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Cornwall Brides #2
Something New
Harrison, Lord Basset, wants a simple, polite marriage of convenience. Nothing emotional or dramatic, nothing that will give him any cause for concern or strife. Arranging a match with the beautiful Miss Adelaide Dyer fits his needs perfectly, and all seems rather straightforward. Until he meets her.
Adelaide has no say in this marriage her father agreed to, but that does not mean she must submit quietly. Lord Basset might be strikingly handsome, but if he thinks to have a calm, biddable wife, he is mistaken. And as for living an uncomplicated married life in the wiles of Cornwall... Well, she would see about that.
When fire and ice come together, til death do they part, will either of them succumb to their growing attraction? Or will their mutual stubbornness keep the tension at bay?
Adelaide has no say in this marriage her father agreed to, but that does not mean she must submit quietly. Lord Basset might be strikingly handsome, but if he thinks to have a calm, biddable wife, he is mistaken. And as for living an uncomplicated married life in the wiles of Cornwall... Well, she would see about that.
When fire and ice come together, til death do they part, will either of them succumb to their growing attraction? Or will their mutual stubbornness keep the tension at bay?
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 2, 2021
97 people are currently reading
359 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Connolly
93 books1,261 followersI was born once upon a time, and I started making up stories right away. Eventually, I started writing them down, and never stopped! I have a day job, which gets in the way of my writing, but it pays the bills so I CAN write, so I guess that's okay! I am a bookworm, which I think is key to being a writer, and I am always looking for inspiration! I live in Indiana, am obsessed with hot chocolate, and I am on track to be the best aunt in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
November 4, 2021
SO Good! SO real! It is rare that you find an author in this category that knows how to write real people. Often we read about fake people who don't exists, we can love those characters so easy. It's when they are real that true good writing is shown. Connolly has always been one of my favorites because I love the way she writes her characters. She is getting better and this book shows it! There is no way I should have liked these two but gosh I so did. I fell in love with them as they fell in love with each other. What a enjoyable story about two people who have high expectations and learn to see the truth about each other. Loved it!!
Proper romance with no religion and no sex scenes. There is talk of it and some kissing. I would give this to my older teen to read.
Proper romance with no religion and no sex scenes. There is talk of it and some kissing. I would give this to my older teen to read.
September 12, 2023
Regency? 2 stars.
MCs reminded me of boxers sitting in their corners,
verbally provoking each other. They had closed door
intimacy until she learned of a 'happy event.'
Harrison "Harry" Basset, a wealthy baron, owned
mines and ships. He hid & contained his feelings.
Beauty Adelaide acted bossy and superior, espec.
when she felt vulnerable. I wanted her to close her
mouth and listen for a change!
They accepted a MOC w/ benefits. Addie was
harsh & shrill & @ times showed poor manners,
even when trying to keep up appearances. Her
complaints-nearly endless. He antagonized her
in kind or used wit or aloofness.
This exceeded my quota on angst & family drama.
His wastrel brother took up space, until he made
his play.
Perhaps the author watched a WWE bout before
she started writing this? IMO she's more capable
than this story indicated.
MCs reminded me of boxers sitting in their corners,
verbally provoking each other. They had closed door
intimacy until she learned of a 'happy event.'
Harrison "Harry" Basset, a wealthy baron, owned
mines and ships. He hid & contained his feelings.
Beauty Adelaide acted bossy and superior, espec.
when she felt vulnerable. I wanted her to close her
mouth and listen for a change!
They accepted a MOC w/ benefits. Addie was
harsh & shrill & @ times showed poor manners,
even when trying to keep up appearances. Her
complaints-nearly endless. He antagonized her
in kind or used wit or aloofness.
This exceeded my quota on angst & family drama.
His wastrel brother took up space, until he made
his play.
Perhaps the author watched a WWE bout before
she started writing this? IMO she's more capable
than this story indicated.
November 11, 2021
I'm loving this Corwall brides series. This one is an arranged marriage/marriage of convenience between Miss Adelaide Dyer and Lord Harrison Basset. He always planned on a marriage of convenience because that's what his parents and most of the upper class had. He makes a list of what he considers would be his "perfect candidate", makes discreet inquiries about the ladies, and settles on Adelaide Dyer. The papers were all signed and all he had to do was meet with her several times before the wedding. "Harrison had no sentimental notions of affection, romance, or even companionship when it came to marriage, the entire idea of courtship hadn't seemed necessary in the endeavor."
To say Adelaide was not happy to basically be sold to someone in marriage would be an understatement. Despite what most men thought, there was more to marriage than a "wish for a good match with property, fortune, and influence. And a husband that wouldn't cause a scandal." If Lord Basset wanted to marry her she wasn't going to make it easy for him and it was going to cost him.
The sparks between these two could've set the place on fire and not because they were the good kind of sparks! In public she was polite and adoring, but in private Adelaide laid out her displeasure in terms that couldn't be misunderstood. The poor girl went into marriage knowing how run a household and plan parties but had no idea about the intimacies between a husband and wife. The only thing her mother told her was "It can be rather unpleasant. Just close your eyes and think of the coast." This leads to some very odd conversations between Adelaide and Harrison. For those who don't want to read about anything other than chaste kissing, it's all done very tastefully and nothing is mentioned specifically.
I had to grow accustomed to Adelaide, but I loved Harrison despite his naivete about his marriage of convenience. He was a good man and made decisions carefully because he didn't want to be like his philandering father or his scoundrel of a brother. He loved his half-sister, Emblyn and wanted her to feel loved and accepted, and would fight anyone who disparaged her. I liked that he was a hands on kind of boss and worked with his employees.
Somehow Rebecca Connolly managed to get me to care whether these two characters stayed together or not. I liked how that despite the fact that they didn't get along most of the time, Harrison and Adelaide communicated well. I liked watching Adelaide and Harrison develop tender feelings for each other. I loved that we get an epilogue and the story doesn't just end with Harrison and Adelaide getting back together. I love that the reader gets a glimpse into their lives a few years later. *happy sigh*
I received a complimentary copy for review. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
To say Adelaide was not happy to basically be sold to someone in marriage would be an understatement. Despite what most men thought, there was more to marriage than a "wish for a good match with property, fortune, and influence. And a husband that wouldn't cause a scandal." If Lord Basset wanted to marry her she wasn't going to make it easy for him and it was going to cost him.
The sparks between these two could've set the place on fire and not because they were the good kind of sparks! In public she was polite and adoring, but in private Adelaide laid out her displeasure in terms that couldn't be misunderstood. The poor girl went into marriage knowing how run a household and plan parties but had no idea about the intimacies between a husband and wife. The only thing her mother told her was "It can be rather unpleasant. Just close your eyes and think of the coast." This leads to some very odd conversations between Adelaide and Harrison. For those who don't want to read about anything other than chaste kissing, it's all done very tastefully and nothing is mentioned specifically.
I had to grow accustomed to Adelaide, but I loved Harrison despite his naivete about his marriage of convenience. He was a good man and made decisions carefully because he didn't want to be like his philandering father or his scoundrel of a brother. He loved his half-sister, Emblyn and wanted her to feel loved and accepted, and would fight anyone who disparaged her. I liked that he was a hands on kind of boss and worked with his employees.
Somehow Rebecca Connolly managed to get me to care whether these two characters stayed together or not. I liked how that despite the fact that they didn't get along most of the time, Harrison and Adelaide communicated well. I liked watching Adelaide and Harrison develop tender feelings for each other. I loved that we get an epilogue and the story doesn't just end with Harrison and Adelaide getting back together. I love that the reader gets a glimpse into their lives a few years later. *happy sigh*
I received a complimentary copy for review. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
January 22, 2022
3.5
I always seem to gravitate towards the arranged marriage tropes, not sure why that is? Harrison has decided it's time for him to marry, so he goes about it in a very saluted business-like fashion. Finding the bride and making the arrangements with her father. Probably goes without saying, but Adelaide is not at all happy to have her husband and marriage planned out without any say from her.
I agree with another reviewer, Melissa, when she said that Ms Connolly knows how to write real characters. Adelaide is not your typical regency heroine, she is actually not all that likable. Especially in the beginning, very much the spoiled girl who is used to getting everything she wants. She cares very much for the opinions of society and ranks, etc. She's unhappy about the arranged marriage and isn't shy about showing it.
I actually liked Harrison from the start and just continued to like him throughout the book. I loved that he wouldn't put up with any of Adelaides moods and ill treatment. I thought Ms. Connolly did a masterful job of bringing these two opposites together and really developing a special connection.
Overall, I did like the book, I did skim here and there and it took me a few days to finish so it didnt quite suck me in how I would have liked.
Content Rated PG13
Romance: Clean - closed door intimacy, talk of marital relations and mild innuendo, etc.
Language: None that I remember
Violence: Very mild
I always seem to gravitate towards the arranged marriage tropes, not sure why that is? Harrison has decided it's time for him to marry, so he goes about it in a very saluted business-like fashion. Finding the bride and making the arrangements with her father. Probably goes without saying, but Adelaide is not at all happy to have her husband and marriage planned out without any say from her.
I agree with another reviewer, Melissa, when she said that Ms Connolly knows how to write real characters. Adelaide is not your typical regency heroine, she is actually not all that likable. Especially in the beginning, very much the spoiled girl who is used to getting everything she wants. She cares very much for the opinions of society and ranks, etc. She's unhappy about the arranged marriage and isn't shy about showing it.
I actually liked Harrison from the start and just continued to like him throughout the book. I loved that he wouldn't put up with any of Adelaides moods and ill treatment. I thought Ms. Connolly did a masterful job of bringing these two opposites together and really developing a special connection.
Overall, I did like the book, I did skim here and there and it took me a few days to finish so it didnt quite suck me in how I would have liked.
Content Rated PG13
Romance: Clean - closed door intimacy, talk of marital relations and mild innuendo, etc.
Language: None that I remember
Violence: Very mild
February 5, 2022
Knowing the writings of Rebecca Connolly I fully knew, after reading the start of the first chapter of this book, that I would be in for a ride! A marriage of convenience, decieded on without the two parts having met before all was settled, was a big red flag to begin with, but when Lord Basset himself began to daught the wisdom in doing it this way I knew for certain that this could only lead to disaster.
Adelaide had had no saying in the matter, but was just informed on what was gonna happen, that did not however leave her totally out of options. And at their first meeting she set the tone alright, Lord Basset was left in no daught about other than that his bride-to-be would stand up for herself in the ways still left to her.
So if you enjoy banter you will have a lot of fun reading this story.
There is more to it than banter though, it is also about two people getting to not only know each other, but also themselves, and how to dare let their gard down enough to let the other see their true self, the most scary of all. And this is what I love about any story, people finding out who they really are and embracing that, even if it leaves them vulnerable. And of course we get Cornwall, with her beautiful nature and special people and ways.
The author is as always giving us her superb writing in every way, she is not only witty, but have a way with words and telling a story that is beyond and above what almost any other can achieve. Reading her stories always makes me wonder how there can be so many authors out there selling books with stories that, if you excuse me for saying it, so much lack in the telling of a tale in an intriguing way, even if the idea of the story might be good. I really shouldn't still be surprised by her wonderful writing but it always makes me astonished.
I feel I have to come with a warning for everyone reading clean romance and thinking everything, even hinted, about more than a kiss even between a married couple, is too much. We never get to follow them into the bedroom, but we do get to read some of Adelaide's delaid thoughts and reactions about what she had had absolutly no knowledge about before her marriage and that gives us some, let's say, surprised laughs... It is all done in a very tasteful way and I personally felt glad that someone actually, in this kind of novel, brought this up, as all too many young women at that time were just told to "endure and (as Adelaide) think of the seaside"! Her husband being a good and kind man probably gives us other thoughts than many other young women would have given us though.
Being the second book in the Brides of Conwall series we can establish that the feel of this book is quite different from that of the first one thanks mostly to Adelaide being a very different person than Lily Granger, so I'm looking forward to finding out what journey the next book will take us on.
Adelaide had had no saying in the matter, but was just informed on what was gonna happen, that did not however leave her totally out of options. And at their first meeting she set the tone alright, Lord Basset was left in no daught about other than that his bride-to-be would stand up for herself in the ways still left to her.
So if you enjoy banter you will have a lot of fun reading this story.
There is more to it than banter though, it is also about two people getting to not only know each other, but also themselves, and how to dare let their gard down enough to let the other see their true self, the most scary of all. And this is what I love about any story, people finding out who they really are and embracing that, even if it leaves them vulnerable. And of course we get Cornwall, with her beautiful nature and special people and ways.
The author is as always giving us her superb writing in every way, she is not only witty, but have a way with words and telling a story that is beyond and above what almost any other can achieve. Reading her stories always makes me wonder how there can be so many authors out there selling books with stories that, if you excuse me for saying it, so much lack in the telling of a tale in an intriguing way, even if the idea of the story might be good. I really shouldn't still be surprised by her wonderful writing but it always makes me astonished.
I feel I have to come with a warning for everyone reading clean romance and thinking everything, even hinted, about more than a kiss even between a married couple, is too much. We never get to follow them into the bedroom, but we do get to read some of Adelaide's delaid thoughts and reactions about what she had had absolutly no knowledge about before her marriage and that gives us some, let's say, surprised laughs... It is all done in a very tasteful way and I personally felt glad that someone actually, in this kind of novel, brought this up, as all too many young women at that time were just told to "endure and (as Adelaide) think of the seaside"! Her husband being a good and kind man probably gives us other thoughts than many other young women would have given us though.
Being the second book in the Brides of Conwall series we can establish that the feel of this book is quite different from that of the first one thanks mostly to Adelaide being a very different person than Lily Granger, so I'm looking forward to finding out what journey the next book will take us on.
November 2, 2021
4.5 stars I really enjoyed this sweet Regency romance and I'm excited for this Cornwall Brides series by the author. I like how honest and real Adelaide and Harrison were and that they communicated better than a lot of fictional couples when it comes to marriage of convenience tropes. Their banter was great along with the romantic tension it created. Harrison's character was my favorite of the two. I like how he was just above and beyond as a gentleman and really put Adelaide first even when she was extra feisty and difficult. He was so kind and loving with not only his wife, but his family and those in his care. Adelaide’s character grows which was important for the story, but sometimes she felt slightly inconsistent in that development. The two come together to make a great match with a romance you cheer for.
This book is a clean read. That being said, the author does make a point of mentioning how unprepared some young women of the era were when it came to marital relations, having discussions with their mothers being seen as taboo or too delicate. Adelaide is very naïve and this is part of the story, but there is never anything on the page or described and I think the author handled it very tactfully, even showing why there is importance in not being completely ignorant. It really added to the plot and I appreciate the way in which the topic was handled; the reader knows and understands in particular Adelaide’s feelings and misunderstandings, while also seeing how beautiful this relationship can be under the right circumstance.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book is a clean read. That being said, the author does make a point of mentioning how unprepared some young women of the era were when it came to marital relations, having discussions with their mothers being seen as taboo or too delicate. Adelaide is very naïve and this is part of the story, but there is never anything on the page or described and I think the author handled it very tactfully, even showing why there is importance in not being completely ignorant. It really added to the plot and I appreciate the way in which the topic was handled; the reader knows and understands in particular Adelaide’s feelings and misunderstandings, while also seeing how beautiful this relationship can be under the right circumstance.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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February 28, 2026Dnf 8%. The fmc just showed up and I immediately knew this book wasn’t for me.
I understand the enemies to lovers, rebellious woman chafing against her father and her new husband setup, and I usually eat that up. But the fmc talks and behaves like a modern woman who wandered into a historical romance by accident. Wanting to rebel is fine. Sounding completely out of place is not.
I love sharp, mean banter between the fmc and mmc, but it has to fit the time period. When it doesn’t, it just pulls me right out of the story.
I understand the enemies to lovers, rebellious woman chafing against her father and her new husband setup, and I usually eat that up. But the fmc talks and behaves like a modern woman who wandered into a historical romance by accident. Wanting to rebel is fine. Sounding completely out of place is not.
I love sharp, mean banter between the fmc and mmc, but it has to fit the time period. When it doesn’t, it just pulls me right out of the story.
November 6, 2021
These are such fun books to read! It is hard to put the book down once it is picked up and you begin reading. Adelaide was a young women who (for all intents and purposes) was sold to a man to be his spouse. She was given no information prior to her wedding and went into it un knowing and naïve.
Harrison was the heir to the family title and fortune. He has a brother that lives on the wrong side and a half sister who is more comfortable living a poor women's life.
Harrison signs a wedding contract with Adelaide's father, without even meeting his future wife.
When they first meet sparks fly and not the loving happy kind. They fight and argue often. After moving from London to Cornwall, they begin to get to know each other and learn to respect each other. After some trials and hardships and separating, they realize how much they miss and loved each other. Making a happy family in the end.
I was given an ARC of this book, and left this review voluntarily. All opinions expressed are my own.
Harrison was the heir to the family title and fortune. He has a brother that lives on the wrong side and a half sister who is more comfortable living a poor women's life.
Harrison signs a wedding contract with Adelaide's father, without even meeting his future wife.
When they first meet sparks fly and not the loving happy kind. They fight and argue often. After moving from London to Cornwall, they begin to get to know each other and learn to respect each other. After some trials and hardships and separating, they realize how much they miss and loved each other. Making a happy family in the end.
I was given an ARC of this book, and left this review voluntarily. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 27, 2021
Fabulous second book in the Cornwall Brides series!
I absolutely loved the character development of Adelaide. And Harrison is such a good match for her. Some really great dialogue! I highly recommend this book. It can be read as a stand alone even though it’s the second book of the series.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
I absolutely loved the character development of Adelaide. And Harrison is such a good match for her. Some really great dialogue! I highly recommend this book. It can be read as a stand alone even though it’s the second book of the series.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 11, 2022
What's not to love about a marriage of convenience story? Especially when Adelaide and Harrison are such opposites! They sure know how to push each other's buttons (which brought a good amount of humor to their interactions), but I appreciated that they respected each other and tried their best to communicate, in their own flawed ways. They are both a product of the society of their time, and have perceptions of marriage that come with it. What I loved the most is that they ultimately wanted a future of happiness and peace with each other, and worked towards that goal with all the bumps in the rocky road of a new marriage. I was definitely invested in their journey as I read. It was gratifying to see them both grow so much through the process and of course it was fun to have characters from the first story involved as well. I'm enjoying this series from one of my must-read authors!
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
November 25, 2021
I loved this arranged marriage story. I love how the characters would banter with each other and I also liked how their romance took some time and changing perspectives before it could develop. I also loved how Harrison’s sister and friends helped him to share his feelings and his history with Adelaide. I like that the romance took time and it took opening up to each other in order for things to grow into love.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
October 31, 2021
Miss Adelaide Dyer has been bartered by her father as a bride in a marriage to a complete stranger. She meets him just before the wedding and decides he will pay for taking her away from the one she truly believes she loves. She decides to constantly poke and prod her husband as best she can in a state of trying to make him regret his decision of taking her freedom from her. She also resents that he takes her away from all that she has known in London to Cornwall.
Harrison Bassett needs to marry and have his heir. He decides to make it a business arrangement as he is very practical. He wants a lady who is respectable, beautiful, and has social graces. He finds that in Adelaide until they first meet. Her barbs try his patience, but he is determined to go through with his plans regardless. He hopes that Adelaide will adjust to Cornwall and accept his way of life.
This marriage of convenience is an amazing story. Both Adelaide and Harrison are opposite in so many ways. It was an amazing journey to see how these two work through getting to know each other and trying to build a marriage together. I find that this is story shows deep emotion of both Harrison and Adelaide. It was an amazing read and I could not put it down. I really enjoyed this story and it really made me ponder what it would be like for couple of such different personalities trying to work through a marriage having not known each other. It can be read as a standalone even though it is in a series.
Harrison Bassett needs to marry and have his heir. He decides to make it a business arrangement as he is very practical. He wants a lady who is respectable, beautiful, and has social graces. He finds that in Adelaide until they first meet. Her barbs try his patience, but he is determined to go through with his plans regardless. He hopes that Adelaide will adjust to Cornwall and accept his way of life.
This marriage of convenience is an amazing story. Both Adelaide and Harrison are opposite in so many ways. It was an amazing journey to see how these two work through getting to know each other and trying to build a marriage together. I find that this is story shows deep emotion of both Harrison and Adelaide. It was an amazing read and I could not put it down. I really enjoyed this story and it really made me ponder what it would be like for couple of such different personalities trying to work through a marriage having not known each other. It can be read as a standalone even though it is in a series.
November 4, 2021
I absolutely adored this book. I love a great marriage of convenience story, and this one did not disappoint!
Adelaide is no simpering miss. She’s furious to be “sold” into to marriage to Lord Bassett, and she is quick to let him know her thoughts and opinions. Harrison, Lord Basset, tries to remain aloof with his emotions detached but his fiery wife is hard to resist.
The banter between these two had me laughing out loud in several points, and the sweet romance that evolves as they allow themselves to be vulnerable left a huge smile on my face.
I also love how Connolly doesn’t avoid the topic of the marriage bed like so many sweet romance authors do. She dives right in to the topic while still keeping things clean and tasteful.
My only complaint about this wonderful novel is that I stayed up too late reading it and woke up feeling sad it was over! This one will definitely be one I re-read again.
Adelaide is no simpering miss. She’s furious to be “sold” into to marriage to Lord Bassett, and she is quick to let him know her thoughts and opinions. Harrison, Lord Basset, tries to remain aloof with his emotions detached but his fiery wife is hard to resist.
The banter between these two had me laughing out loud in several points, and the sweet romance that evolves as they allow themselves to be vulnerable left a huge smile on my face.
I also love how Connolly doesn’t avoid the topic of the marriage bed like so many sweet romance authors do. She dives right in to the topic while still keeping things clean and tasteful.
My only complaint about this wonderful novel is that I stayed up too late reading it and woke up feeling sad it was over! This one will definitely be one I re-read again.
October 27, 2021
Absolutely LOVED it! I had a serious problem getting anything done the morning I sat down to read a chapter or two. I ended up taking a personal day and just read, read, read. Adelaide and Harrison are really good at bantering and I love how that evolves throughout the book. I love how vulnerable Adelaide is when she realizes she doesn't have all the facts. She marches straight to her husband whom she strongly dislikes totally trusting him to give her correct information, which to his credit, he does. I thought the intimate parts of the book where handled quite tastefully. I appreciate how Adelaide's understanding of intimacy grows over time and how that actually builds her connection to Harrison. I realize I'm being vague about what actually happens in the book so that I do not spoil it for others. Just read it! So far this is my favorite book in this series and it rivals Books 1 and 2 in the Arrangements Series for my all time favorite of Rebecca Connolly's books. Huge thanks to the author for my copy of Something New!
October 30, 2021
I was cheering for these characters to find their happily ever after. The hero was a dream of a gentleman and the heroine feisty and so sure of herself. They fit together perfectly to make one functional family, despite their upbringings. Watching this new marriage grow together and seeing them deal with consummation (no bedroom scenes, but references and discussions) and childbearing together gave their relationship a unique depth. I loved the wit and banter between characters!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
February 11, 2022
So Good!
I've read this book twice in 2 months! The story is compelling. The character development is amazing. It's funny and romantic. I loved it! One of her best books.
I've read this book twice in 2 months! The story is compelling. The character development is amazing. It's funny and romantic. I loved it! One of her best books.
November 1, 2021
He had a plan for his marriage. Love wasn’t part of it.
Lord Bassett, Harrison, knew he needed to marry but he had no intention of finding love or sentimental ideas about marriage. He researched what he wanted, set his standards, obtained recommendations, checked out each one and made his choice. He approached her father and made the arrangements sight unseen. Adelaide was not happy to be told of her engagement to a total stranger. It was not what she wanted but she had no real choice in the matter. But perhaps she could make him miserable enough to reconsider or perhaps leave her alone to do her own thing after the marriage. But when an illegitimate sister and wastrel brother get involved in the mix along with a husband who seems to actually enjoy Adelaide’s behavior, plans get shook up and changed. A fun, engaging story that will pull you in and keep you engaged. You’ll thoroughly enjoy it. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
Lord Bassett, Harrison, knew he needed to marry but he had no intention of finding love or sentimental ideas about marriage. He researched what he wanted, set his standards, obtained recommendations, checked out each one and made his choice. He approached her father and made the arrangements sight unseen. Adelaide was not happy to be told of her engagement to a total stranger. It was not what she wanted but she had no real choice in the matter. But perhaps she could make him miserable enough to reconsider or perhaps leave her alone to do her own thing after the marriage. But when an illegitimate sister and wastrel brother get involved in the mix along with a husband who seems to actually enjoy Adelaide’s behavior, plans get shook up and changed. A fun, engaging story that will pull you in and keep you engaged. You’ll thoroughly enjoy it. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
July 3, 2024
Every time I read a new book from Rebecca Connolly, it becomes my favorite of hers. This was no exception. I loved this book!! I loved that Harrison and Adelaide actually talked, instead of assumed. I loved that they didn’t allow misunderstandings to stand and that they worked through their issues. Such a great book!
*I received a review copy from the author in exchange for my opinions.*
*I received a review copy from the author in exchange for my opinions.*
April 7, 2024
Okay I have to explain why this is a 5-star read for me, because I seriously contemplated DNFing this one a number of times. Yet here we are, on my favourites shelf.
AT its essence - this book surprised me. It went in directions I wasn't expecting. Let me see if I can make sense of this. Full full spoilers.
The book opened with Harrison walking the reader through how he became engaged. Harrison feels that it's time for him to get married as he's a baron. He's not an emotive guy and isn't prone to strong feeling so he goes about his marriage rather unconventionally. Rather than courting someone, he essentially makes kind of like a pro con list until he lands on a lady that suits him. And by suits him, she's someone from a good family who holds a good reputation. Interestingly, Harrison's introduction didn't put me off side. Despite his objectively wrong way of going about a marriage, he was still sympathetic and enjoyable as a character. What added to this was being able to see his motivations. Harrison cares about his tenants. He's disapproving of his late father's terrible actions which deeply affected his mother. He worries about his wastrel brother despite him being seemingly irredeemable. He loves loves loves his half sister and craves acceptance from her. We get all this from the jump.
We also get an insight into why Harrison has gone about arranging a marriage this way. After settling on one lady, he goes through her father to arrange the engagement (all without meeting her). Again, objectively not great, but it reads well - as a emotionally closed off man trying to organise his life in a rather bumbling way.
Which takes me to Adelaide. And boy of boy, this was where Connolly lost me, then eventually won me over. Here was my live progress as I delved deeper into the book.
- 7.0% "Sooo Adeiade's a piece of work. Hopefully she improves soon or this will not be an enjoyable read."
Our introduction to Adelaide, was not at all like Harrison's. We don't get to see her before she was engaged. We don't see her finding out about the engagement. We meet her as Harrison meets her. What I'm trying to say is we don't know anything about Adelaide or her motivations before Harrision meets her. And when he meets her, she's terrible.
She's clearly unhappy that her parents have arranged a marriage for her. She's disgusted that Harrison didn't even bother to go through her but rather over the top of her head. I get that. But the way it's presented is...well...shrewish. Because I didn't know what Adelaide was supposed to be, this was all very hard to take. She was outspokenly rude and incredibly abrasive. She would start several arguments, then get offended when the heat she was putting out there was returned. Because the book started off with Harrison, and laid his background really well. The natural response to Adelaide's caustic outbursts were to dislike Adelaide, because it felt like she wasn't being fair (at best) and was being incredibly immature (at worst).
- 10% "Certainly the most spoiled, and without a doubt the most unpleasant." An actual quote from the book, where Harrison was musing on Adelaide's terrible personality.
In any case, Harrison decides to press forward with the marriage despite not liking Adelaide and being aware that Adelaide despised him. At this point I was so close to calling it a day. But I kept going because despite my deep dislike for Adelaide, I was hooked.
At this stage I thought I knew how the book would go. I was like ohh Adelaide is super spoiled (which was not what I was expecting going into the book for some reason, I think I've been reading a lot of books lately where everyone is super mature and reasonable). This book is her growth arc of realising she's been terrible and becoming a better person. Not so much. Or kind of but not that directly.
So Adelaide and Harrison marry and move tho Cornwall. Adelaide is still being shrewish but here is where Connelly struck the perfect balance in tone. Adelaide is objectively annoying. She's selfish, abrasive, vain and more than a little vapid. And boy does she have a temper. Mishandled she's irredeemable and unreadable. But how Connelly shaped Adelaide was through Harrison's eyes. Harrison sees Adelaide exactly for what she is, but he doesn't get overly bother by it. There are moments he gets irritated for sure, but he's mostly amused by her. He provokes her to get a rise out of her, for amusement (but he's never cruel). He enters the arguments she starts but with a dry wit. This takes the heat out of the Adelaide balloon and you start to warm up to her.
-32.0% "yeah okay alright i smiled"
About 30% in I started really really enjoying it. I started seeing Adelaide a little more clearly. As an incredible sheltered person who is entirely self-absorbed because of it. She isn't inately cruel or bad, she just doesn't know better. Again, we see this more though Harrison.
What also helps with all of this is the nuance of Harrison's characterisation. Because Adelaide is such a lightning rod, it's easy to view Harrison as always correct in his behaviour. But he himself tells the audience how he falls short. He owns up to how his approach to his engagement is largely to blame for Adelaide's reaction (something I hadn't considered until he broached it). And there are so many instances of this self awareness and accountability.
As the book progresses, Adelaide doesn't.....change. Not exactly. She's still the same person, but softer. And this too was delightfully surprising. Like I said, we see Adelaide through Harrison's (even though it's dual POV). So as he softens towards her, we do too. Instead of seeing her as crazy, he acknowledges that she's intense and yes at times very vapid, but he's mostly amused by her. He also grows to respect her. This meant that if all those things that made her interesting to Harrison was completely stripped away it would have felt like a betrayal to the journey that reader had been taken on. Instead by the end of the book Adelaide is still Adelaide, still super intense, but softer, warmer and better (certainly less abrasive).
I haven't touched on everything such as Harrison's sister and brother, but everything was handled perfectly. For example, as soon as Harrison's brother was introduced, I was like oh here we go, the villain. And yes he was a bad guy but he didn't take over the story. He was present in moments but ultimately this was Harrison and Adelaide's story on their journey to make their marriage work.
I just love a married couple story, it's so much more interesting than a courtship story, because the author can do interesting things with plot and pacing.
In any case, this book went from a potential DNF to a 5 star, and there's nothing I love more than when an author wins me over and completely surprises me.
Re-read 2024 comments: this is even better on the re-read. Because I knew what to expect, I wasn't taken on an emotional rollercoaster of trying to figure out if I liked the characters or not and could enjoy the journey even more. I definitely picked up on way more the second time round and appreciated the expert characterisations so much more. Still one of my absolute favourite reads.
AT its essence - this book surprised me. It went in directions I wasn't expecting. Let me see if I can make sense of this. Full full spoilers.
The book opened with Harrison walking the reader through how he became engaged. Harrison feels that it's time for him to get married as he's a baron. He's not an emotive guy and isn't prone to strong feeling so he goes about his marriage rather unconventionally. Rather than courting someone, he essentially makes kind of like a pro con list until he lands on a lady that suits him. And by suits him, she's someone from a good family who holds a good reputation. Interestingly, Harrison's introduction didn't put me off side. Despite his objectively wrong way of going about a marriage, he was still sympathetic and enjoyable as a character. What added to this was being able to see his motivations. Harrison cares about his tenants. He's disapproving of his late father's terrible actions which deeply affected his mother. He worries about his wastrel brother despite him being seemingly irredeemable. He loves loves loves his half sister and craves acceptance from her. We get all this from the jump.
We also get an insight into why Harrison has gone about arranging a marriage this way. After settling on one lady, he goes through her father to arrange the engagement (all without meeting her). Again, objectively not great, but it reads well - as a emotionally closed off man trying to organise his life in a rather bumbling way.
Which takes me to Adelaide. And boy of boy, this was where Connolly lost me, then eventually won me over. Here was my live progress as I delved deeper into the book.
- 7.0% "Sooo Adeiade's a piece of work. Hopefully she improves soon or this will not be an enjoyable read."
Our introduction to Adelaide, was not at all like Harrison's. We don't get to see her before she was engaged. We don't see her finding out about the engagement. We meet her as Harrison meets her. What I'm trying to say is we don't know anything about Adelaide or her motivations before Harrision meets her. And when he meets her, she's terrible.
She's clearly unhappy that her parents have arranged a marriage for her. She's disgusted that Harrison didn't even bother to go through her but rather over the top of her head. I get that. But the way it's presented is...well...shrewish. Because I didn't know what Adelaide was supposed to be, this was all very hard to take. She was outspokenly rude and incredibly abrasive. She would start several arguments, then get offended when the heat she was putting out there was returned. Because the book started off with Harrison, and laid his background really well. The natural response to Adelaide's caustic outbursts were to dislike Adelaide, because it felt like she wasn't being fair (at best) and was being incredibly immature (at worst).
- 10% "Certainly the most spoiled, and without a doubt the most unpleasant." An actual quote from the book, where Harrison was musing on Adelaide's terrible personality.
In any case, Harrison decides to press forward with the marriage despite not liking Adelaide and being aware that Adelaide despised him. At this point I was so close to calling it a day. But I kept going because despite my deep dislike for Adelaide, I was hooked.
At this stage I thought I knew how the book would go. I was like ohh Adelaide is super spoiled (which was not what I was expecting going into the book for some reason, I think I've been reading a lot of books lately where everyone is super mature and reasonable). This book is her growth arc of realising she's been terrible and becoming a better person. Not so much. Or kind of but not that directly.
So Adelaide and Harrison marry and move tho Cornwall. Adelaide is still being shrewish but here is where Connelly struck the perfect balance in tone. Adelaide is objectively annoying. She's selfish, abrasive, vain and more than a little vapid. And boy does she have a temper. Mishandled she's irredeemable and unreadable. But how Connelly shaped Adelaide was through Harrison's eyes. Harrison sees Adelaide exactly for what she is, but he doesn't get overly bother by it. There are moments he gets irritated for sure, but he's mostly amused by her. He provokes her to get a rise out of her, for amusement (but he's never cruel). He enters the arguments she starts but with a dry wit. This takes the heat out of the Adelaide balloon and you start to warm up to her.
-32.0% "yeah okay alright i smiled"
About 30% in I started really really enjoying it. I started seeing Adelaide a little more clearly. As an incredible sheltered person who is entirely self-absorbed because of it. She isn't inately cruel or bad, she just doesn't know better. Again, we see this more though Harrison.
What also helps with all of this is the nuance of Harrison's characterisation. Because Adelaide is such a lightning rod, it's easy to view Harrison as always correct in his behaviour. But he himself tells the audience how he falls short. He owns up to how his approach to his engagement is largely to blame for Adelaide's reaction (something I hadn't considered until he broached it). And there are so many instances of this self awareness and accountability.
As the book progresses, Adelaide doesn't.....change. Not exactly. She's still the same person, but softer. And this too was delightfully surprising. Like I said, we see Adelaide through Harrison's (even though it's dual POV). So as he softens towards her, we do too. Instead of seeing her as crazy, he acknowledges that she's intense and yes at times very vapid, but he's mostly amused by her. He also grows to respect her. This meant that if all those things that made her interesting to Harrison was completely stripped away it would have felt like a betrayal to the journey that reader had been taken on. Instead by the end of the book Adelaide is still Adelaide, still super intense, but softer, warmer and better (certainly less abrasive).
I haven't touched on everything such as Harrison's sister and brother, but everything was handled perfectly. For example, as soon as Harrison's brother was introduced, I was like oh here we go, the villain. And yes he was a bad guy but he didn't take over the story. He was present in moments but ultimately this was Harrison and Adelaide's story on their journey to make their marriage work.
I just love a married couple story, it's so much more interesting than a courtship story, because the author can do interesting things with plot and pacing.
In any case, this book went from a potential DNF to a 5 star, and there's nothing I love more than when an author wins me over and completely surprises me.
Re-read 2024 comments: this is even better on the re-read. Because I knew what to expect, I wasn't taken on an emotional rollercoaster of trying to figure out if I liked the characters or not and could enjoy the journey even more. I definitely picked up on way more the second time round and appreciated the expert characterisations so much more. Still one of my absolute favourite reads.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2021
Once again,this author provides a novel packed with intensely romantic moments that provide the oomph that is sometimes missing in clean romances. She is absolutely one of the most reliably authors for those moments. I really enjoyed this book, as I do with almost all her books. I was a little worried at first, because for about the first quarter the heroine is….well, a brat. She came across as very unlikeable and I was finding myself, instead of wishing for the hero and heroine to find love, wishing for the hero to just find someone else. The hero wasn’t perfect, by any means, (and he was pretty cold about arranging the marriage that way) but he was a lot more likeable than the heroine. (He probably benefited from our prior acquaintance from the first book too.) I will admit that I related to some of the heroines passive-aggressive actions…but some of it felt like a little much. Things really changed, however, after the couple went to Cornwall and I was quickly won over by the heroine. The shift in the relationship over time was lovely but was accomplished without making it seem like either character had really become a different person.
I love a good marriage of convenience book, but I was so happy to see this one include elements that are often left out of clean marriage of convenience books. It really added a freshness to a pretty popular historical romance trope. I don’t want to be too spoilery (I know, I know…not a word), but I’ll just say that it often strikes me as unlikely that most couples in historical marriage of convenience stories would have waited to consummate the relationship until they are finally fully in love and have declared it. The way it was handled in this book…I was totally here for it! Very well done balance for clean romance, in my opinion.
The story had a lovely epilogue too…who doesn’t love a good epilogue? I’m excited for more books about the characters we are getting to know in Cornwall. This book and series are very recommended!
I love a good marriage of convenience book, but I was so happy to see this one include elements that are often left out of clean marriage of convenience books. It really added a freshness to a pretty popular historical romance trope. I don’t want to be too spoilery (I know, I know…not a word), but I’ll just say that it often strikes me as unlikely that most couples in historical marriage of convenience stories would have waited to consummate the relationship until they are finally fully in love and have declared it. The way it was handled in this book…I was totally here for it! Very well done balance for clean romance, in my opinion.
The story had a lovely epilogue too…who doesn’t love a good epilogue? I’m excited for more books about the characters we are getting to know in Cornwall. This book and series are very recommended!
November 9, 2021
Lord Harrison Basset has been raised to be the perfect heir. He has a wastrel brother he is tired of rescuing and an illegitimate sister he loves. He thinks that he needs to keep his emotions in check in order to maintain his reputation. I liked Basset from the beginning. He and Adelaide may have bickered from the start, but he also gave her a certain level of respect that wasn't common. I also liked how much he loved his sister even though he was expected to have no association with her.
It took a little bit for me to warm up to Adelaide. She was stuck up and had major emotional issues. However, his sister saw through this right away, and this helped me to realize everything she had been through. Women in her position are raised only to marry and have children. They are not told so much about what real life is like. Adelaide has had to leave everything she knows to follow a new husband who is practically a stranger to her. I enjoyed watching her growth and was glad that she was still able to maintain her personality and be as dramatic as ever.
In the Regency time period, there were a lot of marriages that took place among the upper class for the sake of wealth and titles. Women often didn't even get a say in who they married. Sometimes people were even strangers. I really liked that this book showed what would happen after a couple like this married.
I think my favorite parts of the book were the hilarious conversations between Basset and Adelaide. Just be careful if you are drinking something like poor Basset, or it may come spewing out of your mouth...
It took a little bit for me to warm up to Adelaide. She was stuck up and had major emotional issues. However, his sister saw through this right away, and this helped me to realize everything she had been through. Women in her position are raised only to marry and have children. They are not told so much about what real life is like. Adelaide has had to leave everything she knows to follow a new husband who is practically a stranger to her. I enjoyed watching her growth and was glad that she was still able to maintain her personality and be as dramatic as ever.
In the Regency time period, there were a lot of marriages that took place among the upper class for the sake of wealth and titles. Women often didn't even get a say in who they married. Sometimes people were even strangers. I really liked that this book showed what would happen after a couple like this married.
I think my favorite parts of the book were the hilarious conversations between Basset and Adelaide. Just be careful if you are drinking something like poor Basset, or it may come spewing out of your mouth...
November 4, 2021
This was an entertaining read. Both of the main characters are pretty unlikable from the beginning but they play off of each other so well. The banter is great as they both do their best to outwit the other.
It is often the case that an underlying theme of an arranged marriage of convenience story is the will they/won't they (consummate their marriage) dilemma which, quite frankly, I get bored with. Something New was NOT that. I think one of the most entertaining parts of the book was the naive Adelaide trying to understand what propriety does not allow a proper young lady to learn before marriage. Her conversation with her husband is hilarious.
I loved that the two of them come to respect and to love each other in their flaws. And they both are flawed to be sure but they want to be better. There were other elements in the book that aren't that typical for a clean, regency romance such as childbearing, hormonal responses and cravings etc in pregnancy and so forth. It was refreshing.
So this book was a win for me. Starting with two unlikable characters, Ms. Connolly weaves a story that leaves the reader rooting for their happily ever after.
Sex: marital relations - not on page, attempted assault
Language: yes, mild
Violence: no
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
It is often the case that an underlying theme of an arranged marriage of convenience story is the will they/won't they (consummate their marriage) dilemma which, quite frankly, I get bored with. Something New was NOT that. I think one of the most entertaining parts of the book was the naive Adelaide trying to understand what propriety does not allow a proper young lady to learn before marriage. Her conversation with her husband is hilarious.
I loved that the two of them come to respect and to love each other in their flaws. And they both are flawed to be sure but they want to be better. There were other elements in the book that aren't that typical for a clean, regency romance such as childbearing, hormonal responses and cravings etc in pregnancy and so forth. It was refreshing.
So this book was a win for me. Starting with two unlikable characters, Ms. Connolly weaves a story that leaves the reader rooting for their happily ever after.
Sex: marital relations - not on page, attempted assault
Language: yes, mild
Violence: no
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
November 11, 2021
Something New
Cornwall Brides #2
By Rebecca Connolly
Something New is the second book Cornwall Brides series and this time we follow a new couple whose marriage is a business arrangement in which our lovely bride - Miss Adelaide Dyer is less than thrilled with the arrangement her father has undertaken on her behalf. Lord Harrison Basset lives in Cornwall of all places - some out of the way hidden place of no importance. Worse she wanted a match with affection at least a possibility - with Lord Basset she never laid eyes on him until after the contract was signed.
With such a beginning one can hardly expect much in the way of a happy marriage. But one could be surprised.
This is at times a humorous read while at others it is tragic. It was interesting getting to know both Adelaide and Harrison and the community around them as they navigate this new chapter in their lives. Can love grow from disdain and resignation? Or will the looks good on paper match be that only on paper? Overall a delightful read that can be read as a standalone IF you have not yet book one - Something Old (but it is one you'll want to read later if not before).
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectation other than that I provide my honest opinion - All thoughts expressed are my own.
Cornwall Brides #2
By Rebecca Connolly
Something New is the second book Cornwall Brides series and this time we follow a new couple whose marriage is a business arrangement in which our lovely bride - Miss Adelaide Dyer is less than thrilled with the arrangement her father has undertaken on her behalf. Lord Harrison Basset lives in Cornwall of all places - some out of the way hidden place of no importance. Worse she wanted a match with affection at least a possibility - with Lord Basset she never laid eyes on him until after the contract was signed.
With such a beginning one can hardly expect much in the way of a happy marriage. But one could be surprised.
This is at times a humorous read while at others it is tragic. It was interesting getting to know both Adelaide and Harrison and the community around them as they navigate this new chapter in their lives. Can love grow from disdain and resignation? Or will the looks good on paper match be that only on paper? Overall a delightful read that can be read as a standalone IF you have not yet book one - Something Old (but it is one you'll want to read later if not before).
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectation other than that I provide my honest opinion - All thoughts expressed are my own.
May 4, 2022
Quote from the book that sums it up wonderfully:
“The way they had begun to live their lives together, not fighting but still bantering, not hating but still challenging, laughing more then they loathed, smiling more then they scoffed.”
I have never read a book with so much bickering, it was brilliant and I loved it.
If you like a book where the couple are already married and are trying to make it work and seeing their love grow, this is a book for you. The marriage was definitely unwanted from the heroines part, I think the hero fell in loge with her when he first saw her.
Their bickering was hurtful in the beginning, and it turned to mocking and later into sweet teasing.
The heroines innocence was just too funny, chapter 7 was absolutely hilarious, I laughed for days thinking about it!
I was going to give the book a 3 star because I had difficulty with the style, I'm fond of books with lots of dialogue and this one had more narrative and descriptions then talking, and it just takes me longer to read and I get tired. But I pushed trough the book just because of the bantering and seeing their feelings for one another grow and show. And I’m glad I did, because the ending is what made me give the book a 4 star. It was so beautiful, so full of feeling even I enjoyed reading the narrative parts. Yes, it even made me cry. I loved it.
“The way they had begun to live their lives together, not fighting but still bantering, not hating but still challenging, laughing more then they loathed, smiling more then they scoffed.”
I have never read a book with so much bickering, it was brilliant and I loved it.
If you like a book where the couple are already married and are trying to make it work and seeing their love grow, this is a book for you. The marriage was definitely unwanted from the heroines part, I think the hero fell in loge with her when he first saw her.
Their bickering was hurtful in the beginning, and it turned to mocking and later into sweet teasing.
The heroines innocence was just too funny, chapter 7 was absolutely hilarious, I laughed for days thinking about it!
I was going to give the book a 3 star because I had difficulty with the style, I'm fond of books with lots of dialogue and this one had more narrative and descriptions then talking, and it just takes me longer to read and I get tired. But I pushed trough the book just because of the bantering and seeing their feelings for one another grow and show. And I’m glad I did, because the ending is what made me give the book a 4 star. It was so beautiful, so full of feeling even I enjoyed reading the narrative parts. Yes, it even made me cry. I loved it.
November 3, 2021
Something New by Rebecca Connolly (5 stars)
I had the hardest time putting this book down...I stayed up until 3 am reading it! This may very well be my favorite Rebecca Connolly novel.
The book truly captured the slow, but steady, progress the main characters made toward building a true and abiding love.
The development of both characters was seamless and the author took the time needed to bring the reader along on a journey of change as the characters slowly but steadily got to the point where they could be vulnerable and trust that their deepest feelings were safe with the other.
It was a book that addressed (sometimes rather hilariously) newlywed discoveries in the bedroom, without ever actually taking the reader behind the closed door. The story remained clean and yet didn’t pretend that the bedroom wasn’t an important and enjoyable part of their marriage.
The waltz scene in the fog was one of the most romantic scenes I’ve read. It was beautifully written.
It was a feel-good, sigh-worthy novel. Well-done, Ms. Connolly!
*poor, **ok, ***good, ****very good, *****something special
I had the hardest time putting this book down...I stayed up until 3 am reading it! This may very well be my favorite Rebecca Connolly novel.
The book truly captured the slow, but steady, progress the main characters made toward building a true and abiding love.
The development of both characters was seamless and the author took the time needed to bring the reader along on a journey of change as the characters slowly but steadily got to the point where they could be vulnerable and trust that their deepest feelings were safe with the other.
It was a book that addressed (sometimes rather hilariously) newlywed discoveries in the bedroom, without ever actually taking the reader behind the closed door. The story remained clean and yet didn’t pretend that the bedroom wasn’t an important and enjoyable part of their marriage.
The waltz scene in the fog was one of the most romantic scenes I’ve read. It was beautifully written.
It was a feel-good, sigh-worthy novel. Well-done, Ms. Connolly!
*poor, **ok, ***good, ****very good, *****something special
November 13, 2021
@author.rebecca.connolly does it again!
Completely naive when it comes to true relationships, and with the emotional maturity of an ornery kitten, Adelaide is not prepared for the connections she finds within her forced marriage. Harrison, kind but set in his ways, thinks he knows what he wants and what to expect in his marriage, but he finds out that he cannot so easily orchestrate his feelings. What follows is a bit of a hullabaloo as they teach and learn from each other in surprising ways.
This is a character-led novel. The bulk of the conflict is internal and about their learning pains within their relationship to each other. It is not super fast-paced. However, it is not slow, either.
As Adalaide grows, she is at the same moment sweet and prickly, wise and naive, outgowing and contemplative. Her education only taught her how to respond in society, not how to love or be loved. Harrison hasn’t had much chance to experience love, either, and they have to learn how to make their way together. What follows is a sweet love story that feels genuine and deep. While their marriage begins superficial and too much like a checklist item, it turns into something beautiful and precious, and the journey is lovely!
Completely naive when it comes to true relationships, and with the emotional maturity of an ornery kitten, Adelaide is not prepared for the connections she finds within her forced marriage. Harrison, kind but set in his ways, thinks he knows what he wants and what to expect in his marriage, but he finds out that he cannot so easily orchestrate his feelings. What follows is a bit of a hullabaloo as they teach and learn from each other in surprising ways.
This is a character-led novel. The bulk of the conflict is internal and about their learning pains within their relationship to each other. It is not super fast-paced. However, it is not slow, either.
As Adalaide grows, she is at the same moment sweet and prickly, wise and naive, outgowing and contemplative. Her education only taught her how to respond in society, not how to love or be loved. Harrison hasn’t had much chance to experience love, either, and they have to learn how to make their way together. What follows is a sweet love story that feels genuine and deep. While their marriage begins superficial and too much like a checklist item, it turns into something beautiful and precious, and the journey is lovely!
January 25, 2023
This book was amazing!
It is closed-door and Adelaide becomes pregnant early in the book. It does acknowledge intimacy a lot, but it felt more romantic to me. You don’t see any intimate scenes, but you know it is there. It felt realistic for a marriage of convenience. I would say it leans more sweet then necessarily clean, however i still consider it clean. Harrison and Adelaide were so much fun. Poor Harrison, his sister is extremely stubborn and then he gets married and his new wife is impossible, stubborn, and slightly spiteful. It was so much fun to see. He is also extremely stubborn. He always tried to treat her with respect and not become like his father. The banter was probably my favorite part. They were both smart with a sharp wit. You got to see Adelaide let go of the prejudice that was ingrained in her her whole life and become friends with the working class. I thought this was a very sweet book! I throughly enjoyed it! I hope we get Gage’s book, or Emblyn’s book soon. Does Joshua come back to Emblyn? Does something happen to him? Does Harrison ever find out that Emblyn is already married. I have a lot of questions about Emblyn and mystery Joshua.
It is closed-door and Adelaide becomes pregnant early in the book. It does acknowledge intimacy a lot, but it felt more romantic to me. You don’t see any intimate scenes, but you know it is there. It felt realistic for a marriage of convenience. I would say it leans more sweet then necessarily clean, however i still consider it clean. Harrison and Adelaide were so much fun. Poor Harrison, his sister is extremely stubborn and then he gets married and his new wife is impossible, stubborn, and slightly spiteful. It was so much fun to see. He is also extremely stubborn. He always tried to treat her with respect and not become like his father. The banter was probably my favorite part. They were both smart with a sharp wit. You got to see Adelaide let go of the prejudice that was ingrained in her her whole life and become friends with the working class. I thought this was a very sweet book! I throughly enjoyed it! I hope we get Gage’s book, or Emblyn’s book soon. Does Joshua come back to Emblyn? Does something happen to him? Does Harrison ever find out that Emblyn is already married. I have a lot of questions about Emblyn and mystery Joshua.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2021
Adelaide and Harrison are a fun couple to get to know. An arranged marriage that checked all the required boxes could not prepare either of them for what was to come. Adelaide is spirited and feisty and Harrison's newest hobby is pressing her buttons to see her various reactions. I had some serious laugh out loud moments with their witty banter. That being said, there is a nice balance between provocation and seriousness as they learn to navigate a new life together. Adelaide is proud and proper, but she's also naive and quite innocent, which makes her completely endearing. Harrison is traditional and loyal and watching him navigate the various faces of Adelaide is priceless. Together, their chemistry is utterly swoon worthy and will leave your heart full. I loved the Cornwall setting and seeing it through Adelaide's eyes made it even more enjoyable. You do not want to miss this second book in Rebecca Connolly's Cornwall Brides book.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and all opinions expressed are my own, freely given.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and all opinions expressed are my own, freely given.
November 2, 2021
Oh my… what a story. A love story for the ages! Adelaide is a determined, headstrong, firery young women. She is being used as a pawn in her fathers scheme, to marry her off and be rid of her. Harrison needed to take a wife. He had taken great measures to meticulously choose the perfect candidate. No need for any emotional bonds. On paper, she was absolute perfection.
Their “first meet” is full of sarcasm and frankness. This directness continues throughout the book. So many LOL moments, I had a grin on my face while reading. It is, at times, a bit frank in descriptions of marital relations. But I found it done with decorum and lightheartedness. I enjoyed the sweet growing of affection and love between the couple. Their bantering is comical and endearing. I throughly enjoyed everything about this fun, sweet, growing to love, story.
Their “first meet” is full of sarcasm and frankness. This directness continues throughout the book. So many LOL moments, I had a grin on my face while reading. It is, at times, a bit frank in descriptions of marital relations. But I found it done with decorum and lightheartedness. I enjoyed the sweet growing of affection and love between the couple. Their bantering is comical and endearing. I throughly enjoyed everything about this fun, sweet, growing to love, story.
November 5, 2021
I truly enjoyed this book! A marriage arranged for the convenience of the groom, an unhappy bride, a life of what? They will soon discover that marriage is not what they thought.
Adelaide is very innocent and naive, which makes her a rather fun character. She has so much to learn. Harrison is trying so hard to not be his father or his brother that he needs to learn how to feel. These two have their work cut out to make this a real marriage.
The book is clean, with some very swoony moments. The characters are well drawn and you feel for them as they learn and grow. We can all learn from some of their mistakes, we can all try harder to listen to those around us, and we can all learn to trust more.
Adelaide is very innocent and naive, which makes her a rather fun character. She has so much to learn. Harrison is trying so hard to not be his father or his brother that he needs to learn how to feel. These two have their work cut out to make this a real marriage.
The book is clean, with some very swoony moments. The characters are well drawn and you feel for them as they learn and grow. We can all learn from some of their mistakes, we can all try harder to listen to those around us, and we can all learn to trust more.
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