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A Series of Worthy Young Ladies #2
The Sprinter
A Baffled Lord and a Bolting Lady!
Six highly placed matrons mourn their lack of daughters until they devise a scheme to launch eligible girls in need of assistance, and so The Society of Sponsoring Ladies is born.
Miss Grace Yardley, daughter of the deceased Viscount Barlow, has been relegated to the dilapidated dower house of Barlow Hall with her sickly mother. She is certain Lady Barlow cannot survive long in those leaking and drafty rooms, but she sees no way out. For a moment, it seemed they had been thrown a life ring, by way of a certain Lady Heathway who wished to sponsor Grace for a London season. Unfortunately, Lady Barlow is not well enough to manage on her own and the invitation is regretfully declined.
George Wade, Viscount Gresham and nephew to Lady Heathway, is well-used to his aunt calling upon him for a small favor. Often the favors turn out not so small, and this latest is no exception. He'd been under the impression that they only traveled to Kent to collect Miss Yardley, her latest project. Instead, he discovers on arrival that they will practically kidnap the girl away from her ailing mother.
As Lady Heathway never retreats from battle, Lady Barlow's objections are overcome and Grace is taken to London. However, sickly Lady Barlow is not willing to wave the white flag altogether and Grace's mind and heart are pulled in two different directions-should she stay in London or return to Kent?
Viscount Gresham will find himself trying to save the family from scandal, or as he thinks of "How to stop The Sprinter from sprinting." He may well find his hands full in the effort, as Miss Yardley proves to be a rather impossible lady.
A Series of Worthy Young Ladies The Meddler The Sprinter The Undaunted The Champion The Jilter The Royal
Six highly placed matrons mourn their lack of daughters until they devise a scheme to launch eligible girls in need of assistance, and so The Society of Sponsoring Ladies is born.
Miss Grace Yardley, daughter of the deceased Viscount Barlow, has been relegated to the dilapidated dower house of Barlow Hall with her sickly mother. She is certain Lady Barlow cannot survive long in those leaking and drafty rooms, but she sees no way out. For a moment, it seemed they had been thrown a life ring, by way of a certain Lady Heathway who wished to sponsor Grace for a London season. Unfortunately, Lady Barlow is not well enough to manage on her own and the invitation is regretfully declined.
George Wade, Viscount Gresham and nephew to Lady Heathway, is well-used to his aunt calling upon him for a small favor. Often the favors turn out not so small, and this latest is no exception. He'd been under the impression that they only traveled to Kent to collect Miss Yardley, her latest project. Instead, he discovers on arrival that they will practically kidnap the girl away from her ailing mother.
As Lady Heathway never retreats from battle, Lady Barlow's objections are overcome and Grace is taken to London. However, sickly Lady Barlow is not willing to wave the white flag altogether and Grace's mind and heart are pulled in two different directions-should she stay in London or return to Kent?
Viscount Gresham will find himself trying to save the family from scandal, or as he thinks of "How to stop The Sprinter from sprinting." He may well find his hands full in the effort, as Miss Yardley proves to be a rather impossible lady.
A Series of Worthy Young Ladies The Meddler The Sprinter The Undaunted The Champion The Jilter The Royal
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About the author
Kate Archer
22 books98 followersBy the time I was eleven, my Irish Nana and I had formed a book club of sorts. On a timetable only known to herself, Nana would grab her blackthorn walking stick and steam down to the local Woolworth’s. There, she would buy the latest Barbara Cartland romance, hurry home to read it accompanied by viciously strong wine, (Wild Irish Rose, if you’re wondering) and then pass the book on to me. Though I was not particularly interested in real boys yet, I was very interested in the gentlemen in those stories—daring, bold, and often enraging and unaccountable. After my Barbara Cartland phase, I went on to Georgette Heyer, Jane Austen and so many other gifted authors blessed with the ability to bring the Georgian and Regency eras to life.
I would like nothing more than to time travel back to the Regency (and time travel back to my twenties as long as we’re going somewhere) to take my chances at a ball. Who would take the first? Who would escort me into supper? What sort of meaningful looks would be exchanged? I would hope, having made the trip, to encounter a gentleman who would give me a very hard time. He ought to be vexatious in the extreme, and worth every vexation, to make the journey worthwhile.
I most likely won’t be able to work out the time travel gambit, so I will content myself with writing stories of adventure and romance in my beloved time period. There are lives to be created, marvelous gowns to wear, jewels to don, instant attractions that inevitably come with a difficulty, and hearts to break before putting them back together again. In traditional Regency fashion, my stories are clean—the action happens in a drawing room, rather than a bedroom.
As I muse over what will happen next to my H and h, and wish I were there with them, I will occasionally remind myself that it’s also nice to have a microwave, Netflix, cheese popcorn, and steaming hot showers.
Come see me on Facebook - @KateArcherAuthor or visit my website at https://katearcher.weebly.com
I would like nothing more than to time travel back to the Regency (and time travel back to my twenties as long as we’re going somewhere) to take my chances at a ball. Who would take the first? Who would escort me into supper? What sort of meaningful looks would be exchanged? I would hope, having made the trip, to encounter a gentleman who would give me a very hard time. He ought to be vexatious in the extreme, and worth every vexation, to make the journey worthwhile.
I most likely won’t be able to work out the time travel gambit, so I will content myself with writing stories of adventure and romance in my beloved time period. There are lives to be created, marvelous gowns to wear, jewels to don, instant attractions that inevitably come with a difficulty, and hearts to break before putting them back together again. In traditional Regency fashion, my stories are clean—the action happens in a drawing room, rather than a bedroom.
As I muse over what will happen next to my H and h, and wish I were there with them, I will occasionally remind myself that it’s also nice to have a microwave, Netflix, cheese popcorn, and steaming hot showers.
Come see me on Facebook - @KateArcherAuthor or visit my website at https://katearcher.weebly.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
April 25, 2022
A group of highborn matrons, daughterless, start a society to sponsor young ladies through their seasons. Now it is the turn of Lady Heathway, whose chosen girl, Grace, is perfectly well-mannered and well-qualified – now if only she wouldn’t persist in running home!
Archer has delivered again with an amusing Regency romance. This is the second book in the series and can be read as a standalone, though I enjoyed the humorous references to the first book. The main characters, Grace and George, are engaging, the side characters memorable, and the plot nice and low angst. Again I appreciated how gently the author handled characters who could have easily been thought ridiculous.
However, this gentle lack of plot does work against the book sometimes, as some sections such as the mystery dinner felt like padding for the word count. I again wish the romance was more ardent – not necessarily steam, as this is not the author’s style – but more of what drew the characters to each other. I also found the butler interludes less interesting this time round, because they did not really add to the plot.
A sweet clean Regency read, and I am excited to have read that Lady Easton has picked up a protégée of her own for the next book!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Archer has delivered again with an amusing Regency romance. This is the second book in the series and can be read as a standalone, though I enjoyed the humorous references to the first book. The main characters, Grace and George, are engaging, the side characters memorable, and the plot nice and low angst. Again I appreciated how gently the author handled characters who could have easily been thought ridiculous.
However, this gentle lack of plot does work against the book sometimes, as some sections such as the mystery dinner felt like padding for the word count. I again wish the romance was more ardent – not necessarily steam, as this is not the author’s style – but more of what drew the characters to each other. I also found the butler interludes less interesting this time round, because they did not really add to the plot.
A sweet clean Regency read, and I am excited to have read that Lady Easton has picked up a protégée of her own for the next book!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
July 10, 2022
A sweet historical romance, “The Sprinter” picks up shortly after the first book ends.
Read full review in the 2022 Summer issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2022 Summer issue of InD'tale Magazine.
April 29, 2022
A sweet story that will bring a smile to your face!
I love the premise of this series, with a group of matrons of the ton, make their project to launch girls into society that need a little extra help!
Grace fits that scenario perfectly. She and her mother are left at the dower house once the new lord moves into the manor house. It seems that her mother is ill and Grace does not want to leave her, when she is approached to come to London for a season.
George is the nephew of the patroness that will sponsor Grace, and it seems it is going to be a trial to keep her focus off running back to her mother!
But you just never know how an attraction might just happen as these two spend time together!
I love the premise of this series, with a group of matrons of the ton, make their project to launch girls into society that need a little extra help!
Grace fits that scenario perfectly. She and her mother are left at the dower house once the new lord moves into the manor house. It seems that her mother is ill and Grace does not want to leave her, when she is approached to come to London for a season.
George is the nephew of the patroness that will sponsor Grace, and it seems it is going to be a trial to keep her focus off running back to her mother!
But you just never know how an attraction might just happen as these two spend time together!
April 29, 2022
Six highly placed matrons mourn their lack of daughters until they devise a scheme to launch eligible girls in need of assistance, and so The Society of Sponsoring Ladies is born.
Miss Grace Yardley, daughter of the deceased Viscount Barlow, has been relegated to the dilapidated dower house of Barlow Hall with her sickly mother. She is certain Lady Barlow cannot survive long in those leaking and drafty rooms, but she sees no way out. Then she receives a letter from Lady Heathway who wishes to sponsor Grace for a London season. Unfortunately, Lady Barlow is not well enough to manage on her own and the invitation is regretfully declined. George Wade, Viscount Gresham and nephew to Lady Heathway, is well-used to his aunt calling upon him for a small favour. Often the favours turn out not so small, and this latest is no exception. He’d been under the impression that they only travelled to Kent to collect Miss Yardley, her latest project. Instead, he discovers on arrival that they will practically kidnap the girl away from her ailing mother.
This is the second book in the series & is easily read on its own. A well written light easy read that had lots of humour & it often had me laughing. I really liked both George & Grace who whilst attracted to each other misunderstandings didn’t help their burgeoning romance, whilst there was chemistry between the pair I would have liked them to have expressed their growing feelings to themselves & more time spent with both George & grace. At times they felt like secondary characters. I really liked Lady Heathway who underneath the stern exterior had a heart of gold.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Miss Grace Yardley, daughter of the deceased Viscount Barlow, has been relegated to the dilapidated dower house of Barlow Hall with her sickly mother. She is certain Lady Barlow cannot survive long in those leaking and drafty rooms, but she sees no way out. Then she receives a letter from Lady Heathway who wishes to sponsor Grace for a London season. Unfortunately, Lady Barlow is not well enough to manage on her own and the invitation is regretfully declined. George Wade, Viscount Gresham and nephew to Lady Heathway, is well-used to his aunt calling upon him for a small favour. Often the favours turn out not so small, and this latest is no exception. He’d been under the impression that they only travelled to Kent to collect Miss Yardley, her latest project. Instead, he discovers on arrival that they will practically kidnap the girl away from her ailing mother.
This is the second book in the series & is easily read on its own. A well written light easy read that had lots of humour & it often had me laughing. I really liked both George & Grace who whilst attracted to each other misunderstandings didn’t help their burgeoning romance, whilst there was chemistry between the pair I would have liked them to have expressed their growing feelings to themselves & more time spent with both George & grace. At times they felt like secondary characters. I really liked Lady Heathway who underneath the stern exterior had a heart of gold.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
May 11, 2022
This book is full of charm, wit and humor. The Society of Sponsoring Ladies is at it again.
Lady Heathway has found her "daughter." Grace Barlow and her mother Lady Barlow where kicked out of their home by the new heir. Living in the ramshackled Dowager house, nothing could be more dim. Lady Barlow needs constant care, or so she thinks. Grace refuses Lady Heathway's offer in order to take care of her mother. Lady Heathway does not take "No" for an answer. Dragging her nephew George, Viscount Gresham along, Lady Heathway does not waste any time going to the village to pick up Grace. Returning to London, George thinks Grace needs to wait until her second season to find a husband. Grace finds his comments offensive. A letter from her mother sends Grace climbing out her bedroom window to return to see her. Mr. Jacobs sees her climbing out of the window and shot at by the neurotic butler, Ranston. Mr. Jacobs starts calling Grace "the Sprinter." George blunders his way trying to keep Grace for himself. He needs to make up his mind when Grace is tricked and sprints again. George comes to the rescue. You never know what will happen next.
A clean romance with laugh out loud moments!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Lady Heathway has found her "daughter." Grace Barlow and her mother Lady Barlow where kicked out of their home by the new heir. Living in the ramshackled Dowager house, nothing could be more dim. Lady Barlow needs constant care, or so she thinks. Grace refuses Lady Heathway's offer in order to take care of her mother. Lady Heathway does not take "No" for an answer. Dragging her nephew George, Viscount Gresham along, Lady Heathway does not waste any time going to the village to pick up Grace. Returning to London, George thinks Grace needs to wait until her second season to find a husband. Grace finds his comments offensive. A letter from her mother sends Grace climbing out her bedroom window to return to see her. Mr. Jacobs sees her climbing out of the window and shot at by the neurotic butler, Ranston. Mr. Jacobs starts calling Grace "the Sprinter." George blunders his way trying to keep Grace for himself. He needs to make up his mind when Grace is tricked and sprints again. George comes to the rescue. You never know what will happen next.
A clean romance with laugh out loud moments!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
May 3, 2022
A hilarious Regency romance with many laugh-out-loud moments, this book had me in stitches at times. When The Society of Sponsoring Ladies pick on Miss Grace Yardley as their next project to launch into society, she really did not know what she was in for. Neither did Viscount Gresham when his aunt asked for one little favor. Used to his aunt's machinations, George feels it is his duty to warn Grace about the pitfalls ahead of her. Unfortunately, she does not see things that way. Between Lady Heathway, her own mother, and George, Grace feels herself being pulled apart and when her mother sends a wailing missive about her deteriorating health, Grace feels she has no alternative but to go to her rescue, thus earning her the unwanted nickname, The Sprinter. Fortunately, George comes to his senses and despite the misunderstandings that have plagued the couple, the novel comes to a happy and cheerful conclusion, but not without the beleaguered butler getting in one last fainting spell. I received a copy of this novel as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
April 28, 2022
3.5 stars
This series presents a very cute premise. A group of ton ladies who did not have girls have decided to sponsor young ladies who are otherwise unable to have a season. In the Sprinter, a Viscount's daughter, stuck in a leaking dowager house with her mom, is brought to London to marry, which will allow them to escape their unfortunate circumstances.
This story is a closed door, very light romance. There is a lot of warmth in the writing, and would be a nice comfort read, despite some issues.
Unfortunately, the story would benefit from an expert editor. There are general writing issues as having passages where the reader is unable to identify exactly who the characters are referring to, to more significant disjointed storyline and gaps in the action. With the variety of characters and personalities in the story, the heroine is not a well developed character -- she is almost a side character to the Ton ladies and the hero.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for access to an Advanced Reader's Copy.
This series presents a very cute premise. A group of ton ladies who did not have girls have decided to sponsor young ladies who are otherwise unable to have a season. In the Sprinter, a Viscount's daughter, stuck in a leaking dowager house with her mom, is brought to London to marry, which will allow them to escape their unfortunate circumstances.
This story is a closed door, very light romance. There is a lot of warmth in the writing, and would be a nice comfort read, despite some issues.
Unfortunately, the story would benefit from an expert editor. There are general writing issues as having passages where the reader is unable to identify exactly who the characters are referring to, to more significant disjointed storyline and gaps in the action. With the variety of characters and personalities in the story, the heroine is not a well developed character -- she is almost a side character to the Ton ladies and the hero.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for access to an Advanced Reader's Copy.
May 31, 2023
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
When her father died, Miss Grace Yardley soon found that she and her mother were relegated to the run down dower house, with only one servant to help them. The new Viscount Barlow would rather wash his hands of his relatives, and cares nothing about their living conditions. Grace worries for her mother's health, and needs a miracle to help her. So when the letter arrives from Lady Heathway, stating she will launch Grace into society, Grace is overjoyed, but can she leave her mother, even if she is in the care of a dedicated nurse, and the Queen's own physician?
This was an enjoyable book. I liked George, and how he helped his aunt even though he knew it was never a 'small favour'. He was clearly drawn to Grace from the moment he spotted her in the dower house, though he hadn't really given any thought to settling down and marrying just yet. I did appreciate how much he wanted to stop the word from spreading about the 'Sprinter', even though he though Grace was daft for trying to climb down the drainpipe to 'save' her mam from the 'wicked' nurse. Lady Barlow was annoying at first, but she really grew over the course of the book, and it's not her fault that her late husband had pandered to her so much during their marriage. Though not my favourite of the series, this was still a lovely addition to the series, and I look forward to the next one.
When her father died, Miss Grace Yardley soon found that she and her mother were relegated to the run down dower house, with only one servant to help them. The new Viscount Barlow would rather wash his hands of his relatives, and cares nothing about their living conditions. Grace worries for her mother's health, and needs a miracle to help her. So when the letter arrives from Lady Heathway, stating she will launch Grace into society, Grace is overjoyed, but can she leave her mother, even if she is in the care of a dedicated nurse, and the Queen's own physician?
This was an enjoyable book. I liked George, and how he helped his aunt even though he knew it was never a 'small favour'. He was clearly drawn to Grace from the moment he spotted her in the dower house, though he hadn't really given any thought to settling down and marrying just yet. I did appreciate how much he wanted to stop the word from spreading about the 'Sprinter', even though he though Grace was daft for trying to climb down the drainpipe to 'save' her mam from the 'wicked' nurse. Lady Barlow was annoying at first, but she really grew over the course of the book, and it's not her fault that her late husband had pandered to her so much during their marriage. Though not my favourite of the series, this was still a lovely addition to the series, and I look forward to the next one.
April 25, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. It was full of delightful and entertaining humor. This book was a perfect compliment to book one. The characters were very likable straight from the beginning. I think Penelope Prescott, Marchioness of Heathway, needed her girl to be as headstrong as she is and Grace was definitely headstrong. I think Grace found the perfect partner in George. Over this book was a good book that flowed at a fast pace. Nothing beyond a few kisses, so there was not any passionate encounters. Sometimes I feel other parts of the book took precedence over romance, but did enjoy those entertaining scenes. I am very much looking forward to the next girl brought into the Society of Sponsoring Ladies.
I received this book from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for an honest review.
I received this book from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for an honest review.
May 2, 2022
The Sprinter by Kate Archer is the second in this story about a group of ton ladies who never had daughters and missed that experience. They got together and decided that there were many young women of quality that lacked the means for a come out, so they would provide it, each by "adopting" one of these unfortunates. Their first foray had been successful so now it was time for Penelope Prescott, Marchioness of Heathway, to find her own "daughter." She selected Miss Grace Yardley, who upon receipt of the letter, quickly responded in the negative. She had her mother to think of and the poor lady was not doing well enough for Grace to even consider leaving her. Of course, Lady Heathway would not be discourage by this and got into her carriage, drafted her nephew to accompany her, and left to fetch the young lady herself. No one denied Lady Heathway anything she wanted.
This was a cute story, due in no small part for Lady Heathway's personality. She is the lady we al aspire to be. Forthright, kindly, but firm, and always available, she did right by Grace, and by her mother and never looked back to assess her behavior. Her nephew just rolled his eyes, while instructing his staff to no longer share his whereabouts with her or her staff, even if he was at home. It was an amusing story about behavior that is not well thought out and the consequences thereof. It is also about the absolute power of the ton in this time period, and also about their relatively short collective memory. It was a good book.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Sprinter by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #katearcher #thesprinter
This was a cute story, due in no small part for Lady Heathway's personality. She is the lady we al aspire to be. Forthright, kindly, but firm, and always available, she did right by Grace, and by her mother and never looked back to assess her behavior. Her nephew just rolled his eyes, while instructing his staff to no longer share his whereabouts with her or her staff, even if he was at home. It was an amusing story about behavior that is not well thought out and the consequences thereof. It is also about the absolute power of the ton in this time period, and also about their relatively short collective memory. It was a good book.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Sprinter by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #katearcher #thesprinter
January 25, 2025
This is another wonderful book by Kate Archer! I totally LOVED it! The story is engaging, romantic, funny and has a great pace. There’s lots of misunderstandings, and all the characters are just so entertaining and great fun! All the characters, main and secondary, are just marvelous! From the butler with his weak nerves to the main characters. The delightful ladies of the Society with all their quirks and qualities (lady Heathway designing dresses - marvelous!), Ranston the butler, Mr Ryland with his fascination to murder mysteries, Grace’s maid Betsy, lord Blackwood and his dogs, the lighthearted Mr Vance and even Melberry the watchman. I really liked that the author put do much work into this story, it is incredibly well written. It really makes you smile and I just didn't want to put the book down.
This is book two in the series and can be read as a standalone but I’d recommend reading book one first. It is just as good! I wondered hoe the title ‘the sprinter’ would be incorporated in the plot and if it would be as entertaining as book one, but it definitely is. Many of the characters in book one make an appearance in this book and it’s just a joy to read. Also the fictional murder mystery at Mr Ryland’s supper makes a comeback, as well as the masked ball. Everything with this book is brought together with perfection leaving you waiting for the next lady to sponsor a girl and see how that story evolves. I already purchased book three and am about to start reading after posting this review.
This is book two in the series and can be read as a standalone but I’d recommend reading book one first. It is just as good! I wondered hoe the title ‘the sprinter’ would be incorporated in the plot and if it would be as entertaining as book one, but it definitely is. Many of the characters in book one make an appearance in this book and it’s just a joy to read. Also the fictional murder mystery at Mr Ryland’s supper makes a comeback, as well as the masked ball. Everything with this book is brought together with perfection leaving you waiting for the next lady to sponsor a girl and see how that story evolves. I already purchased book three and am about to start reading after posting this review.
April 30, 2022
I really enjoyed Grace and George’s story. A clean romantic read with lots of fun along the way.
Grace was sponsored for a season by Lady Heathway who is part of the ‘Society of Sponsoring Ladies’ and had asked her nephew George (Lord Gresham) to accompany her to pick up Grace from her ailing mother. At first Grace got on well with George and had formed a tendre for him until she realised he was trying to stop her in his own way of finding a suitor leading to marriage on her first season. George had come to the conclusion that Grace did not like him, he had decided to try to put off the men who were attracted to her for the season so she could have a second season and maybe find that she would then like him.
Climbing down the drainpipe one evening, trying to get home to her ailing mother which was witnessed by quite a few people one of which then nicknamed her ‘The Sprinter’, she found the ‘Society of Sponsoring Ladies’ closing rank to make the rumours of an elopement disappear.
George eventually realising he could lose her to another man, found he was in love with her and wanted to be the man who she would marry followed her to her mother’s on her second attempt to get home and declared himself.
A lovely romantic adventure with ups and downs along the way ending with a happy ever after and I must mention the butler Mr Ranston, a really funny character who gave the story added fun. If you love clean romantic stories this is a definite read for you.
Grace was sponsored for a season by Lady Heathway who is part of the ‘Society of Sponsoring Ladies’ and had asked her nephew George (Lord Gresham) to accompany her to pick up Grace from her ailing mother. At first Grace got on well with George and had formed a tendre for him until she realised he was trying to stop her in his own way of finding a suitor leading to marriage on her first season. George had come to the conclusion that Grace did not like him, he had decided to try to put off the men who were attracted to her for the season so she could have a second season and maybe find that she would then like him.
Climbing down the drainpipe one evening, trying to get home to her ailing mother which was witnessed by quite a few people one of which then nicknamed her ‘The Sprinter’, she found the ‘Society of Sponsoring Ladies’ closing rank to make the rumours of an elopement disappear.
George eventually realising he could lose her to another man, found he was in love with her and wanted to be the man who she would marry followed her to her mother’s on her second attempt to get home and declared himself.
A lovely romantic adventure with ups and downs along the way ending with a happy ever after and I must mention the butler Mr Ranston, a really funny character who gave the story added fun. If you love clean romantic stories this is a definite read for you.
May 4, 2022
This is the second installment of the delightful series, A Series of Worthy Young Ladies. The premise of the series makes this a fun and charming read - six matrons of society, mourning the fact of not having any daughters of their own, who come together and combine their connections and resources to help launch young ladies into society. In this story, Lady Heathway gets her opportunity to choose a young lady to sponsor, and the lucky girl is Grace. She is the daughter of a viscount, who is now deceased, and living in the dowager house with her ill mother. When Lady Heathway extends an invitation to her to sponsor her London season, she has no choice but to decline in order to stay and take care of her ailing mother. Lady Heathway will not accept no for an answer and calls upon her nephew George for his assistance in "convincing" Grace to accept. This fun and light read had me completely captivated and engrossed in George and Grace's story and I enjoyed seeing their relationship develop and grow. A thoroughly enchanting story that I am glad to have had the opportunity to read. Looking forward to the next one!
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
April 28, 2022
Miss Grace Yardley and her mother have been relegated to the Dower house after the new heir took the title. It's been a huge shock for her pampered mother.
Lady Heathway always wanted a daughter. She and a few of her friends, who also wanted daughters have decided to sponsor worthy young ladies for a season. They are a fearsome bunch and will ride rough shot over any who stand in they way of their dreams.
George Wade, Viscount Gresham wants to stay well away from his aunt's plans. That's so not going to happen.
This is a very amusing historical romance. Our characters have obviously never heard the saying, " to assume is to make an ass out of you and me". Sometimes people mis-understand what is actually being said.
A sweet, lighthearted story that is part of a lovely series. The competition between the Ladies who are sponsoring our young heroines can get quite fierce. Each have very different characters and expectations. Each book could be read on it's own, but is better when read in order.
Great fun.
Lady Heathway always wanted a daughter. She and a few of her friends, who also wanted daughters have decided to sponsor worthy young ladies for a season. They are a fearsome bunch and will ride rough shot over any who stand in they way of their dreams.
George Wade, Viscount Gresham wants to stay well away from his aunt's plans. That's so not going to happen.
This is a very amusing historical romance. Our characters have obviously never heard the saying, " to assume is to make an ass out of you and me". Sometimes people mis-understand what is actually being said.
A sweet, lighthearted story that is part of a lovely series. The competition between the Ladies who are sponsoring our young heroines can get quite fierce. Each have very different characters and expectations. Each book could be read on it's own, but is better when read in order.
Great fun.
July 12, 2025
Grace, a Viscounts daughter living in Dowager house with her mother, and Lord Gresham, George, Lady Heathaway's nephew. George acts like a champerone with his ambiguous statements cause hurt results in him and Grace though they like each but their communications and actions frustrate each other and make the other think they are not liked. This story with misadventures, damage control from the Society ladies, George's well meaning yet misconstrued actions and words, Lady Barlow's letters causing protective Grace her daughter to act on emotion, an antagonised Baron's son adds to the fun, interesting, intrigued (Ryland mystery dinner, love how Grace assists Lady Featherstone), twists and turns of Lady Heathaway protege's season such a great read.
Butler - Ranston - has delicate nerves but sees himself as leading the staff into a battle, reading Ranston's take on situations in the house with Betsy, Grace's maid, point of view being told to Grace to balance it out. Also with loyal footman and understanding employer, Lady Heathaway, Ranston would continue for another day.
Butler - Ranston - has delicate nerves but sees himself as leading the staff into a battle, reading Ranston's take on situations in the house with Betsy, Grace's maid, point of view being told to Grace to balance it out. Also with loyal footman and understanding employer, Lady Heathaway, Ranston would continue for another day.
April 24, 2022
I received an advance ebook copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for review.
The Sprinter by Kate Archer is the second book of the Series of Worthy Young Ladies. Miss Grace Yardley, daughter of the deceased Viscount Barlow, has been sent to live in the dilapidated dower house with her sick mother by the new viscount. Lady Heathway is part of a group of women who wish for daughters of their own, and they launch eligible girls into society who need a little bit of assistance. Lady Heathway has decided to sponsor Grace. Grace declines because she needs to be there for her mother. George Wade, Viscount Gresham is Lady Heathway’s nephew. He comes with Lady Heathway to fetch Grace. He is shocked to discover that his aunt plans to practically kidnap the girl. Grace eventually relents and goes to London, but her mother continues to call her back home.
I really like the idea of the Society of Sponsoring Ladies. This was a light, sweet read.
The Sprinter by Kate Archer is the second book of the Series of Worthy Young Ladies. Miss Grace Yardley, daughter of the deceased Viscount Barlow, has been sent to live in the dilapidated dower house with her sick mother by the new viscount. Lady Heathway is part of a group of women who wish for daughters of their own, and they launch eligible girls into society who need a little bit of assistance. Lady Heathway has decided to sponsor Grace. Grace declines because she needs to be there for her mother. George Wade, Viscount Gresham is Lady Heathway’s nephew. He comes with Lady Heathway to fetch Grace. He is shocked to discover that his aunt plans to practically kidnap the girl. Grace eventually relents and goes to London, but her mother continues to call her back home.
I really like the idea of the Society of Sponsoring Ladies. This was a light, sweet read.
May 2, 2022
Light and easy read. This is a very unique storyline that is enjoyable. Ton ladies who have no daughter's decide to sponsor an unknown women and take her to society events.
This story doesn't have a lot of suspense. The h makes some poor choices but they are for the right reason. The H is caring, but doesn't explain himself well. He's like a friend I have, who starts in the middle of a story and expects you to know what the first half was-lol.
Story is clean, a villain who thinks he's clever but isn't and little on romance. Loved the secondary characters'!
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA and clean except for some kisses. Enjoyable ending! Even though book 2 could be a stand alone, but would be richer experience to read the first. (ljb)
This story doesn't have a lot of suspense. The h makes some poor choices but they are for the right reason. The H is caring, but doesn't explain himself well. He's like a friend I have, who starts in the middle of a story and expects you to know what the first half was-lol.
Story is clean, a villain who thinks he's clever but isn't and little on romance. Loved the secondary characters'!
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA and clean except for some kisses. Enjoyable ending! Even though book 2 could be a stand alone, but would be richer experience to read the first. (ljb)
December 12, 2022
Loved it!!
This book was absolutely delightful! I really, really enjoyed the subtle humor throughout. The characters were so well imagined and brought to life. I find it difficult to adequately relate how much I admire the skill and imagination of the writer. When I tried to relate a scene to my husband, I realized how well planned and interwoven the characters and their experiences were. More importantly, I laughed out loud so many times at the thoughts, antics, and mutterings of those wonderful characters. The footmen, the butler, Jenny the horrible maid, the drain pipe scene witnessed by laughing drunk gentlemen as well as our leading witty characters...all of it,great fun!
This book was absolutely delightful! I really, really enjoyed the subtle humor throughout. The characters were so well imagined and brought to life. I find it difficult to adequately relate how much I admire the skill and imagination of the writer. When I tried to relate a scene to my husband, I realized how well planned and interwoven the characters and their experiences were. More importantly, I laughed out loud so many times at the thoughts, antics, and mutterings of those wonderful characters. The footmen, the butler, Jenny the horrible maid, the drain pipe scene witnessed by laughing drunk gentlemen as well as our leading witty characters...all of it,great fun!
April 29, 2022
The society of Sponsoring Ladies is at it again. This time Lady Heathway has a lovely young lady to sponsor into society. Miss Grace Yardley is the daughter of a deceased Viscount Barlow and has been demoted to the crumbling dower house. The roof leaks and her mother has taken to bed claiming illness. That is until Lady Heathway arrives at the house with her nephew Viscount Gresham. Then Lady Heathway takes charge of the whole situation. What wonderful characters, from the butler to the cast of characters that grace the ballrooms. I completely enjoyed the situations they found themselves in and how as a group they managed to right the ship. Thanks for an enjoyable reading experience
May 2, 2022
4 stars
A cute quirky story. Our heroine's mother has taken to her bed and needs a lot of help. Our hero's aunt is hoping to sponsor a young debutante for the season so virtually kidnaps her to London. George, the hero, is concerned that Grace wil let his aunt down and embarass her. There's a member of the ton who takes against Grace and unfortunately sees her trying to flee the house via a drain pipe. This is becuase of the very eccentric butler. I enjoyed it but there is quite a few misunderstanding. and I probably won't rush off to read the rest of the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A cute quirky story. Our heroine's mother has taken to her bed and needs a lot of help. Our hero's aunt is hoping to sponsor a young debutante for the season so virtually kidnaps her to London. George, the hero, is concerned that Grace wil let his aunt down and embarass her. There's a member of the ton who takes against Grace and unfortunately sees her trying to flee the house via a drain pipe. This is becuase of the very eccentric butler. I enjoyed it but there is quite a few misunderstanding. and I probably won't rush off to read the rest of the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 13, 2022
a few of the ton that don't have daughters find daughters that have no one to help them come out and make them into their daughters and launch eligible girls in need of assistance. Grace Yardley is a daughter of a baron who's father died and left her and her mother with not a lot of money.. Lady Heathway decides that grace is going to be her project/daughter. She takes her nephew to help get grace. I wish there would have been a little more showing how the couple came together and the attraction between them it was good though I just reviewed The Sprinter by Kate Archer. #TheSprinter #NetGalley
[NetGalley URL]
[NetGalley URL]
June 2, 2022
3.5 stars.
A great light-hearted read. The book is part of a series where women of high society sponsor young women in hopes of marrying well. This story follows Grace, who is one of the young women, and George, who is the nephew of one of the matrons..
This was too cute, it would be perfect for a teen book club. You really get the feel of this universe Archer creates. The characters are so animated, and even take the time out to flesh out the secondary and tertiary characters. I could easily see this book as pert of a cartoon series, and I mean that in the best of ways.
(VERY light spoiler)
P.S. Can we get a story with Mr Jacobs ASAP. I love a reformed bad guy.
A great light-hearted read. The book is part of a series where women of high society sponsor young women in hopes of marrying well. This story follows Grace, who is one of the young women, and George, who is the nephew of one of the matrons..
This was too cute, it would be perfect for a teen book club. You really get the feel of this universe Archer creates. The characters are so animated, and even take the time out to flesh out the secondary and tertiary characters. I could easily see this book as pert of a cartoon series, and I mean that in the best of ways.
(VERY light spoiler)
P.S. Can we get a story with Mr Jacobs ASAP. I love a reformed bad guy.
February 2, 2025
This is the kind of book that makes me glad I had one child of each of the two most common genders,
unlike the wealthy ladies in this series who are only able to give birth to males and adopt disadvantaged girls of good birth. I also had a mom to take care of, but she wasn't malingering. But this is romance land, and a rather tiresomely controlling lady and her tiresomely controlling nephew
bring about the happy ending for the worthy young lady. We're never satisfied with what we've got. Eleanor of Aquitaine had many sons, but they all fought with their father. Some female rulers have been more able than their male counterparts, though in the u.s., they'd take any man before a woman.
unlike the wealthy ladies in this series who are only able to give birth to males and adopt disadvantaged girls of good birth. I also had a mom to take care of, but she wasn't malingering. But this is romance land, and a rather tiresomely controlling lady and her tiresomely controlling nephew
bring about the happy ending for the worthy young lady. We're never satisfied with what we've got. Eleanor of Aquitaine had many sons, but they all fought with their father. Some female rulers have been more able than their male counterparts, though in the u.s., they'd take any man before a woman.
May 3, 2022
I have read the first book and while each can be read on it's own having read the first did enhance this one in my opinion. The humour was great making me laugh out loud and the secondary character's (the lady's and the butler) almost take over the story they are so funny. Looking forward to the next story. Highly recommended clean humours fun read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 20, 2022
👀The cover attracted me ✔️
📚The plot intrigued me ✔️
❤️The characters kept me. ✔️
🖋I can’t wait for the next book! ✔️
That pretty much sums up my feelings on this book ~ Kate Archer definitely knows how to write creative, unique, and fun stories with characters that capture your heart!
📚I received a review copy of this book from the publisher Dragonblade Publishing and this is my honest review. Thank you for the opportunity. 🦄
📚The plot intrigued me ✔️
❤️The characters kept me. ✔️
🖋I can’t wait for the next book! ✔️
That pretty much sums up my feelings on this book ~ Kate Archer definitely knows how to write creative, unique, and fun stories with characters that capture your heart!
📚I received a review copy of this book from the publisher Dragonblade Publishing and this is my honest review. Thank you for the opportunity. 🦄
December 13, 2023
The first half of this book was really funny to me in an absurd kind of way. The poor butler really is the most ridiculous man. George is just an idiot and I could have done without him. Just man up and grow a pair. I get that his dithering is part of the plot but it wasn’t entertaining it was just obnoxious in a bad way.
The second part of the book was not nearly as entertaining and was a typical HEA and didn’t do much for me.
The second part of the book was not nearly as entertaining and was a typical HEA and didn’t do much for me.
April 24, 2022
This was cute and a quick read! It’s classic enemies-to-lovers-but-it’s-all-a-misunderstanding. The conflict is well-done, and I was rooting for the main characters. Plus, I like the unique idea of having ladies of the ton sponsor young women because they have no daughters of their own.
I received an ARC for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an ARC for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 11, 2022
Dutiful Daughter,she was
Great story with characters, that have great sense of humors, Grace is the dutiful Daughter, always trying to get to her mother,
One incident climbing down the drain pipe,dubbed her the sprinter, and of course George is always trying to keep her out of trouble,and ends in trouble himself. He fell in love.Thank you ♥️
Great story with characters, that have great sense of humors, Grace is the dutiful Daughter, always trying to get to her mother,
One incident climbing down the drain pipe,dubbed her the sprinter, and of course George is always trying to keep her out of trouble,and ends in trouble himself. He fell in love.Thank you ♥️
August 11, 2022
enjoying this series
I am enjoying this series not because it’s a work of Shakespeare but because of the humor. I get that the stories all follow the same theme but because they’re fun and appear to be written light and enjoyable.
Angst - 2.5 usually at the end
Heat - 1 but we’ll placed and tasteful
Suspense - more like misunderstandings
Overall - 5 Fun Read
I am enjoying this series not because it’s a work of Shakespeare but because of the humor. I get that the stories all follow the same theme but because they’re fun and appear to be written light and enjoyable.
Angst - 2.5 usually at the end
Heat - 1 but we’ll placed and tasteful
Suspense - more like misunderstandings
Overall - 5 Fun Read
May 2, 2022
Six highly placed matrons mourn their lack of daughters until they devise a scheme to launch eligible girls in need of assistance.
Lady Heathway, one of the matrons has a lovely young lady to sponsor into society, a Miss Grace Yardley.
George Wade, Viscount Gresham and nephew to Lady Heathway, is well-used to his aunt calling upon him for "small" favors.
Great characters, funny. Is sure to put a smile on your face.
Lady Heathway, one of the matrons has a lovely young lady to sponsor into society, a Miss Grace Yardley.
George Wade, Viscount Gresham and nephew to Lady Heathway, is well-used to his aunt calling upon him for "small" favors.
Great characters, funny. Is sure to put a smile on your face.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews