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The Prestons #1
The Viscount Without Virtue
Maximilian Hainsworth is on a mission: to write a scathing expose of England’s most famous country estate, Northfield Hall. At Northfield, the Preston family dares thumb its nose at the British Empire and boycotts anything imported from beyond English shores. They hire laborers from all walks of life, including immigrants and freed slaves, and educate anyone who wants to learn. In short, Northfield Hall claims to be utopia, and Max is determined to prove that it is not.
Disguised as a carpenter, he gets himself hired so he can learn Northfield’s secret ins and outs. A few things quickly go wrong with his plan:
1. He doesn’t bring his own tools
2. No one is willing to speak ill of the Prestons
3. He keeps accidentally flirting with Miss Ellen Preston
Nevertheless, Max is determined to persevere. Even if it means betraying the trust of lovely and kind Ellen.
Disguised as a carpenter, he gets himself hired so he can learn Northfield’s secret ins and outs. A few things quickly go wrong with his plan:
1. He doesn’t bring his own tools
2. No one is willing to speak ill of the Prestons
3. He keeps accidentally flirting with Miss Ellen Preston
Nevertheless, Max is determined to persevere. Even if it means betraying the trust of lovely and kind Ellen.
243 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2021
129 people are currently reading
902 people want to read
About the author
Katherine Grant
20 books445 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 40 reviews
July 19, 2022
We absolutely loved this book! You get everything you want out of a historical romance - assumed identities, sexy lessons, and even an interlude in an outbuilding after a convenient rainstorm. In addition, you also get a pretty nuanced exploration of what it means to live by an ethical code, even when it might not be as perfect as you once thought.
With this book, Katherine Grant also makes some unconventional choices for romance. We read and really enjoyed The Baron Without Blame, the prequel novella for this series, and the first few chapters of The Viscount Without Virtue upend what we see as "normal romance progression." In addition, the ultimate denouement was not what we were expecting - in the best way.
Before we close this review, let's talk steam, 'cause Max and Ellen GET SOME. We loved how the intimate scenes furthered the narrative and character development while remaining both super sexy and pretty realistic. We also give extra points for location just because.
In summary: Come for the sex, stay for the economic debate, and stick around for more sex? Yes please.
24-Word Summaries:
Laine: Ellen and Max are super into each other, their chemistry is undeniable, and they grew and learned from each other. I will not date a Republican.
Meg: It’s important to live by your principles - especially when that means you can totally sleep with the hot carpenter who lied on his resume.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
With this book, Katherine Grant also makes some unconventional choices for romance. We read and really enjoyed The Baron Without Blame, the prequel novella for this series, and the first few chapters of The Viscount Without Virtue upend what we see as "normal romance progression." In addition, the ultimate denouement was not what we were expecting - in the best way.
Before we close this review, let's talk steam, 'cause Max and Ellen GET SOME. We loved how the intimate scenes furthered the narrative and character development while remaining both super sexy and pretty realistic. We also give extra points for location just because.
In summary: Come for the sex, stay for the economic debate, and stick around for more sex? Yes please.
24-Word Summaries:
Laine: Ellen and Max are super into each other, their chemistry is undeniable, and they grew and learned from each other. I will not date a Republican.
Meg: It’s important to live by your principles - especially when that means you can totally sleep with the hot carpenter who lied on his resume.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
July 3, 2022
My first book by this author and I really wanted to like it. There is an original plot where the viscount hero tries to prove his worth to his autocratic father by going undercover as a carpenter to write an expose about Northfield Hall, the self-sufficient socialistic leaning estate which refuses to use any imported products especially those that might have been procured through slavery labour. It prides itself as offering equal opportunities for all regardless of race and social class.
This part of the story is a complex and layered commentary on ingrained societal attitudes to class distinctions and race. Unfortunately, the book is let down by the romance component which is simplistic lust at first sight and highly sex-centric. The heroine, daughter of the Baron owner of said estate, leant nothing from her past mistake and happily engaged in multiple (eye-rolls, yawn) sexual encounters with the hero, who was not going to resist such opportunities. The language/acts of the sex scenes (more suitable in a CR) were completely incongruous with the setting and the heroine's level of experience - a few unremarkable rolls in the sack (with a past suitor) from being a virgin. If the author had toned down the sex, she could have had a real winner as the Northfield plot is interesting and intelligently written and the daddy issues that both had were realistically portrayed. Especially Ellen's reaction to the revelation about Northfield gave me vibes (the good kind) similar to when Jean Louis("Scout") opened her eyes to to Atticus the man and not the myth in the brilliantly moving and highly underrated Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee)
This part of the story is a complex and layered commentary on ingrained societal attitudes to class distinctions and race. Unfortunately, the book is let down by the romance component which is simplistic lust at first sight and highly sex-centric. The heroine, daughter of the Baron owner of said estate, leant nothing from her past mistake and happily engaged in multiple (eye-rolls, yawn) sexual encounters with the hero, who was not going to resist such opportunities. The language/acts of the sex scenes (more suitable in a CR) were completely incongruous with the setting and the heroine's level of experience - a few unremarkable rolls in the sack (with a past suitor) from being a virgin. If the author had toned down the sex, she could have had a real winner as the Northfield plot is interesting and intelligently written and the daddy issues that both had were realistically portrayed. Especially Ellen's reaction to the revelation about Northfield gave me vibes (the good kind) similar to when Jean Louis("Scout") opened her eyes to to Atticus the man and not the myth in the brilliantly moving and highly underrated Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee)
February 25, 2023
This was my first read from Katherine Grant and it certainly won’t be my last!
I love it when indie authors of historical romance turn tropes upside down and tackle the grittier side of history that sometimes gets glossed over in traditionally published books. Grant accomplishes this! She features a heroine who is passionate about her commitment to fair trade and adamantly opposes the consumption of anything that can be linked to slave labor. The hero is a wastrel disguised as a blacksmith.
He’s on a mission to uncover the hypocrisy of the heroine’s father and disprove his alleged altruism and commitment to making the world a better place.
But from the moment Ellen teaches Grant how to properly plane a piece of wood, there’s a sparkling awareness between them. She thinks he’d be the perfect teacher and the trysts everywhere but the bed simmer with sensuality and the lure of forbidden fruit. The intimate scenes evoke the tentative emotions of both the heroine and the hero.
Of course the hero hasn’t been truthful about his identity or his intentions, and suddenly protecting her interests becomes more important than seeking the approval of his judgmental father.
Both characters are the catalyst for the other’s personal growth and their relationship is both a sanctuary and a dare to be truer to themselves.
I cannot wait to dive into the rest of the series!
I love it when indie authors of historical romance turn tropes upside down and tackle the grittier side of history that sometimes gets glossed over in traditionally published books. Grant accomplishes this! She features a heroine who is passionate about her commitment to fair trade and adamantly opposes the consumption of anything that can be linked to slave labor. The hero is a wastrel disguised as a blacksmith.
He’s on a mission to uncover the hypocrisy of the heroine’s father and disprove his alleged altruism and commitment to making the world a better place.
But from the moment Ellen teaches Grant how to properly plane a piece of wood, there’s a sparkling awareness between them. She thinks he’d be the perfect teacher and the trysts everywhere but the bed simmer with sensuality and the lure of forbidden fruit. The intimate scenes evoke the tentative emotions of both the heroine and the hero.
Of course the hero hasn’t been truthful about his identity or his intentions, and suddenly protecting her interests becomes more important than seeking the approval of his judgmental father.
Both characters are the catalyst for the other’s personal growth and their relationship is both a sanctuary and a dare to be truer to themselves.
I cannot wait to dive into the rest of the series!
December 19, 2022
This is a fun story with smooth writing. But it is totally a contemporary story - just dressed in 19th century clothing. And that fact makes it impossible to settle in and truly enjoy because the brain keeps getting thrown out of the century it is supposed to be in and thrown into the century the behavior of the characters show that it’s in.
October 23, 2021
Viscount Maximillian Hainsworth is trying to prove his worth to his father by exposing the alleged “sins” of Northfield Hall, the estate in which Lord Preston and his family live their utopia, banishing imported goods and everything produced by exploiting other men’s work. So he poses as a carpenter, even if he doesn’t know the first thing about the job. Miss Ellen Preston, Baron Preston’s elder daughter, on the contrary, is very good at carpentry, but she’s also a veritable temptation…
This is the premise of this wonderful book by Katherine Grant, which I must confess I loved to distraction!
First of all, the book is informative without being boring at all. It found it very interesting to read how Northfield Hall was rendered self-sufficient and how some of the goods were produced. I like to learn something new while I’m being entertained by a well-written book!
But of course the love story is the center of the book and this one was hot, passionate and moving at the same time. Ellen is a great woman, who is not shy in her desires, much like her mother in the previous book. She has principles and ideals and she tries to live by them as much as possible. Max is arrogant and spoiled, but he’s also kind and open-minded. In short, Max and Ellen are two very different people raised in very different worlds that fall in love with each other and have to find a compromise. Because that’s the main theme of this book: the difficulty of living by one’s principles and the necessity of finding a compromise at the end.
The thing I loved most in this book is that it made me think, think about the way we live our lives, but most of all think about the way we raise our children and influence their future lives. To put it briefly, I came for the romance, but I left with much more!
In conclusion, I’d like to share my favorite quote of the book: “Leading towards an ideal was not dangerous or farfetched or futile. It was hope, and it pushed men to be better versions of themselves.” Thanks to the very talented Katherine Grant for this wonderful journey.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is the premise of this wonderful book by Katherine Grant, which I must confess I loved to distraction!
First of all, the book is informative without being boring at all. It found it very interesting to read how Northfield Hall was rendered self-sufficient and how some of the goods were produced. I like to learn something new while I’m being entertained by a well-written book!
But of course the love story is the center of the book and this one was hot, passionate and moving at the same time. Ellen is a great woman, who is not shy in her desires, much like her mother in the previous book. She has principles and ideals and she tries to live by them as much as possible. Max is arrogant and spoiled, but he’s also kind and open-minded. In short, Max and Ellen are two very different people raised in very different worlds that fall in love with each other and have to find a compromise. Because that’s the main theme of this book: the difficulty of living by one’s principles and the necessity of finding a compromise at the end.
The thing I loved most in this book is that it made me think, think about the way we live our lives, but most of all think about the way we raise our children and influence their future lives. To put it briefly, I came for the romance, but I left with much more!
In conclusion, I’d like to share my favorite quote of the book: “Leading towards an ideal was not dangerous or farfetched or futile. It was hope, and it pushed men to be better versions of themselves.” Thanks to the very talented Katherine Grant for this wonderful journey.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 11, 2022
Rating: 3.5/5.0
In a world filled with light, historical romance, this story not only intrigues and titillates but engages and educates!
Read full review in the 2022 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.
In a world filled with light, historical romance, this story not only intrigues and titillates but engages and educates!
Read full review in the 2022 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.
July 6, 2022
3.5 🌟 out of 5
Read
May 17, 2023Heat Factor: Sometimes you just gotta bone in a shed
Character Chemistry: “We have fundamentally different values but we are still very attracted to each other.”
Plot: Max goes undercover to an estate that actually pays its workers to uncover wrongdoing in an attempt to get his dad to love him.
Overall: An interesting take on the “divided by politics” romance
Normally, I wouldn’t touch a “we’re on different sides of the political spectrum” romance with a ten-foot pole, because they tend to be all about heroines learning that feminism is stupid, but I figured I’d give this historical take on the trope a try. It does do a little bit of the both-sides things, but luckily, the more conservative Max is the one who undergoes a fundamental shift in values (ie: learns that working-class people are also people and deserving of fair treatment). Ellen’s values are not brought into question, but rather, she is forced to reckon with her family living those values imperfectly.
Because of the set up, there are ample opportunities for Max and Ellen to discuss their views of the world. These discussions, and the facts about the world that they are both forced to confront, lead to character growth in interesting ways.
Read our full review at The Smut Report
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.
Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
Character Chemistry: “We have fundamentally different values but we are still very attracted to each other.”
Plot: Max goes undercover to an estate that actually pays its workers to uncover wrongdoing in an attempt to get his dad to love him.
Overall: An interesting take on the “divided by politics” romance
Normally, I wouldn’t touch a “we’re on different sides of the political spectrum” romance with a ten-foot pole, because they tend to be all about heroines learning that feminism is stupid, but I figured I’d give this historical take on the trope a try. It does do a little bit of the both-sides things, but luckily, the more conservative Max is the one who undergoes a fundamental shift in values (ie: learns that working-class people are also people and deserving of fair treatment). Ellen’s values are not brought into question, but rather, she is forced to reckon with her family living those values imperfectly.
Because of the set up, there are ample opportunities for Max and Ellen to discuss their views of the world. These discussions, and the facts about the world that they are both forced to confront, lead to character growth in interesting ways.
Read our full review at The Smut Report
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.
Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
July 2, 2022
Wholly different from any other regency romance I’ve read, but not entirely successful. First, the writing style is smooth and practiced, although I would have appreciated a touch of humor here and there. The emotional connection between the hero and heroine built in a believable way; however, the sexual connection was abrupt, unbelievable, and handled crudely. There is just no way that an earnest gently-bred young woman of the time with only one previous fumbling sexual partner turns into a St Giles prostitute with language that would make a sailor blush in 2022 the minute she gets a man in a garden shed. I actually snorted. The heroine spent the rest of the book vacillating between an annoyingly sanctimonious proponent of her unwavering “principles” and an alley cat in heat. It was jarring, disconcerting, and ludicrous. So, while I have to grade the “romance” aspect of this book a failure, I give it top marks for being different and interesting in concept. This was my first book by this author, and I might read another but I’m not in a hurry to do so.
October 25, 2021
I love historical romance that is unexpected and this one is definitely unexpected.
A lady carpenter?
A peer doing undercover work for a newspaper?
What?! WHAT?!
I gobbled this jam up so fast. I usually don’t like a lot of, “We are instantly attracted to each other, put your mouth on my mouth right now before I die,” kind of prose, but I was a sucker for it in this book. To the point of the attraction making me itch and searching, “KISS” in my Kindle so I could alleviate my nervous heart for when to expect the next one. I have no shame.
Ellen is woke AF, 1800s style, in this book and at times I felt like she was being sooooo judgmental of everyone else I couldn’t see straight, obvs the 1800s had a lot of crappy things going on so it was merited, but I felt like Max complimented her so perfectly. He was going to listen and make adjustments for her, but also call her out to be reasonable at times.
Great book! Will definitely be checking out more from this author in the future!
A lady carpenter?
A peer doing undercover work for a newspaper?
What?! WHAT?!
I gobbled this jam up so fast. I usually don’t like a lot of, “We are instantly attracted to each other, put your mouth on my mouth right now before I die,” kind of prose, but I was a sucker for it in this book. To the point of the attraction making me itch and searching, “KISS” in my Kindle so I could alleviate my nervous heart for when to expect the next one. I have no shame.
Ellen is woke AF, 1800s style, in this book and at times I felt like she was being sooooo judgmental of everyone else I couldn’t see straight, obvs the 1800s had a lot of crappy things going on so it was merited, but I felt like Max complimented her so perfectly. He was going to listen and make adjustments for her, but also call her out to be reasonable at times.
Great book! Will definitely be checking out more from this author in the future!
October 17, 2021
A wonderful story about two people raised very differently and that learn to mold themselves to their fated partner. The most heartwarming example of meet me halfway
October 17, 2021
Ellen is the eldest daughter of Lord Preston, Baron Ashfort, who lives at Northfield Hall, a self-sustaining community where people down on their luck are hired, and they endeavor to avoid all things imported or items created by the use of slave labor. This, of course, makes them a target for ridicule from society. Max, Lord Berwick, is the son of the Earl of Meretta, political enemy of Lord Preston. When his father promises him a seat on the House of Commons if he can get some dirt on Lord Preston, Max shows up disguised as a carpenter’s assistant. Ellen and he meet when she comes in to work on shutters, as she is gifted at wood working. And so it begins….a game of cat and mouse between two people who are intimately attracted to each other, and have a lot to lose. This story speaks to so many concepts….idealism; community; morality; parental manipulation; political agendas; and inhumanity to name a few. There are wonderfully steamy scenes; playful interactions; incidents of sibling rivalry; and ah-ha moments of clarity. It is well-written, well told and very entertaining.
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 26, 2021
Couldn’t Get Into It
I gave this book an honest shot, but I just could not get into it. The characters seemed peculiar. The heroine is the daughter of a local baron, yet she seems to be into heavy-duty carpentry. I don't believe a young gentlewoman of the time would have had such a hobby. Such would have been exceedingly rare. If she did have such a non-genteel interest, it probably would not have been not allowed by her parents. I didn't get far enough to draw a bead on the hero. Supposedly he's a viscount, but he's going undercover as a carpenter for some reason that wasn't gone into in the first several chapters. This book just strained my credulity too much, and I stopped reading.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
I gave this book an honest shot, but I just could not get into it. The characters seemed peculiar. The heroine is the daughter of a local baron, yet she seems to be into heavy-duty carpentry. I don't believe a young gentlewoman of the time would have had such a hobby. Such would have been exceedingly rare. If she did have such a non-genteel interest, it probably would not have been not allowed by her parents. I didn't get far enough to draw a bead on the hero. Supposedly he's a viscount, but he's going undercover as a carpenter for some reason that wasn't gone into in the first several chapters. This book just strained my credulity too much, and I stopped reading.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
October 21, 2021
I was lucky enough to read an early version of this book. It is such a fun read, with my favorite elements of regency romance: arguing main characters who can't help but fall in love, secrets, and family drama. It also has some wonderful other elements that I didn't know I wanted, like carpentry, details about how fabric was made in Britain, and fighting against capitalism! I definitely recommend reading this book, you won't regret it!
October 15, 2021
🪵 The Viscount Without Virtue 🪚
The Prestons Book 2
✒️ Katherine Grant
https://www.facebook.com/katherinegra...
Release Date 10/21/2021
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0979LCVRQ/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Maximilian Hainsworth, Viscount Berwick, is on a mission: to write a scathing expose of England’s most famous country estate, Northfield Hall. While much of England praises Northfield Hall for its egalitarian economy and boycott of foreign imports, Max knows that the Preston family must have an alternative hidden income to explain Northfield's prosperity. Max is determined to uncover their secrets and humiliate the Prestons with an inflammatory report.
Disguised as a carpenter, he gets himself hired so he can learn Northfield Hall’s secret ins and outs. A few things quickly go wrong with his plan:
1. He doesn’t bring his own tools
2. No one is willing to speak ill of the Prestons
3. He keeps accidentally flirting with Miss Ellen Preston
Ellen can see plain as day that the new carpenter’s assistant lied about his experience with woodwork. She is willing to overlook this, especially since he is handsome and easy to talk to. However, when she overhears him asking strange questions, she does some investigating - and discovers he is one of her father’s biggest political enemies. Taking the matter into her own hands, Ellen vows to delay Max’s report any way she can.
Even if that means kissing him again.
Working against each other, Max and Ellen begin asking difficult questions about Northfield Hall. What they discover forces each of them to rethink their own assumptions and answer for themselves: are their principles more important than love?
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Do they have a chance of a future together when they stand at opposite side…
With the prequel, the author has opened quite a box of Pandora. How to be profitable and survive without any blood/slave related products in a time when the wealthiest benefited widely from the plight of the poor.
So here is what should have been an enemies to lovers tale but while Ellen and Max stand on each edge of the political world, they are both kind persons with different views and opinions. Mostly originating from the way they have been raised. So Max comes to Northfield Hall full of prejudices, determined to prove everyone this self relient system is only a scam.
And while he wants to win his father’s approval, he is not a bad man, he is enough open minded to acknowledge the place is not the evil pit everyone talks about. And while he digs to gather any proof the adventure is not all rose and sparkles, slowly he changes his certainties. Learning not everybody has the chance to live an idle life, that hard work does not make someone rich but with the right choices and some ideology, one can improve its lot, if well surrounded.
Ellen lives by her father’s philosophy, she believes in it and has put her faith in applying it to her every action. So when a man, whatever tasty he appears to be, threatens everything she hold dear. She agrees to assist him, just to prove him wrong. And she is for some discoveries about herself, her family and who she really wants to be.
I loved them together, their chemistry is flagrant from their first encounter, it is surprising they did not ignite the carpentry. Ellen is surprisingly a very sensual young woman who knows what she likes and demands it brazenly, yet she hides behind her hair cap and her too well thought speech. Max seems to never reach any of his sire expectations, and while he lands in Northfield Hall longing to find a way to get for once his assent, it does not deprive him of his rationale mind.
A lovely advocacy for differences and tolerance, about two people everything seems to divide, but maturity and openness being together if they are willing to take a risk.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen detailed lovemaking scenes
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CVD3QSbjv...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram #bookbirthday
The Prestons Book 2
✒️ Katherine Grant
https://www.facebook.com/katherinegra...
Release Date 10/21/2021
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0979LCVRQ/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Maximilian Hainsworth, Viscount Berwick, is on a mission: to write a scathing expose of England’s most famous country estate, Northfield Hall. While much of England praises Northfield Hall for its egalitarian economy and boycott of foreign imports, Max knows that the Preston family must have an alternative hidden income to explain Northfield's prosperity. Max is determined to uncover their secrets and humiliate the Prestons with an inflammatory report.
Disguised as a carpenter, he gets himself hired so he can learn Northfield Hall’s secret ins and outs. A few things quickly go wrong with his plan:
1. He doesn’t bring his own tools
2. No one is willing to speak ill of the Prestons
3. He keeps accidentally flirting with Miss Ellen Preston
Ellen can see plain as day that the new carpenter’s assistant lied about his experience with woodwork. She is willing to overlook this, especially since he is handsome and easy to talk to. However, when she overhears him asking strange questions, she does some investigating - and discovers he is one of her father’s biggest political enemies. Taking the matter into her own hands, Ellen vows to delay Max’s report any way she can.
Even if that means kissing him again.
Working against each other, Max and Ellen begin asking difficult questions about Northfield Hall. What they discover forces each of them to rethink their own assumptions and answer for themselves: are their principles more important than love?
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Do they have a chance of a future together when they stand at opposite side…
With the prequel, the author has opened quite a box of Pandora. How to be profitable and survive without any blood/slave related products in a time when the wealthiest benefited widely from the plight of the poor.
So here is what should have been an enemies to lovers tale but while Ellen and Max stand on each edge of the political world, they are both kind persons with different views and opinions. Mostly originating from the way they have been raised. So Max comes to Northfield Hall full of prejudices, determined to prove everyone this self relient system is only a scam.
And while he wants to win his father’s approval, he is not a bad man, he is enough open minded to acknowledge the place is not the evil pit everyone talks about. And while he digs to gather any proof the adventure is not all rose and sparkles, slowly he changes his certainties. Learning not everybody has the chance to live an idle life, that hard work does not make someone rich but with the right choices and some ideology, one can improve its lot, if well surrounded.
Ellen lives by her father’s philosophy, she believes in it and has put her faith in applying it to her every action. So when a man, whatever tasty he appears to be, threatens everything she hold dear. She agrees to assist him, just to prove him wrong. And she is for some discoveries about herself, her family and who she really wants to be.
I loved them together, their chemistry is flagrant from their first encounter, it is surprising they did not ignite the carpentry. Ellen is surprisingly a very sensual young woman who knows what she likes and demands it brazenly, yet she hides behind her hair cap and her too well thought speech. Max seems to never reach any of his sire expectations, and while he lands in Northfield Hall longing to find a way to get for once his assent, it does not deprive him of his rationale mind.
A lovely advocacy for differences and tolerance, about two people everything seems to divide, but maturity and openness being together if they are willing to take a risk.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen detailed lovemaking scenes
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CVD3QSbjv...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram #bookbirthday
November 6, 2023
The Viscount Without Virtue by Katherine Grant
Thank you to Grant for sending us a copy of this novel. This is the first in her Prestons series, and trust us, we’ll be reading the rest. 😊
Our heroine Ellen is a nobleman’s daughter. This nobleman is unlike most of his peers however. He is a progressive thinker, welcoming people to his estate from all over the world, no matter their race, gender, class, or criminal history. Laborers earn a profit from the estate and can safely plan to keep their families happy there.
Ellen, the oldest, has bought into the mission of her family’s estate and works side by side with her father’s staff.
Max, our hero, is not a progressive. Major Tory. He, the son of an Earl (Ellen’s father’s biggest foil), is not at all impressed by Ellen’s family’s estate. In order to prove himself to his never satisfied father, Max agrees to go undercover to expose it for the false Utopia it is.
The attraction between Max and Ellen is almost instant. She is not a virgin and she is not a prude. He is a skilled seducer and delightful romp. Their physical relationship is 🥵🥵.
Also, Max reveals his identity early on in the story which gives Ellen so much more agency and we love it.
This is a story about friendship, sisterhood, shattering of innocence, finding common ground, learning about your parents as an adult, and, perhaps what we liked most of all, refusing to compromise your principles for a man (unlike a certain recent and highly criticized movie we won’t be naming). Indeed, Max is the character who changes the most and not just for love, though without love he never would have had the chance.
Finally these two really act like idiots over each other and it’s EXCELLENT. Oh an Ellen makes Max a little 🐑 while woodworking and it stays with him and it’s very sweet 😍
Thank you to Grant for sending us a copy of this novel. This is the first in her Prestons series, and trust us, we’ll be reading the rest. 😊
Our heroine Ellen is a nobleman’s daughter. This nobleman is unlike most of his peers however. He is a progressive thinker, welcoming people to his estate from all over the world, no matter their race, gender, class, or criminal history. Laborers earn a profit from the estate and can safely plan to keep their families happy there.
Ellen, the oldest, has bought into the mission of her family’s estate and works side by side with her father’s staff.
Max, our hero, is not a progressive. Major Tory. He, the son of an Earl (Ellen’s father’s biggest foil), is not at all impressed by Ellen’s family’s estate. In order to prove himself to his never satisfied father, Max agrees to go undercover to expose it for the false Utopia it is.
The attraction between Max and Ellen is almost instant. She is not a virgin and she is not a prude. He is a skilled seducer and delightful romp. Their physical relationship is 🥵🥵.
Also, Max reveals his identity early on in the story which gives Ellen so much more agency and we love it.
This is a story about friendship, sisterhood, shattering of innocence, finding common ground, learning about your parents as an adult, and, perhaps what we liked most of all, refusing to compromise your principles for a man (unlike a certain recent and highly criticized movie we won’t be naming). Indeed, Max is the character who changes the most and not just for love, though without love he never would have had the chance.
Finally these two really act like idiots over each other and it’s EXCELLENT. Oh an Ellen makes Max a little 🐑 while woodworking and it stays with him and it’s very sweet 😍
June 4, 2024
Yes, I’m the weirdo who reads the prequel novella, then jumps to book four only to realise I really should read the first book so I can read the fifth book next… and I’m rather certain books two and three are in my near future as well.
For this family, the Prestons, are no ordinary family with their idealistic and progressive beliefs, and I really want to find out how each of the siblings are finding the balance between how they were raised, real life and most of all, love!
This one is a strangely fascinating opposites-attract romance.
Ellen was raised a free spirit; free to pursue her own interests such as carpentry and boys. I believe she’s closest to their parents’ beliefs, the most steadfast. She’s a people pleaser, doesn’t like confrontation, but won’t stand for people disparaging her family, and is smart enough to go looking for the truth - even if it might not be what she hoped.
Max, heir to an earldom, was raised a pampered gentleman of the ton, believing power and wealth belong to the privileged few with ancient titles. Inquisitive and open-minded, he’s looking for purpose, but his father won’t let him until he proves himself. Luckily, when it matters most, this man makes the right choices and that’s what I liked best about him.
An interesting read with plenty of wit, wisdom and steam. They both know who they are and what they stand for. They question their beliefs, but I loved that they never doubt their own feelings in their quest to find middle ground. That’s not to say theirs is an easy journey. It’s a clash of convictions leading to confrontation, but there’s also loyalty, friendship and compromise. It’s irresistible attraction, playful and naughty. It’s vulnerable, honest and true, and it’s very beautiful!
For this family, the Prestons, are no ordinary family with their idealistic and progressive beliefs, and I really want to find out how each of the siblings are finding the balance between how they were raised, real life and most of all, love!
This one is a strangely fascinating opposites-attract romance.
Ellen was raised a free spirit; free to pursue her own interests such as carpentry and boys. I believe she’s closest to their parents’ beliefs, the most steadfast. She’s a people pleaser, doesn’t like confrontation, but won’t stand for people disparaging her family, and is smart enough to go looking for the truth - even if it might not be what she hoped.
Max, heir to an earldom, was raised a pampered gentleman of the ton, believing power and wealth belong to the privileged few with ancient titles. Inquisitive and open-minded, he’s looking for purpose, but his father won’t let him until he proves himself. Luckily, when it matters most, this man makes the right choices and that’s what I liked best about him.
An interesting read with plenty of wit, wisdom and steam. They both know who they are and what they stand for. They question their beliefs, but I loved that they never doubt their own feelings in their quest to find middle ground. That’s not to say theirs is an easy journey. It’s a clash of convictions leading to confrontation, but there’s also loyalty, friendship and compromise. It’s irresistible attraction, playful and naughty. It’s vulnerable, honest and true, and it’s very beautiful!
April 21, 2025
Really wanted to enjoy this one more because the authors third book in this series has been on my tbr for ages and it included the fmc fighting for a free Ireland (I mean come on it’s basically written for me) and I’ll still read it, but this was a little bit of a let down.
I think the entire book read a little too modern for me. The language, the characters it just felt like I was reading a contemporary romance with a different setting which isnt a bad thing and I’m sure there are plenty of people who will enjoy it but I just felt like it was taking me out of the overall story.
I will say that it was an entirely original plot and the writing was polished and well done I would have liked a little more humour as I felt that the tone switched a lot between the romantic scenes and the more serious scenes
The romance. Im not a huge fan of insta lust, and while I do think histroms for the most part get instalust right, there has to be a level of pining for it to work and there wasn’t any here. There was also wayyyyy too much body betrayal with the fmc I wanted her to stand tf up at times and shake herself because she just kept throwing herself at him to the point it was getting embarrassing. Also I felt like she was a little sex crazed which… didn’t really fit her character when she was out of that setting? It gave me whiplash at times.
Overall not my favourite but I still want to read the free Ireland book in the series because the writing was great. I just felt like this one maybe wasn’t for me
I think the entire book read a little too modern for me. The language, the characters it just felt like I was reading a contemporary romance with a different setting which isnt a bad thing and I’m sure there are plenty of people who will enjoy it but I just felt like it was taking me out of the overall story.
I will say that it was an entirely original plot and the writing was polished and well done I would have liked a little more humour as I felt that the tone switched a lot between the romantic scenes and the more serious scenes
The romance. Im not a huge fan of insta lust, and while I do think histroms for the most part get instalust right, there has to be a level of pining for it to work and there wasn’t any here. There was also wayyyyy too much body betrayal with the fmc I wanted her to stand tf up at times and shake herself because she just kept throwing herself at him to the point it was getting embarrassing. Also I felt like she was a little sex crazed which… didn’t really fit her character when she was out of that setting? It gave me whiplash at times.
Overall not my favourite but I still want to read the free Ireland book in the series because the writing was great. I just felt like this one maybe wasn’t for me
November 2, 2024
The Viscount without Virtue is the first book in the Prestons series. This was a new to me author and I loved the writing and the spicy scenes definitely hit the mark.
I really enjoyed this book with the original plot and then how it delved further to the underlying aspects. It’s different from most historical romances I read but it worked for me.
Infiltrating a political rival’s estate to uncover secrets but is instantly attracted to the Baron’s daughter and forgets he’s supposed to be of a lower class now. And a daughter that is proud to be living according to their ideals but is also enraptured with this newcomer despite the threat he may pose to her family.
The societal nuances in the story are well thought out and thought provoking. The journey both the MC went through were emotional and made you empathetic to what they were experiencing.
This is an author that I’ll be sure to seek out and read again.
There are four encounters and they came across as higher steam. The heroine is comfortable with her needs, it was hot and empowering. The writing and build up of the scenes was done well and took it up a notch for me.
I really enjoyed this book with the original plot and then how it delved further to the underlying aspects. It’s different from most historical romances I read but it worked for me.
Infiltrating a political rival’s estate to uncover secrets but is instantly attracted to the Baron’s daughter and forgets he’s supposed to be of a lower class now. And a daughter that is proud to be living according to their ideals but is also enraptured with this newcomer despite the threat he may pose to her family.
The societal nuances in the story are well thought out and thought provoking. The journey both the MC went through were emotional and made you empathetic to what they were experiencing.
This is an author that I’ll be sure to seek out and read again.
There are four encounters and they came across as higher steam. The heroine is comfortable with her needs, it was hot and empowering. The writing and build up of the scenes was done well and took it up a notch for me.
October 25, 2021
To impress his father Max agrees to write a newspaper story condemning the Prescott family. He goes undercover as a former convict carpenter. It quickly becomes obvious that he hasn't a background in carpentry. Ellen teaches him planing but she soon discovers that there is something he is not telling her. Ellen is very attracted to him daring a kiss. When she finds out exactly who he is ....
This is such an AMAZING story I LOVED how idealistic the Prescott's are and how they tried to make a change in the lives of people who need second chances and how they treated their employees. The story is well written, fast paced, with steamy scenes that are sensually written. Told from dual POVs reveals intimately their thoughts, feelings, and emotions as they explore their relationship and overcome obstacles twists and turns. There's an epilogue and a HEA
This is such an AMAZING story I LOVED how idealistic the Prescott's are and how they tried to make a change in the lives of people who need second chances and how they treated their employees. The story is well written, fast paced, with steamy scenes that are sensually written. Told from dual POVs reveals intimately their thoughts, feelings, and emotions as they explore their relationship and overcome obstacles twists and turns. There's an epilogue and a HEA
October 20, 2021
An arrogant man sees the truth.
This is a tale of a young man who set out to do one thing and finds that things are not what he expected. Max set out to find out the secrets of Northfield Hall while there he encounters Miss Ellen. Max lies but there is one problem he did come prepared that is just his first mistake. The only question is will he learn from his mistakes and grown or turn his back on something truly wonderful. I liked the story both of the main characters were very determine and I loved their interaction. Yes we have steam for all of us you like that. I am happy to recommend this one. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
This is a tale of a young man who set out to do one thing and finds that things are not what he expected. Max set out to find out the secrets of Northfield Hall while there he encounters Miss Ellen. Max lies but there is one problem he did come prepared that is just his first mistake. The only question is will he learn from his mistakes and grown or turn his back on something truly wonderful. I liked the story both of the main characters were very determine and I loved their interaction. Yes we have steam for all of us you like that. I am happy to recommend this one. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
October 25, 2021
Northfield Hall has a sustainable focused on fair trade way of living before it was popular. Lord Preston hired those that could not find work elsewhere and their jobs enable them to provide for the estate and village. Max is undercover to discover some dark secret or something less than ideal that he can publish to earn his father's approval. He wasn't a competent carpenter and I'm surprised that he wasn't dismissed soon after he started. Ellen is narrow minded with her ideals and shuns anything that goes against it thinking that doing so will force others to change, but that's just not realistic. She loves carpentry work, but if she marries a peer or the missionary she was considering she won't be able to continue it unless her spouse allows it.
May 29, 2024
What a wonderful book! If you like Evie Dunmore or Courtney Milan, please pick up this series. I love how Katherine Grant marries a sexy, swoony romance, really strong characterization, quick pacing plot, with very honest historic context. The book goes where most historic romance will not, recognizing the role chattel slavery and imperial exploitation played in all the glitter and wealth of the British aristocracy. The romance is still central to the book - this is true historic romance at its best - the hero and heroine come from opposite political beliefs, their families are enemies because of this, but with some radical honesty and a heavy dose of lust between them, they push forward and both grow individually and together as a couple. Just lovely to read!!
December 16, 2024
At first I was giving Max the old hairy eye because I'm not a fan of the deception trope, and his plans to hurt/expose these good people. But, one of the reasons why this is SUCH a great book is that he DOES have a heart and you know he's going to do right by them and Ellen.
My heart went out to Ellen as someone who just has so many principles, deep down to her soul. A true empath. The original softie. I loved Ellen.
I also loved Ellen's father for making really hard decisions when his back was up against the wall.
What a wonderful family.
And lawdy this book was hot. Someone get me some smelling salts!!!
My heart went out to Ellen as someone who just has so many principles, deep down to her soul. A true empath. The original softie. I loved Ellen.
I also loved Ellen's father for making really hard decisions when his back was up against the wall.
What a wonderful family.
And lawdy this book was hot. Someone get me some smelling salts!!!
October 21, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical romance with great characters, romance and intrigue. He was a Viscount wanting to earn praise for his father, so he went to a well-known estate that didn't use anything produced by slaves to do an expose He lie he was a carpenter, but couldn't hit a nail straight and didn't have tools. He fell for the Earl's daughter and then she found out who he was. They had some complications to overcome, but the ending was great.
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.
October 9, 2022
When a stranger comes to Northfield Hall claiming to be down on his luck he's hired right away and is taken at his word. Although he's a spy to write an expose on Northfield. Lady Ellen fell for Max even knowing he was about to expose her family. After seeing how Northfield Hall was helping people without being dependent on items from slave labor. Does Max finally agree with Lady Ellen's family or does he still agree with his father and most of the aristocrats.
I am reviewing this book of my own free will for an advanced copy of this from the author.
I am reviewing this book of my own free will for an advanced copy of this from the author.
October 22, 2021
The second book in the Prestons series a well written story with a very good storyline. Maximilian Hainsworth, Viscount Berwick and Miss Ellen Preston's story was a fun story to read. I enjoyed seeing their story come together, I know I will read it again.I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 24, 2021
He’s like a child let loose.
I did not care for the lead, Maximilian. He’s a viscount playing carpenter with no idea how decorum works and the class division.
I liked Ellen and the people of color and different ethnicities working at Northfield Hall. The supporting cast was much more interesting than the viscount.
I did not care for the lead, Maximilian. He’s a viscount playing carpenter with no idea how decorum works and the class division.
I liked Ellen and the people of color and different ethnicities working at Northfield Hall. The supporting cast was much more interesting than the viscount.
October 27, 2021
This is such a good historical romance and a little different from the ones I have read of late. Ellen and Max are so good for each other with instant attraction but a little bit of a trust issue due to secrets and suspicions. I like how the story developed it is very interesting and intriguing. I love the characters and how their journey transforms.
June 28, 2022
The story is never boring to begin with, it reveals as early and gauge readers like I to look and hope for the next thing.
I've immersed myself in Bridgerton book series and royal regency settings are attractive to me. This book is one of those you'd also like to read--light, entertaining, and ever so lovely.
I've immersed myself in Bridgerton book series and royal regency settings are attractive to me. This book is one of those you'd also like to read--light, entertaining, and ever so lovely.
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