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The Prestons #0.5
The Baron Without Blame
This free prequel novella kicks off The Prestons series.
When Martin Preston, Baron Ashforth, is caught on a dark balcony with a debutante, he does the right thing. Even though he was only freeing her skirts from the railing. Even though he doesn’t know her name. The next morning, he faithfully offers for her hand in marriage.
Lolly Turner has nothing against Lord Preston. He is handsome, kind, and honorable. Yet she can’t bring herself to marry a man solely because of gossip. When she knows she should say yes, she says no. Instead, they concoct a false engagement: they tell the world they plan to marry, while in reality Lolly will jilt Martin once the scandal has died down.
Martin invites Lolly and her family to spend the Easter holiday at his country home to keep up appearances. As he and Lolly spend more time together, they share visions for the future and realize they both hope for a world very different from the one into which they were born. But when Lolly’s father catches wind of their shared politics, he changes his mind about the wedding. Which means it is up to Lolly and Martin to choose: should they do the right thing, or follow their hearts?
When Martin Preston, Baron Ashforth, is caught on a dark balcony with a debutante, he does the right thing. Even though he was only freeing her skirts from the railing. Even though he doesn’t know her name. The next morning, he faithfully offers for her hand in marriage.
Lolly Turner has nothing against Lord Preston. He is handsome, kind, and honorable. Yet she can’t bring herself to marry a man solely because of gossip. When she knows she should say yes, she says no. Instead, they concoct a false engagement: they tell the world they plan to marry, while in reality Lolly will jilt Martin once the scandal has died down.
Martin invites Lolly and her family to spend the Easter holiday at his country home to keep up appearances. As he and Lolly spend more time together, they share visions for the future and realize they both hope for a world very different from the one into which they were born. But when Lolly’s father catches wind of their shared politics, he changes his mind about the wedding. Which means it is up to Lolly and Martin to choose: should they do the right thing, or follow their hearts?
111 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 23, 2021
80 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Katherine Grant
20 books449 followersKatherine Grant writes Regency Romance novels for the modern reader. Her writing has been recognized by Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards, the Next Generation Indie Book Awards, the National Indie Excellence Awards, the Romance Slam Jam Emma Awards, and Shelf Unbound Indie Book Awards. If you love ballgowns, secret kisses, and social commentary, a book hangover is coming your way.
Katherine also hosts the weekly Historical Romance Sampler podcast! Find out more at www.katherinegrantromance.com
Katherine also hosts the weekly Historical Romance Sampler podcast! Find out more at www.katherinegrantromance.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
July 27, 2021
Lolly gets compromised because she's got debilitating allergies and Martin tries to help her out of a predicament. For some reason (/sarcasm) Lolly doesn't exactly want to marry someone she just met and who she doesn't know beyond the fact that he was kind to a sneezing girl.
Turns out he just returned from a consciousness-raising trip abroad with the urge to right wrongs, combat injustice, and take up his seat in Parliament. This would seem to make him well-suited for Lolly, who has some subversive feminist ideas of her own.
Although their progressive politics appear to be a perfect match, both characters can have a myopic view of their own pet issues, and it takes some time before they see their own compatibility. (But don't worry - not TOO long - this is a novella, after all!)
14-Word Summaries:
Laine: Luckily for Lolly the dude she doesn't want to marry is better than parents.
Meg: Caught in a non-sexy compromising situation? Fake an engagement! ... Until you can get sexy-compromised.
Turns out he just returned from a consciousness-raising trip abroad with the urge to right wrongs, combat injustice, and take up his seat in Parliament. This would seem to make him well-suited for Lolly, who has some subversive feminist ideas of her own.
Although their progressive politics appear to be a perfect match, both characters can have a myopic view of their own pet issues, and it takes some time before they see their own compatibility. (But don't worry - not TOO long - this is a novella, after all!)
14-Word Summaries:
Laine: Luckily for Lolly the dude she doesn't want to marry is better than parents.
Meg: Caught in a non-sexy compromising situation? Fake an engagement! ... Until you can get sexy-compromised.
June 25, 2021
꧁☯︎︎ The Baron without Blame ☯︎︎꧂
The Prestons Series #0
✒️ Katherine Grant
https://www.facebook.com/katherinegra...
Release Date 06/23/2021
➪ buying link to come
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
When Martin Preston, Baron Ashforth, is caught on a dark balcony with a debutante, he does the right thing. Even though he was only freeing her skirts from the railing. Even though he doesn’t know her name. The next morning, he faithfully offers for her hand in marriage.
Lolly Turner has nothing against Lord Preston. He is handsome, kind, and honorable. Yet she can’t bring herself to marry a man solely because of gossip. When she knows she should say yes, she says no. Instead, they concoct a false engagement: they tell the world they plan to marry, while in reality Lolly will jilt Martin once the scandal has died down.
Martin invites Lolly and her family to spend the Easter holiday at his country home to keep up appearances. As he and Lolly spend more time together, they share visions for the future and realize they both hope for a world very different from the one into which they were born. But when Lolly’s father catches wind of their shared politics, he changes his mind about the wedding. Which means it is up to Lolly and Martin to choose: should they do the right thing, or follow their hearts?
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
ᗷOOK ᗷIᖇTᕼᗪᗩY ᖇᗴᐯIᗴᗯ
꧁☯︎︎ The Baron without Blame ☯︎︎꧂
✒️ Katherine Grant
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Will she understand in time there are many ways to fight one’s battle...
My first read why the author previous work, and with it she has set the pace of someone who refuses to follow the common road but choose a more hardous one.
There is still the lingering weight of the slavery price during this era, but also how by being born from one side of the fence, it makes or not people better or how a skin color can identify someone’s worth for many close minded persons.
So as stated in the blurb, this novella is a foretaste for a new series soon to be released, about the offsprings of this story’s heroes.
Martin is no alpha hero, it feels like he is walking on eggs, always thinking back and forth what he might say or not as he knows his ideas are not regarded as being the right ones. Honorable to the core but uncertain on how to express his thoughts or act as he would desire to, until he has to stand for what he believes is right whatever the cost he might have to pay.
Why Lolly often misjudged him, misinterpreting society’s expectations and his inner integrity.
She has different expectations than the classic debutante, she longs for more, to be able to make her own choices, to decide for herself. She is even willing to force him to do her whims because it is what she craves while not listening to his reasons. She is eager to throw society’s dictates to the window, to gain her own freedom. And even if she shares many of his ideas, she is at a time blind to her own faults, as wanting is not taking.
Why she is fighting the wrong opponent. Martin is not her enemy, it is more the father she fears and has always made her comply to his will who is her true adversary.
This introduction to a new series is an awesome promise of many great stories to come, as the heroes have not paved an easy path for their offsprings if they are willing to follow in their parents steps.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen detailed foreplays scene.
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #regencyromance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #historicalromanceauthor #bookblog #romanceauthor #historicalromancewriter #bookblogger #historicalromancenovel #arcread #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader
The Prestons Series #0
✒️ Katherine Grant
https://www.facebook.com/katherinegra...
Release Date 06/23/2021
➪ buying link to come
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
When Martin Preston, Baron Ashforth, is caught on a dark balcony with a debutante, he does the right thing. Even though he was only freeing her skirts from the railing. Even though he doesn’t know her name. The next morning, he faithfully offers for her hand in marriage.
Lolly Turner has nothing against Lord Preston. He is handsome, kind, and honorable. Yet she can’t bring herself to marry a man solely because of gossip. When she knows she should say yes, she says no. Instead, they concoct a false engagement: they tell the world they plan to marry, while in reality Lolly will jilt Martin once the scandal has died down.
Martin invites Lolly and her family to spend the Easter holiday at his country home to keep up appearances. As he and Lolly spend more time together, they share visions for the future and realize they both hope for a world very different from the one into which they were born. But when Lolly’s father catches wind of their shared politics, he changes his mind about the wedding. Which means it is up to Lolly and Martin to choose: should they do the right thing, or follow their hearts?
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
ᗷOOK ᗷIᖇTᕼᗪᗩY ᖇᗴᐯIᗴᗯ
꧁☯︎︎ The Baron without Blame ☯︎︎꧂
✒️ Katherine Grant
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Will she understand in time there are many ways to fight one’s battle...
My first read why the author previous work, and with it she has set the pace of someone who refuses to follow the common road but choose a more hardous one.
There is still the lingering weight of the slavery price during this era, but also how by being born from one side of the fence, it makes or not people better or how a skin color can identify someone’s worth for many close minded persons.
So as stated in the blurb, this novella is a foretaste for a new series soon to be released, about the offsprings of this story’s heroes.
Martin is no alpha hero, it feels like he is walking on eggs, always thinking back and forth what he might say or not as he knows his ideas are not regarded as being the right ones. Honorable to the core but uncertain on how to express his thoughts or act as he would desire to, until he has to stand for what he believes is right whatever the cost he might have to pay.
Why Lolly often misjudged him, misinterpreting society’s expectations and his inner integrity.
She has different expectations than the classic debutante, she longs for more, to be able to make her own choices, to decide for herself. She is even willing to force him to do her whims because it is what she craves while not listening to his reasons. She is eager to throw society’s dictates to the window, to gain her own freedom. And even if she shares many of his ideas, she is at a time blind to her own faults, as wanting is not taking.
Why she is fighting the wrong opponent. Martin is not her enemy, it is more the father she fears and has always made her comply to his will who is her true adversary.
This introduction to a new series is an awesome promise of many great stories to come, as the heroes have not paved an easy path for their offsprings if they are willing to follow in their parents steps.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen detailed foreplays scene.
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #regencyromance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #historicalromanceauthor #bookblog #romanceauthor #historicalromancewriter #bookblogger #historicalromancenovel #arcread #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader
August 7, 2021
This was a quick fun read. Lolly was a very independent young woman who went against most expectations of a lady. Martin wanted to change society's views and was fairly outspoken about them. Because of a misunderstanding, Lolly and Martin got to know each other and found they had similar ideas about behaviors and expectations. Love blossomed despite family permission. I enjoyed this story.
July 28, 2023
A Wonderful Novella.
This Novella was Absolutely Wonderful & Delightful.
I love that Katherine Grant created a Fanty Novella which would make us believe that there were at least a couple of people were willing to step outside the bounds of society & create a place without judgment & help people to help one another regardless of their race or religion.
This Novella was Absolutely Wonderful & Delightful.
I love that Katherine Grant created a Fanty Novella which would make us believe that there were at least a couple of people were willing to step outside the bounds of society & create a place without judgment & help people to help one another regardless of their race or religion.
January 16, 2023
This was a well written book and I enjoyed it.
June 21, 2021
Its a different book.that I expected, the story not common. It is good that the author wrote an afterword explaining why she wanted to write this book. The main characters in this story are reformers. Separately, they believe that the world they live in is not very social. More rights for women and workers, no profits and products of slave labor. Its a good thing they found each other there on the balcony, because I don’t think anyone else in this age would have accepted them. An innocent encounter on the balcony leads to a marriage proposal according to the rules of society. To get to know each other better (and to keep up appearances before breaking off the engagement), Rosalind’;s family stays at Martin’;s estate. And while they get to know each other better, a wedding is getting very close. Technically, it’s a well-written book, but I’;m not sure what to make of it. In attempting to describe social abuses, the characters quickly turn to extremes. Martin and Rosalind are too moralistic and Rosalind’s father too caricatural.. Also, some things, even for fiction, seem too unreal.
Finally, I also found it a bit monotonous, even a bit boring. In any case, it is a book that will keep you thinking about it
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Finally, I also found it a bit monotonous, even a bit boring. In any case, it is a book that will keep you thinking about it
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 20, 2021
I really enjoyed this story, and am excited that it is the launch of a new series. Lolly, the daughter of an earl, was caught (quite literally) on the balcony with Martin, Baron Ashworth. To avoid a scandal, he was honor bound to offer her marriage. She declined, but he came up with the scheme that he would her invite her family to is home and they would pretend to be engaged. Then later, she could jilt him, thus saving both reputations. However, it wasn’t long before Martin really wanted to marry her, and this begins a steamy game of cat and mouse. What is unique about this story is the ethics and priorities of Martin. He does not want to use tobacco because of slave labor, nor wear cotton because of the underhandedness that gets it to England. He is gentle, kind and strong in his convictions, willing to sacrifice for his beliefs. It is fun to watch Lolly come into her own after being the dutiful daughter of an earl. She is smart, inquisitive and on a new mission regarding equality. This book has humor, discord and steam….an excellent tee-up for a new series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 11, 2021
This book was really a pleasant surprise, well written, full of passion and interesting ideas that I’m sure will be further developed in future books. It is certainly a wonderful introduction to the new series that I look forward to reading.
The hero, Martin, is a good man, compassionate and caring, who wants to improve society, who has seen the evil of colonization and wants to change things, even if he still doesn’t know how. Lolly is equally unsure about what she wants, but turns out to be very strong-willed.
Both Martin and Lolly have strong principles, but they are willing to think their ideas over and change them if necessary. They’re not at all opinionated nor narrow-minded and I loved them for it. I particularly liked the moment when Martin is torn between abiding by his principles and letting Lolly decide what she wants even if it means going against society’s rules.
In conclusion, there are strong ideas at the basis of the book, but don’t be fooled: it’s a wonderful and steamy love story as well!
The hero, Martin, is a good man, compassionate and caring, who wants to improve society, who has seen the evil of colonization and wants to change things, even if he still doesn’t know how. Lolly is equally unsure about what she wants, but turns out to be very strong-willed.
Both Martin and Lolly have strong principles, but they are willing to think their ideas over and change them if necessary. They’re not at all opinionated nor narrow-minded and I loved them for it. I particularly liked the moment when Martin is torn between abiding by his principles and letting Lolly decide what she wants even if it means going against society’s rules.
In conclusion, there are strong ideas at the basis of the book, but don’t be fooled: it’s a wonderful and steamy love story as well!
January 1, 2022
Awful cover, but wonderful romance novella. This quick read is about an eldest daughter who has a really bad case of allergies and gets caught in a compromising position (gentleman was fixing her dress which was torn on a railing) and the town busybody spreads rumors that even her parents believe. She is forced into an engagement.
The male protagonist, Martin, does the right thing and proposes to Lolly, the beautiful female protagonist so they both can avoid a scandal. They agreed to pretend an engagement that they will later break off once the scandal dies down.
As they spend time together, they become attracted and fall in love. There is passion and multiple attempts at seduction. There is also a kindness between the two where they really try to do the right thing like by helping Chinese outcasts and welcoming them into their home with household jobs. It is determined that not only do they have chemistry, but they also have the same moral philosophy.
The male protagonist, Martin, does the right thing and proposes to Lolly, the beautiful female protagonist so they both can avoid a scandal. They agreed to pretend an engagement that they will later break off once the scandal dies down.
As they spend time together, they become attracted and fall in love. There is passion and multiple attempts at seduction. There is also a kindness between the two where they really try to do the right thing like by helping Chinese outcasts and welcoming them into their home with household jobs. It is determined that not only do they have chemistry, but they also have the same moral philosophy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2021
I loved that this book delivered all the expected elements of a romance story (sexual tension, steamy moments) but also had some really unique elements. It felt like a full story, not just a novella! I can highly recommend it.
December 25, 2022
I didn't love this book, but I didn't hate it, either. I liked the premise of the story; a forced marriage, but I wasn't too crazy about how it all came together.
Lolly and Martin are at a ball. She's got allergies and is out on the balcony, sneezing when she gets her skirt caught in an iron rail. Martin didn't know anybody was out there until he heard the sneezing and wasn't even sure it was a woman. It was dark and neither could see the other, but he soon found out she was female and was in a predicament with her skirts. As he is helping her, the town gossip catches them in a "compromising" position and makes a big deal out of it. Thus the forced marriage.
Martin was a man of high morals and strove to do the right thing at all costs, but he didn't know this lady and didn't even know her name or which woman of three he was to marry when he showed up at Lolly's house the next day. He made an offer. Her father accepted. She did not. But he has a plan she does agree to.
Okay this is where things kind of fell apart for me. I get that Martin has a social conscience that nobody agrees with. She has some of her own ideas that coincide with his. I admire that and was glad that they were agents of change. What didn't hit with me is the way she lorded over Martin. She was allegedly a virgin (she was in the story), but knew waaaay too much for pulling that off. She thought her father was manipulating her. I thought she was manipulating Martin and I didn't like her for it. She demands sex from him to see if she wants to marry him or go on with her life in Boston. Seriously? She was basing her decision on whether or not he was good in bed? I was really turned off by that.
But as things go, they do fall in love and the rest is history. I did like the epilogue and I liked the excerpt from the next book in the series. I will probably come back to this in the future, despite my dislike for Lolly.
By the way, if you haven't subscribed to the author's newsletter, you're missing out. She does deep research on various topics and sends out her discoveries to her subscribers. It's really interesting, if you like the history behind some of these historical romances.
Lolly and Martin are at a ball. She's got allergies and is out on the balcony, sneezing when she gets her skirt caught in an iron rail. Martin didn't know anybody was out there until he heard the sneezing and wasn't even sure it was a woman. It was dark and neither could see the other, but he soon found out she was female and was in a predicament with her skirts. As he is helping her, the town gossip catches them in a "compromising" position and makes a big deal out of it. Thus the forced marriage.
Martin was a man of high morals and strove to do the right thing at all costs, but he didn't know this lady and didn't even know her name or which woman of three he was to marry when he showed up at Lolly's house the next day. He made an offer. Her father accepted. She did not. But he has a plan she does agree to.
Okay this is where things kind of fell apart for me. I get that Martin has a social conscience that nobody agrees with. She has some of her own ideas that coincide with his. I admire that and was glad that they were agents of change. What didn't hit with me is the way she lorded over Martin. She was allegedly a virgin (she was in the story), but knew waaaay too much for pulling that off. She thought her father was manipulating her. I thought she was manipulating Martin and I didn't like her for it. She demands sex from him to see if she wants to marry him or go on with her life in Boston. Seriously? She was basing her decision on whether or not he was good in bed? I was really turned off by that.
But as things go, they do fall in love and the rest is history. I did like the epilogue and I liked the excerpt from the next book in the series. I will probably come back to this in the future, despite my dislike for Lolly.
By the way, if you haven't subscribed to the author's newsletter, you're missing out. She does deep research on various topics and sends out her discoveries to her subscribers. It's really interesting, if you like the history behind some of these historical romances.
August 9, 2022
I found this introduction to a new series, very interesting and it has set-up the future children of Martin Preston, Baron Ashforth and Baroness Lolly Turner-Preston on a hard row of hoe if they decide to follow in their parent's footsteps. I think it will lead to some wonderful stories with characters landing on their feet and coming out fighting for equality for women, abolishing slavery, equal treatment no matter the color, race, religion, etc.
The story is based around the compromising situation Martin and Lolly were caught in, when he tried to help her when she had an allergy attack on the balcony at a ball. They were alone when discovered and Martin offered to marry her, even though they did nothing nor does he even know her name. They plan a faux engagement, which will be broken after the gossip calms down - best laid plans often go awry and they fall in love. Lolly's father, mother and one of her sisters were a disgusting, hateful group but Lolly's other sister was sweet and kind. When Martin refuses to fire as Asian couple, (they were let go when their previous employer found out the wife was pregnant) who needed a roof over their head and employment, Lolly's parents refuse to let Lolly marry him for being so free with hiring foreigners. Lolly was of age and said she would marry Martin anyway; they disowned her and held her dowry back.
Martin and Lolly were meant for each and romance and getting know one another was fun romp. They made it past their own personal obstacles received their HEA and in the end they marry. The epilogue takes us to visit the Preston family fifteen happy years down the road. I was disappointed that her parents never tried to heal the relationship but they weren't a great loss.
The story is based around the compromising situation Martin and Lolly were caught in, when he tried to help her when she had an allergy attack on the balcony at a ball. They were alone when discovered and Martin offered to marry her, even though they did nothing nor does he even know her name. They plan a faux engagement, which will be broken after the gossip calms down - best laid plans often go awry and they fall in love. Lolly's father, mother and one of her sisters were a disgusting, hateful group but Lolly's other sister was sweet and kind. When Martin refuses to fire as Asian couple, (they were let go when their previous employer found out the wife was pregnant) who needed a roof over their head and employment, Lolly's parents refuse to let Lolly marry him for being so free with hiring foreigners. Lolly was of age and said she would marry Martin anyway; they disowned her and held her dowry back.
Martin and Lolly were meant for each and romance and getting know one another was fun romp. They made it past their own personal obstacles received their HEA and in the end they marry. The epilogue takes us to visit the Preston family fifteen happy years down the road. I was disappointed that her parents never tried to heal the relationship but they weren't a great loss.
June 22, 2021
🤧Book Review🤧
I'm reviewing the upcoming book of Katherine Grant, The Baron Without Blame. This book is a short story prequel to an upcoming new series of what I'd classify as historical romance utopian fairy-tale 🧚♀️
Imagine you suffer from severe allergies and run to the dark corner of the balcony, awaiting for your poor mama to bring tissue reinforcements. Unfortunately your skirts get stuck on the railing and a most helpful Baron helps you out...except that he's caught and now you have to marry him
What tropes to expect:
🤧 Compromised by allergies
💍 Fake engagement
💪 Strong willed heroine and honorable hero
🛌 She wants just one night, he wants forever
🗺 Hero decided after his travels to live a life without any ties to subjugated labour and slavery, he sets up his household very differently
👪 The series will follow their children's stories and how the way they were raised will impact them and their future
I loved how different this book was and time just raced by really fast reading it. Moreover, I always love reading Katherine's author notes, which give an incredible insight on her creative process, ideas and research 🔍
The book comes out tomorrow! I've received and ARC from the author but opinions are my own
#amreadingromance #romancelandia #historicalromance #historicalromancebooks
I'm reviewing the upcoming book of Katherine Grant, The Baron Without Blame. This book is a short story prequel to an upcoming new series of what I'd classify as historical romance utopian fairy-tale 🧚♀️
Imagine you suffer from severe allergies and run to the dark corner of the balcony, awaiting for your poor mama to bring tissue reinforcements. Unfortunately your skirts get stuck on the railing and a most helpful Baron helps you out...except that he's caught and now you have to marry him
What tropes to expect:
🤧 Compromised by allergies
💍 Fake engagement
💪 Strong willed heroine and honorable hero
🛌 She wants just one night, he wants forever
🗺 Hero decided after his travels to live a life without any ties to subjugated labour and slavery, he sets up his household very differently
👪 The series will follow their children's stories and how the way they were raised will impact them and their future
I loved how different this book was and time just raced by really fast reading it. Moreover, I always love reading Katherine's author notes, which give an incredible insight on her creative process, ideas and research 🔍
The book comes out tomorrow! I've received and ARC from the author but opinions are my own
#amreadingromance #romancelandia #historicalromance #historicalromancebooks
June 24, 2021
Re-Writing History ? . . .
Getting discovered together on a balcony without a chaperone, even though Lolly’s dress was caught and Martin was only trying to untangle it for her, the two are obligated by the times they live in to get married and make this “right”. Martin is honorable and asks for her hand in marriage, as expected.
However, I am not fond of reading books where someone has “an axe to grind” and breaks out of the traditional environment expected of the story to bring up their social reform issues that people of that time period would never have promoted, where they both “hope for a world very different from the one into which they were born”. Even when Lolly refused marriage and they decided on a fake engagement, that is unbelievable when such strict propriety is supposed to be practiced, whether we agree with it or not. Although the fact that both Lolly Turner, daughter of an Earl, and Martin Preston, Baron Ashforth, are proponents of challenging unjust causes which makes them a compatible pair, their story is too far-fetched to meet my own expectations for a book like this. The writing is good, but I did not enjoy their tossing away tradition to embrace at-the-time radical politics. A book cherished for its entertainment value is not a vehicle for pushing a new agenda on the reader.
Getting discovered together on a balcony without a chaperone, even though Lolly’s dress was caught and Martin was only trying to untangle it for her, the two are obligated by the times they live in to get married and make this “right”. Martin is honorable and asks for her hand in marriage, as expected.
However, I am not fond of reading books where someone has “an axe to grind” and breaks out of the traditional environment expected of the story to bring up their social reform issues that people of that time period would never have promoted, where they both “hope for a world very different from the one into which they were born”. Even when Lolly refused marriage and they decided on a fake engagement, that is unbelievable when such strict propriety is supposed to be practiced, whether we agree with it or not. Although the fact that both Lolly Turner, daughter of an Earl, and Martin Preston, Baron Ashforth, are proponents of challenging unjust causes which makes them a compatible pair, their story is too far-fetched to meet my own expectations for a book like this. The writing is good, but I did not enjoy their tossing away tradition to embrace at-the-time radical politics. A book cherished for its entertainment value is not a vehicle for pushing a new agenda on the reader.
June 24, 2021
This is a novella prequel to a new series by Katherine Grant. Lolly, the daughter of an earl, was having an allergy attack on the balcony when Martin, Baron Ashworth, tried to assist her. Ofcourse they were caught by the biggest gossip at the most inoportune time. So to avoid a scandal, he was honor bound to offer her marriage. She declined, but he came up with the scheme that he would her invite her family to is home and they would pretend to be engaged. Then later, after the Summer season, she could jilt him, thus saving both reputations
Lolly is a very strong woman before her time. She dreams of leaving the society to which she was raised and wants to see a world where everyone is treated equal. Martin feels the same. These two quickly find common ground and the sparks go from there.
Martin is not your usual romance hero. He truly is without blame, and full of honor. He always follows his own moral code which is admirable and makes for a very fun read!
I always love reading this author's notes after the story, since she writes such unique books it is always very interesting. The upcoming series will focus on Lolly and Martin's children, and I look forward to reading how their children will change the world while finding love.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lolly is a very strong woman before her time. She dreams of leaving the society to which she was raised and wants to see a world where everyone is treated equal. Martin feels the same. These two quickly find common ground and the sparks go from there.
Martin is not your usual romance hero. He truly is without blame, and full of honor. He always follows his own moral code which is admirable and makes for a very fun read!
I always love reading this author's notes after the story, since she writes such unique books it is always very interesting. The upcoming series will focus on Lolly and Martin's children, and I look forward to reading how their children will change the world while finding love.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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March 18, 2022When Martin Preston, Baron Ashforth, is caught on a dark balcony with a debutante, he does the right thing. Even though he was only freeing her skirts from the railing. Even though he doesn’t know her name. The next morning, he faithfully offers for her hand in marriage.
Lolly Turner has nothing against Lord Preston. He is handsome, kind, and honorable. Yet she can’t bring herself to marry a man solely because of gossip. When she knows she should say yes, she says no. Instead, they concoct a false engagement: they tell the world they plan to marry, while in reality Lolly will jilt Martin once the scandal has died down.
Martin invites Lolly and her family to spend the Easter holiday at his country home to keep up appearances. As he and Lolly spend more time together, they share visions for the future and realize they both hope for a world very different from the one into which they were born. But when Lolly’s father catches wind of their shared politics, he changes his mind about the wedding. Which means it is up to Lolly and Martin to choose: should they do the right thing, or follow their hearts?
This is a free prequel novella.
Martin and Lolly are meant to be!
After a fake engagement they overcome their phobia to marry anyway.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Lolly Turner has nothing against Lord Preston. He is handsome, kind, and honorable. Yet she can’t bring herself to marry a man solely because of gossip. When she knows she should say yes, she says no. Instead, they concoct a false engagement: they tell the world they plan to marry, while in reality Lolly will jilt Martin once the scandal has died down.
Martin invites Lolly and her family to spend the Easter holiday at his country home to keep up appearances. As he and Lolly spend more time together, they share visions for the future and realize they both hope for a world very different from the one into which they were born. But when Lolly’s father catches wind of their shared politics, he changes his mind about the wedding. Which means it is up to Lolly and Martin to choose: should they do the right thing, or follow their hearts?
This is a free prequel novella.
Martin and Lolly are meant to be!
After a fake engagement they overcome their phobia to marry anyway.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
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January 10, 2025Grant is taking on a lot in this story. The hero, Martin. is a baron, trying his absolute best to not contribute to the inequality that English society is entrenched in. Lolly has some more forward-thinking views as well, though they are not quite as developed. As they get to know each other, they engage in many philosophical discussions, ones that read more modern than my expectations of the Georgian period. According to the Author's Note, this anachronism feeds into the fantasy of the genre, and I respect the vision.
Frankly, though, I don't think she needed to have that caveat at all. The gold standard for works set in this era, Jane Austen's books, were contemporary fiction, looking at modern issues of the 1810s. I see no reason why characters from Georgian times would not discuss things like slavery, sharecropping, classism, and sexism. We often do not extend the courtesy of thinking people from centuries ago cared about the same things we do, and that is a disservice to history.
I think the book works, overall, though it might have benefited from having a smidge more length to grow the relationship outside of philosophical agreement. The epilogue made me grin, and I'm curious where the series goes in future installments.
Frankly, though, I don't think she needed to have that caveat at all. The gold standard for works set in this era, Jane Austen's books, were contemporary fiction, looking at modern issues of the 1810s. I see no reason why characters from Georgian times would not discuss things like slavery, sharecropping, classism, and sexism. We often do not extend the courtesy of thinking people from centuries ago cared about the same things we do, and that is a disservice to history.
I think the book works, overall, though it might have benefited from having a smidge more length to grow the relationship outside of philosophical agreement. The epilogue made me grin, and I'm curious where the series goes in future installments.
February 1, 2022
Martin Preston, Baron of Ashforth, with the prize by hearing a great sneeze discovering it came from a young lady on the balcony with him. He offered to go and get her chaperone when she sees again and got her skirt caught on the railing. He offered to take them off of the railing of she could move in about that time Phoebe Leighster discovered that Lolly Turner was on the balcony with a man she didn't know, about that time her mother arrived stopping just behind Phoebe. Then here comes her father to let it be known it back to the Lord Preston the next day to do the proper thing. Lolly's name was really Rosalind who was the eldest daughter. Martin asked her to marry him, and she said no but then agreed to a fake engagement that she could call off in the summer. Ms. Grant has written a good book that had the hero wanting to do the right thing according to his honor and not according to the dictates of society. I recommend you read this book...
June 21, 2021
Martin and Lolly’s story.
What started off as a simple way to help a young lady starts the two on a journey of friendship and finally love. It is a quick read and very enjoyable but Lolly’s father is really a jerk in fact so are her mother and one sister. Charlotte is the only decent one of the bunch. That is the sad part of the story even after 5 grandchildren and 15 years her relationship with them has not changed. That is the only thing I really did not like I think I just wanted a happy ending for all the characters.
What started off as a simple way to help a young lady starts the two on a journey of friendship and finally love. It is a quick read and very enjoyable but Lolly’s father is really a jerk in fact so are her mother and one sister. Charlotte is the only decent one of the bunch. That is the sad part of the story even after 5 grandchildren and 15 years her relationship with them has not changed. That is the only thing I really did not like I think I just wanted a happy ending for all the characters.
July 16, 2021
This is an interesting reflection of the time period where a whole mix of new ideas was taking root while society was still firmly in the grip of old standards and preconceived ideals. Martin and Lolly find themselves firmly in the critical eye of society as they strive to affect change. It will be interesting to see how the author proceeds in future books to this new series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 10, 2022
Lolly and Martin
Absolutely loved this book and would heartily recommend it and hope that others enjoy it as much as I did. Can two people forced together due to proprietary obligations be happy. Lolly may not think that she needs a husband and Martin may feel the same about a wife so they decide to pretend to be engaged and then can break up after the scandalous talks are over. But things may change.
Absolutely loved this book and would heartily recommend it and hope that others enjoy it as much as I did. Can two people forced together due to proprietary obligations be happy. Lolly may not think that she needs a husband and Martin may feel the same about a wife so they decide to pretend to be engaged and then can break up after the scandalous talks are over. But things may change.
January 10, 2023
Radically adorable!
This historical novella was so charming and sexy, with the added bonus of diversity and social consciousness. It's not set at Christmas time, but the subplot of welcoming in strangers, an expectant immigrant couple, gave this the cozy feeling of a holiday novella with true Christmas themes. I appreciated the author's note at the end about her intentions for this series and am excited to read more of this "historical fantasy"!
This historical novella was so charming and sexy, with the added bonus of diversity and social consciousness. It's not set at Christmas time, but the subplot of welcoming in strangers, an expectant immigrant couple, gave this the cozy feeling of a holiday novella with true Christmas themes. I appreciated the author's note at the end about her intentions for this series and am excited to read more of this "historical fantasy"!
June 23, 2021
I found it hard to like Lolly and couldn’t find her change of heart believable, especially when confronting her father. I like strong heroines, but I didn’t get a sense of strength from her. I would have liked to have seen Martin with someone more worthy of him.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 23, 2021
The first book in the Prestons series a well written story with a very good storyline. Martin Preston, Baron Ashforth and Lolly Turner end up in a fake engagement. The more she gets to see the kind of person he is the more she wants him. I enjoyed reading this story with its ups and downs. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical romance with great characters, romance and intrigue. Although it may not be historically correct and being reformists was very unusual for that period, it was a great read. I liked the characters and that they fought for their romance. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy.
June 28, 2021
The Baron Without Blame is The Preston Family Starter Novella and is a good start to the series. This introduction to the Prestons is interesting and has good characters. The story is quick to read and is entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. (3.5 stars)
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. (3.5 stars)
December 8, 2021
Doing the right thing
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. Doing the right thing is never easy and this was a good lesson to take from this novella. Standing firm in one's convictions can also cause the loss of what is held dear, however the rewards can be even greater. This is an exellent start. I liked Martin and Lolly for not being the generic leads.
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. Doing the right thing is never easy and this was a good lesson to take from this novella. Standing firm in one's convictions can also cause the loss of what is held dear, however the rewards can be even greater. This is an exellent start. I liked Martin and Lolly for not being the generic leads.
September 20, 2025
Rating: 3.5/5
This felt a bit uneven to me (particularly during intimate scenes, where there were some pretty big swings in characterization), but I really appreciate the work this novella is doing to establish a world in which Grant can build a series and the on-page reflections on classism, colonialism and sexism. I look forward to continuing with the Prestons!
This felt a bit uneven to me (particularly during intimate scenes, where there were some pretty big swings in characterization), but I really appreciate the work this novella is doing to establish a world in which Grant can build a series and the on-page reflections on classism, colonialism and sexism. I look forward to continuing with the Prestons!
July 15, 2021
Great Read
I enjoy a well-written story that goes against the current world view. The principles stand behind their beliefs no matter the cost. It reminds me to be aware of those in my sphere I need to help.
I enjoy a well-written story that goes against the current world view. The principles stand behind their beliefs no matter the cost. It reminds me to be aware of those in my sphere I need to help.
Read
August 10, 2022A short story without much character development. Both protagonists are rather one-dimensional. That singular dimension is entirely noble, though. So, it's difficult to criticize without sounding like an ogre. The female protagonist is painfully pushy and tiresome.
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