She was in danger. He meant to protect her. But could he protect his heart?
More Regency fun as The Book of Love brings together two reluctant hearts.
Willow Farthingale never meant to punch Taunton’s magistrate, Shayne Brayden, in the nose. And she certainly did not set the fire that destroyed the coaching inn’s carriage house the very morning she was to leave for London and her society debut. But she might have seen who did, and now the handsome magistrate is not letting her out of his protection until the culprits are safely rounded up. Well, if he’s going to hold her in town under his watchful eye, then she may as well use the time productively and test out those love recipes in The Book of Love on him.
Shayne Brayden knew the fiery-haired Willow was trouble the moment he set eyes on her, but if she had seen the villains who set the carriage house fire, then it was possible they’d also seen her. He did not care how irritating she was, or how desperately he wanted to kiss her, he was going to do his duty and protect her.
But how was he to protect his heart, especially when she was toting that book on love around, and its ‘recipes’ seemed to be working on him?
Meara Platt is happily married to her Russell Crowe look-alike husband, and they have two terrific children. She lives in one of the many great towns on Long Island, New York, and loves it, except for the traffic. She has traveled extensively, occasionally lectures and finds time to write. Her favorite place in all the world is England’s Lake District, which may not come as a surprise since many of her stories are set in that idyllic landscape, including her Romance Writers of America Golden Heart award winning story.
I adore these two. A strong a potent mix . Both are wonderful characters, affectionate, loving, but opinionated.
Shayne is dreamy , a typical Brayden, strong and large build, gorgeous, and a former soldier now Magistrate.
Willow, I wanted to slap at one point, I’ll let you be the judge of where, now I know your wanting to read the book to find out, ( evil laughing),but as a character she fit perfectly for Shayne.
The story was awesome as Meara is always on target with those. So on the whole this was definitely another Book of Love hit for me.
Now a matter of waiting for Lorcan and Cammy, or maybe Meara could find Aunt Charlotte a long lost Brayden uncle, go on Meara, you know you want too. I shall wait patiently to find out.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
Great characters and storyline. A sexy HEA. Reading this story was so enjoyable. This author is one of my favourites. Love her writing. I'm excited to read #12, hopefully soon. 5☆
This book seemed to start rather abruptly. There wasn't much of an introduction, just sort of an immediate presentation of the two main characters as the love interests. The book of love was, obviously, central to the theme of the book. But I have to say it was talked about SO much that it almost seemed to.. retract from the story a bit? Like I felt it took attention off the budding romance between Shayne and Willow when it was supposed to be helping it along.
Now all that being said, this was definitely a fun, quick read. There was some drama but not between the two main characters in the sense of betrayals, cheating, etc. The drama came from some villains from the previous book stirring the pot again. I liked Shayne's character, he seemed to undergo quite a bit of growth which was nice to see. Willow seemed a lot younger than her character was meant to be but as the book went on she did seem to mature. I liked the two as main characters overall.
I will definitely read more in this series, but I just don't think this was my favorite one overall. That being said, I encourage you to give it a try and form your own opinion!
4.5 Stars Willow Farthingale never meant to punch Taunton’s magistrate, Shayne Brayden, in the nose. And she certainly did not set the fire that destroyed the coaching inn’s carriage house the very morning she was to leave for London and her society debut. But she might have seen who did, and now the handsome magistrate is not letting her out of his protection until the culprits are safely rounded up. Shayne Brayden knew the fiery-haired Willow was trouble the moment he set eyes on her, but if she had seen the villains who set the carriage house fire, then it was possible they’d also seen her. The eleventh book in series & it could be read on its own but there are links to other books, plus the whole series is seriously good. I loved Shayne who was just toe curlingly gorgeous, I liked Willow but she did annoy me at times but opposites attract. The Book of Love works its magic again & this was another engrossing read, which once again I devoured & read it in a sitting My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Shayne - the magistrate Willow- witnessed who burned down the carriage building. I enjoyed reading this entertaining story that is well written with charismatic characters. Loved their banter but found her extremely low self esteem to be annoying. Their story has a wonderful HEA.
Having read the previous 10 books in this series, the repetition about the Book of Love was tedious. Willow seemed very immature. It would have been nice for there have been more background and development of the Brayden brothers. I am hoping the next book (and apparently the ones hinted at for the third Brayden brother and their cousin ) will be better . As a side note, the editor needs to be doing some checking as well. This was set in 1821 and Shayne refers to The Three Musketeers which was published in 1844.
She was in danger. He meant to protect her. But could he protect his heart? More Regency fun as The Book of Love brings together two reluctant hearts.
Willow Farthingale never meant to punch Taunton’s magistrate, Shayne Brayden, in the nose. And she certainly did not set the fire that destroyed the coaching inn’s carriage house the very morning she was to leave for London and her society debut. But she might have seen who did, and now the handsome magistrate is not letting her out of his protection until the culprits are safely rounded up. Well, if he’s going to hold her in town under his watchful eye, then she may as well use the time productively and test out those love recipes in The Book of Love on him.
Shayne Brayden knew the fiery-haired Willow was trouble the moment he set eyes on her, but if she had seen the villains who set the carriage house fire, then it was possible they’d also seen her. He did not care how irritating she was, or how desperately he wanted to kiss her, he was going to do his duty and protect her.
But how was he to protect his heart, especially when she was toting that book on love around, and its ‘recipes’ seemed to be working on him?
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will the villains unsettle their romance …
I haven’t read the two last installments in this series because of a too busy reading schedule, but I had this one marked on my calendar. It is as always a sweet tale of insta-love. Willow is a charming young miss with a feisty temper. Yet she is still much youthful, turning to vain at one time or sulking when she realizes he is wealthy. Shayne is a man who has seen the world and what the human being is able in the worst way. Is it Willow’s naivety and innocence that call to his protector’s instincts. They are quite different. But the amount of time they spend together, alone, help them to erase them.
It is the classical pattern, they meet then stand toe to toe (not for very long) to then immediately read together the book of love and analyze what they already know. As a fantasy historical romance, society dictates and rules are a lot blurred as never two strangers could have spent so much time alone, calling one another by their first name nor a magistrate would not have delegated part of his tasks, and spent so much time with one witness.
A cute love story without much challenges, some ugly villains and very supportive side characters. 3.5 stars rounded up
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen sweet lovemaking scenes.
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher Dragonblade Publishing, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
The Wonder of Love by Meara Platt is another in the Book of Love series. Willow is convinced that she and her love must read the book, together preferably, to ensure their love was the right thing. It had worked for her cousins, hadn't it? And her sister? She wasn't even sure she LIKED Shayne Brayden. He was bossy and arrogant. True he had helped save her sister, but now he was keeping her from rushing into a burning building to save her precious book. He was kicking and hitting and when she kicked him in an especially tender spot, they happened to be at the horse trough he had threatened to drop her in. Full of pain, that's exactly what happened. Now the only dress she own was soaking wet. The others had all been destroyed in the carriage house fire, and she was angry. . .until she stopped to think. He had been trying to protect her. He was very good looking. And there were seriously dangerous men trying to harm her. And he did prove himself when he gently held her as the doctor stitched up her wounds. Some fiend had shot through her window. He had missed her but the glass shards had not. He was there again when an infection set in and the doctor had to open her wounds to search for the offending detritus. Now he was reading the book.
These are all kind and gentle love stories. Each is my favorite as I am reading it, as was this one. Willow is very young and very inexperienced. Too young to make a decision about love. He, however, fighting it as he had, had made the decision for both of them. He loved her. She was the missing piece of his heart. They went through some trials before both were on the same page, including another woman. He was strong and firm. She was young, beautiful, and firm. Things worked out as they should and things came to the proper conclusion. I loved it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Wonder of Love by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. #netgalley #dragonblade #thewonderoflove
This story opens with brawny magistrate Shayne Brayden physically preventing Willow Farthingale from running into a burning carriage house to save the Book of Love. Alas the Farthingale party loses everything in the fire, and in the frantic scuffle, Willow accidentally kicks Shayne in the crotch and in pain he drops her into a horse trough! Thus we have another exciting Meara Platt first chapter that unfolds to reveal that Willow can identify the arsonist, and concludes with the first spectacular Brayden-Farthingale kiss for this couple.
Meara packs a lot of action into this plot with all manner of bad guys and the need to protect Willow, as well as the appearance of Shayne's former lover. Willow is a hot mess because she failed to keep the Book of Love safe, and having the heart-stopping Magistrate Brayden popping into her room so very often, and melting her with his kisses! Shayne feels pulled every which way with all his duties plus the unfathomable danger of falling in love with Willow, but is it really love this time? Meara writes a goodly number of Brayden male relatives into this story, and I am glad to know that we will not run out of Brayden men just yet. Also, I have to say how hilarious the "hiding Willow in Shayne's wardrobe" scene played in my head!
What happened to the Book of Love? Does Shayne's past love ruin his meaningful relationship with Willow? Why does one of Shayne's men take a Farthingale hostage? Will the garden of the Ashcott Inn see another Farthingale wedding? Will any of these Farthingale ladies get to London for the upcoming Season?
I definitely recommend this book to historical romance readers who like entertaining, action-packed stories with a few laughs and a little spice to liven up the read. I eagerly anticipate the next Book of Love release!
This is my first time reading from the ‘Book of Love’ series, and I absolutely adored it. What a brilliant concept for a story line. All the characters were so well written as was the rest of the story. I was immediately drawn in once I started, and never put it done until it was finished. I haven’t read a historical romance in so long, and this book reminded me of what I’ve been missing.
Willow and Shayne made the perfect couple and their love story was so sweet and passionate. I loved the concept of a Love Book, and how each Farthingale women uses it to find true love. The subplot in this book also kept me very interested and invest. I really enjoyed this book a lot. Now I want more! My only complaint was Willow was quite the bossy little thing 😂 and sometimes she would push and push and push and push to get answers, and that got repetitive and caused parts of the banter between her and Shayne to get somewhat boring at times. Feisty determined little thing that’s for sure, lol.
It looks like Cammy and Lornac are next in line to receive the Love Book, and I can’t wait to read about their adventures next. I’m now officially hooked on this series. I will need to start at Book 1 and read them all!!!! This book releases on August 19, 2021 Don’t miss it I highly recommend it.✨Thank you to Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing for the ARC of this wonderful story for my honest Review✨
Taunton’s magistrate, Shayne Brayden, never saw the punch from Willow Farthingale coming, but he wasn't about to let the fiesty miss out of his sight until he got her witness statement. Willow might have seen who set fire to the inn's carriage house and Shayne needed to catch the culprit(s) before even more damage was done. Though they had a rocky start, a sort of mutual respect developed between them, that is, until Willow is attacked. Now all of Shayne's protective instincts kicked in to protect the woman that was becoming very dear to him. Can he keep her safe before another attempt is made?
I loved all the Book of Love books. This was another tender and sweet story without too much conflict between the main characters, but more self-doubt than anything else. Shayne wasn't ready to admit he was falling in love with Willow and Willow couldn't believe a hunky and gorgeous man like Shayne would be interested in her. There's a mystery running through the story of who exactly wanted Willow dead and a past love of Shayne's that shows up to shake Willow's confidence. If you're looking for a sweet and romantic story, this series is definitely a favorite. Can't wait to read the next book in the story and see what happens with Willow's sister.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
This sweet Regency romance had me chuckling at the antics of sisters Willow and Cammy, made all the more frantic by the possible damage done to The Book of Love in a fire. Willow's attempted dash into a burning carriage house earns her the wrath and retribution of the local magistrate, Shayne Brayden, who does not take kindly to having his nose punched, nor to a kick in his nether regions. However, upon realizing that Willow witnessed the start of the fire, he goes on the alert knowing that she is in danger. The more time Shayne spends with Willow, the more entranced he becomes with the enticing young lady. Shayne and Willow make a great couple and his protective stance over her melts one's heart. I did find Willow's protestations over her lack of personal worth a bit tedious, but ultimately Shayne wins her over. However, before he can do anything about wooing her, he has to transport the miscreants who have been causing chaos in the district, to stand before a judge, but they are not the only ones to keep him busy as he has his hands full with those planning their own revenge. This novel is a standalone and comes to a sweet conclusion. I received a copy of this book as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
This started out as a wonderful series, but it has become somewhat of a cookie cutter. Only thing different are the character's - main plot is how the couples come together after reading the Book of Love. Throw in some of the same villains and you have your story.
I did like the h through more than half the story, then she became like a different character. She made the H's life more difficult and he became more accepting - like roll reversals, which was confusing.
There is lovemaking, within marriage, heat level 4 out of 5.
We have villains from the last book causing havoc in this story. This has sadness from what happens to a good guy. There is some suspense, romance and interesting secondary character's. I started out really enjoying this story because something happens to The Book and it was taking a different path. This is a stand alone story even though number 11 in the series.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance and a tad of spice. (ljb)
I anxiously await for each Book of Love Series just knowing that Meara Platt is going to knock me breathlessly! Little did I realize but, not only was I not only given shock, but Shane Brayden was socked in the nose by one of those Farthingale girls. Willow is definitely having the worst night of her life. The carriage house goes up in flames and that is what gets her into trouble with Shayne the local law. The trouble only escalates for the pair and mix into the foray the Book of Love and you have even double the trouble! Meara Platt is known for her romanticism and lighthearted humor, but each book keeps the reader alive with tenderness of first kisses to lasting kisses. The laughter one feels is genuine and as we turn the pages is to find sense of adventure and devotion!
I received an advanced copy from NetGalley and these are my willingly given thoughts and opinions!
As many reviews have mentioned, The Book of Love is central to this story and Willow is desperate to get it back after thinking it has gone up in flames after a fire. I would agree with reviews that have mentioned that there is far too much emphasis placed on this book and in how Willow dissected its contents. There is also a lot of repetition in this book, especially when it comes to previous books. I get that all the books in this series co-mingle but it seemed overly excessive. I also felt Willow far too naive and young for what was being discussed and in how she reacted to it. I loved Shayne's character and thought he dealt with Willow in a good way, sometimes almost a comical way. I do recommend this book for a sweet love story, HEA, a mystery, memorable characters, strong writing, and a great storyline. I received an advanced copy in exchange for my review
After reading the previous book in this series, I knew we were going to be in for a treat with Willow & Shayne's story. They didn't get off to a good start after meeting the first time but even then, there was an attraction, they both felt. I enjoyed their discussion of the Book of Love & how each one felt about certain chapters & Willow was so outspoken & truthful in her questions & answers that it shocked the big handsome, gruff Shayne. There were villains, arsonists & was the Book of Love lost forever in the fire? We had attempted shootings, kidnappings but the romance was the best. This series is just so much fun & I could read about these hunky heroes & intelligent heroines forever! Now I am already looking forward to Lor & Cammy's story in Book 12.
Willow is young and sheltered certainly a firebrand! Shayne is the local magistrate and the hottest catch around! Willow has punched the man and kicked him in his privates all to rescue the book of love! Willow is sure it will lead her to true love! Shayne is not convinced! Willow is a witness to who set a dangerous fire! Shayne has to protect her and her sister at all costs! Shayne is certainly a wonder and not the hero I thought he was his inaction when his past comes calling makes me want to slap him! His reasons where so thin! Uggh he almost messed up for good but Willow forgave him! Lives are changed by these evil members of the peerage some for the worse! Shane and Willow go thru quite a bit to find the wonder of love!
I was thrilled to read Willow and Shayne's story after meeting them in book ten. Even then there was an attraction between them even if they didn't realize it. I knew it would be just a entertaining as the previous books in the Book of Love series. Not only were the main characters fabulously written, but so were the side characters. I now want to read their books as well. There is a lot going on for a small town, a magistrate, and guests at an inn. It's a good, fast-paced read that has me wanting to read book twelve. Meara Platt is very talented. Check out her Farthingales series. I received this book from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for an honest review.
Willow Farthingale and her sisters were on their way to London when trouble struck. There are some men that have since been arrested, but that doesn't mean the trouble is over. It doesn't look like they will be going anywhere soon.
Shayne Braydon is the magistrate in Taunton and has his hands full with prisoners, and trying to keep a beautiful woman and her family safe is quite a distraction.
This is definitely a fun historical romance. You couldn't find two more different people, but they certainly fit.
Lots of excitement and a few giggles.
This is part of a series but easily read on it's own.
The delightful Book of love is at work again. Or is it? Did it burn in the fire set by arsons?
Willow Farthingale is on her way to London to make her debut, carrying The Book with her. When mischief makers set the carriage house on fire and it seems to burn all her things and the book, she is so upset. But when Shayne, the local Magistrate steps in, it seems another small fire ignites!
He is determined to not fall for a woman and get hurt again. But Willow is just too irresistible, beautiful and fiery! What's a man to do?
Love this series and so glad Meara keeps using her wonderful imagination to keep adding to it! By the way Meara, I am waiting for my copy of The Book of Love!
I feel my opinion really wouldn’t be fair as this is the first book I read in the series. Definitely should read the previous books, it is partially a continuation. The story of Shayne Brayden and Willow Farthingale, was more about the Book of Love and understanding what true love is. This to me dragged on through out the book. The last chapters finally held my interest, but as I said it may have been better to read the previous book. I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story.
Another love match between the Farthingales and the Braydens. Willow and Shayne might have gotten off on the wrong foot but it has not slowed down their attraction to each other. Willow desires love and agrees to read the book with Shayne and they get to discuss it. However, some questions are a challenge to answer and it causes Willow to think Shayne does not feel the same way she does for him. But the Book of Love brings those destined to be together and shows one's that should not be together the reasoning to it.
Willow and Shayne were the best couple considering their tendency for misconduct and mischief. I think that this book is a great idea for misconduct. This is a book which makes you feel a lot better. Meara Platt has done it again and written a jewel. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
This book was short and sweet. Although I feel like I didn`t get to know the characters a lot and it started very suddenly, so I couldn`t relate to their love story a lot. Granted I didn`t read the previous book so that might be why.
But what I found most intriguing was the way the characters spoke about relationships and love, about developing a healthy relationship with one another, their expectations, desires and flaws.
Shayne and Willow get off to a very bumpy start. You could almost say a jaw dropping or in this case a body dropping and dripping. Shayne needs to up hold the law and keep everyone safe. Willow needs to save the 'family heirloom' The Book of Love. Watch or read how the Book of Love lends its wisdom to its next couple. As its brings the couple together as they read to understand how love REALLY works.
This was a book I planned to binge read the entire series before this one. I even downloaded the 10 books before this one, but I never got to them. I really loved the relationship and how the communicated with eachother and the side plot of Lorcan and Cammy. Sadly a lot of this book was kind of boring and it took me a while to read. But I am 100% going to read Cammy and Lorcans book and might actually start the series from the beginning
They are simple stories focused on what is love and commitment and how do you know you are in love. This particular story was an extension of the last arc of villains doing harm to innocents and needing to be sent to jail. The MMC And MFC were very much alike in stubbornness and wit. The FMC was innocent and lacked confidence while the MMC was worldly. This is a fun fast read!
It is Willow’s turn with The Book of Love and she finds she is attracted to Shayne. They both fight the attraction. When Shayne has to care for and protect Willow from enemies, he realizes that he can not let her go on to London for a season. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for my honest review.