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A Promise for His Daughter
His latest project has a two-year-old surprise
The house he wants to restore
The family he wants to build
Fatherhood wasn’t what Bradley Ainsworth expected to find at Henny House. The run-down Victorian is his best shot at proving himself as a historic renovator, but the new owner has no interest in recreating the past. Claire Woodbury and her foster daughter, Emily, are focused on the future—until everyone learns that Emily is Bradley’s daughter. Does that future have room for him as a father…and more?
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
The house he wants to restore
The family he wants to build
Fatherhood wasn’t what Bradley Ainsworth expected to find at Henny House. The run-down Victorian is his best shot at proving himself as a historic renovator, but the new owner has no interest in recreating the past. Claire Woodbury and her foster daughter, Emily, are focused on the future—until everyone learns that Emily is Bradley’s daughter. Does that future have room for him as a father…and more?
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
244 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2022
49 people are currently reading
1999 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Thorne
54 books506 followersDanielle Thorne is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author of inspirational small town romance. She also writes historical romance and YA non-fiction. A graduate of BYU-Idaho and Ricks College, she has over twenty-five years of experience in her wordcraft. Danielle lives south of Atlanta, Georgia, with family, friends and felines. Find out more about her and her books at daniellethorne.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 19, 2022
This story was a beautiful story of love, redemption, forgiveness and moving forward in faith.
Bradley had a contentious relationship with is parents, especially his mom. He had run away to California with his best friend, Dori. They had married and it had been a disaster. When their marriage was annulled, Bradley had moved on. He had eventually moved back home to prove to his parents that he was happy in the life he was creating. The one missing part was the family of his own that he wanted.
Claire had come home to one place she had ever felt like home, Henney House. He had been in the foster system but when she had come to Henney House, she felt loved and cared for. Now that her foster mom was gone, she was given Henney House to make it her forever home. The house needed a lot of work to bring it up to snuff. Bradley had wanted to buy Henney House but when he found out the owner didn't want to sell but wanted to remodel, he wanted to be the contractor to handle the renovations.
Claire and Bradley had trust issues and when a big secret was revealed, could they find a happy ending to their stories? This story was a clean, wholesome, romantic story of love and forgiveness. It would be appropriate for anyone who wants a story with a happy ending and full of love.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
Bradley had a contentious relationship with is parents, especially his mom. He had run away to California with his best friend, Dori. They had married and it had been a disaster. When their marriage was annulled, Bradley had moved on. He had eventually moved back home to prove to his parents that he was happy in the life he was creating. The one missing part was the family of his own that he wanted.
Claire had come home to one place she had ever felt like home, Henney House. He had been in the foster system but when she had come to Henney House, she felt loved and cared for. Now that her foster mom was gone, she was given Henney House to make it her forever home. The house needed a lot of work to bring it up to snuff. Bradley had wanted to buy Henney House but when he found out the owner didn't want to sell but wanted to remodel, he wanted to be the contractor to handle the renovations.
Claire and Bradley had trust issues and when a big secret was revealed, could they find a happy ending to their stories? This story was a clean, wholesome, romantic story of love and forgiveness. It would be appropriate for anyone who wants a story with a happy ending and full of love.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
June 1, 2022
The cover of this book just spoke to me and this was a new -to-me author. I am very glad I bought the book. It was well written with wonderful characters and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
April 10, 2022
Thank you in advance to the author, Danielle Thorne, for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
I’m definitely a fan of the Love Inspired (LI) and Love Inspired Suspense (LIS) lines from Harlequin Books. I even recently started reading the Love Inspired Trade (LIT – bigger and longer books). Clean, inspirational reads that anyone of any age can enjoy. They do have some elements of the Christian faith in them. This is usually not a main element, but fundamental to the story.
And, any LI book is good in my opinion – even if they’re by a new-to-me author such as this one. And, this is the author’s second LI release.
The cover is just adorable! And, definitely drew me right to the story. And, what a story it is.
Don’t get me wrong – most all of these books have a “HAPPILY-EVER-AFTER” (HEA) end. But, sometimes it is the backstory as well as the journey, that takes place that draws the reader in. Thorne did a magnificent job with the backstory as well as the “journey” that it was hard to believe I’d reached the end of the book when I did.
The characters – Claire, Bradley, Emily, Aunt Vi, and Diane are such a delight. Others like Laurel – not delightful.
While I grew up in a larger city, I do tend to like the small-town feel. And, the plot of this was cute and yet sad. There were some heartfelt moments, hilarious moment, and moments of sweetness. It was easy to see Claire’s dilemma between losing Emily and seeing the littler girl reunited with the father she didn’t know.
Obviously the death of a parent is traumatic, which is how Claire comes into custody of little Emily. Thorne raises awareness of how important good foster care is for kids like Emily. Claire was Dori’s college friend and thus a good fit to take Emily after Dori’s death and Dori’s parents putting the little one into foster care.
Another fun aspect is the “renovation” on Henny House. Not only has Claire inherited the home from her foster mother, but Ms. Henny left her funds to cover. Unfortunately, the funds don’t seem to be enough to cover the poor aging house. But, Claire wants to update or rather renovate the house (pretty good idea for safety and compatibility issues) too.
On the other hand, Bradley wants to “restore” it to its previous glory. It helps that the restoration would get him on the historical board. And, obviously that will prove to his parents that his choice of career was indeed valid.
One contentious point for Bradley and Claire? A gazebo attached to the side of the house. Claire wants it gone to add “symmetry” to the design of the house, Brad wants to keep it as that is one point the board is clear on. Though I have to admit, I was a bit peeved with Claire, but also understood her.
That’s not the only complication – Bradley notices that little Emily reminds him of someone. He soon learns that Emily is Dori’s and his. Bradley and Dori had a short-lived marriage that was annulled, though he did love her.
Another complication? Bradley likes Claire and feels bad for wanting the house and his repeated attempts to buy it. It doesn’t help that his Aunt Vi is in matchmaking mode.
Once Claire realizes that Bradley is Emily’s father, they take it one day at a time as Claire helps him towards officially becoming the little girl’s father. Of course, Bradley is trying to figure out how to tell his family – especially his parents. He knows that he’ll disappoint them even more with the news.
Claire and Bradley both have an issue with Laurel who is getting pushy about the restoration despite Claire’s wishes and wants for HER home. The woman is SO pushy she is even shoving paint sample cards at the two.
This is definitely a very sweet read that balances not just the restoration/renovation, but Bradley and Emily’s relationship along with Bradley’s relationship with Claire.
The relationship is more of a “slow-burn” as the two navigate Bradley’s new role, the renovation/restoration, and Claire’s own self-discovery.
I adored this so much and couldn’t put it down. If I hadn’t had a few “time-sensitive” reviews between the time I started this and finished it – I would’ve likely finished it within a day or two. It was very easy to read and such a great fit for the Love Inspired line.
The only issue I had was the lack of resolution with Bradley’s parents. Did they leave or what? Though to be honest, I’m glad they’re gone if they are.
There were also attitudes towards Claire not being Ms. Henney’s “real” family as well as Laurel referring to Emily as a “homeless child”.
Of course, I had to side with Bradley on the fried kudzu. Despite knowing what it is and researching it – that’s definitely a no for me.
Those who adore home renovation/restoration are certain to enjoy this. As a spoiler – you’ve got to read this to find out about the gazebo. One interesting aspect of that – when does someone’s home become a historical landmark against their wishes. And, who should win – the homeowner or a historical board. I really loved that angle and how it didn’t really separate Claire and Bradley in their “friends-to-more” romance.
Those who’ve read the author’s first book and those who love the Love Inspired line won’t be disappointed. I know I’m definitely looking forward to another book by the author.
I’m definitely a fan of the Love Inspired (LI) and Love Inspired Suspense (LIS) lines from Harlequin Books. I even recently started reading the Love Inspired Trade (LIT – bigger and longer books). Clean, inspirational reads that anyone of any age can enjoy. They do have some elements of the Christian faith in them. This is usually not a main element, but fundamental to the story.
And, any LI book is good in my opinion – even if they’re by a new-to-me author such as this one. And, this is the author’s second LI release.
The cover is just adorable! And, definitely drew me right to the story. And, what a story it is.
Don’t get me wrong – most all of these books have a “HAPPILY-EVER-AFTER” (HEA) end. But, sometimes it is the backstory as well as the journey, that takes place that draws the reader in. Thorne did a magnificent job with the backstory as well as the “journey” that it was hard to believe I’d reached the end of the book when I did.
The characters – Claire, Bradley, Emily, Aunt Vi, and Diane are such a delight. Others like Laurel – not delightful.
While I grew up in a larger city, I do tend to like the small-town feel. And, the plot of this was cute and yet sad. There were some heartfelt moments, hilarious moment, and moments of sweetness. It was easy to see Claire’s dilemma between losing Emily and seeing the littler girl reunited with the father she didn’t know.
Obviously the death of a parent is traumatic, which is how Claire comes into custody of little Emily. Thorne raises awareness of how important good foster care is for kids like Emily. Claire was Dori’s college friend and thus a good fit to take Emily after Dori’s death and Dori’s parents putting the little one into foster care.
Another fun aspect is the “renovation” on Henny House. Not only has Claire inherited the home from her foster mother, but Ms. Henny left her funds to cover. Unfortunately, the funds don’t seem to be enough to cover the poor aging house. But, Claire wants to update or rather renovate the house (pretty good idea for safety and compatibility issues) too.
On the other hand, Bradley wants to “restore” it to its previous glory. It helps that the restoration would get him on the historical board. And, obviously that will prove to his parents that his choice of career was indeed valid.
One contentious point for Bradley and Claire? A gazebo attached to the side of the house. Claire wants it gone to add “symmetry” to the design of the house, Brad wants to keep it as that is one point the board is clear on. Though I have to admit, I was a bit peeved with Claire, but also understood her.
That’s not the only complication – Bradley notices that little Emily reminds him of someone. He soon learns that Emily is Dori’s and his. Bradley and Dori had a short-lived marriage that was annulled, though he did love her.
Another complication? Bradley likes Claire and feels bad for wanting the house and his repeated attempts to buy it. It doesn’t help that his Aunt Vi is in matchmaking mode.
Once Claire realizes that Bradley is Emily’s father, they take it one day at a time as Claire helps him towards officially becoming the little girl’s father. Of course, Bradley is trying to figure out how to tell his family – especially his parents. He knows that he’ll disappoint them even more with the news.
Claire and Bradley both have an issue with Laurel who is getting pushy about the restoration despite Claire’s wishes and wants for HER home. The woman is SO pushy she is even shoving paint sample cards at the two.
This is definitely a very sweet read that balances not just the restoration/renovation, but Bradley and Emily’s relationship along with Bradley’s relationship with Claire.
The relationship is more of a “slow-burn” as the two navigate Bradley’s new role, the renovation/restoration, and Claire’s own self-discovery.
I adored this so much and couldn’t put it down. If I hadn’t had a few “time-sensitive” reviews between the time I started this and finished it – I would’ve likely finished it within a day or two. It was very easy to read and such a great fit for the Love Inspired line.
The only issue I had was the lack of resolution with Bradley’s parents. Did they leave or what? Though to be honest, I’m glad they’re gone if they are.
There were also attitudes towards Claire not being Ms. Henney’s “real” family as well as Laurel referring to Emily as a “homeless child”.
Of course, I had to side with Bradley on the fried kudzu. Despite knowing what it is and researching it – that’s definitely a no for me.
Those who adore home renovation/restoration are certain to enjoy this. As a spoiler – you’ve got to read this to find out about the gazebo. One interesting aspect of that – when does someone’s home become a historical landmark against their wishes. And, who should win – the homeowner or a historical board. I really loved that angle and how it didn’t really separate Claire and Bradley in their “friends-to-more” romance.
Those who’ve read the author’s first book and those who love the Love Inspired line won’t be disappointed. I know I’m definitely looking forward to another book by the author.
May 10, 2022
Claire Woodbury has returned to Kudzu Creek having spent her childhood in the foster system, she is looking for a place to call home. Miss Henny, her former guardian has willed her home Henny House to her. But she hasn't returned alone, she's returned with Emily who is her foster daughter. Her best friend, Dori died, and so Claire is now raising her best friend's daughter.
She wants to renovate the Henny House but Bradley Ainsworth is hoping she’ll sell to him. He’s hoping that Claire will keep the gazebo but she wants to get rid of it. He wants to preserve it.
Early on, Bradley finds out he is Emily’s Dad, and he eagerly goes forward to make it official, all the while Claire doesn’t know where she fits in this situation.
This took me to the middle of the novel until I warmed up to both characters, it was more Claire’s character than Bradley’s, and it was Bradley’s character that helped me to see all the positives of her that eventually warmed me up to her.
She wants to renovate the Henny House but Bradley Ainsworth is hoping she’ll sell to him. He’s hoping that Claire will keep the gazebo but she wants to get rid of it. He wants to preserve it.
Early on, Bradley finds out he is Emily’s Dad, and he eagerly goes forward to make it official, all the while Claire doesn’t know where she fits in this situation.
This took me to the middle of the novel until I warmed up to both characters, it was more Claire’s character than Bradley’s, and it was Bradley’s character that helped me to see all the positives of her that eventually warmed me up to her.
May 3, 2022
In A Promise for His Daughter, the author continues to provide refreshing, encouraging, and wholesome content to read.
Claire Woodbury is ready to begin a new chapter in her life with a child not her own, but who she considers as good as her own. However, when she learns who the real father is, she's mature enough to be willing to step aside for the sake of the child.
Bradley Ainsworth has moved back to Georgia to prove himself and move on from a painful past. But, when the past shows up in town in the form of a daughter, he is forced to face the reality of fatherhood.
As Claire and Bradley navigate the ongoing care of Emily, they realize they are falling in love with each other. However, can they let go of the past to be able to see a future? Will they allow other people to interfere?
I also love how the restoration of the house is used as a metaphor to their personal lives. As Bradley and Claire debate over restoring vs renewing the house, it's much like their lives - some things get renovated and restored, while other aspects move forward with the new.
I applaud the author for tackling tough subjects such as foster care, parent / child relationships, and divorce. Each were handled delicately and with sensitivity.
All language and scenes are clean with only mild kissing.
My rating - 5 stars
Claire Woodbury is ready to begin a new chapter in her life with a child not her own, but who she considers as good as her own. However, when she learns who the real father is, she's mature enough to be willing to step aside for the sake of the child.
Bradley Ainsworth has moved back to Georgia to prove himself and move on from a painful past. But, when the past shows up in town in the form of a daughter, he is forced to face the reality of fatherhood.
As Claire and Bradley navigate the ongoing care of Emily, they realize they are falling in love with each other. However, can they let go of the past to be able to see a future? Will they allow other people to interfere?
I also love how the restoration of the house is used as a metaphor to their personal lives. As Bradley and Claire debate over restoring vs renewing the house, it's much like their lives - some things get renovated and restored, while other aspects move forward with the new.
I applaud the author for tackling tough subjects such as foster care, parent / child relationships, and divorce. Each were handled delicately and with sensitivity.
All language and scenes are clean with only mild kissing.
My rating - 5 stars
July 4, 2022
A Promise for His Daughter by Danielle Thorne is such an enjoyable story that I read it in less than 24 hours. The pages flew by! I really enjoyed the characters in this story, and I appreciate the conflicts each one had to work through. Claire is the heroine and she is amazing. She is beautiful inside and out. I love her selfless spirit, and I love how much she loves and cherishes and adores her foster daughter, Emily. Having grown up in the system her entire childhood, Claire gets just how much love and care Emily needs. She is literally the perfect mother for this beautiful little girl. And speaking of Emily, can you say, “Cuteness overload”?! Oh my word, is she a sweet little two-year-old. I liked how Thorne portrays Emily. She is perfectly two! And I love how Emily and Claire relate to each other. Emily knows Claire is her mommy for sure. I also really love the pacing in how Emily relates to her father, Bradley. There is a nice progression from a guy who is helping restore mommy’s house to father. I enjoyed watching Emily and Bradley progress in their relationship as much as I loved watching Claire and Bradley progress in theirs. Bradley is a great hero. I love his sense of loyalty and commitment. And I really appreciate his journey to fatherhood. It all felt very realistic. As far as the conflicts go, I’ll just say that they are wholly relatable. For me, Bradley’s issues resonated the most. Having been raised in a household with rigid expectations and parents who wanted to control every aspect of my life, I fully get where Bradley is coming from. I get why as an adult he chooses not to share things with his parents and do what he can to thwart their wishes in order to live the life he knows God is calling him to.
There is so much more I could say about this delightful read, but I don’t want to spoil the story for anyone. Suffice to say, A Promise for His Daughter is a real gem of a read, and I highly recommend this lovely Contemporary Romance. If you are a fan of great stories that will grab a hold of your heart, then definitely check out a copy of this book today!
I purchased a copy of this novel from Amazon.com on April 29, 2022, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
There is so much more I could say about this delightful read, but I don’t want to spoil the story for anyone. Suffice to say, A Promise for His Daughter is a real gem of a read, and I highly recommend this lovely Contemporary Romance. If you are a fan of great stories that will grab a hold of your heart, then definitely check out a copy of this book today!
I purchased a copy of this novel from Amazon.com on April 29, 2022, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 1, 2022
Loved Claire with all her generosity and dedication to raising Emily like she was her own child. She took a long time to come out with her feelings for Bradley, but I got why with her past. Bradley was sweet, but took ridiculously long to man up and tell his parents that he had a little girl that he hadn't known about in the form of Emily. I appreciated that the whole secret baby thing was done a bit differently and that he and Claire realized he was the father of Claire's best friend's daughter. I loved the little town and the focus on community. Laurel and Bradley's mom were both awful, but I loved the contrast of how great everyone else was. I really liked this story, as it was sweet and very focused on family. And for those not into steamy stuff, feel free to check it out.
April 21, 2022
If you like Harlequin Romances you'll love this book. Bradley was trying to establish his reputation as a Historic Renovator when he took a job to restore Henny House. He had briefly been married to his best friend Dori but the marriage was annulled. He had no clue that they had produced a daughter until after Dori's death. Claire is a foster parent to little Emily and she is trying to repair the house and make it livable and hires Bradley. The story has some twists, a little drama and some angst. But this precious girl brings a lot of love into many lives and brings everyone together. A sweet book that I read as an advance copy via the author and voluntarily chose to write a review.
October 13, 2022
This was a nice read.
February 18, 2023
Very good
March 24, 2022
This was a beautiful surprise! I really became involved in the story right away. I like the way Danielle Thorne writes her characters. She really gets you to feel what they’re feeling and hope what they hope.
Bradley and Claire’s story is sweet and endearing. They both just want to be respected and loved. Add in an adorable toddler and you have the perfect mix.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I didn’t want to put it down. It’s a story of friends to lovers and life’s second chances. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good love story. You won’t be disappointed.
Content:
Clean.
Foster care
Loss
Family Situations
Acceptance
Thank you so much to the author for an advanced copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
Bradley and Claire’s story is sweet and endearing. They both just want to be respected and loved. Add in an adorable toddler and you have the perfect mix.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I didn’t want to put it down. It’s a story of friends to lovers and life’s second chances. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good love story. You won’t be disappointed.
Content:
Clean.
Foster care
Loss
Family Situations
Acceptance
Thank you so much to the author for an advanced copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
March 22, 2022
Oh wow, I just stayed up way past my bed time to finish this beautifully written love story. His proposal brought tears to my eyes. It was just so perfect and everything she needed to hear.
Who says a foster child once all grown up can’t have the family of their dreams. In this case, she gets more that she could ever hope for.
Loved every moment of this book.
It has a secret child aspect but it’s not hers as such, but it sure does lend itself to an interesting slant on things.
Throw in a house remodel with the secret child’s father and it sure does lead to some interesting times
I received this as a complimentary copy and I am giving my honest review voluntarily.
Who says a foster child once all grown up can’t have the family of their dreams. In this case, she gets more that she could ever hope for.
Loved every moment of this book.
It has a secret child aspect but it’s not hers as such, but it sure does lend itself to an interesting slant on things.
Throw in a house remodel with the secret child’s father and it sure does lead to some interesting times
I received this as a complimentary copy and I am giving my honest review voluntarily.
March 16, 2022
Perfect story to fall in love with. Bradley has to prove to everyone, especially his parents that he can be a great restorer of old homes. Claire has come home to Henny House, to make a new home for her and Emily. Back to the first home that she ever felt like she belonged, with Ms Henny. She never even thought she would find more reasons to make it work. Will Bradley and Claire, make a decision that will be right for all of them.
I was given an ARC of the book by the author for an honest review.
I was given an ARC of the book by the author for an honest review.
March 12, 2022
This is a wonderful....make sure you have some tissues near by
March 19, 2022
A Promise For His Daughter is a sweet and gentle romance set in the quaint town of Kudzu Creek, in Georgia.
Claire has inherited a house from her former foster mother. She travels to Kudzu Creek, along with her own foster daughter - two-year-old Emily – to see the old house.
Meanwhile, Bradley Ainsworth is inspecting the historic home, prior to making an offer.
Claire is surprised to find a man in the kitchen, up a ladder with a hammer in his hand, and Bradley is equally surprised to hear that Claire has decided not to sell and will move in, with Emily.
Bradley’s preference, of restoring the house to its former glory, is firmly rejected by Claire. It seems as though he and Claire have little in common, until Bradley discovers Emily is his daughter.
A loving relationship, between father and daughter, develops and quite naturally leads to more time being spent with Claire.
In spite of Bradley’s parents’ resistance, the delightful secondary characters play a role in nudging the young couple toward their happy ending. The community is welcoming and friendly, just as all great small towns should be!
However, one small niggle is when Emily calls Claire “Ca-re”. Why the hyphen? In my mind, a toddler is more likely to simply mispronounce Claire as “Care”.
A feel-good read, with an adorable toddler and an equally adorable hero, that is sure to gladden your heart.
Claire has inherited a house from her former foster mother. She travels to Kudzu Creek, along with her own foster daughter - two-year-old Emily – to see the old house.
Meanwhile, Bradley Ainsworth is inspecting the historic home, prior to making an offer.
Claire is surprised to find a man in the kitchen, up a ladder with a hammer in his hand, and Bradley is equally surprised to hear that Claire has decided not to sell and will move in, with Emily.
Bradley’s preference, of restoring the house to its former glory, is firmly rejected by Claire. It seems as though he and Claire have little in common, until Bradley discovers Emily is his daughter.
A loving relationship, between father and daughter, develops and quite naturally leads to more time being spent with Claire.
In spite of Bradley’s parents’ resistance, the delightful secondary characters play a role in nudging the young couple toward their happy ending. The community is welcoming and friendly, just as all great small towns should be!
However, one small niggle is when Emily calls Claire “Ca-re”. Why the hyphen? In my mind, a toddler is more likely to simply mispronounce Claire as “Care”.
A feel-good read, with an adorable toddler and an equally adorable hero, that is sure to gladden your heart.
May 3, 2022
In A Promise for His Daughter, the author continues to provide refreshing, encouraging, and wholesome content to read.
Claire Woodbury is ready to begin a new chapter in her life with a child not her own, but who she considers as good as her own. However, when she learns who the real father is, she's mature enough to be willing to step aside for the sake of the child.
Bradley Ainsworth has moved back to Georgia to prove himself and move on from a painful past. But, when the past shows up in town in the form of a daughter, he is forced to face the reality of fatherhood.
As Claire and Bradley navigate the ongoing care of Emily, they realize they are falling in love with each other. However, can they let go of the past to be able to see a future? Will they allow other people to interfere?
I also love how the restoration of the house is used as a metaphor to their personal lives. As Bradley and Claire debate over restoring vs renewing the house, it's much like their lives - some things get renovated and restored, while other aspects move forward with the new.
I applaud the author for tackling tough subjects such as foster care, parent / child relationships, and divorce. Each were handled delicately and with sensitivity.
All language and scenes are clean with only mild kissing.
My rating - 5 stars
Claire Woodbury is ready to begin a new chapter in her life with a child not her own, but who she considers as good as her own. However, when she learns who the real father is, she's mature enough to be willing to step aside for the sake of the child.
Bradley Ainsworth has moved back to Georgia to prove himself and move on from a painful past. But, when the past shows up in town in the form of a daughter, he is forced to face the reality of fatherhood.
As Claire and Bradley navigate the ongoing care of Emily, they realize they are falling in love with each other. However, can they let go of the past to be able to see a future? Will they allow other people to interfere?
I also love how the restoration of the house is used as a metaphor to their personal lives. As Bradley and Claire debate over restoring vs renewing the house, it's much like their lives - some things get renovated and restored, while other aspects move forward with the new.
I applaud the author for tackling tough subjects such as foster care, parent / child relationships, and divorce. Each were handled delicately and with sensitivity.
All language and scenes are clean with only mild kissing.
My rating - 5 stars
May 25, 2022
Some writers have good story-telling skills while other writers have good prose skills. Danielle Thorne has both. Thorne seamlessly weaves a compelling story with lush descriptions, lovely symbolism, and beautiful diction. A Promise for His Daughter is a sweet, inspirational romance set in Kudzu Creek, Georgia. Claire immediately won my heart because not only did she survive the cold, harsh realities of the foster care system, unwanted by her own parents, but she now thrives as an artist and the guardian of her deceased friend's only daughter. Bradley, not the perfect male, felt authentic to me. Even the greatest of guys have flaws, and I often shake my head at the flawless heroes of some romances because I can't buy into their perfection. Bradley is a real man with pain and uncertainties, and we can root for him while he learns to forgive those who have wronged him in the past and to stand up to the people trying to manipulate and control him. Emily, Bradley's two-year-old daughter, adds a lot of humor and delight to the story, as do the wonderful secondary characters, each expertly drawn by Thorne into lifelike folks who could live next door. A must read for those who enjoy a beautifully written, engaging story.
May 1, 2022
I loved this heartwarming story of Claire and Bradley who fall in love over a sweet toddler named Emily who Claire is fostering. Emily is the daughter of Claire's best friend, Dori, who died. When Dori's parents refused to accept Emily, Claire got custody. She meets Bradley when she moves to a small town in Georgia where he lives. Bradley and Dori got married right out of high school and moved to California. When Dori wanted to get the marriage annulled, Bradley moved back to Georgia. He didn't know that Dori was pregnant with his baby but Claire knew. When she hired him to help her renovate the home she inherited when her foster Mother died, Bradley found out that Emily was his daughter. Claire was afraid Bradley would take her custody of Emily away so she let her fears hamper her relationship with Bradley. It took the help of new friends and neighbors to help them work things out. This is the best book that Danielle Thorne has written. I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves clean romance with a HEA ending and wonderful characters. I received an ARC and this is my voluntary and honest review.
March 6, 2024
Loved Bradley and Claire's story!! Bradley and Claire meet when Clair moves back Kudzu Creek. She inherited a house, and Bradley wanted to buy it and return it to its former glory. Now, Claire has decided that she wants to make it her home. She hires Bradley to be her contractor, and then finds out that Bradley is Emily's father. Claire is sure no one would ever love her, and if they did, they'd be like everyone else in her life and leave. Bradley's known heartbreak; all he's ever really wanted was for someone to love him for himself and to be able to live his own life. Now, he finds out he has a daughter, and he wants to be there for her. When he also falls for Claire, will she be able to accept his love, or will she push away? Love how they finally come together as a family!
May 24, 2024
Danielle Thorne’s “A Promise for His Daughter” intertwines themes of family, faith, and restoration. Bradley Ainsworth, eager to prove himself as a historic renovator, sets his sights on Henny House. Unexpectedly, he discovers that Claire Woodbury, the new owner, and her foster daughter, Emily, have no interest in preserving the past. The plot thickens when it’s revealed that Emily is actually Bradley’s daughter. As they navigate this surprising revelation, the story explores whether there is space in their future for Bradley to step into his role as a father—and potentially more. Thorne's narrative is a heartwarming tale of faith, forgiveness, and hope, perfect for readers who enjoy uplifting and inspirational stories.
May 2, 2022
I enjoyed reading this story with heart and a great town to set the story in. There are wonderful characters and an interesting storyline. The supporting characters in this story help move the story along while giving readers a way to learn more about the main characters and bring more to the story. There is wonderful character growth in this story which helped with keeping me reading the book whenever I had time to read. I do enjoy this authors way of telling a story.
July 16, 2022
If you are looking for a book that will give your heart all the feels. Definitely read this one!!
I love the relationship between Bradley and Emily. So beautiful and not to mention how Claire and Bradley interact 🥰
I don’t want to give anything away.. but it truly is such a beautifully written story. 10/10 recommended
I love the relationship between Bradley and Emily. So beautiful and not to mention how Claire and Bradley interact 🥰
I don’t want to give anything away.. but it truly is such a beautifully written story. 10/10 recommended
May 11, 2022
Sweet book with a father who didn't know he had a daughter and a guardian who is scared of losing her amongst other issues. Really enjoyable book and good storyline and character development. I received a copy free and chose to leave
May 18, 2022
This was so sweet
Brad, Claire and little Emily were great together. I enjoyed the other characters in the town, everyone except Brad's mother and maybe the old gossip Ms. Olivia. In a small town there is always that one in every one else's business. :)
Brad, Claire and little Emily were great together. I enjoyed the other characters in the town, everyone except Brad's mother and maybe the old gossip Ms. Olivia. In a small town there is always that one in every one else's business. :)
February 22, 2024
This is an interesting story about a man who discovers he has a daughter. It is also about that daughter's guardian who was raised in foster care and her desire to have a family and a home of her own.
April 25, 2022
The book is really cool.
November 24, 2023
Exactly what you'd expect from a quick romance. Really light on God stuff for an inspirational romance.
September 14, 2025
Loved it!
December 25, 2025
Great Book.
Danielle is a new author to me I will be reading more of her books this book should be a ten star book I highly recommend this book to everyone Dorothy Schaefer
Danielle is a new author to me I will be reading more of her books this book should be a ten star book I highly recommend this book to everyone Dorothy Schaefer
May 18, 2022
Claire Woodbury has returned to Kudzu Creek having spent her childhood in the foster system, she is looking for a place to call home. Miss Henny, her former guardian has willed her home Henny House to her. But she hasn't returned alone, she's returned with Emily who is her foster daughter. Her best friend, Dori died, and so Claire is now raising her best friend's daughter.
She wants to renovate the Henny House but Bradley Ainsworth is hoping she’ll sell to him. He’s hoping that Claire will keep the gazebo but she wants to get rid of it. He wants to preserve it.
Early on, Bradley finds out he is Emily’s Dad, and he eagerly goes forward to make it official, all the while Claire doesn’t know where she fits in this situation.
This was a quick read for me and was a hard book to put down one that I stayed up too late so I could finish it.
She wants to renovate the Henny House but Bradley Ainsworth is hoping she’ll sell to him. He’s hoping that Claire will keep the gazebo but she wants to get rid of it. He wants to preserve it.
Early on, Bradley finds out he is Emily’s Dad, and he eagerly goes forward to make it official, all the while Claire doesn’t know where she fits in this situation.
This was a quick read for me and was a hard book to put down one that I stayed up too late so I could finish it.
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