What do you think?
Rate this book
The De Petras Saga #1
The Misplaced Husband
Opal de Petras knew it was a mistake to marry the man she fell in love with at first sight.
Welcome to book 1 in The de Petras Saga from USA Today Bestselling Author Emily E K Murdoch!
Three children later, she’s abandoned by her husband and is tempted to look elsewhere for love. But as the matriarch of her family and the one responsible for their reputations, she must try to keep the de Petras family respectable.
So when on the very day that her husband Jasper is declared dead - and she is declared a widow - he suddenly appears back in her life, right before she is about to take a lover, he has a lot of questions to answer…
Jasper de Petras knew there was no option but to abandon his family when the threatening letters started arriving – but after receiving paperwork that announces his death, it’s time to return home. Unsure whether the danger is past and determined to make Opal fall in love - and marry him - again, could it all fall apart before he’s able to convince her?
At the beginning of the de Petras Saga, join Opal and Jasper as they discover just how strong the bonds of love are – and what it takes to break them.
This full length novel is a steamy Regency romance with a happily ever after, no cliffhangers, and is part of a series that can be read in any order, but is best enjoyed in sequence.
Read Free in Kindle Unlimited!
The de Petras Saga
Book 1 - The Misplaced Husband
Book 2 – The Impoverished Dowry
Book 3 – The Contrary Debutante
Book 4 – The Determined Mistress
Book 5 – The Convenient Engagement
Book 6 – The Disrespectful Duke
Book 7 – The Overlooked Wallflower
Book 8 – The Runaway Elopement
Book 9 – The European Adventure
Book 10 - The Unexpected Proposal
Book 11 - The Determined Suffragette
Book 12 - The Scandalous Rumors
Book 13 - The Argumentative Bluestocking
Book 14 - The Forgotten Bachelor
Welcome to book 1 in The de Petras Saga from USA Today Bestselling Author Emily E K Murdoch!
Three children later, she’s abandoned by her husband and is tempted to look elsewhere for love. But as the matriarch of her family and the one responsible for their reputations, she must try to keep the de Petras family respectable.
So when on the very day that her husband Jasper is declared dead - and she is declared a widow - he suddenly appears back in her life, right before she is about to take a lover, he has a lot of questions to answer…
Jasper de Petras knew there was no option but to abandon his family when the threatening letters started arriving – but after receiving paperwork that announces his death, it’s time to return home. Unsure whether the danger is past and determined to make Opal fall in love - and marry him - again, could it all fall apart before he’s able to convince her?
At the beginning of the de Petras Saga, join Opal and Jasper as they discover just how strong the bonds of love are – and what it takes to break them.
This full length novel is a steamy Regency romance with a happily ever after, no cliffhangers, and is part of a series that can be read in any order, but is best enjoyed in sequence.
Read Free in Kindle Unlimited!
The de Petras Saga
Book 1 - The Misplaced Husband
Book 2 – The Impoverished Dowry
Book 3 – The Contrary Debutante
Book 4 – The Determined Mistress
Book 5 – The Convenient Engagement
Book 6 – The Disrespectful Duke
Book 7 – The Overlooked Wallflower
Book 8 – The Runaway Elopement
Book 9 – The European Adventure
Book 10 - The Unexpected Proposal
Book 11 - The Determined Suffragette
Book 12 - The Scandalous Rumors
Book 13 - The Argumentative Bluestocking
Book 14 - The Forgotten Bachelor
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2022
239 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
About the author
Emily E.K. Murdoch
182 books278 followersEmily E.K. Murdoch is also known as Emily Murdoch.
Emily Murdoch is a medieval historian and writer. Throughout her career so far she has examined a codex and transcribed medieval sermons at the Bodleian Library in Oxford, designed part of an exhibition for the Yorkshire Museum, worked as a researcher for a BBC documentary presented by Ian Hislop, and worked at Polesden Lacey with the National Trust. She has a degree in History and English, and a Masters in Medieval Studies, both from the University of York. Emily is currently working on a new four part Regency novella series, two of which are now published.
You can follow her on twitter and instagram @emilyekmurdoch, find her on facebook at www.facebook.com/theemilyekmurdoch, and read her blog at www.emilyekmurdoch.com
Emily Murdoch is a medieval historian and writer. Throughout her career so far she has examined a codex and transcribed medieval sermons at the Bodleian Library in Oxford, designed part of an exhibition for the Yorkshire Museum, worked as a researcher for a BBC documentary presented by Ian Hislop, and worked at Polesden Lacey with the National Trust. She has a degree in History and English, and a Masters in Medieval Studies, both from the University of York. Emily is currently working on a new four part Regency novella series, two of which are now published.
You can follow her on twitter and instagram @emilyekmurdoch, find her on facebook at www.facebook.com/theemilyekmurdoch, and read her blog at www.emilyekmurdoch.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
April 27, 2022
"Torn apart by lies, fear, confusion… now brought together by the return of affection. And lust. Definitely lust."
I received an advance review copy through Netgalley for an honest review four days ago. Fortunately, this was an engaging read that I could finish quickly even though I had very little reading time. It was released today and is now available for only 99 cents.
This was my second book by the author. She writes both sweet and steamy. The first I read was sweet. This is steamy. I enjoyed both.
This may be a slight spoiler, but this is what I would want to know when reading a review about this book. Even though the H/h husband and wife were living apart for 7 years, they both remained faithful. Neither had sex or emotional intimacy with another.
What I liked:
1) The De Petras are a matriarchal family. All the females require their husbands to take the De Petras name, and the eldest daughter inherits the money and responsibility.
2) The writing style is great. Both stories I've read developed realistic characters and drew me into the story.
3) The story is unique. A story about a married couple, estranged or otherwise, is rare; but this set of circumstances was one of a kind.
What I didn't like:
1) There is a mystery that is not resolved in this book. I have to continue the series.
2) Both Jasper and Opal made foolish decisions. Just TALK to each other about everything and share each others burdens like a married couple in love is supposed to!
3) Opal didn't appreciate Lady Romeril as much as she should. Even though Lady Romeril could be a gossipy busybody, she was the only friend Opal had and let her family live with her; yet Opal didn't like one thing about the Romerils.
Even though my likes and dislikes counts are equal, I really enjoyed the book and recommend it. I only hope I don't have to wait long for the second installment.
I received an advance review copy through Netgalley for an honest review four days ago. Fortunately, this was an engaging read that I could finish quickly even though I had very little reading time. It was released today and is now available for only 99 cents.
This was my second book by the author. She writes both sweet and steamy. The first I read was sweet. This is steamy. I enjoyed both.
This may be a slight spoiler, but this is what I would want to know when reading a review about this book. Even though the H/h husband and wife were living apart for 7 years, they both remained faithful. Neither had sex or emotional intimacy with another.
What I liked:
1) The De Petras are a matriarchal family. All the females require their husbands to take the De Petras name, and the eldest daughter inherits the money and responsibility.
2) The writing style is great. Both stories I've read developed realistic characters and drew me into the story.
3) The story is unique. A story about a married couple, estranged or otherwise, is rare; but this set of circumstances was one of a kind.
What I didn't like:
1) There is a mystery that is not resolved in this book. I have to continue the series.
2) Both Jasper and Opal made foolish decisions. Just TALK to each other about everything and share each others burdens like a married couple in love is supposed to!
3) Opal didn't appreciate Lady Romeril as much as she should. Even though Lady Romeril could be a gossipy busybody, she was the only friend Opal had and let her family live with her; yet Opal didn't like one thing about the Romerils.
Even though my likes and dislikes counts are equal, I really enjoyed the book and recommend it. I only hope I don't have to wait long for the second installment.
April 20, 2022
A wonderful story that I read straight through! Emily E.K. Murdoch always creates unique storylines with multifaceted characters, a perfect amount of angst, and of course a happily ever after! 😍 This book begins a new series and it appears “The De Petras Saga” is going to have quite a few books, I am looking forward to reading them. This story is set in London, the late 1790’s, at a time when The French Revolution was occurring and some of the fear and situations are mentioned in the story. I will be interested to see if this continues throughout the saga.
I loved the concept of the De Petras family being matriarchal in all ways. That is not something seen in a lot of romance novels and it adds a nice twist. I can’t wait to see how Coral De Petras handles that responsibility as she makes her debut in the next book. 😉
I would have given this story 5 Stars easily; However, I found the last conflict between the H/h to be almost forced into the story and the heroine’s reaction felt OTT. Additionally, the mystery that is central to the plot was left unresolved along with a lot of questions regarding the heroine’s history and family. I am sure the questions will be answered throughout the upcoming books but it kind of leaves the reader hanging at the end of this story.
Overall 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 4 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥 and a promising beginning to a new saga.
📚I received an advance review copy from Dragonblade Publishing and this is my freely given unbiased and honest review 📚
I loved the concept of the De Petras family being matriarchal in all ways. That is not something seen in a lot of romance novels and it adds a nice twist. I can’t wait to see how Coral De Petras handles that responsibility as she makes her debut in the next book. 😉
I would have given this story 5 Stars easily; However, I found the last conflict between the H/h to be almost forced into the story and the heroine’s reaction felt OTT. Additionally, the mystery that is central to the plot was left unresolved along with a lot of questions regarding the heroine’s history and family. I am sure the questions will be answered throughout the upcoming books but it kind of leaves the reader hanging at the end of this story.
Overall 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 4 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥 and a promising beginning to a new saga.
📚I received an advance review copy from Dragonblade Publishing and this is my freely given unbiased and honest review 📚
April 26, 2022
Thank you Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. All opinions on my own.
"The Misplaced Husband" is a first time read by Emily E K. Murdoch, new author to this reader. What can I say? I felt a little disappointed with this read as I anticipated this to be a good read based on the description.
Opal de Petras can finally declare her husband dead after being absent for seven long years. However, on the day of her freedom her missing husband, Jasper waltzes back into her life from the dead and expects her and their three children to acknowledge him to his rightful place. Hmm...I thought the hero was a selfish and pushy prick to assume that things were still good between him and his wife let alone the children. I also thought his reasoning for disappearing was weak and if he loved his family as much as he said he would have stayed and fought to keep them safe. The heroine was right to move on with her life and taking care of her children.
Was there angst between the two....not much but it was way more of that between the heroine and a subcharacter. I truly almost DNF this book because in the end it felt too unrealistic for me...unrealistic for the lame excuse the husband had for why he disappeared. One thing I found interesting and a first was the husband taking on the wife's last name and succession of title being passed down to the daughter instead of the son as you read in most historical regency romances. Just couldn't wrap my head around any male, especially those of the ton relinquishing his titled name and Griffin to a woman, especially a wife when asked. Far fetched🤔
This totally could have been a better and enjoyable read. Not sure about continuing the series but will try another book by this author to redeem her writing style.
"The Misplaced Husband" is a first time read by Emily E K. Murdoch, new author to this reader. What can I say? I felt a little disappointed with this read as I anticipated this to be a good read based on the description.
Opal de Petras can finally declare her husband dead after being absent for seven long years. However, on the day of her freedom her missing husband, Jasper waltzes back into her life from the dead and expects her and their three children to acknowledge him to his rightful place. Hmm...I thought the hero was a selfish and pushy prick to assume that things were still good between him and his wife let alone the children. I also thought his reasoning for disappearing was weak and if he loved his family as much as he said he would have stayed and fought to keep them safe. The heroine was right to move on with her life and taking care of her children.
Was there angst between the two....not much but it was way more of that between the heroine and a subcharacter. I truly almost DNF this book because in the end it felt too unrealistic for me...unrealistic for the lame excuse the husband had for why he disappeared. One thing I found interesting and a first was the husband taking on the wife's last name and succession of title being passed down to the daughter instead of the son as you read in most historical regency romances. Just couldn't wrap my head around any male, especially those of the ton relinquishing his titled name and Griffin to a woman, especially a wife when asked. Far fetched🤔
This totally could have been a better and enjoyable read. Not sure about continuing the series but will try another book by this author to redeem her writing style.
April 26, 2022
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
An unusual plot and storyline that makes it even more interesting to read.
A husband Misplaced by his family, turns up after 7 years , once he’s declared dead and his widow is looking for a lover.
But more is going on here, why did this situation come about at all, where’s he been and why.
Such an enjoyable read , don’t miss this first in an awesome new series from Emily.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
An unusual plot and storyline that makes it even more interesting to read.
A husband Misplaced by his family, turns up after 7 years , once he’s declared dead and his widow is looking for a lover.
But more is going on here, why did this situation come about at all, where’s he been and why.
Such an enjoyable read , don’t miss this first in an awesome new series from Emily.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
April 30, 2022
I found this novel bewildering, to say the least. Having read the blurb, I was hopeful that this book would catch my interest. Unfortunately, that was not to be. The plot is somewhat unbelievable and the background to the story is ambiguous. Although the novel does come to a happy conclusion, there were still more questions than answers. However, the cover of the book is very pretty. I received a copy of this romance through NetGalley as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
July 10, 2022
Rating: 2.5/5.0
“The Misplaced Husband” starts off as a comedic story with a newly declared widow and her three fascinating children whose world is turned upside down when her “dead” husband arrives on her doorstep.
Read full review in the 2022 Summer issue of InD'tale Magazine.
“The Misplaced Husband” starts off as a comedic story with a newly declared widow and her three fascinating children whose world is turned upside down when her “dead” husband arrives on her doorstep.
Read full review in the 2022 Summer issue of InD'tale Magazine.
April 24, 2022
3.75 Stars
Opal de Petras & Jasper fell in love with at first sight whilst he was visiting Rome. Three children later, misplaces her husband and after seven years with no word is tempted to look elsewhere for love. She is the matriarch of her family and the one responsible for their reputations, she must try to keep the de Petras family respectable. So when on the very day that her husband Jasper is legally declared dead - and she is declared a widow - he suddenly appears back in her life, he has a lot of questions to answer. Jasper de Petras knew there was no option but to abandon his family when the threatening letters started arriving .
The start of what promises to be a long series. I’m a little on the fence with this opener, it does introduce us to the de Petras family where the husband takes the wife’s surname & the eldest daughter is the heir but it also left many unanswered questions, which if I want answering then I've to read more books in the series. The characters were well portrayed I did liked them but didn't love them & thought Opal's reaction towards the end of the book was over the top & out of character. Overall an interesting start to a series that is different, yes I’ll read more as I hate unanswered questions
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Opal de Petras & Jasper fell in love with at first sight whilst he was visiting Rome. Three children later, misplaces her husband and after seven years with no word is tempted to look elsewhere for love. She is the matriarch of her family and the one responsible for their reputations, she must try to keep the de Petras family respectable. So when on the very day that her husband Jasper is legally declared dead - and she is declared a widow - he suddenly appears back in her life, he has a lot of questions to answer. Jasper de Petras knew there was no option but to abandon his family when the threatening letters started arriving .
The start of what promises to be a long series. I’m a little on the fence with this opener, it does introduce us to the de Petras family where the husband takes the wife’s surname & the eldest daughter is the heir but it also left many unanswered questions, which if I want answering then I've to read more books in the series. The characters were well portrayed I did liked them but didn't love them & thought Opal's reaction towards the end of the book was over the top & out of character. Overall an interesting start to a series that is different, yes I’ll read more as I hate unanswered questions
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
April 22, 2022
Opal - a strong person and I admired her for several things.
Jasper - though he did not appear to be a strong/ alpha type character, I (think l) liked him.
The story started off awesome but it did not keep my curiosity that high at several points - the mystery piece is yet to be solved - it's ok to cliff hang but at least a bit more details would have satisfied me.
Definitely looking forward to Coral's story and I really hope we get to see more of Jasper and Opal (I would definitely not feel like reading if they off any one of these two characters - the next in series has a name that has me worried in this direction).
Overall - 3.75 stars for a quick interesting read.
Jasper - though he did not appear to be a strong/ alpha type character, I (think l) liked him.
The story started off awesome but it did not keep my curiosity that high at several points - the mystery piece is yet to be solved - it's ok to cliff hang but at least a bit more details would have satisfied me.
Definitely looking forward to Coral's story and I really hope we get to see more of Jasper and Opal (I would definitely not feel like reading if they off any one of these two characters - the next in series has a name that has me worried in this direction).
Overall - 3.75 stars for a quick interesting read.
April 24, 2022
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
The premise of this book ended up being more interesting than the actual book. I felt like there were parts of the story that would have been interesting but were ultimately left unresolved. They may be brought up in future books so I'll hold off on being too critical. I wish we had learned sooner that Jasper had left a note explaining why he was leaving earlier in the book. His confusion over why Opal was so upset with him made him seem like a narcissistic moron and I really did not like him for almost half the book. And if Opal had not had him declared dead how much longer would he have stayed away. He keeps talking about how much he loves and respects his wife so why didn't he tell her about the threatening letters? This missing letter was one of the plot points that I felt never got explained - who took it/what happened to it? Another is the mystery of who wrote the letters - I'm assuming we will learn more about that in a future book. I liked Opal, but was really confused by a lot of her behavior. She is keeping so many secrets from her husband and then rather than talking to him about the woman who comes looking for money from him she automatically thinks he was unfaithful and runs away with the children. After everything they had just gone through why wouldn't she at least confront him about this? And she runs off to her a woman who has pretty much been set up as an enemy to her and who she worries will gossip about her and what is happening with her family. I would have liked more about Jasper reconnecting with the children. The final storyline that ended up going was Mr. Ransome - he says he will come to see Opal but we never hear from or see him again. I'm intrigued by Coral and am curious to see how her own romance story goes.
The premise of this book ended up being more interesting than the actual book. I felt like there were parts of the story that would have been interesting but were ultimately left unresolved. They may be brought up in future books so I'll hold off on being too critical. I wish we had learned sooner that Jasper had left a note explaining why he was leaving earlier in the book. His confusion over why Opal was so upset with him made him seem like a narcissistic moron and I really did not like him for almost half the book. And if Opal had not had him declared dead how much longer would he have stayed away. He keeps talking about how much he loves and respects his wife so why didn't he tell her about the threatening letters? This missing letter was one of the plot points that I felt never got explained - who took it/what happened to it? Another is the mystery of who wrote the letters - I'm assuming we will learn more about that in a future book. I liked Opal, but was really confused by a lot of her behavior. She is keeping so many secrets from her husband and then rather than talking to him about the woman who comes looking for money from him she automatically thinks he was unfaithful and runs away with the children. After everything they had just gone through why wouldn't she at least confront him about this? And she runs off to her a woman who has pretty much been set up as an enemy to her and who she worries will gossip about her and what is happening with her family. I would have liked more about Jasper reconnecting with the children. The final storyline that ended up going was Mr. Ransome - he says he will come to see Opal but we never hear from or see him again. I'm intrigued by Coral and am curious to see how her own romance story goes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2022
What is love without trust, and how does one learn to trust those they love? That is the question that creates the powerful heart wrenching drama of The Misplaced Husband. Emily Murdoch has a particular skill for making your heart lurch with angst. From the very first few pages I could feel the heartbreak and anticipate that wrenching anguish. Two people torn apart, a lack of trust at the heart of the separation. Despite a desperate love, these two must learn to trust each other and to lean on one another for support. Knowing that problems do not disappear, nor can they be worked out alone. Knowing there are 14 books planned in this series, I am eager to get to know more of the De Petras’. This is family unique to the ways of English Society. A family led by the Matriach, the women in line of inheritance. This will certainly allow for some intriguing complications in future stories I am sure. As will the mystery of the De Petras’ history, as that certainly is not a chapter closed in this book. Well-written, steadily paced and endearingly romantic. I was so eager for the heart-healing HEA of Opal and Jaspers story, and it did not disappoint.
June 15, 2022
The Misplaced Husband is the first novel in a family saga, therefore it has the donkey work of setting the premise for the whole series. Maybe this is why I feel it failed to deliver an enjoyable reading experience: there were too many irons in the fire and too little time.
While other books by Emily E.K. Murdoch kept me glued to the page from start to finish, I could easily put this one aside for days. In the end, I read it from start to finish and I also feel inclined to buy its sequel, so it has some merits, but probably I expected something more from this author who thoroughly entertained my with her Governess Boureau series.
Obviously, since I gave the book 3 stars, there are things I liked too! The story is different and original. I like the fact that it's the eldest daughter of the family who inherits the fortune and not the son (I'm curious to see what this is going in the following books). And I really enjoyed the scenes with the children, especially Coral.
Talking about the things I would have liked to be different...
SPOILER ALLERT *If you don't want to have the surprise ruined don't read on*
First of all, I'm quite put out by the main female character's name: Opal de Petras. She is supposed to be Italian, but Opal isn't an Italian name and de Petras isn't an Italian surname (sounds more like Spanish to me). I understand the pattern in naming her children as stones and gems; moreover they were born in England so it's plausible that their names are not Italian. But Opal?
We get to know too little about Jasper. I wondered for mor than half of the book about his surname before marriage. We don't know anything about his background. He was travelling with an Earl when he met Opal, but she brought most of the money in the marriage. So what's his story? I want to know!
Lady Romeril, minor character as she is, bothers me immensely. Maybe I failed to grasp the details about her, but I pictured her like a dowager for most of the novel, only to discover in the last third of the story that she is married, her husband lives and she is probably Opal's equal in age with two young sons. Anyway, what bothers me most is her relationship with Opal: is she a friend? A foe?
Opal changes attitude towards her so often that I'm utterly confused. Sometimes she seems to admire or even fear her, then she says something bordering on rudeness to her, risking her displeasure and her censor. And after that Opal runs to Lady Romeril for help... why?
On the whole, I'm curious to know what's going to happen in the next book, mostly because I'd like to know if some of my questions find an answer. Anyway I find The Misplaced Husband a little lacking, especially if compared to other novels by the same author.
While other books by Emily E.K. Murdoch kept me glued to the page from start to finish, I could easily put this one aside for days. In the end, I read it from start to finish and I also feel inclined to buy its sequel, so it has some merits, but probably I expected something more from this author who thoroughly entertained my with her Governess Boureau series.
Obviously, since I gave the book 3 stars, there are things I liked too! The story is different and original. I like the fact that it's the eldest daughter of the family who inherits the fortune and not the son (I'm curious to see what this is going in the following books). And I really enjoyed the scenes with the children, especially Coral.
Talking about the things I would have liked to be different...
SPOILER ALLERT *If you don't want to have the surprise ruined don't read on*
First of all, I'm quite put out by the main female character's name: Opal de Petras. She is supposed to be Italian, but Opal isn't an Italian name and de Petras isn't an Italian surname (sounds more like Spanish to me). I understand the pattern in naming her children as stones and gems; moreover they were born in England so it's plausible that their names are not Italian. But Opal?
We get to know too little about Jasper. I wondered for mor than half of the book about his surname before marriage. We don't know anything about his background. He was travelling with an Earl when he met Opal, but she brought most of the money in the marriage. So what's his story? I want to know!
Lady Romeril, minor character as she is, bothers me immensely. Maybe I failed to grasp the details about her, but I pictured her like a dowager for most of the novel, only to discover in the last third of the story that she is married, her husband lives and she is probably Opal's equal in age with two young sons. Anyway, what bothers me most is her relationship with Opal: is she a friend? A foe?
Opal changes attitude towards her so often that I'm utterly confused. Sometimes she seems to admire or even fear her, then she says something bordering on rudeness to her, risking her displeasure and her censor. And after that Opal runs to Lady Romeril for help... why?
On the whole, I'm curious to know what's going to happen in the next book, mostly because I'd like to know if some of my questions find an answer. Anyway I find The Misplaced Husband a little lacking, especially if compared to other novels by the same author.
April 27, 2022
I enjoyed the overall plot of this book, but I think it would have been better as a short story or part of an anthology to introduce the characters.
I liked the overall concept of this book with Jasper, Opal's husband being gone for over 7 years. The relationship kindling was nice, but I felt like it took a long time to figure out why Jasper left. I also felt one of the main plots wasn't fully resolved (mystery writer) and that bothered me. If the main points were condensed into a shorter version, I think it would have made more of an impact.
I am hoping subsequent books get more into the plot details, but I did enjoy the book overall.
Thank you to Dragonblade and Netgalley for providing a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
I liked the overall concept of this book with Jasper, Opal's husband being gone for over 7 years. The relationship kindling was nice, but I felt like it took a long time to figure out why Jasper left. I also felt one of the main plots wasn't fully resolved (mystery writer) and that bothered me. If the main points were condensed into a shorter version, I think it would have made more of an impact.
I am hoping subsequent books get more into the plot details, but I did enjoy the book overall.
Thank you to Dragonblade and Netgalley for providing a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
April 25, 2022
England late 1700's
A story fill with angst, suspicions, secrets and a love that might not make the test of time.
That is after the abandonment of her husband for seven years.
Love at first sight, they had been a happy couple with their children and then one day he was gone.
What was she to think? She was finally able to declare him dead... Except he appeared on that day.
He had left to keep his family safe. Or did he?
A lot of unanswered questions on this first in a series that looks to be long.. Looking forward to more!
A story fill with angst, suspicions, secrets and a love that might not make the test of time.
That is after the abandonment of her husband for seven years.
Love at first sight, they had been a happy couple with their children and then one day he was gone.
What was she to think? She was finally able to declare him dead... Except he appeared on that day.
He had left to keep his family safe. Or did he?
A lot of unanswered questions on this first in a series that looks to be long.. Looking forward to more!
April 19, 2022
Opal has “misplaced’ her husband Jasper. He actually left her with no warning. After seven years, she declares him dead and, as a widow, decides to move on with her life. He shows up the next day. He apparently left a note, that Opal never got, telling her he was leaving to protect her from threats he got in his mail. Opal has secrets of her own that will come out in future books in this series. I received and ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for my honest review.
April 22, 2022
So disappointed with this. I was looking forward to reading it when I read the description and it was a complete let down. No realistic reason for Jasper to go missing for 7 years no resolution with solving who was sending the malicious letters didn't warm to either character. I received this book in exchange for an honest review as given above.
May 5, 2022
I got through about a quarter of this book and had to put it down. Perhaps it gets better towards the end of the book. For a regency romance novel, the story line falls flat. Both of the main characters are pretty awful, one abandons his family, and the other is just a bit too progressive for a regency era book. For example, she insists on her husband taking her last name, she owns various rental properties, and her eldest daughter is set to inherit. All of which was unheard of in England in the late 1700s. From a historical fiction stance, it didn't stick true to the time period.
May 7, 2022
DNF at 28%
May 10, 2022
I received a copy from NetGalley and this is my freely given opinion.
This was a very different spin on the second chance at love storyline. The story opens with the heroine, Opal, being declared a widow, after her husband, Jasper, has been missing for 7 years. Jasper just up and disappeared with no notice one day and she never heard from him, had no clue what happened, and why he abandoned his wife and their three children. She suspected the worse, including his death, or his abandonment of her for another woman, and spent the years trying to keep it together for her children. After going through the time and expense of having him declared legally dead, so she could formally become a widow and perhaps find companionship again, or at least go on with her life in society, he suddenly shows back up in her life, wanting to pick up their life again.
But as the vows say, until death do us part... and he was declared dead, so as far as Opal is concerned, he is no longer her husband.
Jasper left 7 years before, after receiving threats against his wife and family, thinking that if he did as the letters said, which was to leave, they would be safe. But then nothing happened, and he receives word that he has been formally declared dead, and decides that he wants to be back with his family, and wants to court his wife and be her husband again.
Generally I like this story because it was a lovely story of second chances, and the sense of Opal's sadness at Jasper's betrayal, and her own sense of loss and lack of self worth, as a maturing woman, single mother, and feeling out of place as a foreigner (she and Jasper met in her native city of Rome) was very poignant. I also enjoyed the portrayal of her strength and warmth as a mother, and the unusual storyline as matriachal family, including the husband taking the wife's name, and the heir being down the female line. Very unusual and quite subversive for that time and society. I felt for Jasper and his sense of loss especially of all those years lost with his children, but I felt that his decision to leave without effective communication with his wife was very thoughtless and rather abrupt on his part. If she is the matriarch and he agreed to that, where was the respect and communication with her.
The threat that Jasper acted on was never truly clearly defined, with some allusions to a sibling rivalry and the revolution in France, and I felt there was not sufficient resolution of it, especially in the "current" timeline, when Jasper returns. He had left her a letter explaining his actions years ago, but she never received it. To me, that gave a sinister hint that perhaps the threat was within their household, and perhaps someone purloined his letter to cause her more distress - but again, that was never satisfactorily explained, or resolved.
Also, what was that frenemies thing with that bitch Lady Romeril - why on earth would Opal want to pursue a relationship with her, knowing she is a snobbish, mean, gossip that is looking to score points on Opal and her family? I do not get that relationship at all.
So while I enjoyed the renewal of Opal and Jasper's love and marriage, as growth as a family, I felt that the tension and threat that lead to the separation really needed more attention in the story.
3 out of 5.
It also helps that there is an old dog in the family too - you know I am always thrilled when there is a pet.
This was a very different spin on the second chance at love storyline. The story opens with the heroine, Opal, being declared a widow, after her husband, Jasper, has been missing for 7 years. Jasper just up and disappeared with no notice one day and she never heard from him, had no clue what happened, and why he abandoned his wife and their three children. She suspected the worse, including his death, or his abandonment of her for another woman, and spent the years trying to keep it together for her children. After going through the time and expense of having him declared legally dead, so she could formally become a widow and perhaps find companionship again, or at least go on with her life in society, he suddenly shows back up in her life, wanting to pick up their life again.
But as the vows say, until death do us part... and he was declared dead, so as far as Opal is concerned, he is no longer her husband.
Jasper left 7 years before, after receiving threats against his wife and family, thinking that if he did as the letters said, which was to leave, they would be safe. But then nothing happened, and he receives word that he has been formally declared dead, and decides that he wants to be back with his family, and wants to court his wife and be her husband again.
Generally I like this story because it was a lovely story of second chances, and the sense of Opal's sadness at Jasper's betrayal, and her own sense of loss and lack of self worth, as a maturing woman, single mother, and feeling out of place as a foreigner (she and Jasper met in her native city of Rome) was very poignant. I also enjoyed the portrayal of her strength and warmth as a mother, and the unusual storyline as matriachal family, including the husband taking the wife's name, and the heir being down the female line. Very unusual and quite subversive for that time and society. I felt for Jasper and his sense of loss especially of all those years lost with his children, but I felt that his decision to leave without effective communication with his wife was very thoughtless and rather abrupt on his part. If she is the matriarch and he agreed to that, where was the respect and communication with her.
The threat that Jasper acted on was never truly clearly defined, with some allusions to a sibling rivalry and the revolution in France, and I felt there was not sufficient resolution of it, especially in the "current" timeline, when Jasper returns. He had left her a letter explaining his actions years ago, but she never received it. To me, that gave a sinister hint that perhaps the threat was within their household, and perhaps someone purloined his letter to cause her more distress - but again, that was never satisfactorily explained, or resolved.
Also, what was that frenemies thing with that bitch Lady Romeril - why on earth would Opal want to pursue a relationship with her, knowing she is a snobbish, mean, gossip that is looking to score points on Opal and her family? I do not get that relationship at all.
So while I enjoyed the renewal of Opal and Jasper's love and marriage, as growth as a family, I felt that the tension and threat that lead to the separation really needed more attention in the story.
3 out of 5.
It also helps that there is an old dog in the family too - you know I am always thrilled when there is a pet.
April 22, 2022
The Misplaced Husband by Emily E K Murdoch as an amusing story that didn't hold together as well as it might have. It left basic questions that I hope will be answered in subsequent installments. Opal de Petras had fallen in love with her husband the first time she saw him. After she explained her family's eccentricities: the husband took the wife family name and the inheritance passed through the female, and he didn't flinch, she married him. All had gone well: two children and one on the way. Then one day he just . . . disappeared. Now, seven years later, she has had him declared legally dead, and as she is sitting at tea, contemplating which of the handsome men present, she would take as a lover, he shows up. She was aghast. The guests loved it. They were always available for gossip. What was she to do?
She loved him. She had missed him, but she was angry. Where had he been? What had he been doing? The communication link that had always been between them was now broken. The children were unsure. She had just given in and allowed him back in when the woman arrived at the door. She was heartbroken. She had believed him when he said he's been faithful and now here was his mistress. All the hurt came rushing back in and Murdoch made her reader feel every moment of it. The grief was spellbinding. She did what she cold do. She ran.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Misplaced Husband by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #themisplacedhusband #emilyekmurdoch
She loved him. She had missed him, but she was angry. Where had he been? What had he been doing? The communication link that had always been between them was now broken. The children were unsure. She had just given in and allowed him back in when the woman arrived at the door. She was heartbroken. She had believed him when he said he's been faithful and now here was his mistress. All the hurt came rushing back in and Murdoch made her reader feel every moment of it. The grief was spellbinding. She did what she cold do. She ran.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Misplaced Husband by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #themisplacedhusband #emilyekmurdoch
April 26, 2022
Rekindled Love
Opal de Petras after living alone with her children since her husband Jasper disappeared with no contact years ago, has had him declared dead so that as a widow she can carry on with her life and build a new one without him, only to be shocked when he turns up alive and well. Jasper was the love of her life and she was devastated when he disappeared with no contact!
Jasper disappeared years ago to protect Opal and their children, he had received threats to say that for as long as he was with them, they would be in danger. He wrote her a letter to explain while he went away to investigate to find out who was threatening his family.
Jasper was still madly in love with Opal and on his return expected things to be as he had left them and share his wife’s bed, to engage with his family and meet his youngest child who he had never seen. I love the way each child has their own personality which shines through and the funny moments Jasper tries to deal with them.
A fun passionate read full of steamy moments about a couple who were lost to each other who find each other again and prove that a love as strong as theirs can last a lifetime. A great start to the series, I’m looking forward to the next story.
Opal de Petras after living alone with her children since her husband Jasper disappeared with no contact years ago, has had him declared dead so that as a widow she can carry on with her life and build a new one without him, only to be shocked when he turns up alive and well. Jasper was the love of her life and she was devastated when he disappeared with no contact!
Jasper disappeared years ago to protect Opal and their children, he had received threats to say that for as long as he was with them, they would be in danger. He wrote her a letter to explain while he went away to investigate to find out who was threatening his family.
Jasper was still madly in love with Opal and on his return expected things to be as he had left them and share his wife’s bed, to engage with his family and meet his youngest child who he had never seen. I love the way each child has their own personality which shines through and the funny moments Jasper tries to deal with them.
A fun passionate read full of steamy moments about a couple who were lost to each other who find each other again and prove that a love as strong as theirs can last a lifetime. A great start to the series, I’m looking forward to the next story.
May 3, 2022
This is the first installment of Ms. Murdoch's new series, The De Petras Saga, and I have to say it is off to a brilliant start! Jasper and Opal met in Rome and fell in love and married. After sharing a life together and three children later, Jasper abandons his family and disappears for seven years. Jasper left to protect his family, but Opal did not know this and after so many years gone, she wants to move on with her life. But once Jasper is legally declared dead, he comes back into her life that very same day. He has a lot to explain and account for. Will Opal be willing to listen?
This was an interesting and unique story and I found this to be quite entertaining. The story kept my interest all the way through. The characters were nicely developed and there was no question as to how strong their chemistry was. There were still a few unanswered questions by the end, but I'm guessing those will be answered along the way as the series progresses. It was an enjoyable story and I am happy to have had the opportunity to review. A very well-written story and great start to what looks to be a very entertaining series!
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
This was an interesting and unique story and I found this to be quite entertaining. The story kept my interest all the way through. The characters were nicely developed and there was no question as to how strong their chemistry was. There were still a few unanswered questions by the end, but I'm guessing those will be answered along the way as the series progresses. It was an enjoyable story and I am happy to have had the opportunity to review. A very well-written story and great start to what looks to be a very entertaining series!
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
April 24, 2022
My first book by this author that I didn’t enjoy.
Opal is finally able to declare her missing (or misplaced) husband dead after 7 years. She’s already living the life of a widow, raising their three children and what does he do?? Come back on the day the lawyer signs his death certificate and she’s ready to move on.
After 7 years. I did not like Jasper at all. Selfish and pushy. Big red flag for me.
Opal always hoped he’d come back, but not knowing, the sadness, then being two parents and trying to be strong for 7 years and enduring the judgment of society, should have taken a toll on her during that time 1787-1794….but within a week, she’s smiling at him? Allowing him to disrespect her by judging her that she declared him dead??
Yeah, no. This is not a good start. Sorry, I do not think this series will be for me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Opal is finally able to declare her missing (or misplaced) husband dead after 7 years. She’s already living the life of a widow, raising their three children and what does he do?? Come back on the day the lawyer signs his death certificate and she’s ready to move on.
After 7 years. I did not like Jasper at all. Selfish and pushy. Big red flag for me.
Opal always hoped he’d come back, but not knowing, the sadness, then being two parents and trying to be strong for 7 years and enduring the judgment of society, should have taken a toll on her during that time 1787-1794….but within a week, she’s smiling at him? Allowing him to disrespect her by judging her that she declared him dead??
Yeah, no. This is not a good start. Sorry, I do not think this series will be for me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 5, 2022
3.25 STARS
Not everything is tied into a nice bow - many unanswered questions. The H leaves a note explaining all to the h. If you are going to leave a note, why not have a talk with her? That bothered me because they supposedly have a loving marriage.
I get upset when we are given different information. We go from the older child being ten going on 11. The H states she was 6 when he left and he was gone for 7 years - math doesn't add up!
After they start mending their ways back to each other the h takes her children and runs to the least likely place you would expect her to go - the Ton's big gossip. Why not go to a nice boarding house?
Also, why not talk over your fears with your reconciled husband?
Lovemaking I guess within marriage - heat level 3 out of 5.
No cheating, HEA, some romance, cliffhanger with some things and steam. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you tidbits from my perspective. (ljb)
Not everything is tied into a nice bow - many unanswered questions. The H leaves a note explaining all to the h. If you are going to leave a note, why not have a talk with her? That bothered me because they supposedly have a loving marriage.
I get upset when we are given different information. We go from the older child being ten going on 11. The H states she was 6 when he left and he was gone for 7 years - math doesn't add up!
After they start mending their ways back to each other the h takes her children and runs to the least likely place you would expect her to go - the Ton's big gossip. Why not go to a nice boarding house?
Also, why not talk over your fears with your reconciled husband?
Lovemaking I guess within marriage - heat level 3 out of 5.
No cheating, HEA, some romance, cliffhanger with some things and steam. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you tidbits from my perspective. (ljb)
April 19, 2022
Mrs Opal de Petras was abandoned by her husband and has no idea if he is even still alive. After so many years alone she needs to move on with her life and prepare for her children's future. Our heroine lives with somewhat different expectations than most of English Society, but needs to be accepted by it for the sake of her children.
Mr Jake de Petras had his reasons for what he has done. Hopefully he can return to the life he left behind.
I really did not like this hero at all. I wanted to smack him for not trying harder to find the person responsible all those years before. Definitely not a heroic hero. Although our characters get a conclusion they are satisfied with, I wanted to know who and why started it all.
An unusual historical romance.
Mr Jake de Petras had his reasons for what he has done. Hopefully he can return to the life he left behind.
I really did not like this hero at all. I wanted to smack him for not trying harder to find the person responsible all those years before. Definitely not a heroic hero. Although our characters get a conclusion they are satisfied with, I wanted to know who and why started it all.
An unusual historical romance.
April 26, 2022
Just how do you misplace a husband? That is what Ms. Opal de Petra has done for 7 years. Off to work he went and never came home. For seven years she kept the house, raised the children, and managed to control the finances. A smart women caught in a terrible position. Luckily, he had a shipping business and it stayed profitable with him being misplaced. On the morning she declared him dead, guess who comes walking in the door. Now the real problems become her main concern. Just what to do about his arrival. Personally, I would have liked our hero to have a bit more courage and not be so meek. But that is just my thoughts. The book is interesting and left some entertaining thoughts about his disappearance.
April 26, 2022
Jasper de Petras disappeared for seven years, until he found out his wife had him legally declared dead. Opal is the matriarch of the family, according to custom, and Jasper had to take Opal's last name and leave her to manage her own finances when they married. Opal's loneliness has her thinking about taking a lover, but Jasper's sudden appearance changes her mind. She still loves him, but does not trust him. Jasper wants nothing more than to be her husband again and a father to his three children. I kind of felt the answer to Jasper's disappearance was still open. There is no doubt Jasper loves Opal and the children. Interesting epilogue with a strong enticement to read the next book in the series.❤️
Heat level 3
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book
Heat level 3
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book
April 30, 2022
On the day Opal de Petras has her husband Jasper, who has been missing for seven years, declared dead and herself a widow, he comes walking through the door. Opal has the same questions the reader has. Why did he leave? Where has he been? Why did he stay gone so long? They are reunited, but can they reconcile? This is a big step not just for Opal and Jasper, but for the whole family. This is an interesting story centered around a Matriarchal family structure. Opal and Jasper love each other, but seem to function separately outside their home. They have three children, each with a unique personality and view of Jasper’s return, who are delightfully entertaining. This is the first book in the de Petra family saga. I look forward to future stories, secrets revealed, and questions answered.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
June 5, 2022
Ran away in fear
Jasper ran from his pregnant wife and two children for 7 years to keep them safe!?? Opal is Italian and unusual in that her husband takes her name and the female leads the family!
There are several unresolved issues! Why write a letter to your wife to tell her you are leaving because of threatening letters!????? Opal apparently knows who may have made the threats but has never told her husband she even has family!???
The day he is declared dead Jasper returns...no new threats or letters appear? Odd to say the least! They are wealthy yet their oldest daughter is obsessed with money! I have several books from this author I hope author can do better in this series it is off to a rocky start!
Jasper ran from his pregnant wife and two children for 7 years to keep them safe!?? Opal is Italian and unusual in that her husband takes her name and the female leads the family!
There are several unresolved issues! Why write a letter to your wife to tell her you are leaving because of threatening letters!????? Opal apparently knows who may have made the threats but has never told her husband she even has family!???
The day he is declared dead Jasper returns...no new threats or letters appear? Odd to say the least! They are wealthy yet their oldest daughter is obsessed with money! I have several books from this author I hope author can do better in this series it is off to a rocky start!
April 20, 2022
I received an advance ebook copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for review.
The Misplaced Husband by Emily E. K. Murdoch is the first book of the de Petras Saga. Opal has been abandoned by her husband after having three children. She is determined to find love again. Her husband has been declared dead. Things get complicated when he shows up alive. Jasper knew the best thing for him to do was to abandon his family after he started to receive threatening letters. When he discovers he has been declared dead, Jasper returns home in the hopes of winning Opal’s heart once more.
This book is a quick read. Jasper’s situation is very interesting!
The Misplaced Husband by Emily E. K. Murdoch is the first book of the de Petras Saga. Opal has been abandoned by her husband after having three children. She is determined to find love again. Her husband has been declared dead. Things get complicated when he shows up alive. Jasper knew the best thing for him to do was to abandon his family after he started to receive threatening letters. When he discovers he has been declared dead, Jasper returns home in the hopes of winning Opal’s heart once more.
This book is a quick read. Jasper’s situation is very interesting!
May 2, 2022
The Misplaced Husband is kind of different from most stories. The strangest thing about it, is that Opal dePetras follows the tradition of her family, where the oldest daughter inherits, and in marriage, the husband takes the wife's last name. Strange, to say the least, and I could find no purpose for that in the story. Her husband, Jasper, began receiving threatening letters, and to avoid any trouble, he leaves his family. He comes back seven years later, when his wife has declared him dead. Much of the story is just confusing, and it never really cleared up the source of the threatening letters. An okay story, but I wouldn't call it great.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews