that only nature could provide. It was glorious.
“A man who does not care for his parents is no man at all,” he stated. [Lord Hatfield]
“How did you know I would want to walk in the sun?” Meg said after a minute or two. She lifted her head to the sky, and he slowed his step to allow for her inattention.
“Easy—I know you or perhaps it has something to do with you confessing your desire to feel the sun on your face hardly a week ago.”
“Nothing can be out of place, not a hair nor a character trait. She asked me not to inform the party of my illness, you know, or my talent with numbers.”
Nathan blinked, then scoffed. “You must be joking. Why would she do that?”
“I suppose because they are flaws, Nathan. I only ever saw them as part of me, much as I wish my sickness this last year was not. But I never saw them as flaws.” She shrugged, taking another step away and averting her eyes once more.
“That is because they are not!” Nathan stride to her, and when she did not immediately look up, he put his hand under her chin and gently forced her gaze to meet his. She was surprised at the fire she saw there. “Meg, you are the least flawed person I know.
“Yes,” Meg murmured. “I was incredibly lucky he was there. Have you seen him since, Sarah?”
Sarah’s lips twitched slyly, and she adjusted a curl that swept down over Meg’a shoulders. “Only about five times, miss. Though I’ve no clue how he got in each time since it wasn’t through the front door.”
Meg laughed. That was Nathan all right.
With a small grin, Father leaned around him, unpacking the window. “...I understand this is your preferred way of entering and exciting homes, so perhaps you ought to make use of it and go win Miss Hall’s hands. If not for your sake, then for ours. Your mother and I cannot handle the mopping any longer. The signs are likely to instigate a windstorm at this rate.”
“You are welcome. Now go.”
“Now?” Nathan asked, bewildered.
Father aimed a snack at his head, but Nathan dodged. “Yes, now. What did I raise, a blockhead?”
“Mr. Blake, what a surprise to see you at the front door. Is everything all right?”
Oh dear. He was going to be so angry when she told him she had decided to marry the viscount. But he did not understand. As a woman, Meg was required to marry not for herself, but for her family. Ladies did not have the freedom to choose their partner based of love and affection as a man might.
Now she has every reason to believe that she could never care for Lord Hatfield in the way she wished to care for a husband. Because after the events of today, the events of the last few months if she were being honest, Meg was fairly certain her heart was already engaged.
To Nathaniel Blake.
All at once, Meg’s heart lifted. The anxious energy that had coursed through her the last week and a half settled at je sight of Nathan’s cheeks creased in a smile, gray eyes twinkling, and dark hair falling over his brow as it was wont to do. She loved this man.
“I considered climbing up but did not think it would do to have two of us sporting broken legs.”
Nathan laughed, leaning one arm against the windowsill. “While I would have paid good money to see you attempt such a feat, I would have to agree with you on your choice not to.”
“Can you manage the stairs?”
Nathan scoffed, feigning annoyance. “Can I manage the stairs, she asks.” He huffed. “It is as if you do not realize what a fine, athletic specimen I am.”
Meg laughed. “Oh, I am quite aware.”
Meg stopped in the doorway, not quite closing the door behind her.
“You beat me.”
“Fine, athletic specimen, remember?” He pointed at himself, smiling. She cocked her head, pretending to consider him, all while her heart beat madly in her chest.
“I would guess you had a pair of footmen candy you down.”
“If you must know, I employed a long-ago mastered skill of sliding down the main banister.”
“I promised myself I would not act so cowardly again, and so forgive me, as I am sure I am about to overstep a great many lines.”
He took a deep breath, and the air between them filled with anticipation. Unconsciously, Meg took a small step closer. His gaze bore into her own; she could not look away.
Nathan took a second, almost steadying breath. “I love you, Meg.”
And then, with a full grin gracing his face, he kissed her again until Mrs. Blake peeked her head into the dining room and informed them that they were all anxiously awaiting their news if they did not mind.
“This isn’t fair, you know,” she murmured against his lips.
“I know.” He grinned, pulling back slightly. “But how can I help it when my wife is as irresistible as you?”
“Please do not fall whilst climbing up to the nursery window!” Her voice called after him.
He laughed, yelling back, “I never fall!”
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I have been smitten in the very best of ways by the utter delight and beauty that is your little book. From the very first page I was pulled in and just wouldn’t—couldn’t—put it down. You have so masterfully packed a full and delightful story into very few pages. This tender book had me laughing and swooning and biting my nails (figuratively of course, as I am a most proper lady...most of the time) and rooting for my favorite characters.
Meg is such a sweet little character and I just adored her personality. She was really a gem and it was so fun to see her grow in her confidence and personal strength. And of course I love Nathan (excuse me, I mean Mr. Blake, naturally). I do believe he would make for very good drawing room conversation. Of course the silliest girls would giggle themselves sick, while the rest of us (for, of course, I am never silly) will merely swoon and blush from our necks to our hairlines. He really is quite dashing and so dedicated. One cannot help but notice and admire all his wonderful qualities, even if he doesn’t come with a title. But if we are being truly fair, a title is a mere trifle when compared to other important qualities (all of which Mr. Blake has in abundance).
The house party was a perfectly clever backdrop for this lovely story and the guest list was most convenient. You truly thought of everything.
My dear Mrs. Thornell, you may consider yourself as having a devoted and loving admirer of your works. I shall sing your praises in every drawing room I enter for the rest of time and look forward most passionately for further offerings from your hands.
Yours ever,
Jessica
P.S. I simply must gush with enthusiasm over the very good kissing scene. I could just read it over and over (I’m not blushing; you’re blushing). And the epilogue is what all epilogue dreams are made of!
*****************************************************
Quotes I loved (quotes contain spoilers):
“Losing continuously can also bring a man pride, you know. It is a mark of consistency.”
Numbers were a safe retreat from the pain she felt. They always made perfect sense. Her eyes grazed the page. Well. They generally made perfect sense.
“Admit it, you would be alarmed if I ever consistently arrived at your front step.”
... Meg retreated to Papa’s desk, standing in front of it, still struggling against her smile.
“Alarmed? Unlikely. Relieved more like.”
“Ha! You know you love the excitement I bring to your day.”
She spent far too much time gazing out windows these days. “Yes. I know they do it because they love me but...”
“But you wish they loved you less?”
She shot him a dry look. “No.” Then she sighed. “But maybe, yes.”
The dimple just to the left of her mouth never ceased to set his heart to pounding. He attempted a few surreptitious breaths to calm it. It didn’t work. Belligerent organ.
Nathan swallowed around the lump in his throat. “Of course. I would be delighted.” He would certainly not be delighted.
How could he managed to elevate their friendship when she was being courted by half a dozen men? She was perfect, utterly perfect, and it would not take long for those other men to realize it and wish to make her their own.
How could he ever allow her to marry another when she would be taking his heart with her? How could he watch as she married a man who would not strive to care for and protect her as he would?
Meg needed someone who would recognize her worth, it was true, but more than that, she needed someone who would put her first always, since she would never put her self ahead of anyone. She needed someone who would make her laugh when she was sad and listen when she needed to be heard. And he needed to be that man.
“Me, out of sorts? That of a state of feeling I do not believe in.”
“But you must let her make her own choices. You do not want her to choose you because you are her only choice—you want to be only choice she desires.”
“I think your hair looks perfect.”
His voice was pitched low to avoid detection from the party members, and a strange warmth swept through Meg. She laughed it off, tucking her hands behind her back. “That is because I have already fixed it. Go on and join the party. I will follow in a moment.”
He looked over his shoulder with a slight grimace. “No, thank you. I much prefer the present company.”
She hit him on the arm with the back of her hand. “No, you foolish man. I meant to imply that we cannot enter together. What would everyone think?”
“That we were enjoying a romantic repose in the darkened dining room, perhaps?”
“Oh, I assure you I would be just as terrible at loo. It seems I am not destined to be a successful card player in this lifetime. I hope you will forgive my faults.”
The viscount’s coat was far too close-fitting to climb through windows.
Which everyone knew was the mark of a true man.
The sun broke through the canopy in occasional pillars of light, and there was that stillness that only nature could provide. It was glorious.
“A man who does not care for his parents is no man at all,” he stated. [Lord Hatfield]
“How did you know I would want to walk in the sun?” Meg said after a minute or two. She lifted her head to the sky, and he slowed his step to allow for her inattention.
“Easy—I know you or perhaps it has something to do with you confessing your desire to feel the sun on your face hardly a week ago.”
“Nothing can be out of place, not a hair nor a character trait. She asked me not to inform the party of my illness, you know, or my talent with numbers.”
Nathan blinked, then scoffed. “You must be joking. Why would she do that?”
“I suppose because they are flaws, Nathan. I only ever saw them as part of me, much as I wish my sickness this last year was not. But I never saw them as flaws.” She shrugged, taking another step away and averting her eyes once more.
“That is because they are not!” Nathan stride to her, and when she did not immediately look up, he put his hand under her chin and gently forced her gaze to meet his. She was surprised at the fire she saw there. “Meg, you are the least flawed person I know.
“Yes,” Meg murmured. “I was incredibly lucky he was there. Have you seen him since, Sarah?”
Sarah’s lips twitched slyly, and she adjusted a curl that swept down over Meg’a shoulders. “Only about five times, miss. Though I’ve no clue how he got in each time since it wasn’t through the front door.”
Meg laughed. That was Nathan all right.
With a small grin, Father leaned around him, unpacking the window. “...I understand this is your preferred way of entering and exciting homes, so perhaps you ought to make use of it and go win Miss Hall’s hands. If not for your sake, then for ours. Your mother and I cannot handle the mopping any longer. The signs are likely to instigate a windstorm at this rate.”
“You are welcome. Now go.”
“Now?” Nathan asked, bewildered.
Father aimed a snack at his head, but Nathan dodged. “Yes, now. What did I raise, a blockhead?”
“Mr. Blake, what a surprise to see you at the front door. Is everything all right?”
Oh dear. He was going to be so angry when she told him she had decided to marry the viscount. But he did not understand. As a woman, Meg was required to marry not for herself, but for her family. Ladies did not have the freedom to choose their partner based of love and affection as a man might.
Now she has every reason to believe that she could never care for Lord Hatfield in the way she wished to care for a husband. Because after the events of today, the events of the last few months if she were being honest, Meg was fairly certain her heart was already engaged.
To Nathaniel Blake.
All at once, Meg’s heart lifted. The anxious energy that had coursed through her the last week and a half settled at je sight of Nathan’s cheeks creased in a smile, gray eyes twinkling, and dark hair falling over his brow as it was wont to do. She loved this man.
“I considered climbing up but did not think it would do to have two of us sporting broken legs.”
Nathan laughed, leaning one arm against the windowsill. “While I would have paid good money to see you attempt such a feat, I would have to agree with you on your choice not to.”
“Can you manage the stairs?”
Nathan scoffed, feigning annoyance. “Can I manage the stairs, she asks.” He huffed. “It is as if you do not realize what a fine, athletic specimen I am.”
Meg laughed. “Oh, I am quite aware.”
Meg stopped in the doorway, not quite closing the door behind her.
“You beat me.”
“Fine, athletic specimen, remember?” He pointed at himself, smiling. She cocked her head, pretending to consider him, all while her heart beat madly in her chest.
“I would guess you had a pair of footmen candy you down.”
“If you must know, I employed a long-ago mastered skill of sliding down the main banister.”
“I promised myself I would not act so cowardly again, and so forgive me, as I am sure I am about to overstep a great many lines.”
He took a deep breath, and the air between them filled with anticipation. Unconsciously, Meg took a small step closer. His gaze bore into her own; she could not look away.
Nathan took a second, almost steadying breath. “I love you, Meg.”
And then, with a full grin gracing his face, he kissed her again until Mrs. Blake peeked her head into the dining room and informed them that they were all anxiously awaiting their news if they did not mind.
“This isn’t fair, you know,” she murmured against his lips.
“I know.” He grinned, pulling back slightly. “But how can I help it when my wife is as irresistible as you?”
“Please do not fall whilst climbing up to the nursery window!” Her voice called after him.
He laughed, yelling back, “I never fall!”
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 5, 2021
Hertfordshire, England, 1812. Margaret “Meg” Hall has missed her first London season due to serious illness, but now that she has recovered, she is back on the “marriage market.” Her mother decides to have a house party and invite three eligible men, one of whom is a viscount. Meg knows she is expected to marry well, and she intends to do so. However, her best friend, Nathan, has also been invited. Nathan has no desire to see Meg married off to someone else, but he is not the best prospect and has never declared his love for her. Will Meg choose love or duty?
This is a charming novella that transports us to a Regency-era house party with all its customs and propriety. The point of view shifts between Meg and Nathan as they struggle to deal with their feelings. In the midst of picnics, dances, and garden strolls, Nathan’s angst and Meg’s confusion are well portrayed. The plot is timeless, as two friends struggle between what they want to do and what society tells them they ought to do. This is a pleasant and endearing love story that Regency romance fans will enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via Historical Novels Review Magazine, the magazine of the Historical Novel Society. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
This is a charming novella that transports us to a Regency-era house party with all its customs and propriety. The point of view shifts between Meg and Nathan as they struggle to deal with their feelings. In the midst of picnics, dances, and garden strolls, Nathan’s angst and Meg’s confusion are well portrayed. The plot is timeless, as two friends struggle between what they want to do and what society tells them they ought to do. This is a pleasant and endearing love story that Regency romance fans will enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via Historical Novels Review Magazine, the magazine of the Historical Novel Society. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
July 28, 2021
Such a fun and sweet novella. I started reading it at bedtime and read straight through until I finished.
I'm looking forward to this authors debut novel coming soon. This was a great little taste of what's in store for me when I read her novel. And although this was a novella, it felt whole and complete and left me very satisfied as if I'd read a full length book.
Meg and Nathaniel are so cute together. They've been best friends and neighbors for their whole lives. I loved that even thought the story started as they were older and marriageable age, we get to see snippets and moments from their growing up together. What makes their relationship so great and their connections with each other. Loved it!!!
At the beginning of the book, the author included the guests invited to the house party. That was something that I appreciated because then I was able to keep all of the different characters straight. There aren't a lot of them but enough that it was helpful to my brain.
Nathaniel was wonderful. He is so in love with Meg that it was funny she was unaware of his feelings. But I guess he's good at hiding them from her. But not anymore. He's going to make sure she knows. That is if he can get some time with her and endear himself more so to her parents. Lol! It is quite an entertaining house party. Some struggles, some sorrows, some entertainment and some sweet and tender moments. Nathaniel definitely knows how to jump in and save the day!
Content: Clean. Some mild peril but nothing graphic.
My own personal copy. This is still currently free on Amazon right now as of 7/28/2021. Not sure how long that will last.
Happy Reading!!!
I'm looking forward to this authors debut novel coming soon. This was a great little taste of what's in store for me when I read her novel. And although this was a novella, it felt whole and complete and left me very satisfied as if I'd read a full length book.
Meg and Nathaniel are so cute together. They've been best friends and neighbors for their whole lives. I loved that even thought the story started as they were older and marriageable age, we get to see snippets and moments from their growing up together. What makes their relationship so great and their connections with each other. Loved it!!!
At the beginning of the book, the author included the guests invited to the house party. That was something that I appreciated because then I was able to keep all of the different characters straight. There aren't a lot of them but enough that it was helpful to my brain.
Nathaniel was wonderful. He is so in love with Meg that it was funny she was unaware of his feelings. But I guess he's good at hiding them from her. But not anymore. He's going to make sure she knows. That is if he can get some time with her and endear himself more so to her parents. Lol! It is quite an entertaining house party. Some struggles, some sorrows, some entertainment and some sweet and tender moments. Nathaniel definitely knows how to jump in and save the day!
Content: Clean. Some mild peril but nothing graphic.
My own personal copy. This is still currently free on Amazon right now as of 7/28/2021. Not sure how long that will last.
Happy Reading!!!
June 7, 2021
Look out! There's a new regency author who's about to take the regency genre by storm!
So I might have just devoured this novella in just one night. It was everything I could have hoped for! I was laughing basically the entire time. And also fangirling over Nathan. There was a lot of that happening too.
Although it was fairly obvious who Meg would end up with at the end, it was FAR from boring. In fact, this might just be the best regency novella I have ever read. Nope. It was definitely the best regency novella I have ever read. Final answer. With 3 suitors trying to capture her attention plus Nathan, there was more than enough tension and action. If I had one complaint about the book it's that it wasn't long enough! I wanted a whole novel, not just a novella!! 😍
Reading this made me SO hyped to read Karen's upcoming release this fall. I've already decided that her books will be on my auto-buy list. It was literally SO good.
I saw a previous review that mentioned how the epilogue was dreamy, and I would just like to echo that sentiment. It was everything. Period.
All the feels. I have never felt this emotionally attached to a novella. Wow what is wrong with me. 😂 I'm gonna be a mess when Karen releases a real novel because I'm already hooked 😂😬
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
**I received an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own! :)
So I might have just devoured this novella in just one night. It was everything I could have hoped for! I was laughing basically the entire time. And also fangirling over Nathan. There was a lot of that happening too.
Although it was fairly obvious who Meg would end up with at the end, it was FAR from boring. In fact, this might just be the best regency novella I have ever read. Nope. It was definitely the best regency novella I have ever read. Final answer. With 3 suitors trying to capture her attention plus Nathan, there was more than enough tension and action. If I had one complaint about the book it's that it wasn't long enough! I wanted a whole novel, not just a novella!! 😍
Reading this made me SO hyped to read Karen's upcoming release this fall. I've already decided that her books will be on my auto-buy list. It was literally SO good.
I saw a previous review that mentioned how the epilogue was dreamy, and I would just like to echo that sentiment. It was everything. Period.
All the feels. I have never felt this emotionally attached to a novella. Wow what is wrong with me. 😂 I'm gonna be a mess when Karen releases a real novel because I'm already hooked 😂😬
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
**I received an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own! :)
July 12, 2021
I had so much fun writing this novella, and I really fell in love with Meg and Nathan. I hope you will too!
July 21, 2021
A friends to lovers AND a house party in the same book? Yes please! Margaret Hall missed her first Season due to a severe illness, and her demanding mother is determined to make up for lost time by throwing a house party and inviting several would be suitors. She also invites Nathaniel Blake, their neighbor and Margaret's friend since childhood. Her mother has no fear that Nathaniel will mess things up since he is "below their station" and is there to help even the numbers with the other young ladies.
What a sweet friends to lovers story. I loved Nathaniel and his quirky way of entering Margaret's home through windows. I loved the care he had for Meg (Margaret) and how he treated her. I liked Meg. She wanted more than the mutual respect her parents had in their marriage. She wanted what Nathaniel's parents had--love. It was great to watch her switch from leaning towards the choice that would make her parents happy to what would make her happy.
This didn't feel like a novella, it read and felt like a much longer story. The story arc is complete and even has an adorable epilogue. The characters are fully fleshed out and the change in Meg and Nathaniel's relationship felt very natural. This is a great debut for a new author.
What a sweet friends to lovers story. I loved Nathaniel and his quirky way of entering Margaret's home through windows. I loved the care he had for Meg (Margaret) and how he treated her. I liked Meg. She wanted more than the mutual respect her parents had in their marriage. She wanted what Nathaniel's parents had--love. It was great to watch her switch from leaning towards the choice that would make her parents happy to what would make her happy.
This didn't feel like a novella, it read and felt like a much longer story. The story arc is complete and even has an adorable epilogue. The characters are fully fleshed out and the change in Meg and Nathaniel's relationship felt very natural. This is a great debut for a new author.
July 19, 2021
Absolutely, completely and totally loved this book!!
I enjoyed it from first page to last and as soon as I finished, I immediately picked it back up to re-read my favorite parts. So much humor, fun, and swoony romance packed into this novella that gave me all the feels!
A house party of suitors, a best friend in love, a demanding mother, and a heroine with a difficult choice - what could go wrong?
If you enjoy sweet regency romance, you do not want to miss this 5 star read. Highly recommend and cannot wait for this author to publish more because you can bet whatever she writes, I will be reading it!
I enjoyed it from first page to last and as soon as I finished, I immediately picked it back up to re-read my favorite parts. So much humor, fun, and swoony romance packed into this novella that gave me all the feels!
A house party of suitors, a best friend in love, a demanding mother, and a heroine with a difficult choice - what could go wrong?
If you enjoy sweet regency romance, you do not want to miss this 5 star read. Highly recommend and cannot wait for this author to publish more because you can bet whatever she writes, I will be reading it!
July 12, 2021
Well, well, well. I have been anticipating reading this book for a while and was extremely excited to see it move to the top of my TBR pile! This is one of those books that builds and builds until you reach the perfect ending! For only being 107 pages, the story felt complete and rich. I appreciated the smooth writing and progression of the storyline. The romance is sweet, swoony and clean-everything I’m looking for! Meg is a gem, but Nathan is what really put this book over the top for me. His entertaining ways of entering rooms made him personable and absolutely adorable! I loved his unrequited love and support of Meg. I could feel his feelings so well through this story and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. I HAD to know how it ended!
This was a beautiful book that I highly recommend! Thanks to the author and publisher for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
This was a beautiful book that I highly recommend! Thanks to the author and publisher for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
June 11, 2021
I don't often read novellas, but I'm finding that occasionally they're exactly what I need.
This new favorite of mine comes out in July and I absolutely LOVED it. I can already tell that I'll turn back to this delightful story when I need a quick pick-me-up. Nathan is one of the sweetest, most thoughtful heroes I've read about. His propensity for climbing through windows is hilarious. And Meg is kind, sweet, and dutiful, if a little bit clueless.
This book is all about following one's heart and being brave. And just wait until you get to the kiss!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this novella. As always, opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This new favorite of mine comes out in July and I absolutely LOVED it. I can already tell that I'll turn back to this delightful story when I need a quick pick-me-up. Nathan is one of the sweetest, most thoughtful heroes I've read about. His propensity for climbing through windows is hilarious. And Meg is kind, sweet, and dutiful, if a little bit clueless.
This book is all about following one's heart and being brave. And just wait until you get to the kiss!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this novella. As always, opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 17, 2021
The loveliest little friends-to-more novella. A little house party, a scheming mother, secrets, search parties, childhood friend who likes to climb through windows, the best kissing scene! This novella has it all! If you need a quick regency pick me up, this book is it!
July 22, 2021
I loved this novella! It was just the right length to read in an afternoon. The characters were fabulous. And the story is just great. Everything about it made me happy.
Meg is a great character. I loved how she wanted to be herself, let everyone know that she’s good at numbers and card games. But her mother wants nothing to do with that. Her mother is trying to have Meg make a great match and she wants her to seem as any other debutante. Although, Meg is not quite like ever other girl. She survived a devastating illness and her parents are still concerned about her health.
I really loved Nathaniel. It made me happy to see how he entered her house in unconventional ways. I had to laugh at him. He went out of his way to take care of Meg and make her happy by keeping her occupied in her house. And when he decided she was the one for him, he went all out to win her hand.
This is such a great novella. I can’t wait for this author’s debut novel coming this fall!
I bought a copy of Pursuing Miss Hall for free. All opinions are my own.
Meg is a great character. I loved how she wanted to be herself, let everyone know that she’s good at numbers and card games. But her mother wants nothing to do with that. Her mother is trying to have Meg make a great match and she wants her to seem as any other debutante. Although, Meg is not quite like ever other girl. She survived a devastating illness and her parents are still concerned about her health.
I really loved Nathaniel. It made me happy to see how he entered her house in unconventional ways. I had to laugh at him. He went out of his way to take care of Meg and make her happy by keeping her occupied in her house. And when he decided she was the one for him, he went all out to win her hand.
This is such a great novella. I can’t wait for this author’s debut novel coming this fall!
I bought a copy of Pursuing Miss Hall for free. All opinions are my own.
August 2, 2021
A fun little Regency novella with Meg and Nathan going from friends to possibly more during her family’s house party. It’s a cute short story, free on kindle.
March 11, 2022
Regency house party hosted by a matrimony minded mama! What could go wrong?! A nice mix of sweetness and angst as lifelong friends ponderously make their way to admitting their deeper feelings. Funny and frustrating and excellently narrated by Noah Wall.
July 29, 2021
There's nothing more fun than a house party and when Meg's parents decide to host one to help her find a match, her long-time best friend, Nathan, steps it up.
For a novella, this story sure packs a punch and was full of swoon, humor, and entertainment. Thornell does a great job of developing the plot, fueled by adorably sweet characters. Nathan made a statement when entering the scenes and his loyalty and devotion was admirable. Meg is a sweetheart.
Of course, I love the events of a good house party and I love the way a good romance always emerges. This little gem is adorable and left me smiling.
Content: mild, sweet romance
For a novella, this story sure packs a punch and was full of swoon, humor, and entertainment. Thornell does a great job of developing the plot, fueled by adorably sweet characters. Nathan made a statement when entering the scenes and his loyalty and devotion was admirable. Meg is a sweetheart.
Of course, I love the events of a good house party and I love the way a good romance always emerges. This little gem is adorable and left me smiling.
Content: mild, sweet romance
July 14, 2021
Cute novella
What a cute story! I loved the characters and their interaction. Loved Nathan and Meg and how they fell in love. So sweet!
What a cute story! I loved the characters and their interaction. Loved Nathan and Meg and how they fell in love. So sweet!
July 14, 2021
Lovely Novella
I heard so many good things when I started this and they weren’t wrong. It was super sweet and entertaining.
Nathan and Meg have a cute friendship that blooms to something more, which felt natural and gradual. I felt like Karen was able to cram in a lot into her novella. Kudos to her! It helped that the story was over multiple weeks rather than a few days. This is a definite must read.
I heard so many good things when I started this and they weren’t wrong. It was super sweet and entertaining.
Nathan and Meg have a cute friendship that blooms to something more, which felt natural and gradual. I felt like Karen was able to cram in a lot into her novella. Kudos to her! It helped that the story was over multiple weeks rather than a few days. This is a definite must read.
July 22, 2021
I have a confession to make. . .
After years of staunchly supporting the enemies to lovers trope, I’ve officially changed my tune.
That’s right folks:
With the help of this enchanting novella I’ve realized that Friends to lovers is superior
(Though I still love me some witty banter)
This novella was the sweetest friends to lovers story. I think I actually teared up while reading it because it is just so wholesome. I just truly loved everything about this story and can now have nothing more to say. . . (Only MVPs will get my last reference)
After years of staunchly supporting the enemies to lovers trope, I’ve officially changed my tune.
That’s right folks:
With the help of this enchanting novella I’ve realized that Friends to lovers is superior
(Though I still love me some witty banter)
This novella was the sweetest friends to lovers story. I think I actually teared up while reading it because it is just so wholesome. I just truly loved everything about this story and can now have nothing more to say. . . (Only MVPs will get my last reference)
July 12, 2021
This book was SO GOOD! If you like short, lovely regency stories with the friends-to-lovers trope and lots and lots of sweetness and joy then PLEASE pick up this book!
I loved Meg and Nate and the way their relationship developed from friends to more! Karen’s writing is so beautiful and fits the genre and time period so we’ll, that I loved the time I spent in her story!
I’m usually not a fan of novellas because I feel like I don’t have enough time to get to know and love the characters, but I enjoyed this one so so much!
Definitely be sure to check out Pursuing Miss Hall and keep an eye out for her first full-length Regency romance, To Marry an Earl, coming out in September of 2021!
I loved Meg and Nate and the way their relationship developed from friends to more! Karen’s writing is so beautiful and fits the genre and time period so we’ll, that I loved the time I spent in her story!
I’m usually not a fan of novellas because I feel like I don’t have enough time to get to know and love the characters, but I enjoyed this one so so much!
Definitely be sure to check out Pursuing Miss Hall and keep an eye out for her first full-length Regency romance, To Marry an Earl, coming out in September of 2021!
July 10, 2021
This was an incredibly well-done novella that read like a full-length novel in that the pacing and completeness of the story lacked for nothing and were super complete!
I really enjoyed this story. Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and I really enjoyed how Meg and Nathan figured things out between each other. The author did a great job with keeping the reader entertained; for being a debut author in the Regency genre, she's got some serious natural writing talent and great sense of humor.
I did read an advance reader copy of this novella, but I also preordered my own final copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this story. Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and I really enjoyed how Meg and Nathan figured things out between each other. The author did a great job with keeping the reader entertained; for being a debut author in the Regency genre, she's got some serious natural writing talent and great sense of humor.
I did read an advance reader copy of this novella, but I also preordered my own final copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 29, 2021
I see what all the fuss is about! This novella was sigh worthy, witty and adorable! I loved it!!
August 14, 2024
This was a novella. It was a cute story nothing really stood out to me. A little too much drama at the end.
August 25, 2024
This is such a wonderful story!
4.5 stars rounded up to a 5!
If you like Friends to Lovers trope & Regency Romances... this is it!
Nathan has always had feelings for Margaret (Meg) but he's never wanted to ruin their friendship by expressing them. That is until her family finally announces they want her to marry and have even picked who they have chosen. Nathan now has to act fast show her family he's also a good choice for her. And show Meg that he sees her as more than a friend. Meg just wants to do what will please her family, even if it means marrying a Viscount to increase her families social standing. She's never seen Nathan as anything more than a friend. But his increasing concern over her marrying has her completely confused. But she doesn't want him only stepping up because he doesn't want her in a marriage of convenience. She only wants his affections if they are genuine. And even if they are, can she disappoint her family and turn down a Viscount?!
I love the banter in the story.I laughed out loud quite a few times. The suppressed feelings. The garden scene... and of course that HEA and epilogue. But more than that, it's a short story that doesn't miss a beat. It's hard to pack a complete story in a few pages. But we have that here and it's such a wonderful story , I am glad I gave it a try! ❤️
4.5 stars rounded up to a 5!
If you like Friends to Lovers trope & Regency Romances... this is it!
Nathan has always had feelings for Margaret (Meg) but he's never wanted to ruin their friendship by expressing them. That is until her family finally announces they want her to marry and have even picked who they have chosen. Nathan now has to act fast show her family he's also a good choice for her. And show Meg that he sees her as more than a friend. Meg just wants to do what will please her family, even if it means marrying a Viscount to increase her families social standing. She's never seen Nathan as anything more than a friend. But his increasing concern over her marrying has her completely confused. But she doesn't want him only stepping up because he doesn't want her in a marriage of convenience. She only wants his affections if they are genuine. And even if they are, can she disappoint her family and turn down a Viscount?!
I love the banter in the story.I laughed out loud quite a few times. The suppressed feelings. The garden scene... and of course that HEA and epilogue. But more than that, it's a short story that doesn't miss a beat. It's hard to pack a complete story in a few pages. But we have that here and it's such a wonderful story , I am glad I gave it a try! ❤️
June 12, 2023
After recovering from a near death illness her parents pretty much orchestrate a "season" for her at home. They invite three eligible bachelors. And her childhood best friend. They're "only friends". But as Miss Hall decides she cannot enter into a loveless marriage, she finds herself feeling more for her best friend. So when one of the bachelor's offer for her hand she cannot go through with it just to appease her mother and her family. Little does she know her best friend has also offered for her hand. Obviously there had to be a climax to the book so her best friend gets gravely injured while looking for her when she went missing (she literally just took a nap in her library, I don't find that an uncommon urge but whatever). Anyway happily ever after happened eventually.
Over all. Pretty good.
Over all. Pretty good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2025
Pursuing Miss Hall by Karen Thornell is a beautiful romance packed in a perfect novella. The story was so engaging that I could not put it down and finished it in one evening. It was so good.
I adored Meg. She was trying so hard to please everyone but herself. Her internal dialogue about her various suitors was so good. I laughed, cringed, and swooned at parts right along with Meg. I love how developed her character arc was for a novella. It was so well done, especially when she comes to realize what she wants or rather who she wants.
I adored Nate too. He was such a good friend to Meg, even in the face of her other suitors. I loved how accepting Nate was of Meg and how well he knew her character. It made his love for her all the sweeter.
This sweet novella is the perfect read for a quick fix of Regency romance. I will be picking this one up again. It was so delightful.
I adored Meg. She was trying so hard to please everyone but herself. Her internal dialogue about her various suitors was so good. I laughed, cringed, and swooned at parts right along with Meg. I love how developed her character arc was for a novella. It was so well done, especially when she comes to realize what she wants or rather who she wants.
I adored Nate too. He was such a good friend to Meg, even in the face of her other suitors. I loved how accepting Nate was of Meg and how well he knew her character. It made his love for her all the sweeter.
This sweet novella is the perfect read for a quick fix of Regency romance. I will be picking this one up again. It was so delightful.
August 23, 2022
This is a novella and so it is a short fun read. I almost gave this 4 stars but there were a few too many eye roll moments for 4 stars. I loved Nathan’s character but he could be frustrating at times. Meg was a little over the top in the people pleaser role. These characters were good together when they were open and genuine but other times I just shook my head. I did NOT like Meg’s mother even a little bit. Nathan’s mother was awesome but Meg’s mother was terrible.
June 9, 2023
Great little regency romance where childhood friends eventually connect. Meg missed her debut into society because of an illness. Now her mother has set up a house party to lure eligible men to them.
September 26, 2023
Completely sweet and enjoyable novella about two friends trying to find love while one's mother is pushing her toward marrying a viscount.
July 5, 2024
Adorable. A hallmark type romance set in the 1800s. Entirely unproblematic and fluffy.
October 17, 2025
I loved that this was more in the style of a novella because it felt so fitting for the story being told.
I simply really enjoyed this one :)
I simply really enjoyed this one :)
July 19, 2021
This was adorable! Such a good, light-hearted novella. The pacing was great for a short story (100ish pages) and in that amount of time I still felt connected to the characters and the story.
Love the super sweet HEA and look forward to more from this author!
Love the super sweet HEA and look forward to more from this author!
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