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In this funny romantic series, the Shackleford sisters descend on a Regency society that doesn’t know what’s hit it…
When Faith Shackleford found herself in the unenviable position of having to accompany her irascible father to convalesce in the genteel seaside town of Torquay, she envisioned three months of wearying monotony. She certainly wasn’t expecting to be intrigued by the forlorn empty house situated next to their own elegant villa, especially when she discovered it belonged to a handsome captain in the Royal Navy who was currently away at sea. Unfortunately, she never imagined that fascination might cost her her life.
Roan Carew grew up an orphan on the streets of Torquay, until he was press ganged into the Royal Navy at eleven. Through a combination of determination, shrewdness and sheer bloody mindedness he rose to the rank of Captain, but he was certainly no gentleman nor ever would be. Indeed, his purchase of Redstone House, a rundown mansion in Torquay’s wealthiest district was more of an impulse than an aspiration towards respectability. He most certainly did not expect the house to come with a thirty-year-old secret that someone was prepared to commit murder to protect.
Naturally Reverend Shackleford, who it was generally agreed would be 'in if he fell in,’ simply had to investigate…
When Faith Shackleford found herself in the unenviable position of having to accompany her irascible father to convalesce in the genteel seaside town of Torquay, she envisioned three months of wearying monotony. She certainly wasn’t expecting to be intrigued by the forlorn empty house situated next to their own elegant villa, especially when she discovered it belonged to a handsome captain in the Royal Navy who was currently away at sea. Unfortunately, she never imagined that fascination might cost her her life.
Roan Carew grew up an orphan on the streets of Torquay, until he was press ganged into the Royal Navy at eleven. Through a combination of determination, shrewdness and sheer bloody mindedness he rose to the rank of Captain, but he was certainly no gentleman nor ever would be. Indeed, his purchase of Redstone House, a rundown mansion in Torquay’s wealthiest district was more of an impulse than an aspiration towards respectability. He most certainly did not expect the house to come with a thirty-year-old secret that someone was prepared to commit murder to protect.
Naturally Reverend Shackleford, who it was generally agreed would be 'in if he fell in,’ simply had to investigate…
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2021
2712 people are currently reading
766 people want to read
About the author
Beverley Watts
46 books246 followersBeverley spent 8 years teaching English as a Foreign Language to International Military Students in Britannia Royal Naval College, the Royal Navy’s premier officer training establishment in the UK. She says that in the whole 8 years there was never a dull moment and many of her wonderful experiences at the College were not only memorable but were most definitely 'the stuff of fiction.' Her debut novel An Officer And A Gentleman Wanted is very loosely based on her adventures at the College.
Beverley particularly enjoys writing books that make people laugh and currently she has two series of Romantic Comedies, both contemporary and historical, as well as a humorous cosy mystery series under her belt.
She lives with her husband in an apartment overlooking the sea on the beautiful English Riviera. Between them they have 3 adult children and two gorgeous grandchildren plus a menagerie of animals including 5 dogs - 3 Romanian rescues of indeterminate breed called Florence, Trixie, and Lizzie, a neurotic 'Chorkie' named Pepé and a 'Chichon" named Dotty who was the inspiration for Dotty in The Dartmouth Diaries.
You can find out more about Beverley’s books at www.beverleywatts.com
Beverley particularly enjoys writing books that make people laugh and currently she has two series of Romantic Comedies, both contemporary and historical, as well as a humorous cosy mystery series under her belt.
She lives with her husband in an apartment overlooking the sea on the beautiful English Riviera. Between them they have 3 adult children and two gorgeous grandchildren plus a menagerie of animals including 5 dogs - 3 Romanian rescues of indeterminate breed called Florence, Trixie, and Lizzie, a neurotic 'Chorkie' named Pepé and a 'Chichon" named Dotty who was the inspiration for Dotty in The Dartmouth Diaries.
You can find out more about Beverley’s books at www.beverleywatts.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
February 11, 2024
I enjoyed the humour in this story, also the mystery of the missing Marchioness
June 4, 2022
As the third In The series, this one was off to a slow start. The middle got rolling and finally the father and his curate had some charm. I also wished the curate had a few more redeeming qualities so he could have his own story some day. He deserves some happiness. I really wanted to like the book. I kinda liked our romantic couple and really wished they had the chance to have more conversations. But oh dear! The habit of ending each story with the one paragraph ending has got to stop! Each of the three books I have read thus far Includes a contrived separation between our romantic couple and a mundane reunion to quickly end the book as if the writer was as bored as her readers. These couples have obstacles to work out and we never see them doing so. Won’t be reading book 4 right away. In one of the books the forced separation was quite cruel. Didn’t ring true for a romance, felt wrong. At least in this one it was more like “I got too busy to notice you anymore”. Still felt wrong and just like lazy writing. I really wanted to like this one!
March 29, 2025
I listened to the audio version. Oddly, the female character was sometimes read by a woman with a lovely classy British accent. At other times, she was voiced by a man, who used a srident annoying voice. I’m not sure why they did this. So, I flip flopped between liking her, and being annoyed by her.
I think sometimes when you listen to an audio book rather than reading a novel, you notice words or phrases that are used too often. All of the characters used the word mayhap a lot. Mayhap this and mayhap that. No mayhap about it, I was annoyed. Also, every male character referred to Faith as a chit. A mere chit of a thing, a young chit, a foolish chit…I did not enjoy this.
Plotwise, kind of fun. Faith finds a mummified finger with a ring on it, so she and her father, who is supposedly on bed rest, decide to investigate. And of course there’s romance.
These may have been in attempt at a Bridgerton type series. I haven’t checked publishing dates. Takes place during the regency period. There are 8 sisters in need of husbands. Each book tells one of the girls’ story.
I think sometimes when you listen to an audio book rather than reading a novel, you notice words or phrases that are used too often. All of the characters used the word mayhap a lot. Mayhap this and mayhap that. No mayhap about it, I was annoyed. Also, every male character referred to Faith as a chit. A mere chit of a thing, a young chit, a foolish chit…I did not enjoy this.
Plotwise, kind of fun. Faith finds a mummified finger with a ring on it, so she and her father, who is supposedly on bed rest, decide to investigate. And of course there’s romance.
These may have been in attempt at a Bridgerton type series. I haven’t checked publishing dates. Takes place during the regency period. There are 8 sisters in need of husbands. Each book tells one of the girls’ story.
May 8, 2024
I love the dog
April 25, 2025
Another Shackleford Sisters book - daughter#3 Faith. Faith accompanied her father to Torquay to recuperate after he had been wounded. While there, she was intrigued by the rundown house next door. Add to this Faith finding a finger with a ring on it and the mystery deepens. Overall, I do like this book more than the previous ones. The romance is still a love at first sight kind which I'm not too keen on though.
December 10, 2024
3.7 stars for the plot not the romance.
Let me start by saying I came into this book with the lowest of expectations. Romance? Okay. A mystery? Oh, now you have my attention. The plot was so interesting, while the romance was... well, it was there. Kind of. Maybe. But let's talk about the fun stuff.
Quick Review:
♦︎ Juicy Drama
🔪 Severed finger mystery
♦︎ Regency romance (but don't expect much)
♦︎ Too much POV from the dad
♦︎ Dog POV (unexpected but loved it)
♦︎ 🌶/5 Spice
What I liked:
The plot: Honestly, this was the best part. If you’re here for a deep love story (or a love story in general), look elsewhere. But if you're into juicy family drama, suspicious severed fingers, and a murder mystery then this is your jam. The best part? I didn't expect any of it.
Freddy the dog: I was not ready for Freddy to have his own POV chapter, but when it happened, I didn’t even question it. It was honestly a highlight. Can we get more books where the dog is the real protagonist?
What I didn't care for:
The romance: I swear they had one interaction, maybe two, and we were already at "I love him." Girly relax. The romance lacked chemistry, depth, or anything remotely exciting. At the end too? I listened to the audiobook so it seemed like one sentence and BAM end of book into epilogue which the one sentence was "Will you marry me?" after two weeks of him avoiding her and them not together??? Immediately then goes into epilogue and its the wedding where *checks notes* the town of Torquay all agree on Faith (the female lead) being ugly??? (Yes you read that correctly) LMAO ngl that was a crazy way to end the book??????????????????? but hey, at least she bagged a rich guy! Wild.
Smut: One chilly pepper. Don’t expect any heated scenes. Maybe a warm breeze at best.
What I didn't like:
The slow beginning: The first half of the book moves slower than a snail on vacation. I was genuinely confused about whether this was a romance or a dad story for a while, because there was a surprising amount of POV from Faith’s father. It’s like the book couldn’t decide if it wanted to be a Regency romance or a family drama, and as much as I love a quirky dad moment, we didn’t need that much of him in the beginning. I had to double-check that this wasn’t his book.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for romance, maybe. But if you want a deliciously scandalous mystery with a random dog POV this is the book for you. Faith’s story? Pretty wild, but don’t come for the romance, stay for the drama.
Let me start by saying I came into this book with the lowest of expectations. Romance? Okay. A mystery? Oh, now you have my attention. The plot was so interesting, while the romance was... well, it was there. Kind of. Maybe. But let's talk about the fun stuff.
Quick Review:
♦︎ Juicy Drama
🔪 Severed finger mystery
♦︎ Regency romance (but don't expect much)
♦︎ Too much POV from the dad
♦︎ Dog POV (unexpected but loved it)
♦︎ 🌶/5 Spice
What I liked:
The plot: Honestly, this was the best part. If you’re here for a deep love story (or a love story in general), look elsewhere. But if you're into juicy family drama, suspicious severed fingers, and a murder mystery then this is your jam. The best part? I didn't expect any of it.
Freddy the dog: I was not ready for Freddy to have his own POV chapter, but when it happened, I didn’t even question it. It was honestly a highlight. Can we get more books where the dog is the real protagonist?
What I didn't care for:
The romance: I swear they had one interaction, maybe two, and we were already at "I love him." Girly relax. The romance lacked chemistry, depth, or anything remotely exciting. At the end too? I listened to the audiobook so it seemed like one sentence and BAM end of book into epilogue which the one sentence was "Will you marry me?" after two weeks of him avoiding her and them not together??? Immediately then goes into epilogue and its the wedding where *checks notes* the town of Torquay all agree on Faith (the female lead) being ugly??? (Yes you read that correctly) LMAO ngl that was a crazy way to end the book??????????????????? but hey, at least she bagged a rich guy! Wild.
Smut: One chilly pepper. Don’t expect any heated scenes. Maybe a warm breeze at best.
What I didn't like:
The slow beginning: The first half of the book moves slower than a snail on vacation. I was genuinely confused about whether this was a romance or a dad story for a while, because there was a surprising amount of POV from Faith’s father. It’s like the book couldn’t decide if it wanted to be a Regency romance or a family drama, and as much as I love a quirky dad moment, we didn’t need that much of him in the beginning. I had to double-check that this wasn’t his book.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for romance, maybe. But if you want a deliciously scandalous mystery with a random dog POV this is the book for you. Faith’s story? Pretty wild, but don’t come for the romance, stay for the drama.
April 16, 2022
I read bk #1 in this series, Grace's story.
Occurred in 1809. The Rev./ father says what he wants
when he wants. He has no filter. He has 9 offspring: 8
daughters & 1 son. For the MCs: kisses & no mambo
action. And the story had wit+ a mystery. 3 stars.
Rev. Agustus Shackleford was sent by his 2 titled
SILs to a rented seaside home to rest after a gunshot
wound already healed. He went w/ his dtr Faith and
Flo his servant. Later his curate Percy joined them.
They learned Capt. Roan Carew of the Royal Navy,
was at sea, but owned the run-down (a fixer-upper)
home nr the one they rented.
Faith & her trusty foxhound Freddy liked to walk
and explore. She saw a man w/ a candle in Roan's
empty home & he left. Her sire encouraged her to
snoop. Faith found something gross. Rev. & dtr met
Joseph & Jared (father the baron & son) Carew. No
relation to H. Jared claimed his "doxy" Aunt Lydia
(married to a marquess) ran away w/ a footman
30 yrs ago & was never seen again. Would we learn
the real story?
Roan & Faith enjoyed bantering. Sometimes he was
too blunt. The mystery unraveled nicely but the
story had 3 too many baddies. Both Faith & Percy
learned to be more assertive.
Faith's sister Grace and spouse (former Navy officer,
now a duke) Nicholas (from bk #1) visited Rev. & family.
Occurred in 1809. The Rev./ father says what he wants
when he wants. He has no filter. He has 9 offspring: 8
daughters & 1 son. For the MCs: kisses & no mambo
action. And the story had wit+ a mystery. 3 stars.
Rev. Agustus Shackleford was sent by his 2 titled
SILs to a rented seaside home to rest after a gunshot
wound already healed. He went w/ his dtr Faith and
Flo his servant. Later his curate Percy joined them.
They learned Capt. Roan Carew of the Royal Navy,
was at sea, but owned the run-down (a fixer-upper)
home nr the one they rented.
Faith & her trusty foxhound Freddy liked to walk
and explore. She saw a man w/ a candle in Roan's
empty home & he left. Her sire encouraged her to
snoop. Faith found something gross. Rev. & dtr met
Joseph & Jared (father the baron & son) Carew. No
relation to H. Jared claimed his "doxy" Aunt Lydia
(married to a marquess) ran away w/ a footman
30 yrs ago & was never seen again. Would we learn
the real story?
Roan & Faith enjoyed bantering. Sometimes he was
too blunt. The mystery unraveled nicely but the
story had 3 too many baddies. Both Faith & Percy
learned to be more assertive.
Faith's sister Grace and spouse (former Navy officer,
now a duke) Nicholas (from bk #1) visited Rev. & family.
August 13, 2025
This book was fun.
It felt like the author set out to write a regency romance, but got so wrapped up in the mystery plot that she almost completely forgot the romance. So it felt kind of "oh yeah, um, smoldering stares, I just met you but I burn for you, yadda yadda yadda. Anyway, back to the severed finger." But I'm not complaining.
The father is a fun character and the dog was delightful.
It felt like the author set out to write a regency romance, but got so wrapped up in the mystery plot that she almost completely forgot the romance. So it felt kind of "oh yeah, um, smoldering stares, I just met you but I burn for you, yadda yadda yadda. Anyway, back to the severed finger." But I'm not complaining.
The father is a fun character and the dog was delightful.
September 21, 2024
I enjoyed Faith the third Shackleford Sisters book much more than the others. While it keeps the humor of the first two with the antics of Augustus and Percy, Faith seems to have much more sense than her sisters. I was pleasantly surprised by the seaside Gothic murder mystery tone of this romance. So far I think this is the best of the series.
August 16, 2023
an amusing read
I enjoyed this, as it galloped along very satisfactorily. It’s a mix of a mystery and a romance, with amusing characters. I have to point out, though, that, near the end, when all is discovered, the author, rather like many other authors, made the mistake of assuming that a title can be inherited by a son of a sister of a lord or duke - it can’t; and that furthermore, an illegitimate person can inherit a title - they can’t. Only nearest legitimate male relatives down the male line can inherit - thus sons, or nephews, or cousins who are sons of the lord’s brother, or blood uncles of the lord, etc. They must be related through blood, from a male blood relative of the line. Things may change in the future, but up to now, that’s how things stand, except in the British Royal Family, where the late Queen of England decreed that the eldest legitimate blood offspring may now inherit the crown, either male or female.
I enjoyed this, as it galloped along very satisfactorily. It’s a mix of a mystery and a romance, with amusing characters. I have to point out, though, that, near the end, when all is discovered, the author, rather like many other authors, made the mistake of assuming that a title can be inherited by a son of a sister of a lord or duke - it can’t; and that furthermore, an illegitimate person can inherit a title - they can’t. Only nearest legitimate male relatives down the male line can inherit - thus sons, or nephews, or cousins who are sons of the lord’s brother, or blood uncles of the lord, etc. They must be related through blood, from a male blood relative of the line. Things may change in the future, but up to now, that’s how things stand, except in the British Royal Family, where the late Queen of England decreed that the eldest legitimate blood offspring may now inherit the crown, either male or female.
January 15, 2024
This book started out extremely slowly and I had a hard time getting into the character. Once the story developed it was enjoyable. However the character was severely lacking in descriptive details. The author only says Faith has hair the color of "butterscotch". It's unknown if she is talk or short, thin or voluptuous, ivory or bronze skinned, were her eyes blue,green, brown,grey, hazel? No one knows! The same can be said of the Captain. His hair is black and his skin tanned by exposure to the sun. Although these details seem trivial, they are important to the reader. The author put a brunette on the cover of the book? Details!
October 13, 2024
MY RATING GUIDE: 3.5 Stars. I believe I enjoyed FAITH more than the 2 previous books in this series. It’s slightly less ridiculous yet still has plenty of light moments, action scenes and a believable mystery to unwrap. I liked it as a Light, Historical Adventure Romance novel with a small bit of steam. I am finding this series a light diversion from mysteries and other genres.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/fairly good; 3.5= I ENJOYED THIS; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved this; it was great! (I SELDOM give 5 Stars).
March, 1809 ~
The coastal town of Torquay, England ~
Faith Shackleford,19, and her unpredictable reverend father are residing in a lovely town villa compliments of Faith’s oldest sister’s husband, the Duke of Blackmoor. Per doctor’s orders, Reverend Shackleford’s bullet wound (previous book) requires quiet and rest to heal. But when Faith and her father notice the empty house next door appears to have a vagrant inside, the reverend suggests that Faith investigate. Faith considers herself among the least impetuous of her sisters yet finds she is as curious as her father. She doesn’t expect his suggestion to place her into the dangerous situation which follows.
Frigate naval captain Roan Carew, 32, has been at sea for 20years. After his crew’s 3rd successful raid of an enemy ship, capturing considerable valuable cargo, he returns to check on his newly purchased property in the village town of Torquay, where he once ran wild as a homeless orphan. Roan soon discovers that his vacant house has been hiding old secrets someone doesn’t want unearthed. His plans to clean house and remodel the property draws unexpected violence. Due to Roan’s past experiences, he is inconvenienced but no stranger to such.
Comments ~
1) FAITH is bk3 in the 9bk Shackleford Sisters Historical/Comedy Romance series. The novels in this series can be read as Standalone books as each has its own story and HEA, featuring any one of Reverend Shackleford’s eight daughters (ending the series with his only son). The siblings and spouses from earlier books appear in peripheral roles.
2) Reverend Shackleford, Faith’s father, is a ridiculous character who blusters around as the comedic relief. Many of his behaviors and comments are outrageous, reminding me of Lucille Ball or Carol Burnett skits of years ago. He appears in each book with his actions slightly tamer in FAITH, I thought. (Perhaps because of his injury). ;)
3) I have been listening to the free audios available through my subscription service. Each book differs but I thought one of the narrators’ voices for FAITH resembled that of a 50-70yr old spinster, rather than a young lady of 18-19yrs or so (duel narration). When the 2 narrators switched back and forth, the female character’s voice didn’t sound remotely the same. For that reason, this book might be a book better actually read than enjoyed via audio. I suggest listening to the sample before purchasing.
4) Even considering the above, I think FAITH was my favorite book in this series so far. Although still a bit silly at times, I found the the action scenes believable and the story overall more interesting than the two that preceded it.
READER CAUTIONS ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used on occasion.
VIOLENCE - PG.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. A brief intimacy scene occurs towards the end which could easily be skipped if desired.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/fairly good; 3.5= I ENJOYED THIS; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved this; it was great! (I SELDOM give 5 Stars).
March, 1809 ~
The coastal town of Torquay, England ~
Faith Shackleford,19, and her unpredictable reverend father are residing in a lovely town villa compliments of Faith’s oldest sister’s husband, the Duke of Blackmoor. Per doctor’s orders, Reverend Shackleford’s bullet wound (previous book) requires quiet and rest to heal. But when Faith and her father notice the empty house next door appears to have a vagrant inside, the reverend suggests that Faith investigate. Faith considers herself among the least impetuous of her sisters yet finds she is as curious as her father. She doesn’t expect his suggestion to place her into the dangerous situation which follows.
Frigate naval captain Roan Carew, 32, has been at sea for 20years. After his crew’s 3rd successful raid of an enemy ship, capturing considerable valuable cargo, he returns to check on his newly purchased property in the village town of Torquay, where he once ran wild as a homeless orphan. Roan soon discovers that his vacant house has been hiding old secrets someone doesn’t want unearthed. His plans to clean house and remodel the property draws unexpected violence. Due to Roan’s past experiences, he is inconvenienced but no stranger to such.
Comments ~
1) FAITH is bk3 in the 9bk Shackleford Sisters Historical/Comedy Romance series. The novels in this series can be read as Standalone books as each has its own story and HEA, featuring any one of Reverend Shackleford’s eight daughters (ending the series with his only son). The siblings and spouses from earlier books appear in peripheral roles.
2) Reverend Shackleford, Faith’s father, is a ridiculous character who blusters around as the comedic relief. Many of his behaviors and comments are outrageous, reminding me of Lucille Ball or Carol Burnett skits of years ago. He appears in each book with his actions slightly tamer in FAITH, I thought. (Perhaps because of his injury). ;)
3) I have been listening to the free audios available through my subscription service. Each book differs but I thought one of the narrators’ voices for FAITH resembled that of a 50-70yr old spinster, rather than a young lady of 18-19yrs or so (duel narration). When the 2 narrators switched back and forth, the female character’s voice didn’t sound remotely the same. For that reason, this book might be a book better actually read than enjoyed via audio. I suggest listening to the sample before purchasing.
4) Even considering the above, I think FAITH was my favorite book in this series so far. Although still a bit silly at times, I found the the action scenes believable and the story overall more interesting than the two that preceded it.
READER CAUTIONS ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used on occasion.
VIOLENCE - PG.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. A brief intimacy scene occurs towards the end which could easily be skipped if desired.
May 24, 2024
Faith, Book 3 of the Shackleford Sisters finds Faith, one of the twins of the Shackleford Sisters, on her way to Torquay to spend the summer with her father, Reverend Shackleford, while he recovers from a shoulder wound which had become infected. Of course, it was better than spending the summer watching over the four younger sisters and their brother as her twin, Hope was doing. With their older sisters married, looking after the younger ones fell to the twins. Maybe being at the seaside wasn't as bad as she thought.
While her father was bedridden, Faith took their dog, Freddie for a walk. She had seen a candle in the empty house next door and having told her father, he threatened to go over and see if he could find the intruder. Keeping him in bed was very important, so she had told her father she would look. Now she found herself walking up the overgrown drive to the house which seemed to have been abandoned for years. What would she find?
Roan Carew had been brought up on the streets of Torquay not knowing his parents or background. He had been given the name of Roan Carew after the richest family in town. He had gone to sea and luckily had been taken under the wing of an honorable captain and taught how to be a Captain. Now, he was captain of his own ship and had amassed a fortune from his percentage of the take from ships other then British. He had purchased the Redstone house from the Carew's and had left it standing for several years. Now he was ready to redo the house and get it ready for his wife and family (although he had neither).
On another day, Faith approached the house again without Freddie as he refused to go. This time, she knocked on the door and it was answered by a handsome man. She stepped in to speak to him and both were violently knocked down and put to sleep with ether and then drugged. When Roan woke up, he found himself in a filthy inn in the worst part of Torquay in bed with a beautiful woman. It wasn't something knew to him except he had no idea who she was or how they got there. He could tell she was not the usual type woman to frequent such places. As he woke her to let her know he was leaving, he smelled smoke, the inn was on fire. He told her to dress and helped her escape out the window and then helped her get home. Who had drugged them and put them in the inn? Who would want to ruin their reputations? Who set the fire that was sure to have killed them had he not awakened?
While her father was bedridden, Faith took their dog, Freddie for a walk. She had seen a candle in the empty house next door and having told her father, he threatened to go over and see if he could find the intruder. Keeping him in bed was very important, so she had told her father she would look. Now she found herself walking up the overgrown drive to the house which seemed to have been abandoned for years. What would she find?
Roan Carew had been brought up on the streets of Torquay not knowing his parents or background. He had been given the name of Roan Carew after the richest family in town. He had gone to sea and luckily had been taken under the wing of an honorable captain and taught how to be a Captain. Now, he was captain of his own ship and had amassed a fortune from his percentage of the take from ships other then British. He had purchased the Redstone house from the Carew's and had left it standing for several years. Now he was ready to redo the house and get it ready for his wife and family (although he had neither).
On another day, Faith approached the house again without Freddie as he refused to go. This time, she knocked on the door and it was answered by a handsome man. She stepped in to speak to him and both were violently knocked down and put to sleep with ether and then drugged. When Roan woke up, he found himself in a filthy inn in the worst part of Torquay in bed with a beautiful woman. It wasn't something knew to him except he had no idea who she was or how they got there. He could tell she was not the usual type woman to frequent such places. As he woke her to let her know he was leaving, he smelled smoke, the inn was on fire. He told her to dress and helped her escape out the window and then helped her get home. Who had drugged them and put them in the inn? Who would want to ruin their reputations? Who set the fire that was sure to have killed them had he not awakened?
December 30, 2024
In this humorous novella-style historical-ish romance series, the Shackleford sisters descend on Regency society in a delightful mix of Jane Austen's wit and Bridgerton's charm. Reverend Augustus Shackleford is on a mission to secure advantageous marriages for each of his eight unruly daughters—a tall order, given that he has let them run wild their entire lives. Not one of them possesses a single ladylike bone, and chaos inevitably ensues, full of harebrained schemes, havey-cavey, adventures, and plenty of sisterly affection.
Faith’s story takes the series to even more outlandish heights than the first two books. She accompanies her irascible father to convalesce at the seaside town of Torquay, where his boredom while convalescing leads to unexpected trouble. When Reverend Shackleford insists Faith explore the dilapidated mansion next door to determine the source of flickering lights, events quickly spiral out of control. Soon, her titled brothers-in-law are called to town to clean up the Reverend’s latest mess.
The plot brims with corruption, family drama, old secrets, multiple kidnappings, murders, and even stolen babies. Faith is repeatedly rescued by the dashing Royal Navy captain Roan Carew. As the stakes rise and their lives become increasingly intertwined, Faith must convince Roan that, regardless of his doubts, she won’t settle for anyone else.
As always, this series prioritizes chaos and comedic value over romance. While the love story feels rushed toward the end, the book is short, silly, and an easy read—perfect if you don’t take it too seriously. Three sisters down, five to go!
Faith’s story takes the series to even more outlandish heights than the first two books. She accompanies her irascible father to convalesce at the seaside town of Torquay, where his boredom while convalescing leads to unexpected trouble. When Reverend Shackleford insists Faith explore the dilapidated mansion next door to determine the source of flickering lights, events quickly spiral out of control. Soon, her titled brothers-in-law are called to town to clean up the Reverend’s latest mess.
The plot brims with corruption, family drama, old secrets, multiple kidnappings, murders, and even stolen babies. Faith is repeatedly rescued by the dashing Royal Navy captain Roan Carew. As the stakes rise and their lives become increasingly intertwined, Faith must convince Roan that, regardless of his doubts, she won’t settle for anyone else.
As always, this series prioritizes chaos and comedic value over romance. While the love story feels rushed toward the end, the book is short, silly, and an easy read—perfect if you don’t take it too seriously. Three sisters down, five to go!
September 21, 2024
The best one so far! Although, we had an evil antagonist in Tempy's story resulting in the death of a filthy, lowlife creature who is a side story, causing several moments of page-flipping. Faith's story goes full-blown mystery, which I like. Roan is a wonderful hero and I fell for him from the beginning. He is a handsome adventuring Sea Captain, who has no idea where he came from, but Ms. Watts sends you down an intriguing rabbit hole, then knocks your soaks off with the final outcome. Of course, our delightful Reverend Augustus Shackleford can't stay out of mischief and pushes his dutiful daughter Faith into investigating her curiosity, which leads them down a dangerous road with plenty of villains with which to choose. Of course, our faithful furry friend, Freddy lends his assistance, but we find the hairy hound isn't quite as brave as we thought, until one of his human sisters is in dire straights, then he becomes somewhat of a hero in his own right. Of course, Faith is enamoured by the Captain, and has ideas of her own and is determined to prove her beliefs without considering someone might be desperate enough to dispose of what she now knows, which includes disposing of her person. Book 3 is intriguing, murderous and funny at times and Ms. Watts does not fail to keep us reading.
July 6, 2024
Faith by Beverley Watts
I was so excited to return to the world of the Shackleford Sisters to find that this story will be moving readers from Devonshire to the seaside surrounds of Torquay.
Faith, who has been (unhappily) selected to accompany her recovering Reverend father to the villa where he might gather his strength after the events of Temperance, entertains them with gossip of the elusive Captain who owns the manor behind their villa. When Faith spies someone who seems out of place in the empty manor, she is tasked by her interminably bored (and meddling) father to seek answers.
Captain Rowan Caroux, a dashing and fierce captain of the Royal Navy, and Faiths neighbour, is disliked by the high society family who share his surname, and more so now that Rowan has purchased the manor that was once theirs.
And when family secrets and dark history is brought to light, Rowan and Faith find themselves with common enemies and on the precipice of danger.
I loved the elements of mystery in this story, but didn’t connect as well with Faith and Rowan as I did with previous couples. This may be because this plot is more action based, but it was highly entertaining. Also, extra star for Freddie’s POV.
I was so excited to return to the world of the Shackleford Sisters to find that this story will be moving readers from Devonshire to the seaside surrounds of Torquay.
Faith, who has been (unhappily) selected to accompany her recovering Reverend father to the villa where he might gather his strength after the events of Temperance, entertains them with gossip of the elusive Captain who owns the manor behind their villa. When Faith spies someone who seems out of place in the empty manor, she is tasked by her interminably bored (and meddling) father to seek answers.
Captain Rowan Caroux, a dashing and fierce captain of the Royal Navy, and Faiths neighbour, is disliked by the high society family who share his surname, and more so now that Rowan has purchased the manor that was once theirs.
And when family secrets and dark history is brought to light, Rowan and Faith find themselves with common enemies and on the precipice of danger.
I loved the elements of mystery in this story, but didn’t connect as well with Faith and Rowan as I did with previous couples. This may be because this plot is more action based, but it was highly entertaining. Also, extra star for Freddie’s POV.
December 23, 2024
i just finished the book and my heart is still racing. goodness, Roan is by far THE BEST male lead in the series!!! he’s so respectful and despite not coming from a high social background, treats Faith like she’s his treasure. i love him so much. and Faith… oh.. i love her to the moon and back. she was my absolute favourite. my baby. reading about her and her dad jump into every bit of trouble they could find was so adorable. i couldn’t get enough of this father-daughter duo.
and can we please talk about Duke Nicholas? always coming to the rescue. i loved that the author added those sweet, tender moments between him and Grace. and last but not least Mr Shackleford, I LOVE YOU!! please never change. i’m so sorry for ever doubting you. every scene he appeared in brought me so much joy and his relationship with Percy and Freddie was absolutely adorable. speaking of Percy, i love him so much too..
although the book started a bit slow, it was so interesting once it picked up. while the romance wasn’t as strong as in the previous books, this one still kept me hooked. and that twist at the end? my mouth was hanging open. it wasn’t predictable at all, no matter what the reviews said. i’m so glad i found this series. definitely an easy five stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
and can we please talk about Duke Nicholas? always coming to the rescue. i loved that the author added those sweet, tender moments between him and Grace. and last but not least Mr Shackleford, I LOVE YOU!! please never change. i’m so sorry for ever doubting you. every scene he appeared in brought me so much joy and his relationship with Percy and Freddie was absolutely adorable. speaking of Percy, i love him so much too..
although the book started a bit slow, it was so interesting once it picked up. while the romance wasn’t as strong as in the previous books, this one still kept me hooked. and that twist at the end? my mouth was hanging open. it wasn’t predictable at all, no matter what the reviews said. i’m so glad i found this series. definitely an easy five stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 2, 2023
Faith gets her man
Faith Shackleford picked the short straw and had to go with her father while he recuperate from his injury. It was by the sea so she didn't mind.
There was a run down home next to where they were staying. One night she seen a candle going on, she told her father. They knew a sea captain had purchased it but was away.
Her father told her to go investigate the house. Faith took Freddy the dog with her. While there she hear someone else and seen their candle. She and the dog hid, while hidden the floor board was loose. She reached in and pulled something out. She was able to sneak out of the house. She shows her father part of finger with ring on it.
Faith seen the owner go in so she decides she will visit tomorrow. Faith takes scones over with the dog, as door opened that us the last thing she remembers. She is woken up by a man she half dressed and the place is on fire. Roan Carew gets her to go out the window and he takes her to his boat. She tells him what she knows.
As they come up with different plans to figure out who is behind this. Murder and Faith being kidnapped will it all work out?
Faith Shackleford picked the short straw and had to go with her father while he recuperate from his injury. It was by the sea so she didn't mind.
There was a run down home next to where they were staying. One night she seen a candle going on, she told her father. They knew a sea captain had purchased it but was away.
Her father told her to go investigate the house. Faith took Freddy the dog with her. While there she hear someone else and seen their candle. She and the dog hid, while hidden the floor board was loose. She reached in and pulled something out. She was able to sneak out of the house. She shows her father part of finger with ring on it.
Faith seen the owner go in so she decides she will visit tomorrow. Faith takes scones over with the dog, as door opened that us the last thing she remembers. She is woken up by a man she half dressed and the place is on fire. Roan Carew gets her to go out the window and he takes her to his boat. She tells him what she knows.
As they come up with different plans to figure out who is behind this. Murder and Faith being kidnapped will it all work out?
August 5, 2024
The only thing holding me back from giving this book 4 stars is the narration on the Audible copy I listened to. I am reading this series in order. (Yes, you must read them in order.) I feel that the flow, characterization, and overall writing gets better with each book. It is an enjoyable, easy listen (or read) with humor and, in this book, some intrigue. The language is fairly clean compared to other novels of today. There is some steam but it is not abundant by comparison.
I mentioned in my reviews of the first two books that at times, the male narrator, Mark Elstob, is very unpleasant to listen to. His voice for the reverend is okay, even though sometime inconsistent, as well as the narrated sections. However, his interpretions of the female voices are absolutely some of the worst I have ever heard. They are so screetchy and oddly pitched that as a female it is almost insulting to listen to him. Also, aside from the two afore mentioned male voices, the other male charaters sound like they are perpetually in a drunken stupor, or so incredibly nasal and whiny that it grates on the ears.
There was a different female narrator for this story. Her voice was also rather high pitched and not nearly as pleasant as the female reader in the first two books.
In conclusion, I am truly excited for the next book. I just hope there is some improvement in narration.
I mentioned in my reviews of the first two books that at times, the male narrator, Mark Elstob, is very unpleasant to listen to. His voice for the reverend is okay, even though sometime inconsistent, as well as the narrated sections. However, his interpretions of the female voices are absolutely some of the worst I have ever heard. They are so screetchy and oddly pitched that as a female it is almost insulting to listen to him. Also, aside from the two afore mentioned male voices, the other male charaters sound like they are perpetually in a drunken stupor, or so incredibly nasal and whiny that it grates on the ears.
There was a different female narrator for this story. Her voice was also rather high pitched and not nearly as pleasant as the female reader in the first two books.
In conclusion, I am truly excited for the next book. I just hope there is some improvement in narration.
December 30, 2024
He needs Faith
I absolutely loved Faith and Ronans story. When she accompanied her father to the sea side town so he can continue to recover, Faith never thought she would be embroiled in a mystery.
When she spotted someone skulking in the house next door she went to investigate. When she realized she wasn’t alone in the house she hid and found something hidden in the floor boards.
Never in her wildest dreams would Faith find a mummified finger with a dainty ring attached.
Ronan grew up on the streets and was press ganged in to the Royal Navy at 11 yrs old. He worked his was to Captain and became very wealthy from the spoils of war. He bought the old run down Carew House and upon returning from sea was set upon inside his own home.
An intriguing story with a few twists but a wonderful ending.
I absolutely loved Faith and Ronans story. When she accompanied her father to the sea side town so he can continue to recover, Faith never thought she would be embroiled in a mystery.
When she spotted someone skulking in the house next door she went to investigate. When she realized she wasn’t alone in the house she hid and found something hidden in the floor boards.
Never in her wildest dreams would Faith find a mummified finger with a dainty ring attached.
Ronan grew up on the streets and was press ganged in to the Royal Navy at 11 yrs old. He worked his was to Captain and became very wealthy from the spoils of war. He bought the old run down Carew House and upon returning from sea was set upon inside his own home.
An intriguing story with a few twists but a wonderful ending.
July 11, 2022
Faith Shackleford travels to Torquay with her father, accompanying him while he convalesces from a gunshot wound. Searching for conversation, Faith mentions seeing a candle move stealthily from room to room in their neighbor’s home. But the neighbor isn’t yet due home. Bored and without his usual sidekick, the Reverend insists Faith investigate.
Unaware the neighbor is actually the local baron’s blowby, Captain Roan Carew, mostly outcast rom his family has actually returned and the derelict home was purchased so Roan could rival his father’s family in status and wealth. Roan has actually arrived home early. Misunderstandings and madcap situations ensue leaving Faith and Roan waking in Roan’s bed.
Rating: 2.75stars
Unaware the neighbor is actually the local baron’s blowby, Captain Roan Carew, mostly outcast rom his family has actually returned and the derelict home was purchased so Roan could rival his father’s family in status and wealth. Roan has actually arrived home early. Misunderstandings and madcap situations ensue leaving Faith and Roan waking in Roan’s bed.
Rating: 2.75stars
September 20, 2023
The first two books in this series were only "OK." However, the author has hit her stride with this one and has written a keeper. Because Reverend Shackleford was injured in the second book, the Duke paid for him to rest in Torquay, away from his brood of children. Only Faith is attending him, while the rest of the family allows the Vicar to recuperate. However, Augustus cannot allow a mystery to bubble up without investigating the issue. It isn't long before he is out of bed and snooping.
This is an adventure with lots of laughs. However, the solution is a stunner, even for the early 1800s. Overall score = 4.5 stars.
Shackleford Sisters
1. Grace (2020)
2. Temperance (2021)
** 3. Faith (2021)
4. Hope (2022)
This is an adventure with lots of laughs. However, the solution is a stunner, even for the early 1800s. Overall score = 4.5 stars.
Shackleford Sisters
1. Grace (2020)
2. Temperance (2021)
** 3. Faith (2021)
4. Hope (2022)
February 22, 2025
5 STARS, ROMANCE & INTRIGUE, HISTORICAL
5 STARS for this hilarious entertaining with some mystery & intrigue storyline from the wonderful Series: The Shackleford Sisters. Good BLURB provided. The Vicar has 8 daughters and is marrying them off. He has really been having stress over this. This time he is off to the sea coast to a villa that both his titled sun-in-laws rented for him to further convalescene from a shot wound months earlier when his daughter Temperance was in London looking for a husband.
Of the twins, Faith ends up going with her father along with Freddy the foxhound. Of course they find a mystery in the empty mansion next door & A severed finger and the adventure is on.
You can't go wrong reading this!
RECOMMENDED
5 STARS for this hilarious entertaining with some mystery & intrigue storyline from the wonderful Series: The Shackleford Sisters. Good BLURB provided. The Vicar has 8 daughters and is marrying them off. He has really been having stress over this. This time he is off to the sea coast to a villa that both his titled sun-in-laws rented for him to further convalescene from a shot wound months earlier when his daughter Temperance was in London looking for a husband.
Of the twins, Faith ends up going with her father along with Freddy the foxhound. Of course they find a mystery in the empty mansion next door & A severed finger and the adventure is on.
You can't go wrong reading this!
RECOMMENDED
March 8, 2025
This book was much more of a mystery/who done it than the previous books in the series. I am not sure it all worked out in the end, even if I mostly enjoyed the journey. There was certainly a lot of buildup as to whether Rowan was a long lost child of a Marquis, all to essentially take a different turn. I found all the different characters involved to be difficult to keep straight, so on top of the mystery of the missing sister of the local Baron, whose severed finger adorning a ring and then the young Teddy, I wasn’t sure who was who by the time it was revealed. Additionally, while I enjoyed Faith’s courage, her and Rowan were kind of an afterthought. The mystery played a more central role than it had before, imo.
April 17, 2025
The third book in the series, this historical romance follows the adventures of the third Shackleford sister, Faith, when she visits Torquay with her father. As in previous occasions, the book mixes humour, romance and mystery in a delightful blend.
That's not to say that the book is perfect. The romance subplot is not too elaborate and it's based on instantaneous attraction/lust, which isn't my favourite trope. Also, there's a historical faux pas regarding inheritance of aristocratic titles (and I believe that it could have been easily avoided without any relevant changes in the storyline). But, overall, the mystery was thrilling, the book was great fun, and I've enjoyed reading it so much that, in my opinion, it deserves 5 stars.
That's not to say that the book is perfect. The romance subplot is not too elaborate and it's based on instantaneous attraction/lust, which isn't my favourite trope. Also, there's a historical faux pas regarding inheritance of aristocratic titles (and I believe that it could have been easily avoided without any relevant changes in the storyline). But, overall, the mystery was thrilling, the book was great fun, and I've enjoyed reading it so much that, in my opinion, it deserves 5 stars.
January 12, 2022
Nosey neighbors
When daddy Shackleton is injured, his sons-in-law decide to send him to the shore for a quiet convalescence. With Temperance recently married and Grace at home with her new infant son, Faith is tasked with accompanying her father. Having gotten to know her father in the two previous novels of the series, I find Faith's lack of enthusiasm for the task quite understandable.
You won't want to miss the wild turn the plot takes when Faith spies a candle in the empty house next door. It is both comical and filled with the suspense of a horrible murder. Brace yourselves! Its going to be a wild ride.
When daddy Shackleton is injured, his sons-in-law decide to send him to the shore for a quiet convalescence. With Temperance recently married and Grace at home with her new infant son, Faith is tasked with accompanying her father. Having gotten to know her father in the two previous novels of the series, I find Faith's lack of enthusiasm for the task quite understandable.
You won't want to miss the wild turn the plot takes when Faith spies a candle in the empty house next door. It is both comical and filled with the suspense of a horrible murder. Brace yourselves! Its going to be a wild ride.
May 26, 2024
This book had me very intrigued through out. I was laughing and sitting on the edge of my seat to find out what would happen next. The mystery that Reverend Shackleford and his daughter had found themselves embroiled in was quite intriguing to me and the danger that could have Faith and Roan loosing their lives had me rushing to find out what would happen next. But the ending was a bit of a let down with so many questions unanswered and so many characters fates unknown so I could not give it that 5th star. But needless to say this is the best book so far in the series. While I still don’t think this series is much like the Bridgerton series this book was quite entertaining on its own.
June 9, 2024
I did enjoy Faith's story a bit more. I liked the mystery. I did like Roan as well. The Reverend is still meddlesome and I have issues with his language and amount of drink. The curate, Percy, is finally getting a bit of a backbone, but I'm surprised the poor fella hasn't had a heart attack. Faith seemed a little less wild than her older sisters Grace and Temperance. I really did enjoy the mystery around her story. Again, skimmed right past those stupid open bedroom door scenes and rolled my eyes when Roan decided to think about his manhood too. Readers can read about desire without hearing about "cocks". Just sayin'.
January 20, 2025
I had high hopes for this story, but it reads like a family drama mystery and not a romance. The romance was never the main plot point and felt forced at times and rushed in the very end of the book.
Also, this book needs an editor. For an author that taught English as second language, her grammatical errors are many. It’s so noticeable that I had to put the book down and stop reading because it was frustrating as reader.
I enjoyed Grace and Temperance and was hoping for something more from this book, but it felt like it dropped the ball and couldn’t decide if it wanted to be a romance or mystery.
Maybe Hope will be a better read?
Also, this book needs an editor. For an author that taught English as second language, her grammatical errors are many. It’s so noticeable that I had to put the book down and stop reading because it was frustrating as reader.
I enjoyed Grace and Temperance and was hoping for something more from this book, but it felt like it dropped the ball and couldn’t decide if it wanted to be a romance or mystery.
Maybe Hope will be a better read?
February 17, 2023
These books just get better. This has more of an adventure theme really. It's very low on spice, but full of funny, sweet and exciting moments.
I love the Reverend. He is utterly ridiculous and the source of the majority of the humour. I had hoped to glimpse Temperance and Adam in this but we didn't. We did get the Duke and Grace making an appearance.
Roan and Faith were lovely. Funny, easy and sweet. It's nice to have had such a different type of man in this one though I imagine he and Nicholas will get on well!
All in all, excellent fun and really worth a read!
I love the Reverend. He is utterly ridiculous and the source of the majority of the humour. I had hoped to glimpse Temperance and Adam in this but we didn't. We did get the Duke and Grace making an appearance.
Roan and Faith were lovely. Funny, easy and sweet. It's nice to have had such a different type of man in this one though I imagine he and Nicholas will get on well!
All in all, excellent fun and really worth a read!
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