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The Penn-Leiths of Thistle Muir #1
Love Practically
As a young woman, Leah Penn-Leith fell hopelessly in love with Captain Fox Carnegie—the only irrational mark on her decidedly sensible life. Fox, unfortunately, did not return her regard.
Their story should have ended there. After all, Fox left for India. And Leah returned home to Scotland to rear her much younger brothers.
But twenty years later, Fox appears on Leah’s doorstep—older, scarred, and world-weary—proposing a marriage of convenience between them. He needs a mother for his young ward, and Leah, with her capable good sense, comes highly recommended. What woman could say No to such a proposal? Not Leah. Fox has always wreaked havoc on her ability to think rationally.
But after their marriage, Leah confronts the chaotic reality of Fox’s life. His castle, ten miles up a rugged Highland glen, is shambolic. His ward, Madeline, is a precocious handful. Fox’s time in India is shrouded in rumor and mystery. Worst of all, Fox himself is distant and broken, his personality as altered as his scarred body.
Throughout it all, Leah is left with two questions: What happens to a woman after her most-cherished fantasy comes true? And can a marriage, begun in practicality, transform into something deeper? Something like . . . love.
Their story should have ended there. After all, Fox left for India. And Leah returned home to Scotland to rear her much younger brothers.
But twenty years later, Fox appears on Leah’s doorstep—older, scarred, and world-weary—proposing a marriage of convenience between them. He needs a mother for his young ward, and Leah, with her capable good sense, comes highly recommended. What woman could say No to such a proposal? Not Leah. Fox has always wreaked havoc on her ability to think rationally.
But after their marriage, Leah confronts the chaotic reality of Fox’s life. His castle, ten miles up a rugged Highland glen, is shambolic. His ward, Madeline, is a precocious handful. Fox’s time in India is shrouded in rumor and mystery. Worst of all, Fox himself is distant and broken, his personality as altered as his scarred body.
Throughout it all, Leah is left with two questions: What happens to a woman after her most-cherished fantasy comes true? And can a marriage, begun in practicality, transform into something deeper? Something like . . . love.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2022
494 people are currently reading
3148 people want to read
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March 9, 2024
There are times in every romance reader's life where one hate reads a book to the end, hoping against hope that the hero will redeem himself. And he doesn't.
Sadly, this book is one of those times.
The "hero" is an ass.
The heroine has been in love with the hero for 20 years. She met him. He talked to her and acknowledged her existence... and promptly forgot her three times. He met her, met her again, and met her again. And then 20 years later, met her again. All without remembering that he had already met her. Oh... and when he learns that they've met before and she's loved him the whole time, he uses it as a "see, you kept secrets too" moment. Asshole.
She makes his life great. He marries her to have a live-in servant who can't easily leave and that's what he gets. She manages his household, watches his ward, fixes his home, and gives him great sex... and he "gets her cheeks pink" with that sex and considers it a win. Oh... and he goes fishing.
She gives and gives and gives... and he ONE TIME brings her some servants so she can stop being a servant for her brother (cause he would like HIS servant back at HIS home... and not serving her brother while he's in mourning).
Ya, this douchebag is one of those romance "heroes" where I look forward to reading HER romance story with someone else when she's made a widow.
What a tool.
Oh... and he has secrets from her for 95% of the book and then confesses them at the end and there WAS NO REASON HE COULDN'T HAVE TOLD HER EARLIER.
Here are some quotes for you:
There are so many things that drove me crazy in this book.
1. What the crap was going on with the "women in my family go crazy after having their first child"? Uh, I get postpartum depression, but the trying to tear someone's eyes out, hurt others type of mental illness? I really don't understand. Did this author make up a type of mental illness to add a little sensationalism into the plot!? Cause, this does not seem probable. (Update: I have since been informed about postpartum psychosis... it is a real thing... but I'm still leery of how the author included the mental illness representation here)
2. Why would the author choose to have the heroine love a man who COULD NOT REMEMBER HER!? Even when she tells him the story, he's like "ya... that kind of thing happened a lot. It's no wonder I don't remember you".
3. The level of alcoholic/addict this dude was and he just cures himself by "deciding" to stay away from alcohol.
4. The hero's INANE keeping of secrets.
5. The heroine NEVER telling the hero off. She thought all sorts of things and I just wanted her to say them out loud. It was sooooo not satisfying. I wish the heroine wasn't such a doormat.
6. Who would want this hero? Like, seriously!? He's a douche bag to the heroine and when he realizes he loves her, the hero does not grovel. He is not believable AT ALL. I wouldn't trust him as far as I could throw him. I could see why he would love her (and he doesn't until the very end) but I could not see much in his life to make him lovable. Ya, he played with his ward from time to time... but a lot of the time, he hid away in his library and drank. And when he got better, he escaped through fishing. He had NO redeeming qualities!
Sadly, this book is one of those times.
The "hero" is an ass.
The heroine has been in love with the hero for 20 years. She met him. He talked to her and acknowledged her existence... and promptly forgot her three times. He met her, met her again, and met her again. And then 20 years later, met her again. All without remembering that he had already met her. Oh... and when he learns that they've met before and she's loved him the whole time, he uses it as a "see, you kept secrets too" moment. Asshole.
She makes his life great. He marries her to have a live-in servant who can't easily leave and that's what he gets. She manages his household, watches his ward, fixes his home, and gives him great sex... and he "gets her cheeks pink" with that sex and considers it a win. Oh... and he goes fishing.
She gives and gives and gives... and he ONE TIME brings her some servants so she can stop being a servant for her brother (cause he would like HIS servant back at HIS home... and not serving her brother while he's in mourning).
Ya, this douchebag is one of those romance "heroes" where I look forward to reading HER romance story with someone else when she's made a widow.
What a tool.
Oh... and he has secrets from her for 95% of the book and then confesses them at the end and there WAS NO REASON HE COULDN'T HAVE TOLD HER EARLIER.
Here are some quotes for you:
Fox Carnegie had scarcely remembered her twelve hours after their first conversation.
Fox appreciated Leah’s household management...
His household ran with seamless efficiency. Rooms were scrubbed and dusted, fires laid, clothing cleaned and pressed . . . all without Fox needing to spare a thought for it.... Fox filled his daylight hours with fishing...
There are so many things that drove me crazy in this book.
1. What the crap was going on with the "women in my family go crazy after having their first child"? Uh, I get postpartum depression, but the trying to tear someone's eyes out, hurt others type of mental illness? I really don't understand. Did this author make up a type of mental illness to add a little sensationalism into the plot!? Cause, this does not seem probable. (Update: I have since been informed about postpartum psychosis... it is a real thing... but I'm still leery of how the author included the mental illness representation here)
2. Why would the author choose to have the heroine love a man who COULD NOT REMEMBER HER!? Even when she tells him the story, he's like "ya... that kind of thing happened a lot. It's no wonder I don't remember you".
3. The level of alcoholic/addict this dude was and he just cures himself by "deciding" to stay away from alcohol.
4. The hero's INANE keeping of secrets.
5. The heroine NEVER telling the hero off. She thought all sorts of things and I just wanted her to say them out loud. It was sooooo not satisfying. I wish the heroine wasn't such a doormat.
6. Who would want this hero? Like, seriously!? He's a douche bag to the heroine and when he realizes he loves her, the hero does not grovel. He is not believable AT ALL. I wouldn't trust him as far as I could throw him. I could see why he would love her (and he doesn't until the very end) but I could not see much in his life to make him lovable. Ya, he played with his ward from time to time... but a lot of the time, he hid away in his library and drank. And when he got better, he escaped through fishing. He had NO redeeming qualities!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2024
Ehh not much love unfortunately.
The heroine was amazing and she deserved better than that lazy, always drunk bum of a hero. She married him because she wanted him but he married her because he needed a servant who couldn’t quit. It was not romantic, it was pathetic.
She was so good at housekeeping that he fell in love with her eventually. Yaay 🙄
The writing was still very good and it was a captivating read, but it didn’t have the magic of the first Brotherhood books.
CW: loss of a loved one, loss of a child, grief
The heroine was amazing and she deserved better than that lazy, always drunk bum of a hero. She married him because she wanted him but he married her because he needed a servant who couldn’t quit. It was not romantic, it was pathetic.
She was so good at housekeeping that he fell in love with her eventually. Yaay 🙄
The writing was still very good and it was a captivating read, but it didn’t have the magic of the first Brotherhood books.
CW: loss of a loved one, loss of a child, grief
July 22, 2023
This is a new to me author and I recommend this book and give it a 4.5* I would give it a 5* but the hero's realization of how fortunate he is coming rather deeply into the story. The plot and twists are well done. I enjoyed the message of living and loving even with loss is part of life that makes you a richer person. Looking forward to reading more by this author.
March 22, 2022
I just started reading Nichole Van books this year after putting them off for far too long, and I am here to tell you that I have since repented of my ways and plan to read more soon.
Love Practically is the story of a woman who has been cast as a "spinster" when she refuses to marry for convenience sake and lives out her days alone. It is the story of a fool hearty man who has been tricked and lied to and has a battle worn soul. ENTER: Marriage of convenience...because why not...the catch...they have met before...only he doesn't remember it.
THIS BOOK. It is full of heart and love and longing. Leah is a wonderful character and had me wondering at many points how Fox would ever be worthy of her affections. Van does such a good job balancing the need for intimacy and closed door which I thought was incredibly real and authentic to these characters in their marriage. The ages of Leah and Fox were also such a fresh take in historicals...proving its never too late to hold out for true love.
Love Practically is about learning to love and trust your heart to another, the willingness to be vulnerable and broken and to be brave enough to start life anew. I absolutely adored it and am incredibly excited for the next book in this series who have characters that already stole my heart.
Love Practically is the story of a woman who has been cast as a "spinster" when she refuses to marry for convenience sake and lives out her days alone. It is the story of a fool hearty man who has been tricked and lied to and has a battle worn soul. ENTER: Marriage of convenience...because why not...the catch...they have met before...only he doesn't remember it.
THIS BOOK. It is full of heart and love and longing. Leah is a wonderful character and had me wondering at many points how Fox would ever be worthy of her affections. Van does such a good job balancing the need for intimacy and closed door which I thought was incredibly real and authentic to these characters in their marriage. The ages of Leah and Fox were also such a fresh take in historicals...proving its never too late to hold out for true love.
Love Practically is about learning to love and trust your heart to another, the willingness to be vulnerable and broken and to be brave enough to start life anew. I absolutely adored it and am incredibly excited for the next book in this series who have characters that already stole my heart.
January 10, 2024
The reader self-sabotage is over: Finally read a Nichole Van book and, though the way I loved this just further shuns my foolish TBR procrastination, I hope to make up for it as a newly devoted fan. Let my precious sleep hours spent devouring this be my first offering.
She writes so good, my friends! How is this penned so effortlessly sweeping and transporting? How is she making you feel all that achy angst down to your bones? And that brogue? Absolutely no complaints about the writing here. Even the Author’s Notes were delicious (bit miffed I didn't know about her Daniel Craig hero cast until I was done reading- that would've been nice to know). Now I have a major backlist catch-up problem.
It’s interesting how I love to purport my love of broken, burdened, redemption-starved heroes, and yet, when Ms. Van is like “Hold my willow bark tea” and gives me stubbornly flawed Fox Carnegie, all I wanted to do was yell out “WILL YOU JUST RAGE AT HIM, LEAH!” As a hero-centric romance reader I find myself more forgiving to the emotionally stunted bumbler, but he really pushed my forbearance as he’s, not cruel, but so oblivious to her heart. Thankfully as long-suffering Miss Penn-Leith finally puts her proverbial foot down, things are revealed and, once he at length has his lightbulb moment, I was left feeling like there was shown enough rooted goodness in him to then warrant that his grovel and absolution were oh-so satisfying. All this to say, you’re going to probably want to pitch him into Corrie Finn for a minute there, but hang on.
This one’s for all the “invisible” girls long-time pining for a charmer that spared you a glance and made you feel seen, to then just walk away and delete you from his cerebral cortex. Twenty years later we get a one-sided second chance where he’s now life-trampled and desperate enough to be like “Too old and weary for courting. Sick of leaky roof and soggy sandwiches. I’m exhausted, can we just get hitched? So many birds, one stone.” You don’t blame her at all for getting on board, but none of us are prepared for such a bumpy ride. Dilapidated ancient castle, persistent secrets, old letters, hidden passages, Highland landscapes, uncanny mischiveous cat, all the angsty turmoil internal conflict plus threats of unrevealed secrets. I had such a good un-putdownable time with this. Such an amazing story of becoming each other’s safe haven in the storms of loss and grief (one can still rage and then be their safe haven, no? Ok, Leah’s a lot better than me).
I cannot fathom how one could not love those Penn-Leiths. On to searingly insightful, grieving Malcolm’s story.
Content notes: Kissing only. Preoccupation with consummation (discretion for younger audience). Married fade to black scene and allusions to further intimacy. Innuendo from village gossips. Hero is recovering addict, suffers from PTSD and alcoholism. Not a small amount of on page drunkenness. Some language: da*n, h*ll. Predominant theme of grief and loss. *MIGHT SPOIL* On page stillborn birth and maternal death for secondary character. Mention of unwed pregnancy by secondary characters.
She writes so good, my friends! How is this penned so effortlessly sweeping and transporting? How is she making you feel all that achy angst down to your bones? And that brogue? Absolutely no complaints about the writing here. Even the Author’s Notes were delicious (bit miffed I didn't know about her Daniel Craig hero cast until I was done reading- that would've been nice to know). Now I have a major backlist catch-up problem.
It’s interesting how I love to purport my love of broken, burdened, redemption-starved heroes, and yet, when Ms. Van is like “Hold my willow bark tea” and gives me stubbornly flawed Fox Carnegie, all I wanted to do was yell out “WILL YOU JUST RAGE AT HIM, LEAH!” As a hero-centric romance reader I find myself more forgiving to the emotionally stunted bumbler, but he really pushed my forbearance as he’s, not cruel, but so oblivious to her heart. Thankfully as long-suffering Miss Penn-Leith finally puts her proverbial foot down, things are revealed and, once he at length has his lightbulb moment, I was left feeling like there was shown enough rooted goodness in him to then warrant that his grovel and absolution were oh-so satisfying. All this to say, you’re going to probably want to pitch him into Corrie Finn for a minute there, but hang on.
This one’s for all the “invisible” girls long-time pining for a charmer that spared you a glance and made you feel seen, to then just walk away and delete you from his cerebral cortex. Twenty years later we get a one-sided second chance where he’s now life-trampled and desperate enough to be like “Too old and weary for courting. Sick of leaky roof and soggy sandwiches. I’m exhausted, can we just get hitched? So many birds, one stone.” You don’t blame her at all for getting on board, but none of us are prepared for such a bumpy ride. Dilapidated ancient castle, persistent secrets, old letters, hidden passages, Highland landscapes, uncanny mischiveous cat, all the angsty turmoil internal conflict plus threats of unrevealed secrets. I had such a good un-putdownable time with this. Such an amazing story of becoming each other’s safe haven in the storms of loss and grief (one can still rage and then be their safe haven, no? Ok, Leah’s a lot better than me).
I cannot fathom how one could not love those Penn-Leiths. On to searingly insightful, grieving Malcolm’s story.
Content notes: Kissing only. Preoccupation with consummation (discretion for younger audience). Married fade to black scene and allusions to further intimacy. Innuendo from village gossips. Hero is recovering addict, suffers from PTSD and alcoholism. Not a small amount of on page drunkenness. Some language: da*n, h*ll. Predominant theme of grief and loss. *MIGHT SPOIL* On page stillborn birth and maternal death for secondary character. Mention of unwed pregnancy by secondary characters.
March 2, 2022
Beautiful!
I jumped at the chance to read an advanced copy of this beautiful book. The cover definitely matches the lovely story found within the pages. In fact, I stayed up way too late reading and the woke up early to read some more before I had to get the kids off to school. I kept sneaking in reading as I went about my morning because I couldn't put the book down.
Story I jumped in without reading the synopsis, I love that I can trust Nichole's book so much that I can go in blind knowing I will enjoy the story. Anyway, Leah is a spinster at the age of thirty-eight. Never married, without any real prospects she agrees to a marriage of convenience with the dashing Captain Fox Carnegie. Fox needs someone in his life who can help manage his house, life and young ward Madeline and not pry into the secrets of his past.
Characters Leah is all that is likable in a character, humble, kind and speaks her mind. She is always putting others before herself and you just can't help but like her. Fox has some demons he is battling, but he is charming at times and also has a kind heart. I liked that both were older and more mature, life experience has given them wisdom and a different outlook on life than we usually get with younger leads.
And sweet Madeline, she was adorable and such a handful. As well as her charming cat!
Relationship Marriage of convenience stories always fascinate me. I like seeing a couple already married having to navigate getting to know each other and eventually falling in love. I thought the trope was handled very well in this one. Things are not easy or what either expected, but there is a very natural flow of their relationship that came across very believable. I had to throw them on my "favorite couple" shelf, because I love a book where the couple respect each other, are kind, of course have swoony moments and a believable love story. Fox and Leah had all those things.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this one. I laughed, I cried, I swooned. I will definitely be reading it again and am anticipating the next two books in the series!
Content Rated PG
Romance: Kissing, closed door intimacy between married couple
Language: Mild
Violence: Mild - talk of war, battle injuries
Other: Talk of substance abuse, drinking in excess
I jumped at the chance to read an advanced copy of this beautiful book. The cover definitely matches the lovely story found within the pages. In fact, I stayed up way too late reading and the woke up early to read some more before I had to get the kids off to school. I kept sneaking in reading as I went about my morning because I couldn't put the book down.
Story I jumped in without reading the synopsis, I love that I can trust Nichole's book so much that I can go in blind knowing I will enjoy the story. Anyway, Leah is a spinster at the age of thirty-eight. Never married, without any real prospects she agrees to a marriage of convenience with the dashing Captain Fox Carnegie. Fox needs someone in his life who can help manage his house, life and young ward Madeline and not pry into the secrets of his past.
Characters Leah is all that is likable in a character, humble, kind and speaks her mind. She is always putting others before herself and you just can't help but like her. Fox has some demons he is battling, but he is charming at times and also has a kind heart. I liked that both were older and more mature, life experience has given them wisdom and a different outlook on life than we usually get with younger leads.
And sweet Madeline, she was adorable and such a handful. As well as her charming cat!
Relationship Marriage of convenience stories always fascinate me. I like seeing a couple already married having to navigate getting to know each other and eventually falling in love. I thought the trope was handled very well in this one. Things are not easy or what either expected, but there is a very natural flow of their relationship that came across very believable. I had to throw them on my "favorite couple" shelf, because I love a book where the couple respect each other, are kind, of course have swoony moments and a believable love story. Fox and Leah had all those things.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this one. I laughed, I cried, I swooned. I will definitely be reading it again and am anticipating the next two books in the series!
Content Rated PG
Romance: Kissing, closed door intimacy between married couple
Language: Mild
Violence: Mild - talk of war, battle injuries
Other: Talk of substance abuse, drinking in excess
May 26, 2022
I am thrilled for a new series from this author, and was immediately swept away with the setting and characters in Love Practically. Leah and her brothers are close, and I loved how protective they are of her when she decides to take the opportunity to marry Fox, even though it's a marriage of convenience on his part. I was feeling all the feels as Leah serves and sacrifices in her new roles as wife, mother, and homemaker. Each character came to life with mannerisms and personalities that were vibrant and unique- even the cat! Such a heartrending story of love that grows through hardship and healing. I especially enjoyed the poetry that inspired the title of the book and the way it shifted as Leah's brothers saw her change from a woman who loves to a woman who is loved. This is a story I plan to read again, and I'm anxiously awaiting the next book!
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.
February 13, 2024
Yes.
But not really.
I mean… it got me so intrigued. I’m a few pages in and I can’t put the book down, I can’t wait to see what happens: will he remember at some point, will there be a epic love story somewhere hidden in this, what’s this secret we can’t know?
And then, there’s the monumental disappointment.
The writing style was flawless, but I craved more romance, more love, just more.
But not really.
I mean… it got me so intrigued. I’m a few pages in and I can’t put the book down, I can’t wait to see what happens: will he remember at some point, will there be a epic love story somewhere hidden in this, what’s this secret we can’t know?
And then, there’s the monumental disappointment.
The writing style was flawless, but I craved more romance, more love, just more.
December 18, 2023
This was beautifully done, a deeply emotional historical romance that I loved. Though at times I was so frustrated with the hero. He takes quite a while to realize what a treasure he has in Leah, but once he did, it was beautiful.
Loved the flow of the story and the gradual building pace. Characters were very well fleshed out, and the plot was clever with reveals at just the right time.
Loved the flow of the story and the gradual building pace. Characters were very well fleshed out, and the plot was clever with reveals at just the right time.
April 2, 2023
Reading this book felt like watching a period drama. The settings and characters are so vibrant, I felt like I was part of the story. Leah was a sweet character, and I felt for her as she struggled with the reality of her marriage looking completely different from her long hoped for dreams. I wasn’t sure I liked Fox much at first, but eventually you see there is a softness hidden inside him buried under heartache. The romance is slow-burn and slightly angsty, so for those who enjoy longing and pining in your romances, I think you'll be pleased with this.
There is plenty more to enjoy from this book, such as the close-knit relationship between Leah and her brothers, the mischievous cat and her adorable little owner, and an underlying mystery. I really enjoyed this book, and I definitely plan to read book 2 soon!
content notes:
mild language and innuendo, there is one closed-door intimate scene.
There is plenty more to enjoy from this book, such as the close-knit relationship between Leah and her brothers, the mischievous cat and her adorable little owner, and an underlying mystery. I really enjoyed this book, and I definitely plan to read book 2 soon!
content notes:
mild language and innuendo, there is one closed-door intimate scene.
October 14, 2022
Disappointing
**Slight spoilers ahead** I had high hopes at the start of this book. I liked that the characters were older, that Fox didn’t remember Leah and that Fox had a real problem and was an actual alcoholic. It lent some realism to the story and I was excited to read a romance that was a little different. It had a promising start, but unfortunately the execution ruined it for me. The writing is not bad, but I didn’t like a lot of the choices the author made and I didn’t end up believing the romance at the end. She did too good a job of showing how wrapped up Fox was in his own problems and how little he cared for or even thought of Leah. And this was for the whole first half of the book. I was waiting for there to be moments of camaraderie or for them to overcome something together to bring them closer … never really happened.
Leah knew him for two days at a house party and never forgot him. But after meeting again and marrying 20 years later, and seeing that the man she married does not match up with the fantasy of him she’d been dreaming of for 20 years, there was no real disillusionment on her part, which started to make it hard for me to relate to. Yes, she disapproved of his drinking, but I felt like he was still on a pedestal for her throughout the book, no matter how much he drank or how he treated her. The author tells us that Leah’s love for him changed from infatuation to true love, but as a reader, I didn’t experience it. As for Fox, he seemed content to mostly ignore her for most of the book and then when family tragedy sends her back to her brother’s house for a week, all of sudden Fox is all mopey and missing her because he realizes “I’m in love” - and I’m like SINCE WHEN?? Because I haven’t seen so much as mild regard up to this point. Their dynamic was all give on her part and take on his all the way until his love confession. And then it felt like the author tried to rectify that by making him take care of her in her grief after he says he loves her, but to me it was all out of order. Because for me to be believe he loves her, I should have seen it in his actions before he said the words. But I never saw him think of her, do things for her or consider her AT ALL.
Lastly, the conflict/Fox’s secret past was … meh. Like in most books, he made a huge deal out of the need for secrecy, and then when he finally shared the truth, it was sad but hardly needed to be this huge secret. And then it all got wrapped up and solved almost immediately after his confession, so it really just felt like a huge waste of time. All in all, it was a disappointing read for me.
**Slight spoilers ahead** I had high hopes at the start of this book. I liked that the characters were older, that Fox didn’t remember Leah and that Fox had a real problem and was an actual alcoholic. It lent some realism to the story and I was excited to read a romance that was a little different. It had a promising start, but unfortunately the execution ruined it for me. The writing is not bad, but I didn’t like a lot of the choices the author made and I didn’t end up believing the romance at the end. She did too good a job of showing how wrapped up Fox was in his own problems and how little he cared for or even thought of Leah. And this was for the whole first half of the book. I was waiting for there to be moments of camaraderie or for them to overcome something together to bring them closer … never really happened.
Leah knew him for two days at a house party and never forgot him. But after meeting again and marrying 20 years later, and seeing that the man she married does not match up with the fantasy of him she’d been dreaming of for 20 years, there was no real disillusionment on her part, which started to make it hard for me to relate to. Yes, she disapproved of his drinking, but I felt like he was still on a pedestal for her throughout the book, no matter how much he drank or how he treated her. The author tells us that Leah’s love for him changed from infatuation to true love, but as a reader, I didn’t experience it. As for Fox, he seemed content to mostly ignore her for most of the book and then when family tragedy sends her back to her brother’s house for a week, all of sudden Fox is all mopey and missing her because he realizes “I’m in love” - and I’m like SINCE WHEN?? Because I haven’t seen so much as mild regard up to this point. Their dynamic was all give on her part and take on his all the way until his love confession. And then it felt like the author tried to rectify that by making him take care of her in her grief after he says he loves her, but to me it was all out of order. Because for me to be believe he loves her, I should have seen it in his actions before he said the words. But I never saw him think of her, do things for her or consider her AT ALL.
Lastly, the conflict/Fox’s secret past was … meh. Like in most books, he made a huge deal out of the need for secrecy, and then when he finally shared the truth, it was sad but hardly needed to be this huge secret. And then it all got wrapped up and solved almost immediately after his confession, so it really just felt like a huge waste of time. All in all, it was a disappointing read for me.
October 3, 2023
4.25 swoony ⭐️
This story, the audio was perfection! I loved the Scottish accents and such and how Fox was called Sassenach (I know it means basically foreigner), but being an Outlander fan I loved it none the less. This hero was super grumpy and an alcoholic—to numb the immense pain he was in both physically from war and pain in his heart. I loved this marriage of convenience and the fact that they were late 30’s & 40’s. This was a clean romance, not one that I gravitate towards, but I loved it! Fed my soul!!
“Thirty-eight years old, and she had never known the touch of a man’s lips. And now, unless Fox had a change of heart about the terms of their marriage, she never would, as she intended to be a true and faithful wife to him.”
This story, the audio was perfection! I loved the Scottish accents and such and how Fox was called Sassenach (I know it means basically foreigner), but being an Outlander fan I loved it none the less. This hero was super grumpy and an alcoholic—to numb the immense pain he was in both physically from war and pain in his heart. I loved this marriage of convenience and the fact that they were late 30’s & 40’s. This was a clean romance, not one that I gravitate towards, but I loved it! Fed my soul!!
“Thirty-eight years old, and she had never known the touch of a man’s lips. And now, unless Fox had a change of heart about the terms of their marriage, she never would, as she intended to be a true and faithful wife to him.”
February 8, 2024
Very caring heroine gives to everyone. The H is a wreck, and while they met briefly years before, he does not remember her. He set his expectations for her, uses her as a convenience. She accepts it until she can't. Great writing, lots of tragic people felt very real to me. Great story.
May 5, 2023
Reread:
Gahhh this book hits me in the feels every single time. I don’t know how it manages to hurt your heart and put it back together at the very same time!
Gahhh this book hits me in the feels every single time. I don’t know how it manages to hurt your heart and put it back together at the very same time!
April 25, 2022
The writing was pretty good and I enjoyed the occasional flashes of humor as well as the plot setup, but it felt a bit long, with more angst than I prefer.
May 30, 2025
I loved it. It’s my absolute favorite trope. And it’s Scottish. And there’s a castle. And a scallywag of a cat. 😂
April 6, 2022
Probably my least favorite from this author. The first 2/3 was depressing and I didn’t like either MC very much. I especially disliked Fox. He was self-absorbed, undisciplined, an alcoholic, and in general most things I don’t admire in a man. I thought Leah was a better person, but she was just a pathetic creature. It’s sad that probably many women lived this kind of unfulfilled life, getting married to a dud of a man. But this is supposed to be a romance! Not literary fiction where we bemoan the injustice of the past. There is a time and place for that, but I read romance to *escape* the depressing stuff. And I just found most of the book depressing, from the little girl starved for attention to the lazy drunkard who wouldn’t give it to her. The final third of the book picked up and was better, but I was wary of the characters by then, and didn’t fully believe in a long-lasting HEA. The book wasn’t poorly written, just not for me.
March 8, 2022
Such a wonderful romance:} Make sure you check out Van's Pinterest bord for all things Penn-Leiths. This is a start of what is going to be a very good series! The Highlands are just the best place to set a book. This is set in an old castle where Captain Fox has gone to raise his ward and rest from life. Little does he know that Leah lives here, someone who has thought of him for the last 20 years with fondness. When an arraigned marriage with her sounds like the best plan for his life, the story that follows is as sweet as it is heartbreaking. I was swept up and away with them in their battle to overcome old scars and learn to love and heal.
March 24, 2022
Amazing, amazing, amazing! I don't have words to make it justice.
April 1, 2025
Heartwarming story.
March 9, 2022
If I’m going to review a Nichole Van book, I’m going to need Instagram/GoodReads/Amazon/BookBub etc. to give me more character spaces.
I love her books so much. They are gritty, and real and will tear your heart apart then put it nicely back together and leave you better than it found you.
Leah is a saint and deserves to be on your favorite main character list. Fox, is a very fitting name for this character and despite how broken this man is you can’t help but love him...and want to slap him a time or two ;) Mr. Dandylion McFluffles…I’m just going to let you discover that one on your own lol. The Penn-Leiths of Thistle Muir have one of the best book family connections that I’ve ever read and cannot wait to get each and every one of their stories. The secrets and puzzle pieces thrown out here-and-there are distributed so perfectly that you won’t be putting this book down anytime soon! The romance is top notch…there were so many well placed teasing confessional dialogue slips between these two characters that I loved every head snap in realization, blush and declaration. You will cry, you will cheer, you will want to slap a few characters and hug a few characters. If you’ve ever read a Nichole Van book you know exactly what I’m talking about and if this is your first, let me be the first to welcome you to the Nichole Van fan club! It is a great place to be!
Trigger warnings: death of close family members, grief, infidelity/betrayal, alcoholism, opioid addiction, war flashbacks, and mental illness.
Content warnings: moderate amount of biblical swears-it does take place in Scotland so you’ve been warned. Consummation and intimacy between a married couple-nothing descriptive but there is mention of it several times.
**If you have any questions regarding the level of trigger/content warnings please DM me! I’m always happy to chat**
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
I love her books so much. They are gritty, and real and will tear your heart apart then put it nicely back together and leave you better than it found you.
Leah is a saint and deserves to be on your favorite main character list. Fox, is a very fitting name for this character and despite how broken this man is you can’t help but love him...and want to slap him a time or two ;) Mr. Dandylion McFluffles…I’m just going to let you discover that one on your own lol. The Penn-Leiths of Thistle Muir have one of the best book family connections that I’ve ever read and cannot wait to get each and every one of their stories. The secrets and puzzle pieces thrown out here-and-there are distributed so perfectly that you won’t be putting this book down anytime soon! The romance is top notch…there were so many well placed teasing confessional dialogue slips between these two characters that I loved every head snap in realization, blush and declaration. You will cry, you will cheer, you will want to slap a few characters and hug a few characters. If you’ve ever read a Nichole Van book you know exactly what I’m talking about and if this is your first, let me be the first to welcome you to the Nichole Van fan club! It is a great place to be!
Trigger warnings: death of close family members, grief, infidelity/betrayal, alcoholism, opioid addiction, war flashbacks, and mental illness.
Content warnings: moderate amount of biblical swears-it does take place in Scotland so you’ve been warned. Consummation and intimacy between a married couple-nothing descriptive but there is mention of it several times.
**If you have any questions regarding the level of trigger/content warnings please DM me! I’m always happy to chat**
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
March 24, 2022
Thank you to the author for an eARC.
BEAUTIFUL.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I love that moment when you feel deeply connected to a book. This was that read for me. This was the marriage of convenience trope taken to astronomical levels. Where two souls really did fight there way to be together amidst multiple hardships.
Leah and Fox were both main characters I loved. Also dual POV is always superior and I will not be accepting other opinions at this time. Getting to know both of their backgrounds and where they crossed brought all of the unrequited pining. Brought the slow burn of realizing a connection. Brought those all out moments, when the rain is pouring and you just need them to know you care. I couldn’t get enough of every interaction and even when I wanted to shake both characters, I understood. I knew where they were coming from and that ultimate resolution had my heart souring.
I somehow fell in love with a cat too? Playing a large roll in the side character cast he brought the house down, almost literally. I adored him and the spunky 5 year old who absolutely stole my heart. Sometimes kids rock the book in a way that’s aggravating, this was never the case here. Madeline was the best kind of soft addition this story needed.
There were great moments and conversations that I love seeing. Allowing for progression of not only the plot, but the characters. This novel is romantic, it’s heart-breaking, and soul-binding. I am completely in love with Van’s writing and how she brings a story to life.
Overall audience notes:
= Historical romance
= Language: very little
= Romance: closed door (between a married couple)
= Trigger/Content Warnings: alcoholism, PTSD, suicide, death from childbirth, stillborn
BEAUTIFUL.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I love that moment when you feel deeply connected to a book. This was that read for me. This was the marriage of convenience trope taken to astronomical levels. Where two souls really did fight there way to be together amidst multiple hardships.
Leah and Fox were both main characters I loved. Also dual POV is always superior and I will not be accepting other opinions at this time. Getting to know both of their backgrounds and where they crossed brought all of the unrequited pining. Brought the slow burn of realizing a connection. Brought those all out moments, when the rain is pouring and you just need them to know you care. I couldn’t get enough of every interaction and even when I wanted to shake both characters, I understood. I knew where they were coming from and that ultimate resolution had my heart souring.
I somehow fell in love with a cat too? Playing a large roll in the side character cast he brought the house down, almost literally. I adored him and the spunky 5 year old who absolutely stole my heart. Sometimes kids rock the book in a way that’s aggravating, this was never the case here. Madeline was the best kind of soft addition this story needed.
There were great moments and conversations that I love seeing. Allowing for progression of not only the plot, but the characters. This novel is romantic, it’s heart-breaking, and soul-binding. I am completely in love with Van’s writing and how she brings a story to life.
Overall audience notes:
= Historical romance
= Language: very little
= Romance: closed door (between a married couple)
= Trigger/Content Warnings: alcoholism, PTSD, suicide, death from childbirth, stillborn
February 24, 2023
It's actually been months since I read this book but I still remember how AMAZING it was and the emotions it made me go through. 💜-⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This story in particular gripped my heart with not only the character's stories but how each one was dealt and weaved together.
We often tend to see marriage as a path to HEA and it is but it does not show how much hardwork has to be put into it for the characters to achieve that Happily ever after!
This book was full of LONGING and REALITY , I was amazed at how well the struggles, heart of Leah and Fox was written. I truthfully wasn't convinced until halfway that Fox deserved Leah's Love but It also taught me that ri8 there is the point.
It's not just about them deserving it, it's all about giving it your full in all truth .
Ohh the emotions i went through, my heart was longing for each one of them.🥺
In India, still to date people get married just not be a burden to the family and the weight of that pressure on the unmarried is heavy .. I could fully understand why Leah wanted this Marriage of Convenience.
I love how tight Knit Leah's family was
The ending with Fox and Leah getting it all together made my heart sore with love for everything they went through to get here 💖
Their romance was perfection ✨
This book is about being vulnerable, a heart open to LIVE again, second chances in life not just love , being broken and honest, facing your struggles.🤍💜
On top of it all, the characters ages were mature and the historical Scottish setting is balm to this historic soul
✨ I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good story, mature characters, historical setting and a MOC in mix with a second chance ✨
I love everything this book portrayed 🤍
This story in particular gripped my heart with not only the character's stories but how each one was dealt and weaved together.
We often tend to see marriage as a path to HEA and it is but it does not show how much hardwork has to be put into it for the characters to achieve that Happily ever after!
This book was full of LONGING and REALITY , I was amazed at how well the struggles, heart of Leah and Fox was written. I truthfully wasn't convinced until halfway that Fox deserved Leah's Love but It also taught me that ri8 there is the point.
It's not just about them deserving it, it's all about giving it your full in all truth .
Ohh the emotions i went through, my heart was longing for each one of them.🥺
In India, still to date people get married just not be a burden to the family and the weight of that pressure on the unmarried is heavy .. I could fully understand why Leah wanted this Marriage of Convenience.
I love how tight Knit Leah's family was
The ending with Fox and Leah getting it all together made my heart sore with love for everything they went through to get here 💖
Their romance was perfection ✨
This book is about being vulnerable, a heart open to LIVE again, second chances in life not just love , being broken and honest, facing your struggles.🤍💜
On top of it all, the characters ages were mature and the historical Scottish setting is balm to this historic soul
✨ I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good story, mature characters, historical setting and a MOC in mix with a second chance ✨
I love everything this book portrayed 🤍
March 22, 2022
Oh my swooniness. Nichole Van has just taken the whole genre of sweet and swoony historical romance to a whole new level. I adored everything about this story - this book has my heart!
Leah is a spinster at age 38 so when Fox Carnegie proposes a marriage of convenience, she decides to accept. Part because she doesn't want to be alone but also because she has been carrying a crush for Fox for 20 years...though he doesn't even remember them meeting.
Both Fox and Leah long for something more but there are obstacles in their way (ie mostly Fox!) but I loved the way their relationship progressed. It had ups and downs like relationships do in real life but theirs is a beautiful story of being vulnerable and taking a chance, of putting your trust in someone else that they will stay by your side through it all.
The chemistry and tension between Fox and Leah was epic and though there was passionate kissing and talk of intimacy, everything was closed door and tastefully done with I appreciated.
This is only the first book in the series but I am already hooked and can't wait to read the rest. I cannot recommend Nichole Van's books enough!
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
Leah is a spinster at age 38 so when Fox Carnegie proposes a marriage of convenience, she decides to accept. Part because she doesn't want to be alone but also because she has been carrying a crush for Fox for 20 years...though he doesn't even remember them meeting.
Both Fox and Leah long for something more but there are obstacles in their way (ie mostly Fox!) but I loved the way their relationship progressed. It had ups and downs like relationships do in real life but theirs is a beautiful story of being vulnerable and taking a chance, of putting your trust in someone else that they will stay by your side through it all.
The chemistry and tension between Fox and Leah was epic and though there was passionate kissing and talk of intimacy, everything was closed door and tastefully done with I appreciated.
This is only the first book in the series but I am already hooked and can't wait to read the rest. I cannot recommend Nichole Van's books enough!
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
March 23, 2022
Where do I sign up for a castle in Scotland?
Nichole Van is a writer whose writing ignites something deep in my soul. Not only can I vividly picture the settings, but I can conjure up realistic images of the characters as well. Her lyrical words bring the story to life and I don't want to escape the pages.
I took a DNA test a few years ago and I was shocked to see my latest composition--I'm more than 1/3 Scottish and now all things Scotland speak to me more than ever. Fox's bumbling imperfections and searching/longing nature caught my interest almost as much as Leah's steady and capable inclinations. Add to that Mr. Dandy (a slightly terrifying cat) and Madeline (a precocious child) and some seriously slow-burn swoony moments, and I was hooked.
I sank deep into this story, in every good and bad moment. There was a bit of a mystery, along with a gamut full of emotion, and a castle full of chemistry. I'm sooo excited to see this will be a series and can't wait to visit again--it was that good.
Content: mild language; mild+ romance (swoon and slight innuendo between a married couple); very mild descriptions of violence (war-type)
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Nichole Van is a writer whose writing ignites something deep in my soul. Not only can I vividly picture the settings, but I can conjure up realistic images of the characters as well. Her lyrical words bring the story to life and I don't want to escape the pages.
I took a DNA test a few years ago and I was shocked to see my latest composition--I'm more than 1/3 Scottish and now all things Scotland speak to me more than ever. Fox's bumbling imperfections and searching/longing nature caught my interest almost as much as Leah's steady and capable inclinations. Add to that Mr. Dandy (a slightly terrifying cat) and Madeline (a precocious child) and some seriously slow-burn swoony moments, and I was hooked.
I sank deep into this story, in every good and bad moment. There was a bit of a mystery, along with a gamut full of emotion, and a castle full of chemistry. I'm sooo excited to see this will be a series and can't wait to visit again--it was that good.
Content: mild language; mild+ romance (swoon and slight innuendo between a married couple); very mild descriptions of violence (war-type)
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
March 25, 2022
Very disappointed with Fox’s vice
I love this author. When she comes out with a new book I always stop reading whatever else I’m currently reading and immediately pick her book up. This story started so intriguing with a prologue that really catches you off guard and reels you in. But after the first couple chapters the tension started straining the story. I’m about 60% into the story and I really don’t feel like finishing it.
Slight SPOILER: Don’t get me wrong, the unsolved mystery element of it is intriguing BUT the main character Fox has a drinking problem. And it’s just more and more about his drinking problem. Like taking over the story because it is so serious. I have no doubt that the story will eventually turn around and get better but it’s just too much- man drinking until drunk all alone, then men drinking happily together until drunk. So it’s just kind of ruined the story for me. Super bummer.
Rating: PG-13, mild language, excessive drinking until completely drunk- mostly shown in a negative light but a few times shown as acceptable celebration drinking.
I love this author. When she comes out with a new book I always stop reading whatever else I’m currently reading and immediately pick her book up. This story started so intriguing with a prologue that really catches you off guard and reels you in. But after the first couple chapters the tension started straining the story. I’m about 60% into the story and I really don’t feel like finishing it.
Slight SPOILER: Don’t get me wrong, the unsolved mystery element of it is intriguing BUT the main character Fox has a drinking problem. And it’s just more and more about his drinking problem. Like taking over the story because it is so serious. I have no doubt that the story will eventually turn around and get better but it’s just too much- man drinking until drunk all alone, then men drinking happily together until drunk. So it’s just kind of ruined the story for me. Super bummer.
Rating: PG-13, mild language, excessive drinking until completely drunk- mostly shown in a negative light but a few times shown as acceptable celebration drinking.
November 7, 2024
5 stars.
Recommending this to everyone. All of my favorite tropes, wrapped up in the Scottish highlands. The character depth and development 👌🏼 if you like pride and prejudice or outlander.
Content: closed door, mild language, death of family members
Tropes: Marriage of convenience, she falls first
Recommending this to everyone. All of my favorite tropes, wrapped up in the Scottish highlands. The character depth and development 👌🏼 if you like pride and prejudice or outlander.
Content: closed door, mild language, death of family members
Tropes: Marriage of convenience, she falls first
September 7, 2023
A sweet historical romance with a believable forced marriage leading to love trope. I thought Leah was way too good for Fox, and was just quite frankly obsessed with him to an almost unhealthy level (if that makes any sense). This was worth the read, but not memorable or unique to me.
June 20, 2025
3.5 historical stars for this MOC story. Retired and injured veteran with substance abuse issues marries a practical, hard-working Scottish gal who whips his decrepit and isolated household (castle) into shape. Leah mothers Fox’s wild and willful ward despite her misgivings about the child’s parentage. Mistrust and half secrets shape their marriage which bumbles along until a tragedy separates them for a brief time. All is well in the end.
This is a sweet tale with only tinges of romance and maybe two fade-to-black love scenes.
I was not crazy about the narrator, but I didn’t bail, so that’s saying something.
This is a sweet tale with only tinges of romance and maybe two fade-to-black love scenes.
I was not crazy about the narrator, but I didn’t bail, so that’s saying something.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2025
4.5 stars
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