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Beniton Hall #1
One Night in Beniton Hall
When an arranged compromise goes awry, whom can Heather count upon to come to her rescue?
Heather Nottingham, the eldest of four daughters, has everything and nothing when it comes to making a match. When London is packed to the brim with heiresses and beauties, most gentlemen don’t bat an eye for a lady who is adequate and average in almost every single way, even if she is a viscount’s daughter.
As her second Season plods on with nary a suitor in sight, Heather’s anxious mother and overbearing aunt persuade her to set her cap for the wealthy, if untitled, young Mr. Avington. But is the flirtatious heir to the Avington fortune even ready to settle down? And what is Heather supposed to do about the quiet, searing stares of Mr. Avington’s younger brother, a man she has actually come to admire?
Iris Lim’s first formal foray into original fiction explores the fates and loves of the Nottingham sisters and the people they hold dear. Book 1 in the Avington-Nottingham Series.
Heather Nottingham, the eldest of four daughters, has everything and nothing when it comes to making a match. When London is packed to the brim with heiresses and beauties, most gentlemen don’t bat an eye for a lady who is adequate and average in almost every single way, even if she is a viscount’s daughter.
As her second Season plods on with nary a suitor in sight, Heather’s anxious mother and overbearing aunt persuade her to set her cap for the wealthy, if untitled, young Mr. Avington. But is the flirtatious heir to the Avington fortune even ready to settle down? And what is Heather supposed to do about the quiet, searing stares of Mr. Avington’s younger brother, a man she has actually come to admire?
Iris Lim’s first formal foray into original fiction explores the fates and loves of the Nottingham sisters and the people they hold dear. Book 1 in the Avington-Nottingham Series.
175 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2022
158 people are currently reading
222 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
April 30, 2022
Heather Nottingham is the eldest of four daughters and is eager to marry. In her second season with no prospects in sight, Heather knows not just her future but her younger sisters’ futures are at stake. So, with prodding from her meddlesome mother and aunt, Heather is persuaded to attract Mr. Avington, the eldest in a very wealthy family. However, Heather is drawn more to the second Avington son, a quiet and kind man she connects with. Will Heather follow her heart, or will she succumb to family and social pressures?
One Night in Beniton Hall is a lovely historical romance, and I enjoyed Heather’s story. She is kind and gentle and someone her family can count on. She is such a wonderful big sister, and her patience and love for her sisters shine through. In fact, she’s often more worried about them and their futures than she is of her own. She is a wonderful match for Edgar, the second Avington son, who is also very kind, unassuming, and genteel.
Heather and Edgar have a sweet love story that stems from the societal pressure to marry. When Heather is purposely put in a compromising situation by her awful aunt, Edgar is the one who comes to her rescue. They have a lot in common, and their growing affection for each other, even though their relationship began under dubious circumstances, is lovely.
Several of the characters in the novella remind me of characters in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Heather’s mother, for example, is much like Mrs. Bennett, especially in her singular goal to marry her daughters, her blunt observations, and the way she embarrasses her family with her uncouth behavior and conversations. Heather’s father is a lot like Mr. Bennett, and her sisters have the same effervescence and inquisitiveness as the younger Bennett sisters as well. The subtle nods to Austen’s classic are great!
The story also includes some strong messages about gender, equality, and society at the time. It’s interesting because many of the women in the story know the difficulties for their gender and the safety that comes with marrying. However, they are also so obsessive In their goals to marry off their daughters that they actually fall victim to the standards of society. They are not strong women, and they exemplify some of the issues that permeated upper-class society.
A sweet, quick, and charming novella with strong messages and a romantic love story, One Night in Beniton Hall will definitely appeal to lovers of historical and regency romance.
One Night in Beniton Hall is a lovely historical romance, and I enjoyed Heather’s story. She is kind and gentle and someone her family can count on. She is such a wonderful big sister, and her patience and love for her sisters shine through. In fact, she’s often more worried about them and their futures than she is of her own. She is a wonderful match for Edgar, the second Avington son, who is also very kind, unassuming, and genteel.
Heather and Edgar have a sweet love story that stems from the societal pressure to marry. When Heather is purposely put in a compromising situation by her awful aunt, Edgar is the one who comes to her rescue. They have a lot in common, and their growing affection for each other, even though their relationship began under dubious circumstances, is lovely.
Several of the characters in the novella remind me of characters in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Heather’s mother, for example, is much like Mrs. Bennett, especially in her singular goal to marry her daughters, her blunt observations, and the way she embarrasses her family with her uncouth behavior and conversations. Heather’s father is a lot like Mr. Bennett, and her sisters have the same effervescence and inquisitiveness as the younger Bennett sisters as well. The subtle nods to Austen’s classic are great!
The story also includes some strong messages about gender, equality, and society at the time. It’s interesting because many of the women in the story know the difficulties for their gender and the safety that comes with marrying. However, they are also so obsessive In their goals to marry off their daughters that they actually fall victim to the standards of society. They are not strong women, and they exemplify some of the issues that permeated upper-class society.
A sweet, quick, and charming novella with strong messages and a romantic love story, One Night in Beniton Hall will definitely appeal to lovers of historical and regency romance.
October 4, 2024
Sweet and romantic…
I enjoyed the book very much and loved the romance. I must admit, though, that I despise the way women were treated in general back in those days. Reduced to the moment of finding the perfect match, oftentimes not even finding a love match, being ridiculed by other women and even men …sigh. I disliked the scheming character, trying to force a compromising situation, just so a marriage could be forced. The beautiful happy ending made it all better, though.
I enjoyed the book very much and loved the romance. I must admit, though, that I despise the way women were treated in general back in those days. Reduced to the moment of finding the perfect match, oftentimes not even finding a love match, being ridiculed by other women and even men …sigh. I disliked the scheming character, trying to force a compromising situation, just so a marriage could be forced. The beautiful happy ending made it all better, though.
December 1, 2022
What a gentle and pleasant read! This is the first book I’ve read by Iris Lim, but it certainly won’t be the last. I enjoyed the style and pace of her writing immensely. Her descriptions of the Nottinghams and Avingtons were spare but effective-I appreciate that she didn’t go overboard in lavish superlatives. Most of all, I love her depiction of marriage as an honorable state, and Edgar as a tender and dutiful husband. “If Edgar were a book, he might well be the sort one had to read thrice over to comprehend in full.” I’m glad Heather took time reconsider what a jewel she married, even though he did not at first seem the love match she had hoped for. So much like my own quiet husband! I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Book Sirens and was not required to post a review.
August 18, 2022
Miss Heather Nottingham is in her second season looking for a husband and still has no suitors. Once again she is eclipsed by other girls considered prettier, more gifted or with a better dowry.
If she doesn't get married this season, the next year she will see her sister, Violet debut and her sister is considered the beauty of the family, which will further reduce her chances of getting a good marriage.
At a ball, she is introduced to three of the Avington brothers, Alfred, the heir; Edgar, the quiet second son and the sociable Harold.
She dances with Alfred and Edgar and has a good impression of Edgar, whom she later meets again by chance in a bookstore.
Harriet then participates in a gathering at the Avingtons' residence where she experiences an embarrassing situation, eased by Edgard and soon after she is invited to a house party at Beniton Hall—the Avingtons' estate.
After an aunt forces a compromise to marry Harrit to Alfred, the eldest son, Edgar proposes to Harriet to mitigate the scandal.
Feelings of inferiority from both and the lack of communication of their feelings create a barrier in the relationship between the two and Harriet believes that the marriage took place out of pity, out of honor on the part of her husband when Harriet alread loves him.
The author delivers yet another work that holds the reader from beginning to end, by delicately showing the feelings of the main characters, especially Harriet.
I found out that it's the first in a series and I've already booked the next book to wait for the release.
Lovely.
If she doesn't get married this season, the next year she will see her sister, Violet debut and her sister is considered the beauty of the family, which will further reduce her chances of getting a good marriage.
At a ball, she is introduced to three of the Avington brothers, Alfred, the heir; Edgar, the quiet second son and the sociable Harold.
She dances with Alfred and Edgar and has a good impression of Edgar, whom she later meets again by chance in a bookstore.
Harriet then participates in a gathering at the Avingtons' residence where she experiences an embarrassing situation, eased by Edgard and soon after she is invited to a house party at Beniton Hall—the Avingtons' estate.
After an aunt forces a compromise to marry Harrit to Alfred, the eldest son, Edgar proposes to Harriet to mitigate the scandal.
Feelings of inferiority from both and the lack of communication of their feelings create a barrier in the relationship between the two and Harriet believes that the marriage took place out of pity, out of honor on the part of her husband when Harriet alread loves him.
The author delivers yet another work that holds the reader from beginning to end, by delicately showing the feelings of the main characters, especially Harriet.
I found out that it's the first in a series and I've already booked the next book to wait for the release.
Lovely.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2025
Content:
Profanity: None I recall.
Violence: None.
Sexual: High mild-low moderate. There is a fade-to-black wedding night scene that ends with the man wrapping his arms around the woman in her night clothes. There are multiple references to marital intimacy throughout the second half of the book with language like "when he rubbed my back it usually meant we would be enjoying more energetic pursuits for the night" and "passions of the wedding night" and "we usually were together every other night". There are a few mentions of mistresses, and at one point there is a question of if a man had spent the night with a woman not his wife. One instance where it's said 'she was divested of all respectable clothing and laid on top of him', There is a lot of kissing (face, neck, body), and cuddling, spooning etc. Language 'he worshiped her body' and such.
Triggers: Betrayal from relative and consequently ostracizing said relative who is unrepentant.
Just gonna say, while this is in the most politically correct sense "clean" since there are no sex scenes on page, it's got a lot of references and lead up moments described throughout that made it not clean to my mind. I can't in good conscience call it a clean read. I don't like fade to black. I don't consider those clean.
This also had a pacing issue. The promise of the premise in the summary is a planned compromise gone wrong. It took nearly 40% until I hit that, and I was just waiting that whole time wondering what the point of that incredibly long set-up meant. The summary did not do me favors by having that be so long in coming. And then, after the compromise gone wrong, the last half of the book is just them being married and wandering around? This whole story was quite boring. It needed more tension than the female MC wondering if her husband would ever love her.
Also, that romance was...dissatisfying. They spend time together in the loosest sense, they are intimate a lot, and yet the guy is constantly reading and comes across as aloof 90% of the time. The girl has major self-esteem issues, and she's obsessed with being the dutiful wife and making sure she pleases her hubby in every way. It was boring, and painful.
This whole book left me incredibly displeased. I thought I'd be getting a sweet romance with two like-minded people. It was far too pragmatic, unromantic, and full of communication issues. The sexual content just killed it stone-dead for me.
Profanity: None I recall.
Violence: None.
Sexual: High mild-low moderate. There is a fade-to-black wedding night scene that ends with the man wrapping his arms around the woman in her night clothes. There are multiple references to marital intimacy throughout the second half of the book with language like "when he rubbed my back it usually meant we would be enjoying more energetic pursuits for the night" and "passions of the wedding night" and "we usually were together every other night". There are a few mentions of mistresses, and at one point there is a question of if a man had spent the night with a woman not his wife. One instance where it's said 'she was divested of all respectable clothing and laid on top of him', There is a lot of kissing (face, neck, body), and cuddling, spooning etc. Language 'he worshiped her body' and such.
Triggers: Betrayal from relative and consequently ostracizing said relative who is unrepentant.
Just gonna say, while this is in the most politically correct sense "clean" since there are no sex scenes on page, it's got a lot of references and lead up moments described throughout that made it not clean to my mind. I can't in good conscience call it a clean read. I don't like fade to black. I don't consider those clean.
This also had a pacing issue. The promise of the premise in the summary is a planned compromise gone wrong. It took nearly 40% until I hit that, and I was just waiting that whole time wondering what the point of that incredibly long set-up meant. The summary did not do me favors by having that be so long in coming. And then, after the compromise gone wrong, the last half of the book is just them being married and wandering around? This whole story was quite boring. It needed more tension than the female MC wondering if her husband would ever love her.
Also, that romance was...dissatisfying. They spend time together in the loosest sense, they are intimate a lot, and yet the guy is constantly reading and comes across as aloof 90% of the time. The girl has major self-esteem issues, and she's obsessed with being the dutiful wife and making sure she pleases her hubby in every way. It was boring, and painful.
This whole book left me incredibly displeased. I thought I'd be getting a sweet romance with two like-minded people. It was far too pragmatic, unromantic, and full of communication issues. The sexual content just killed it stone-dead for me.
March 13, 2022
I found this book to be gentle, sweet yet thoughtful full of emotions, sentiment and feelings. Heather/h is a wonderful character. A true gentle lady with a heart of gold. She is the eldest of four sisters and with one season behind her, it seems the new season does not look promising. She is everything polite and thoughtful. She always says everything in the best possible way no matter how she may feel otherwise. I liked her very much. She could always be counted on by her sisters as a shoulder to lean on. No matter the circumstances she is always honest in her feelings and words. When she meets the Avington brothers she was embarrassed as her mother forced a dance from each of them with Heather. The eldest and heir was as haughty as they come. The second son Edgar was quiet yet quite solicitous. Heather and Edgar ran into each other at the bookstore and it was a quiet gentle but pleasant exchange. But Heather had no clue how Edgar's personality would shine bright in her future. Her Aunt Cordelia is universally unlike by all her family. She is actually her father's cousin. Not only is she unpleasant, abrupt and inconsiderate but she will go to any length to get her way. She uses Heather in a most horrible way causing so much trouble. Heather in tears, no one believing she had nothing to do with the machinations of her aunt. That's when Edgar surprises all his family and comes to Heather's rescue. Two gentle people thrown together without knowing each other. But God is good and they get on harmoniously. Heather is used to having three boisterous sisters around her and her Edgar is far from that. One evening after harsh words, Heather and Edgar see their misconceptions and flaws. They make up in the most delicious way. This is a delight to read and I highly recommend it.
I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 25, 2024
Charming
This was a charming, easy read, longer most novellas but shorter than a typical novel. I enjoyed the characters and found myself laughing out loud at one point. This novel lacks drama but is absolutely wonderful when you need a quick, sweet Hallmark type regency read. I am interested in continuing the series.
This was a charming, easy read, longer most novellas but shorter than a typical novel. I enjoyed the characters and found myself laughing out loud at one point. This novel lacks drama but is absolutely wonderful when you need a quick, sweet Hallmark type regency read. I am interested in continuing the series.
June 1, 2022
I always love a good forced marriage storyline. This book had a slightly different writing style than I'm used to, but I liked it. It felt like the author was trying to go for a more traditional, regency style writing, but still modern. I was happy to see that there are plans for many more books in this series.
June 1, 2025
Sweet heartwarming clean romance.
December 17, 2025
This was your standard forced marriage of convenience plot. It was all right.
March 23, 2022
When an arranged compromise goes awry, whom can Heather count upon to come to her rescue?
Heather Nottingham, the eldest of four daughters, has everything and nothing when it comes to making a match. When London is packed to the brim with heiresses and beauties, most gentlemen don’t bat an eye for a lady who is adequate and average in almost every single way, even if she is a viscount’s daughter.
As her second Season plods on with nary a suitor in sight, Heather’s anxious mother and overbearing aunt persuade her to set her cap for the wealthy, if untitled, young Mr. Avington. But is the flirtatious heir to the Avington fortune even ready to settle down? And what is Heather supposed to do about the quiet, searing stares of Mr. Avington’s younger brother, a man she has actually come to admire?
This is the. first book I have read by this author.
It is mysterious and a regency title that has a good storyline.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Heather Nottingham, the eldest of four daughters, has everything and nothing when it comes to making a match. When London is packed to the brim with heiresses and beauties, most gentlemen don’t bat an eye for a lady who is adequate and average in almost every single way, even if she is a viscount’s daughter.
As her second Season plods on with nary a suitor in sight, Heather’s anxious mother and overbearing aunt persuade her to set her cap for the wealthy, if untitled, young Mr. Avington. But is the flirtatious heir to the Avington fortune even ready to settle down? And what is Heather supposed to do about the quiet, searing stares of Mr. Avington’s younger brother, a man she has actually come to admire?
This is the. first book I have read by this author.
It is mysterious and a regency title that has a good storyline.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 24, 2023
I actually really liked this one- first time read for this author. I felt like the attitudes and emotions were so well done with how their circumstances would have been- it would be so hard to have to be forced into marrying a complete stranger- and try to get on with everything that comes with it! I really liked the two main characters- they were both very intelligent and complemented each other well- I liked the way their families showed love and support
Clean, closed door -as they are married
Clean, closed door -as they are married
August 5, 2023
Well Written Regency Romance
This was a pleasant story, mainly because the author did a good job of sticking with the time period. Nothing stood out as anachronistic, that I recall. It was clean and sweet, while giving a delightful dash of underlying deep love building between the MCs. I was invested from start to finish. Give it a try if you enjoy clean Regency romance.
This was a pleasant story, mainly because the author did a good job of sticking with the time period. Nothing stood out as anachronistic, that I recall. It was clean and sweet, while giving a delightful dash of underlying deep love building between the MCs. I was invested from start to finish. Give it a try if you enjoy clean Regency romance.
October 10, 2024
This was just 'meh' for me.
The romance wasn't convincing, a people pleaser who can't speak her mind at all and a man who never talks somehow fall in love without having a real conversation for 3 months (but making lots of love apparently).
There were a couple scenes of foreplay that just seemed out of character for the book.
I did like Mary, the servant, though. And Heather's mother.
The romance wasn't convincing, a people pleaser who can't speak her mind at all and a man who never talks somehow fall in love without having a real conversation for 3 months (but making lots of love apparently).
There were a couple scenes of foreplay that just seemed out of character for the book.
I did like Mary, the servant, though. And Heather's mother.
May 26, 2023
Great New Author
Beautifully written love at last story. Well done! G H quality. Looking to read book 2 in the series. Clean, concise period romance strong H and h. You will enjoy the story line and the characters.
Beautifully written love at last story. Well done! G H quality. Looking to read book 2 in the series. Clean, concise period romance strong H and h. You will enjoy the story line and the characters.
September 12, 2023
Sweet
It was a sweet book. Things seemed to go almost too well for everyone in the book. But it was a happily ever after type of book. Clean too.
It was a sweet book. Things seemed to go almost too well for everyone in the book. But it was a happily ever after type of book. Clean too.
April 24, 2022
**Actually a 3.5-rating**
A new stand-alone regency romance from an author who often writes Pride & Prejudice adaptions/variations. I must admit even though the name is familiar, and P&P is my favorite Austen classic read...this has sparked my interests.
I wish I could rate this higher but I have to be honest and say that even though we were with our heroine a majority, and POV-from her angle, I don't feel like I was immersed enough to generate feeling much for Heather. Sadder to say I love the trope of Husband Hunting with added bonus of there being a 2nd brother who is more worthy of interest, but again, I barely knew Edgar, the Hero.
This is a novella, so there is not much time to sit patiently and ruminate. Things are told, time jumps with days/weeks passing...and then blammo! Our Plot developes into rapid succession to the end.
I can only assume what happened is, from past pursuits the Author's stories have had "well-known quantities" in both Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy ( plus other cast of people ), so, it takes some getting used to writing about your own creations, the MCs we will spend lengths of time with.
My other disappointment is the "compromised position" trope from a very disgusting minor family member who, literally, thrusts her unsuspecting neice into matrimony. Like equating Heather's worth to much less than--even as a washed up spinster. The Aunt only sees Heather as no real "winnable" beauty, but can only be worthy of a husband if she masterminds a golddigger type story to find proper wedded bliss.
I did enjoy Heather's scenes with her sisters, which gave me comfy Bennett Sis vibes. I am assuming this book series will follow them all and I will be here for the next ones.
A new stand-alone regency romance from an author who often writes Pride & Prejudice adaptions/variations. I must admit even though the name is familiar, and P&P is my favorite Austen classic read...this has sparked my interests.
I wish I could rate this higher but I have to be honest and say that even though we were with our heroine a majority, and POV-from her angle, I don't feel like I was immersed enough to generate feeling much for Heather. Sadder to say I love the trope of Husband Hunting with added bonus of there being a 2nd brother who is more worthy of interest, but again, I barely knew Edgar, the Hero.
This is a novella, so there is not much time to sit patiently and ruminate. Things are told, time jumps with days/weeks passing...and then blammo! Our Plot developes into rapid succession to the end.
I can only assume what happened is, from past pursuits the Author's stories have had "well-known quantities" in both Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy ( plus other cast of people ), so, it takes some getting used to writing about your own creations, the MCs we will spend lengths of time with.
My other disappointment is the "compromised position" trope from a very disgusting minor family member who, literally, thrusts her unsuspecting neice into matrimony. Like equating Heather's worth to much less than--even as a washed up spinster. The Aunt only sees Heather as no real "winnable" beauty, but can only be worthy of a husband if she masterminds a golddigger type story to find proper wedded bliss.
I did enjoy Heather's scenes with her sisters, which gave me comfy Bennett Sis vibes. I am assuming this book series will follow them all and I will be here for the next ones.
June 8, 2025
Sobering yet sweet love story
Most of the first half of the story is slow and sobering in terms of progression. It is suspected that the author spent most of it establishing the characters for who they are. It is only in the second half when an unexpected occurrence transpired that some excitement arise. A unintended compromise of sort, at least for the main female lead Miss Heather Nottingham, thrust her into a marriage she hardly expected or anticipated, but accepted wholeheartedly for what it represented: a honorable kindness by Edgar Avington. But what she thought was merely pity and honor on his part, prove to be more, albeit the lack of understanding and expression for what is truly felt. For her part, love came so naturally from the kindness and thoughtfulness of her new husband ever since the beginning of their acquaintance.
This story speaks of how misunderstandings easily transpire in love and romance due to lack of communication and difficulty in freely expressing once feelings, regardless of the era.
This was read right after the author’s newest The Disenchanted Heiress. This author has come a long way and developed her love stories better than ever. Will anticipate reading more of her stories in the future, whether they be the author’s newer or past novels.
Most of the first half of the story is slow and sobering in terms of progression. It is suspected that the author spent most of it establishing the characters for who they are. It is only in the second half when an unexpected occurrence transpired that some excitement arise. A unintended compromise of sort, at least for the main female lead Miss Heather Nottingham, thrust her into a marriage she hardly expected or anticipated, but accepted wholeheartedly for what it represented: a honorable kindness by Edgar Avington. But what she thought was merely pity and honor on his part, prove to be more, albeit the lack of understanding and expression for what is truly felt. For her part, love came so naturally from the kindness and thoughtfulness of her new husband ever since the beginning of their acquaintance.
This story speaks of how misunderstandings easily transpire in love and romance due to lack of communication and difficulty in freely expressing once feelings, regardless of the era.
This was read right after the author’s newest The Disenchanted Heiress. This author has come a long way and developed her love stories better than ever. Will anticipate reading more of her stories in the future, whether they be the author’s newer or past novels.
January 22, 2025
What a fantastic story! I stayed up late to finish it and look forward to the next book. Iris Lim captures the Regency era to a T with the cadence of the language, the social mores and customs, attire, and activities. Despite the huge number of characters, they are all unique and memorable preventing confusion. The main character, Heather, and her sisters have a wonderful relationship, and it was fun to be privy to their conversations. I liked that the author uses internal dialogue of Heather to give the reader an understanding of what’s going on, sometimes addressing the “elephant in the room” of the silliness and strictures of expectations of the period. Her aunt is truly awful, and Heather remains outwardly respectful throughout the story, even though I wanted the woman to be told off. Fortunately, she does get her comeuppance at the end. Edgar is not your typical hero, quiet and steady, yet totally swoonworthy, and I loved him immediately. Heather’s description of him is perfect: If Edgar were a book, he might well be the sort one had to read thrice over to comprehend in full. Highly recommended.
April 10, 2022
A lovely gentle insight into the mind and inner-self of a young woman who's having her second season on the 'marriage mart'. Pressured by her family to find a husband Heather is plagued with her feelings of being just another inadequate, overlooked young woman. Each new ball and house party seems to be another wasted opportunity in her securing a match. Tired with the girl blunders, her aunt Cordilia makes the unthinkable. She misleads Heather into believing that her accommodation at Beniton Hall has been changed. The young miss is found into the the oldest Avington's bedroom. Sure to be ruined she's saved from a disastrous marriage by the second of Avington's brothers. Why did he do it? This is for you to discover while reading the book.
A lovely book of a young writer who choose an usual approach to the usual romance: to sacrifice the alertness of action for the long passages of telling the story itself, though this might prove an encumberance for those who prefer a well paced love story rather than a more gentle and sedated paced one. The result is worthwhile, though.
A lovely book of a young writer who choose an usual approach to the usual romance: to sacrifice the alertness of action for the long passages of telling the story itself, though this might prove an encumberance for those who prefer a well paced love story rather than a more gentle and sedated paced one. The result is worthwhile, though.
May 19, 2025
Heather, a dutiful woman, meets Charles, a quiet man. They are both honorable and quietly enjoy each other's company. Aunt Cordelia's setup leads to Charles' brother being bound to marry Heather. Alfred is quite animatedly opposed to this. Charles steps in and marries Heather. She thinks Charles is all about duty and honor, while she quietly falls in love with everything he does for her. She helps his family during his mother's sickness and comes to understand his family through it all. What she doesn't understand is that a quiet man doesn't do the things he does unless he loves that person. It's the reason he rushes to his mother's side when she is sick. It's why he listens to his wife at breakfast, even when he probably couldn't care less. Heather, not having any brothers, doesn't see this side of a man or even understand it. This is why communication is the key to happiness in any marriage. This is a wonderful story about everyday people who struggle with their own insecurities and try to live a contented life, hoping for more. The problem here is they already have it.
March 1, 2025
Decent
Overall, I found this book to be decent. It focuses mainly on Heather and her thoughts about the marriage mart, as well as how her female relatives encourage her or scheme to bring this about. I typically enjoy Lim's work; however, "One Night in Beniton Hall" had a slow-paced first half, and I questioned the significance of some of the sisterly interactions, which felt more like filler. Perhaps their importance will become clearer in future books in this series. The story did pick up once the events of "One Night in Beniton Hall" unfolded.
Unfortunately, I found the main female character, Heather, to be rather dull. Although Edgar had the potential to be interesting, he mostly remained in the background, speaking only a sentence or two. It wasn't until I reached the 80% mark that I finally felt some emotion from him. I felt as though I never truly had the chance to connect with his character, despite him being portrayed as the heroic male character.
Overall, I found this book to be decent. It focuses mainly on Heather and her thoughts about the marriage mart, as well as how her female relatives encourage her or scheme to bring this about. I typically enjoy Lim's work; however, "One Night in Beniton Hall" had a slow-paced first half, and I questioned the significance of some of the sisterly interactions, which felt more like filler. Perhaps their importance will become clearer in future books in this series. The story did pick up once the events of "One Night in Beniton Hall" unfolded.
Unfortunately, I found the main female character, Heather, to be rather dull. Although Edgar had the potential to be interesting, he mostly remained in the background, speaking only a sentence or two. It wasn't until I reached the 80% mark that I finally felt some emotion from him. I felt as though I never truly had the chance to connect with his character, despite him being portrayed as the heroic male character.
July 18, 2022
Regency romance is my go to genre and I have found a new author to follow with this first installment of the Avington-Nottingham series.
Heather Nottingham is now in her second London season, with not a single prospect on the horizon. She knows she must find a match soon to avoid jeopardizing her sister's future. Family pressures lead her to pursue the eldest Mr. Avington, only it is the second son, Edgar, who her heart leans towards. They have a lot in common, both being kind-hearted and level-headed, and I enjoyed watching their love blossom. Their story is sweet and charming and it was a delight to read. Both characters were very well portrayed.
This was my first book by Ms. Lim, and it definitely won't be my last. I look forward to reading more books by her.
I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Heather Nottingham is now in her second London season, with not a single prospect on the horizon. She knows she must find a match soon to avoid jeopardizing her sister's future. Family pressures lead her to pursue the eldest Mr. Avington, only it is the second son, Edgar, who her heart leans towards. They have a lot in common, both being kind-hearted and level-headed, and I enjoyed watching their love blossom. Their story is sweet and charming and it was a delight to read. Both characters were very well portrayed.
This was my first book by Ms. Lim, and it definitely won't be my last. I look forward to reading more books by her.
I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
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March 15, 2022A charming story of a debutante who is not confident enough to be of the 'first water' but is instead, a caring, well-rounded lady and much nicer than the other girls who distain her. Heather's scheming aunt sets her up to be compromised but a charming, very quiet young man steps in. Edgar is not one to talk about feelings, and Heather is left wondering why he would save her reputation. The gentle build-up of the story is lovely and a refreshing read. One wishes them to find love and each other, despite their unorthodox beginning. I re-read the early parts to look for any sign of a connection. I leave the readers to do the same.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 18, 2022
One Night in Beniton Hall is a lovely Regency romance with endearing characters and a delightful plot. The pacing pulled into the story and kept my attention until the end. There is a lovely Regency feel to the narrative and the dialog.
The heroine of this tale is Heather Nottingham, and she has many of the characteristics I look for in a Regency female protagonist. She’s a loyal daughter and sister, and her gentle manner is perfect for this genre.
Edgar Avington is the hero and is very much the Regency gentleman I love. He’s exemplary in every way. His tender care of Heather warmed my heart and had me in his court from the start. While Heather didn’t see his affections for her, I certainly did.
The romance between Heather and Edgar follows along the path of a traditional Regency, reminding of a Georgette Heyer novel, and I was a huge fan of her books many years ago and still am today. I wanted them to find their happy ending.
If you enjoy sweet Regency romances with characters that will pull on your heartstrings, then you will love One Night in Beniton Hall as much as I did. While recently, I’m reading historical fiction set during WWII, I’m glad I took a short break and returned to Regency England, an era I’ve loved forever. Happy reading!
The heroine of this tale is Heather Nottingham, and she has many of the characteristics I look for in a Regency female protagonist. She’s a loyal daughter and sister, and her gentle manner is perfect for this genre.
Edgar Avington is the hero and is very much the Regency gentleman I love. He’s exemplary in every way. His tender care of Heather warmed my heart and had me in his court from the start. While Heather didn’t see his affections for her, I certainly did.
The romance between Heather and Edgar follows along the path of a traditional Regency, reminding of a Georgette Heyer novel, and I was a huge fan of her books many years ago and still am today. I wanted them to find their happy ending.
If you enjoy sweet Regency romances with characters that will pull on your heartstrings, then you will love One Night in Beniton Hall as much as I did. While recently, I’m reading historical fiction set during WWII, I’m glad I took a short break and returned to Regency England, an era I’ve loved forever. Happy reading!
April 17, 2022
Miss Heather Nottingham was the daughter of the Viscount of Shallingsworth. She was introduced by her aunt Lady Cordelia to three young gentleman by the names of Alfred Avington and his brothers Edgar and Harold. Alfred asked Heather to dance then was read to her in at the end of the dance just left her on the floor. Edgar saw her and offered to escort her back to her mother which she accepted. They then attended a house party at the Avington home. Lady Cordelia set Heather up to be found in Alfred's bedroom so he would have to marry her. But she got a surprise and Edgar married Heather. Ms. Lim has written a good book with a happily ever after ending. I recommend that you read this book as I really enjoyed it...
January 18, 2024
Charming, authentic and thoroughly enjoyable.
Iris Lim is an author I’ve not had the pleasure to read before, however I found myself instantly entranced by this book and invested in the story and outcome for Heather and consequently Edgar. The style of writing, the turn of phrase and particularly the characters were so much more authentic than many recent reads. I loved the sisters interactions and the warmth of the family. I would however have liked to have seen a little more interaction between Edgar and Heather prior to the fateful ‘night in Bennington Hall’. All in all a charming, sweet and clean Regency read. I was very impressed by this book and will continue with this author and particularly this series.
Iris Lim is an author I’ve not had the pleasure to read before, however I found myself instantly entranced by this book and invested in the story and outcome for Heather and consequently Edgar. The style of writing, the turn of phrase and particularly the characters were so much more authentic than many recent reads. I loved the sisters interactions and the warmth of the family. I would however have liked to have seen a little more interaction between Edgar and Heather prior to the fateful ‘night in Bennington Hall’. All in all a charming, sweet and clean Regency read. I was very impressed by this book and will continue with this author and particularly this series.
December 24, 2024
A bit of a miss for me despite the gorgeous cover. It needed another good pass by a skilled editor because the pacing felt wonky and there were misused words, such as how someone “deigned to stay home” which means he was unwilling to but did what he didn’t want—and context shows he was doing exactly what he wanted to as head of the house. I felt like I got to know Heather pretty well but Edgar, the hero, is a mystery until right up to the end. The story is a slow pace, which I didn’t really mind, but the plot device that created the conflict, her nasty aunt, was one sided and not a complex character.
I’ll try another by this author sometime and see if character development and pacing are better!
I’ll try another by this author sometime and see if character development and pacing are better!
July 26, 2025
it has so much potential (CLEAN)
So if you’re looking for a Pride and Prejudice vibe read, this book definitely has some similarities. I wanted so badly to get into this book, to love it. The characters needed more development, I wanted more of their personalities and their small interactions. I felt like the idea was there, but the execution was just a little shallow and maybe a bit rushed. If the author did a revised version and re-released it with more on the “Mr.Darcy” character (Edgar) I think it would be such a good read! The book thankfully kept it PG/PG-13 no descriptive sex scenes so this isn’t the book for you if you’re looking for that type of thing. I will be exploring more from this author!
So if you’re looking for a Pride and Prejudice vibe read, this book definitely has some similarities. I wanted so badly to get into this book, to love it. The characters needed more development, I wanted more of their personalities and their small interactions. I felt like the idea was there, but the execution was just a little shallow and maybe a bit rushed. If the author did a revised version and re-released it with more on the “Mr.Darcy” character (Edgar) I think it would be such a good read! The book thankfully kept it PG/PG-13 no descriptive sex scenes so this isn’t the book for you if you’re looking for that type of thing. I will be exploring more from this author!
March 27, 2022
Lady Heather Nottingham is now in her second London season, and she has no prospects for marriage. She has multiple sisters behind her, and no brothers, so it is really important that she makes a match. Enter a meddling Aunt, and Heather finds herself thrown into making conversation with the Avington Brothers; some she cannot tolerate and some she really admires.
One Night at Beniton Hall is Iris Lim's first in a series that delves into the London set where there are many beauties who are vying for attention to make a match. I really connected with Heather as my personality is a lot like hers. She wants to be married, but there are so many beauties that outshine her, and she's not quite sure how to act and speak to men! When she finds herself in a sticky situation, the unlikeliest solution presents itself, and we as the readers are treated to a sweet story.
I really enjoyed Heather's story, and I look forward to reading about her sisters in upcoming editions of the Avington-Nottingham series. I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am sharing my opinions voluntarily.
One Night at Beniton Hall is Iris Lim's first in a series that delves into the London set where there are many beauties who are vying for attention to make a match. I really connected with Heather as my personality is a lot like hers. She wants to be married, but there are so many beauties that outshine her, and she's not quite sure how to act and speak to men! When she finds herself in a sticky situation, the unlikeliest solution presents itself, and we as the readers are treated to a sweet story.
I really enjoyed Heather's story, and I look forward to reading about her sisters in upcoming editions of the Avington-Nottingham series. I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am sharing my opinions voluntarily.
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