Upon Your Return

Heiresses in Love #1

by Marie Lavender

Award-winning Author Marie Lavender brings a captivating, passionate love story about a young heiress and a devilishly charming ship captain. All set in two coastal French towns…

After being raised to believe that love is a frivolous endeavor, French heiress Fara Bellamont has always kept her dreams of adventure and discovering a soul-searing passion to herself. So, when Captain Grant Hill makes his grand entrance into her life by way of rescuing her one fateful night, she knows she’s in trouble. He completely steals her heart.

But, as far as society is concerned, he’s also not a suitable husband.

Grant Hill, a mysterious, rugged ship captain, is just as enthralled with Fara as she is with him, but he too knows such things aren’t so simple. Not only must they overcome social expectations to be together, but wars and lies, as well. And with a long-time yearning neither has managed to achieve, the pair must fight to attain their deepest desire:

Happiness.

If you love steamy, romantic tales by Tessa Dare, Julia Quinn, and Christi Caldwell, then you’ll adore this exciting and intricate Historical Romance set by the sea. Get your copy today!

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Fiction, Romance

317 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 13, 2013

About the author

Multi-genre author of Victorian maritime romance/family saga, Heiresses in Love, and 18 other books. Listed as one of TOP 5 Authors Who Write Compelling Romance on Wiki Ezvid. UPON YOUR RETURN placed in the TOP 10 on the 2022 P&E Readers' Poll for the Romance Novels category. She made the TOP 10 list for Authors on the 23rd Annual Critters Readers’ Poll. TOP 20 Authors of 2021 on Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews blog. Subsequent 2020 accolades include: Top 10 Book Cover Artwork for UPON YOUR RETURN, Top 10 Romance Novels for CHASING GINGER, Top 10 Romance Short Stories for THE MISSING PIECE, and Top 10 Sci-fi & Fantasy Short Stories for MAGICK & MOONLIGHT for the P&E Critters Readers' Poll. Additionally, the I Love Romance Blog was listed as one of the Top Novel and Books blogs 2020 on Sparpedia. BLUE VISION made the TOP 10 on the Science Fiction and Fantasy category of the 2019 P&E Readers' Poll, and also reached TOP 10 status in the Romance category. Featured interview in the January 2018 issue of Womelle Magazine. DIRECTIONS OF THE HEART reached the semi-finalist round in the 2018 AuthorsDB Book Cover Contest. Voted TOP BLOGGER for 2018 on the Romance Lives Forever Blog. TOP 20 Authors of 2018 on Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews blog. DIRECTIONS OF THE HEART was nominated and made it past the first round in the 2018 Author Academy Awards. THE MISSING PIECE placed in the TOP 10 on the 2017 P&E Readers' Poll. DIRECTIONS OF THE HEART was nominated for the 2017 Reader's Choice Awards. The I Love Romance Blog became a finalist in StartDating DK's Romance Blog Awards of 2017. ILRB landed on Feedspot’s 2017 TOP 100 Novel Blogs and TOP 100 Romance Blogs. DIRECTIONS OF THE HEART placed in the TOP 10 Books of 2017 on Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews blog. TOP 20 Authors of 2017 on Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews blog. Mystery Blogger Award for 2017. A to Z Blog Challenge Survivor in 2016. March 2016 Empress of the Universe title - winner of the "Broken Heart" themed contest and the "I Love You" themed contest on Poetry Universe. SECOND CHANCE HEART and A LITTLE MAGICK placed in the TOP 10 on the 2015 P&E Readers' Poll. Nominated in the TRR Readers' Choice Awards for Winter 2015. Poetry winner of the 2015 PnPAuthors Contest. The Versatile Blogger Award for 2015. Honorable Mention in the 2014 BTS Red Carpet Book Awards. Finalist and Runner-up in the 2014 MARSocial's Author of the Year Competition. Honorable mention in the January 2014 Reader's Choice Award. Liebster Blogger Award for 2013, 2014 and 2016. 2013 and 2014 Amazon Bestseller Ranking for the first edition of UPON YOUR RETURN. Winner of the Great One Liners Contest on the Directory of Published Authors.

Marie Lavender lives in the Midwest with her family and two cats. She has been writing for twenty-five years, with more works in progress than she can count on two hands. Since 2010, Marie has published 21 books in the genres of historical romance, contemporary romance, romantic suspense, paranormal romance, romantic comedy, dramatic fiction, fantasy, science fiction, mystery/thriller, literary fiction and poetry. She also dabbles in graphic design. A blogger on the side, she writes adult fiction, published one story for children, and recently started some YA fiction. She also contributed to several anthologies. Though Marie has standalone titles on the market, there are six current published series, with many others planned.

Discover more about her and her work at the following links.

All of Marie’s author links: https://linktr.ee/marielavender1

Fan mail email: author@marielavender.com

Reviews

[Jonel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel was very smoothly written, allowing the reader to immerse themselves fully in the storyline. Lavender stays firmly in the time period that she’s chosen, weaving her tale in and out of the social norms of the day (which she does take the time to point out for her audience, rather than assuming that they know). This is not only an intriguing and unique historical romance, but it was also historically significant. Lavender brings everything together in a multilayered storyline that’s about more than just the romance.

I quite enjoyed the diversity of characters in this novel. I really felt for the main character. She was left questioning social norms while trying to fit into them, despite the difficulties that her desires set in her way. I was left with one lasting question about the characters however. What in the world was up with the main character’s mother and her uncle. It was made out as very important in the story yet was never explained.

This was a sensually sweet story that had me smiling and cringing in turn. I quite enjoyed this novel and would definitely look further into works by this author.

Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written historical romance set in the 1860's France. The author does a beautiful job taking you back in time with her detailed and descriptive writing and kept me turning the pages with the surprises and twists along the way. Her characters are strong and her scenes are painted perfectly. The story moves fluidly and is a great read.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Gaele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in 1860’s France, often called the “second empire” this story manages to convey a feel for the time, historical details, and an amazingly well-defined main character to create a story that will have you engaged from the first page.

Orphaned and a ward of her uncle, Fara will soon be handed off to the first available “appropriate” suitor, without regard to her feelings or safety as is evidenced by his choice of suitable suitor. When this ‘suitor’ endangers her, and leaves her without defense, Fara’s realization of her precarious position in society is clearer to her. With a subtle nod to her more modern thoughts about female empowerment and choice, Fara is instantly attracted to Grant, the man who defended her against the dangers her chosen suitor provided.

In the 1860’s (and long after) the idea of marriage for love, and marrying across class lines were unheard of in most circles: society did not treat social climbers well, nor were those members of society expected to consort with the ‘commoners’. While Fara has a crush on Grant, her continuing thoughts about him, and his determined pursuit of her despite his lack of standing in society lead her to believe that she has found the love she lived without after her parents’ deaths.

The interactions between the two are cleverly portrayed and developed, while Grant veers between charming and infuriating, unable to express his love for her. Fara, however, manages to take little tiny steps to independent thought and the realization that Grant is the one for her, and his acceptance of her burgeoning feminism is endearing. Far from overreaching to the more modern beliefs about women, relationships and society, Marie Lavender has managed to show the slowly developing enlightenment and growth between the two characters: both in their love and in their social conscious. Although Grant is dragging his heels, another dangerous situation for Fara gives him the jolt he needs to finally face his truth.

This was a lovely historical romance that was full of period detail, thought and description that brought the characters to life in simple and endearing ways with her beautifully wrought prose and attention to detail.

I received an eBook from the publisher for purpose of honest review for the Jeep Diva. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

[Johnnie-Marie Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can honestly say that this was my 1st time reading a historical romance and I loved it...I couldn't but the book down it was good...I really liked how the main character tried hard to be a socialite at the same time being her self and falling in love.. I so fault bad for all the bad things that happened to her, child birth by herself unmarried, love of her life going away, almost being killed, rapped... it was a really really great love story.

I'm actually really surprised that I liked it normally I would have stayed away from historical romance novels but this one just opened my mind up to a hole new view on that matter I guess you just need that extra push and a really great novel like this on to do that.

Let me see, Fara was this independent strong lady that tried to fit in no matter what and fell in love with the wrong type but in her eyes he was Mr. right. Grant was this hott Captain, who had a mysterious side to him and who also couldn't stay away from Fara. Fara's uncle was this big time jerk who wanted it his way or no way I really didn't care for him at all. Tante Lina was this great women who cared deeply about her niece and was a huge socialite that didn't care she was Fara's wisdom. Eric was the captain's right hand man who came in handy at the right times regardless what anyone says. It was a really great read I don't' know how much more I could say that it is very true.


It was great I could see my self reading this over and over again!!

[Linda Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marie Lavender's beautifully written love story between heiress Fara Bellamont and Captain Grant Hill captured my heart immediately. Set in 1860's France, the novel portrays the social and political struggles of that era, and the challenges Fara faces as a woman. Although a "man's world," that sphere could prove just as hard for a man not born to a position, such as Captain Hill. Despite their situations, Fara and Grant are bold enough and brave enough to defy the conventions of the time.

In Upon Your Return, the author touches upon the stirrings of feminism and uses period details judiciously, creating a sense of reality without ever boring the reader. Fara and Grant must travel a long, difficult road and overcome a lot of obstacles. We take that journey with them and hope that somehow, in the end, love will prevail.

I highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys romance stories and appreciates good writing. It is one of those "rare gems."

[Tamra LeValley · Rating 1 out of 5]

Eighteen year old Fara is thrust into a world where she is constantly being rescued. Her parents pass away and her uncle rescues her as a young child, her fiance pays men to rape her and a Captain of a ship rescues her, her uncle dies and the man she loves is an enemy of the country so her aunt rescues her.

I could not really understand the plot of this book. There was so much going on and yet it seemed to center on how much Fara wanted to be a woman of independence as she is constantly getting rescued. She was a weak woman and Grant was written as a weak man who had a noble purpose. I could not connect with the characters at all. They just seemed whishy washy.

[Paranormal, Fantasy, Dystopia and Romance Readers, Writers and Reviewers] Read and Review - week of July 29-August 4

[Kari Crouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not usually into historical romance, but this one was very intriguing. Grant, the captain, was sexy and compelling even though he was arrogant. Fara was a woman I admire for her spirit and stubbornness in a time when women and their ideas were considered unimportant. The love they shared was intense and beautiful. The plot was interesting with twist and turns. All in all, a very beautiful piece of work! I can't wait to read more of this author's works.

[Sylvia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a sweet historial romance with many twist and turns. I was pulling for this couple. It took a great deal of time for the events to come together. I much admired Fara for what she had to endure in her life and become the lovely woman she is. I just love Grant, even tho I was a little upset with him for his absence. He was always there for Fara. I would recommend this book when you have many hours to get lost in this romance.

[Romancing the Book · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed by Robin
Book provided by Marie Lavender
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book

I am sure that these books can be read on their own individually…I would like to recommend that they be read in order…They are much more enjoyable and they tend to flow smoothly one into the next. Ms. Lavender, all I can say is thanks for a wonderfully entertaining Trilogy.

Upon Your Return

Sometimes the most unexpected things become the best things ever. Ms. Lavender gives us a storyline that is smooth and strong with enough twists and turns to keep me the reader involved. This story revolves around Fara, a young heiress who has become a very strong woman. She has endured a lot in her young life. Parents died early and at the age of nine she was sent to live with an Uncle who decided that she needed to become a proper young lady so off to the convent to train. Upon her training being finished she goes back to her Uncle’s care, to then be placed in the hands of a man of her Uncle’s choosing.

Fara wanted love but was taught that love was a dream …a fantasy, it wasn’t real. Her Uncle dies and she runs from her newly acquired fiancé…Right into the path of Captain Grant Hill.

Right from the start I knew that these two were meant to be together. Fara had enough sass to light Grant on fire and Grant played things a little on the cool side. Ms. Lavender made a perfect pair in these two characters. I am not saying things ran smooth for them. Quite the opposite because they defiantly had plenty of ups and downs which made this story seem more realistic.

The research that was put into this story by Ms. Lavender gave the story that extra care in making a vivid portrayal of what life was like. I as a reader was able to see the towns, feel the in-depth characterization; I could sense the love, the loss, the problems, and the sense of what they were feeling all the time. The full richness in details helped in bringing this story to life.

Fara was a feminist really before her time as feminism was just starting. She wasn’t going to back down with how she felt or viewed things. She didn’t agree for instance with the mourning period, so she instead chose not to wear dark drab clothing but to stand out and wear her bright colors. I liked that about her. She was true to whom she was a person, which helped in winning people over.

The added twists and turns that kept one guessing only added to the story along with the underlying romance. I could feel the sensuous passion woven into the story. You could feel the steam without it actually written.

I am looking forward to the next installment in this series which delves more into the life of Fara, Grant, Aunt Lina and the newest addition to the Hill family.

Find your comfy chair…a glass of wine…and settle in for a story you won’t want to put down.



Upon Your Honor

This is the second installment in the Heiresses trilogy and I have to admit I may have liked this a bit more than the first. I loved the idea of keeping it family oriented and a smooth continuation of the first. This book tells Gabe’s (Fara & Grant’s child) story.

We smoothly went from the previous story picking up where we left off and started right in with old friends. I liked this about Ms. Lavender. Once again she gave us characters that were not only realistic but very likable and easy to get to know and care about.

Once again we see a young girl that has gone through a lot in her young life. Chloe Waverly, has just turned eighteen/nineteen and is about to face another tragedy…the loss of her father. She is to marry a very evil man …so she does the one thing she thinks will save her she runs away and stows on board La Voyageur where she is found by Gabe.

This sets in motion a romance between her and Gabe which isn’t easy because it seems each time they dock at a port along the Eastern Seaboard trouble is there. Lamonte Beckett sends thugs to try and capture Chloe only to bring her back to Beckett. But, their attempts fail because Gabe has sworn to protect her till she gets to her grandma’s.

I found this to be another emotional story with another strong woman. I was on yet another adventure with more twists and turns adding to the realism of the story. A story that has romance woven within the adventure yet there was so much more to the story. If you wanted something predictable this isn’t it. At times you would think I know what is about to happen but you are thrown a curve.

I loved the vividness of the details which made it easy to get lost in the framework of family and adventure. I became a part of the story and found myself wanting to yell…smack…hug…and even cry with someone at times.
With Chloe’s secrets and Gabe wanting to stay single…fate steps in and takes them on a journey of falling in love. I enjoyed the passion, the sensual hint to totally hot sex…

I loved getting to know Gabe and Chloe…re-uniting with Aunt Lina…and the crew aboard La Voyageur also along with Fara and Grant. We are introduced to Gabe’s sister Adrienne who seems to be even more of a sassy spitfire than her mom and sister-in-law.

I can’t wait to read her story in the next installment. So pick up Upon Your Honor and find out the story that is Gabe and Chloe’s. Enjoy as the family continues to expand and the adventure gets better… Find that comfy chair with a glass of wine next to it…Settle in for another adventure.



Upon Your Love

Wow! Ms. Lavender gave us three books that were just…Wow.

Each one was woven with threads of love for family, life partners, friends and soul mate. I can say that as each story unfolded and I thought it just couldn’t get any better Ms. Lavender showed me how wrong I could be. As each installment came I found that the feminism that was coming alive during the era became more apparent within the story. Even though the men tried to hold onto their last bit of control the women tended to take over.

I enjoyed that each book incorporated the previous two it made the bonds of the family strong.

I loved Adrienne’s story. She chose and yes she really did choose Christian. For me they brought a playful approach to love. While they were matchmaking for friends things began to happen. Christian, the proverbial bad boy, seemed to be the only type that could give the feisty Adrienne the type of love she needed. I liked the way that there was fire in everything they did. I found the flirtatious conversations, touching…and also the gentle teasing seemed to add that extra bit of subtle eroticism to the story taking it to a whole new level. While the others were hot in a sensuous way; Adrienne and Christian were more erotic in a subtle way.

Christian not wanting to admit his feelings for Adrienne actually loved her without saying it because he I feel was drawn to the challenge of Adrienne…Her strength…her fierce love for her family and friends.

Also along with the gentle spirit that only he saw… that she kept hidden from others. I liked this about him.
Adrienne was the most feminist of all the other woman because she knew what she wanted not only in a man but also in bed and was not afraid to go after him or it. She wasn’t afraid for the most part…but there were times when she needed the strength of a man.

The characters blended from one story to the next bringing family, love, life and friendship into my life in a very realistic way. I fell in love with these characters they became my family. I feel that they will be remembered for a very long time.

So, if that comfy chair is still there…and there is a bottle of wine…settle in for another adventure with the Hill family…

[Space Cowgirl · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sailing⛵ Away💘
A Want💕 She Didn't Understand...
ADULT Victorian Era Romance and Adventure
.
1853
Tara👩, a young, eight year old French girl, has only her mother's ball gown, a painting, and a few momentos to remind her of her parents, both killed by Turkish Pirates⛵🔪🔫 while they were on a sea voyage⛵. For them, it was 💘love at first sight when they met.

Now Tara👩 is to go live with her father's brother, Michel de Bellamont, her uncle, a somber and distant unmarried businessman.

1863.
Long years at a convent being educated made Tara💃💋 realize she has no life of her own. When she got out, she had a season, then her uncle chose a husband for her, a Mr Jean Le Croix👺, a wealthy young man she doesn't know. It's a living nightmare! He's a nightmare👺! He's her betrothed!

Mr Le Croix👺 asks her to meet him at the docks, but instead, she is attacked and injured by two hired thugs upon her arrival there. Luckily, she is saved by a handsome and skilled swordsman. He is Grant Hill🐺🍆⛲🔪, the Captain of the ship Voyager⛵.


ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
This ebook was $2.99 on Amazon at the time of this review.
Opinions Expressed here are entirely my own.

There are a number of continuity errors in the ARC copy I am reviewing from. There are also a lot of Historical errors. A riding horse🐎 is not a destrier! A healthy nineteen year old woman of wealth isn't attended by a nursemaid! She would have a lady's maid.
However, I did enjoy the story line of the book, but I disliked the character of Tara💃💋. She grows up in a convent, but apparently learned nothing there about being humble or kind. In the short time she is around her horrible arrogant uncle, she becomes much like him! Grant🐺🍆⛲💪🔪🔫 saves her bacon time and time again and she appreciates nothing.

The book is a goofy mix of French and English characters and customs. It supposedly takes place in France but the customs seem more English than French.

[Kayla West · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wanted to read this book after practically devouring the second book in the Heiresses in Love series, Upon Your Honor. I had to know more about the relationship between Gabriel's parents. I mean, it was a given considering what we are told in the second book. It was enough to tide me over, but there was a nagging sensation in the back of my head. If someone gives me a tidbit, I long for the whole story. And here it is!

So, little bit of info about me...I am a redhead. Because of this, I always feel a sort of kindred closeness to characters, more specifically women characters, who have red hair in the books that I read. I also especially love it when the characters are both red haired and named Kayla, but that is for a different time. Anyway, as soon as it is told in the second book that Gabriel's mother has red hair, I was practically scrounging Amazon for this first book. I just felt a connection to her. I also thought it would be a bit fun to see her as a young woman. She just seemed like a bit of a firecracker to me. I mean, to be married to a captain of a ship she kind of has to be. I was completely right.

While in the book she does follow the rules of society, being raised since the age of nine by an uncle who thrives on the acceptance of society's patrons kind of forces that way of life into you, she does want to be able to choose her own path. At her uncle's sudden death quite a few chapters in, you find her questioning the mourning period that is considered acceptable. She just wants to be able to rip free from the confines of the life she has lived and be able to find herself. She wants to figure out who she is, not who society wants her to be. But there is always that nagging voice in the back of her mind reminding her that the people around her are always watching for that slight misstep in propriety. And when they find those missteps, they never let you forget you made them.

I think meeting Grant Hill kind of scared a little bit as much as it almost thrilled her to meet a man of his passions. Yes, he saved her, and yes, he did treat her as a gentlemen should, but I think from the first moment he kissed her and the first moment she showed just a slight rebellion from the ways of high society, involving an awkward session for her where she woke up and found she had practically crawled atop him in her sleep, she was afraid of what society would think of her. Sub-consciously, I believe this supposed guilt followed her throughout the rest of the book. Yes, they did bed together, and both of them obviously enjoyed it, several times in fact, but I think the talk of the town made her question his true intentions. And even hers as well. All her life, or at least since being "taken in" by her uncle, and even at the convent where she was schooled most of her childhood, she had been taught that love was a frivolous endeavour. A dream. A fantasy. And once that fantasy became all too real for her and him both, it is like they both tried to deny it.

Fara and Grant have a sort of cat and mouse thing going on in this. Or, this might be a better picture, a "He/She Loves Me Not, He/She Loves Me" situation going on. They are both enamored by each other, and the fact that they do end up in bed at some point does confirm this, and it seems that both do kind of admit their love for the other person to themselves, but it seems that society's rules are so engrained in the mind's of both that neither seems willing to accept the possibility that their love might not just be one-sided. I think they are both so scared of being ultimately rejected in the end that they do not want to press the subject, but yet, when one of them doesn't press the subject, the other feels both confused and aggravated at the fact that the subject was never pressed.

It is a whirlwind of emotions, and one I would indeed have been annoyed with had I not completely adored this book. I think the way the author wrote this story just makes the whole love dilemma between the characters bearable to the point where if it weren't there, the story would be empty. It practically IS the story. And I honestly wouldn't have it any other way.

This book honestly did not disappoint at all. While the ending was expected because I had read the second book, I did not feel like I knew what was going to happen. Even in those cliffhanger moments where it was not guaranteed the characters would stay together, and the fact I even knew the outcome, I just literally couldn't breathe. In my head all I could think was that they had to. They had to be together, otherwise I didn't know what I would do. I have come to fall in love with Marie Lavender's characters throughout this entire series, and her writing seems to bring a smile to my face every time I reach that last page.

[Donadee's Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I reviewed another book by this author and was so impressed with her writing style that I wanted to read some of her other work.  This book struck me as fascinating with all the requirements of a good read.  The author has written a compelling, yet beautiful love story, keeping in tune with the nineteenth century and the situation of the women's rights or rather the absolute lack of any woman having any rights.  The constraints that society put on all women during that period was maintained through out the story with colorful historical details showing that she certainly did a great job on her research and informed the reader with all the details,  staying true with the authentic settings without boring them to death.  The best thing I liked about the story was the vivid characters, so well developed and brought to life with the powerful descriptions.  Of course the story line was full of interesting people, mysterious plots with surprising twists, romance, delicious seduction, but yet fascinating with the play on all of the emotions.  At times I was crying, then laughing, upset with a fierce anger, totally surprised, shocked, full of happiness or in complete despair and then cheering for the good guys or girl but so completely drawn into the story that I read the whole thing at one setting.  I just could not stop reading even though I really tried to so that I could get some sleep...it just kept playing in my head and I finally gave up and was so glad I did!  Our heroine, Fara Bellamont, starts out as a young child that is orphaned due to pirates attacking her parents ship.  She is send to live with her very cold, hard, unloving uncle which immediately sends her off to boarding school at the Cluny Abby.  After she returns he coldly arranges her marriage to a man she has never even met, her new fiance proceeds to set her up for what ever his reason, to get rid of her and she is attacked by ruffians.  Here enters our hero, handsome, single, ship captain, La Capitaine Grant Hill which saves her from the attack.  By the way he also has a few problems going for him, including a colorful past.  Now at this time Fara is still very young and our author proceeds to show us the beautiful growth that she goes through, some being, bereavement from the death of her uncle, betrayal,  awakening of her body, love, ostracization from society, new found love, danger to her and her family and finally, well I'm not going to give up the ending and there definitely are a few more growths that Fara goes through but I'll leave that for you to discover.  Definitely a great read and for me a new found author to add to my favorites list. 

[KathyAnne · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book just has the most beautiful cover! And, it is a great fit for the story itself.
I love the occasional Historical Romance and who wouldn't be enticed to read a book about a handsome sea captain who rescues damsels in distress??! I'll climb aboard that one for sure.
Fara has been raised by her Uncle after her parents died and now she's all grown up and ready to be married off by a suitor of her Uncle's choosing. But, luck doesn't run on Fara's side because her fiancé set her up to be raped and possibly killed by some thugs. Guess he wasn't all that thrilled with the idea of marriage. But, in comes Grant... who saves her life and takes her aboard his ship to see to her safety. After she wakes up wrapped in Grant's arms... the seed has been planted and a blooming romance is inevitable.
This was a very well written story and definitely one that makes me appreciate living in the here and now. How did women put up with all of what society demanding of them back in those days? Just made me want to sream... and what a boring way to live. I think that is why I settled for liking this book but not loving it... this "I must conform to societies rules" stuff was just frustrating for me to read.
As much as I admire the writing talents of this author... I did feel a little frustrated with the constant back and forth expressions of doubt between Grant and Fara... that seemed to continue throughout the entire story. There was a small part of me that wanted Grant to just toss her over his shoulder and carry her out to sea and take her away from all of the burdens of society that were keeping them apart. I kept saying to myself... Be a man Grant... Be a Man!!! I wanted Fara to stand up to her Uncle and fight harder to be with him. Her reactions to all that was happening around her were far too accepting and I wanted a little more punch from her character. She just seemed a bit too naïve and weak for my liking.
We did finally get into some action at the end of the book... and that part brought some needed closure to this blooming romance. And, I was thinking to myself... finally!... It's about friggin' time!
Even though the tone of this story did not necessarily appeal to me... I think it will appeal to many Historical Romance fans. How we connect to characters is sometimes a very subjective thing. So, it is worth giving a go for fans of this genre.

I was given a complimentary copy of this title in exchange for a review.

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www.ktbookreviews.blogspot.com

[Sandy Grassini · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a historical romance set during the 1800's in France. I'm not really one who reads historical romance novels, but I did enjoy this one. Some of the words I didn't understand, because they were in french, but that didn't take away from the book. I loved the history of this book. I could really see the beautiful dresses, the horse driven carriages, and how big of an event the opera was.

All Fara wants is to find love, but society dictates otherwise. During that time, women didn't get to make their own choices, but Fara was bound and determined to make her own. She has a brain and definitely wants to use it. That was rather difficult while living with her uncle since he was so strict. She was afraid that she would have to marry without love. Her uncle is bound and determined to find her a suitable husband.

I liked Fara's character because she has a mind of her own and she does not care what society dictates. She is never disrespectful to her uncle even though he's not exactly the easiest person to live with.

Then under unforeseen circumstances, she meets Grant Hill, who is the Captain on his ship. She starts feeling something she has never felt before. Society dictate she should not act on those feelings. Based on what has happened, he becomes her protector. After she learns more about him, her feelings for him do not change. Grant is not the person she thought he was.

I liked Grants character because he is always honorable and treats Fara with respect. He never expects more from her. He never dictates to her about society. All he wants to do is protect her.

Fara is then forced to go live with her aunt Lina. Lina takes her in and shows her nothing but warmth and love. This is something that Fara has not felt since she was with her parents.

I really liked Lina's character because she took Fara in and treated her as if she were her own daughter. Fara had been looking for this connection since she was a child.

This book was a great read and I look forward to reading future book from this author.

[Kristi Cramer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this in a Facebook giveaway, and promised my honest opinion, which I give below. Please bear in mind that it is likely I would never have read this book on my own, and that may have an impact on what readers think of my review.

Well, I finished it, and I wasn't very impressed with this novel. I always try to find positive things to say about books I review, but I'm having trouble with this one. The only reason I gave it 3 stars was because there were a few cute scenes between the couple, and despite all the confusion I felt, I rather liked Grant. And even Fara, when she wasn't insane. I also quite liked Eric.

I was mostly confused by the dialog and the logic. I called Fara insane: she went hot and cold on Grant, thinking one thing and then saying the complete opposite, so often I thought surely she wasn't playing with a full deck. The repetition of "what society expects" was tedious as well as incomprehensible. I have read other historical romances and never been so boggled.

It was also just...long. If you factor what the story really was, and took out all the repetition and convoluted conversations, it would have been about half the length.

It could use a good editing - in form, function, and story execution. And maybe I'm not as funny as I like to think I am, but I can't help saying, if the author reads this... You keep using this word, "diversely"... I do not think it means what you think it means. (The word you were looking for is conversely.)

However limited my experience of historical romances, I have read more than a few and enjoyed them, so I am not completely ignorant of the genre. Granted, I think the only fiction I previously read set entirely in France was Les Miserables (the unabridged version - so you can see I'm not simply put off by long fiction.)

Anyway, I don't think I'll be reading any more books by this author. I very nearly didn't finish this one.

[Aubrey Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am very happy to say that I won this wonderful novel in a Facebook contest! The first thought to grab my attention was the fact that the cover is so stunning. I then proceeded to read the synopsis, which was incredibly intriguing. I have never read any previous works by this author, so I was very excited to have the chance to read her work now. I read through the reviews posted previously, and I had high expectations, and I must say that Marie did not disappoint. This period piece novel was obviously done with love, patience, and pride. She brought the characters to life for me! She certainly did her homework on the time period, for she presented a wonderfully novel that immediately grabbed my historical loving heart! I am a very picky reader, and I found this book to be so well-written and beautiful, that I was hard-pressed to put it down when I was done! I wanted to skim back to the start and read again. I do not want to give any spoilers out, but I will say that the adventure, twists, and hot romance, is incredible within this book. You will not be disappointed! I will go back into Amazon and purchase all of her other works and start reading those. Hail to, Marie Lavender! What a talented and wonderful author. I cannot wait for her next book to come out. It sounds like another winner! Please, buy this talented woman's work! I really wish I could give her more than five stars!!

[LadyCalico · Rating 1 out of 5]

I can't say it was "simply" awful because it was also weird, disjointed, repetitious, and about 100 pages too long. People and odd situations would just pop in and out in the most bizarre manner. The story had so many holes, inconsistencies, and stuff that just made no sense, like the first fiance--what was that! Don't keep waiting for an explanation about his bizarre behavior at the dinner or why he took such a risk to try to kill her (after all, her uncle was supposedly a formidable man whom nobody dared cross), you won't get one. Was the next fiance any less ridiculously off-the-wall with no workable explanation--hahahaha. Don't wait for any sensible explanation about why the canny and successful uncle, out of the entire pool of bachelors in France, chose two very obviously depraved dingbats for her, because you won't get any. I still marvel that our brilliant hero Grant, upon witnessing a group of armed thugs breaking in and kidnapping the family, leaves Fara (sarc, such an authentic 19th century French name!) to her fate and just has to first ride to his ship to order them to prepare to sail, then returns WITHOUT bringing his own group of armed thugs, duh? Good thing the author did create one crew member who had more brain cells than his captain. I could go on and on with such nonsense, but I won't, even though the author did.

[Chelsea · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has a good story line and is written smoothly however about the middle of the book I had a hard time continueing. At times I did not want to read the book. It became boring at parts and I had to force myself to read and not glance over the paragraphs.
I enjoy period peices because it is a time that I will neve live but it is also a time of simple but hard times so unlike today. This book had this feel to it but I think it might have been a bit too long at times. It was also a little confusing at times with at what time the book was in. Instead of saying the dates at the start it should have told me the years or months that had gone on.
I did love the characters of Fara, Grant, and Lina. There was also characters I didn't like but that was to be expected espicially during this time and how women were treated. I also really liked Eric, he was a nice addition to the family and the loyalty he had for Grant and those Grant loved.
I also would have liked to see a bit more explaining behind Grant. You only got a little bit and even times it wasn't explained very well. The last 100 pages I enjoyed a lot because of how much action and interesting parts that were happening.
Overall, it is an interesting book and I would tell people that there is a little bit of waiting in the middle that nothing really happens but besides that it is a good love story.

[Belinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is from: Upon Your Return (Kindle Edition)
I read Upon Your Return by Marie Lavender per her request. In my time I have read many books by authors like Sabrina Jeffries, Johanna Lindsey, etc and found Ms Lavenders' book inspiring. She did a lot of work in this fabulous romance. At first I was a little bit anxious to read another story about a woman is forced to marry someone she doesn't love. But once I started reading, it kept me in suspense. When Fara is attacked by ruffians, she is rescued by a sea captain by the name of Grant Hill. He acts the gentleman with Fara and wants to be helpful. Of course Fara is grateful with his actions. When Fara is returned safely to her home, her Uncle is displeased and upset with her behavior. It's his way to be in charge of his niece and tells her so. Even though Grant played the hero to Fara, her Uncle says this man is beneath her station. Can two people from different backgrounds find happiness and love? Please try this exciting new author.

[Julia Rodz · Rating 3 out of 5]

** I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
*No Spoilers*

First of all I LOVE the cover!!! I was very interested in reading this book. It has many of the qualities that I love in books. It has romance, chivalry, a strong leading lady and of course a handsome gentleman! I really liked this book! I would recommend it to my reader friends that love romance filled books :)

Five things that I loved about Fara:
1. I love her name!!
2. I loved that she did not let society change her passionate spirit.
3. I loved that she wanted to marry for love and not position.
4. I loved that she wanted to fight her own battles.
5. I loved that she knew when to speak her mind!

Five things that I loved about Grant:
1. I love his gray eyes :)
2. I loved that he was a gentleman.
3. I loved that he knew that all men were equal.
4. I loved his true friendship with Eric.
5. I loved that he was not scared to be the hero.

[Amanda Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

Upon receiving this book, I immediately noticed how beautiful the cover was. I only meant to open it long enough to see how long it was going to be but found myself sucked in to the story from page one.

Faras background elicits teary eyes at the thought of the hopelessness that faces children in her situation.

I laughed, cried, and even cheered a few times during the reading of Upon Your Return.

Fara and Grants story is one that leaves you hoping for more and the touches of historically correct facts, women's rights issues, and the way society worked back then makes this book a hidden gem. Add in the fact that it was well-written and wonderfully edited makes it a five star book, in my opinion.

Brava to the author for publishing a book that turned out so wonderfully! Looking forward to reading more from Marie Lavender in the future!

[Andrea Cooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fara is from upper class society and therefore locked into certain rules. However, she longs to find true love and marry whomever fits that bill. Her uncle has other ideas and doesn't care about love, but her marrying a 'proper' suitor.
Grant is a wonderful hero who comes to Fara's rescue in more ways than one. Together their is chemistry brewing between these two.
However, parts of the book felt rushed and Fara's character deviated between a strong woman and one that needs help. Though I am pleased that for the most part, she was a strong woman. It might have been meant to be her internal struggle for independence and a mind of her own and society.
Overall, the author did a wonderful job making this time period come to life and the characters addictive.

[Cynthia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was given this book by the author for an honest review.

I loved the cover of this book, very nice and sexy. I found Captain Grant Hill to be a wonderful sexy character. He was a wonderful protector of a very stubborn lady who know what she wants and doesn't let the world tell her what she should do. It took a lot of balls or I guess I should say backbone to do some of the things she does. I found this to be a very sweet, loving, passionate book. Fara was born in a time where women had little rights and others took control, you had no say even in marriage. There are a lot of twist and turns it is hard to keep up at times, and I did get a little confused but all in all it was a very good read.

[Venture · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was asked to read this historic romance novel. As a great lover of books from Catherine Coulter & Johanna Lindsey I was afraid I would be disappointed. However the characters were very compelling and the story didn't follow any guidelines. I was completely enamored by the story of Fara and Grant. I felt Fara and I were emotionally entwined. I have felt love for someone & had the opportunity to wait for them. I could relate with her feelings and her love.
I haven't read a historical romance in a long time that I felt like I was the character. I truly enjoyed this book and would look forward to reading more from this author.

[Tiffany · Rating 3 out of 5]

Upon Your Return is a cute love story that has the essence of Jane Eyre and Rhett Butler from Gone with the Wind. I really enjoyed the lead character although her choices were not typical for a woman of that era. I couldn't put the book down during the first half because it was such a compelling story. The second half frustrated me more because I felt the heroine needed to open up her eyes a bit but I see that as a sign of a good book when I feel such emotions based on the actions of the characters.

Altogether, I enjoyed this novel and know that certain aspects will stick with me for some time. Definitely a good read!

[Allyson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book thru the author for an honest review. First off I loved the cover its beautiful and fits this story! This is a love story set in the 1860's France. Its a sad, heartwarming & a beautiful story. Fara is Orphaned and awarded to her Uncle who will choose a husband for her. He choose a man who endangered her and she was rescued by a sea captain. I don't want to ruin it for those who haven't read it but this story has lots of twist and turns. I was hooked from the first chapter. I will be reading more books from Marie Lavender

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ms. Lavender takes the damsel in distress plot to a whole new level!

Read full review in the November 2013 issue of InD’tale Magazine.

[JoAnne · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review was originally posted on RomanceJunkies.com and is shown below.

[ROMANTIC HISTORICAL REVIEW BLOG · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review Rating: Diane Owens Prettyman

Review Rating: 3.5 Stars

Link to Review: http://romantichistoricallovers.wordp...

[Mika Jolie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great story and beautifully told by Marie Lavender.