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The Gentleman of Holly Street: A Christmas Historical Romance Novel
Friends become lovers in this gothic romance
Will this Christmas…
Change their lives again?
After self-made gentleman Freddie Walton rescued penniless Philomena Nichols at Christmas eight years ago, he never imagined that he would build his empire with her. Yet whilst they have created a life together as friends, Freddie can’t let their special connection become more than that. Not when his dangerous past continues to haunt him… But what happens when Freddie’s feelings for Philomena also refuse to stay hidden?
From Harlequin Your romantic escape to the past.
Gentlemen of Mystery
Book 1: The Housekeeper of Thornhallow Hall
Book 2: The Marquess of Yew Park House
Book 3: The Gentleman of Holly Street
Will this Christmas…
Change their lives again?
After self-made gentleman Freddie Walton rescued penniless Philomena Nichols at Christmas eight years ago, he never imagined that he would build his empire with her. Yet whilst they have created a life together as friends, Freddie can’t let their special connection become more than that. Not when his dangerous past continues to haunt him… But what happens when Freddie’s feelings for Philomena also refuse to stay hidden?
From Harlequin Your romantic escape to the past.
Gentlemen of Mystery
Book 1: The Housekeeper of Thornhallow Hall
Book 2: The Marquess of Yew Park House
Book 3: The Gentleman of Holly Street
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published November 29, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 26, 2022
Historical romance? Yes. Christmas Romance? Yes. Both? CHECK PLEASE! I was really excited to read this self-proclaimed gothic romance between a successful merchant and his friend/ward/shop assistant. (Note: the book barely qualifies as gothic.) Freddie and Philomena are similar characters in that they both came from nothing and have vast insecurities about it - both characters spend a large, LARGE amount of time ruminating about how neither is good enough for the other and not nearly enough time talking trying to work it out. Even after they inevitably become lovers, they both assume it's just a tryst because they couldn't possibly be good enough for each other. Despite the bedroom scenes, the book comes across very timid and there's a whole lot of repetitive inner monologues and not enough doing and saying.
Still, the setting is great and the work Philomena is doing on the down low without Freddie is absolutely fantastic. The brief bit of action at the end of the book is refreshing and exciting. Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
Still, the setting is great and the work Philomena is doing on the down low without Freddie is absolutely fantastic. The brief bit of action at the end of the book is refreshing and exciting. Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
November 10, 2022
2.5 stars
After years of travel, Freddie Walton has finally put down roots and purchased a building to not only open his business but also as a place to live. He is inspecting the property when he comes upon a half-starved, terrified girl. He invites her in to eat and get warm, knowing that he can’t turn her away, but not realizing how this decision will ultimately change his life.
Philomena “Mena” Nichols has come a long way from the ragamuffin that was saved that December night by Freddie. She has worked hard with Freddie to make his business a success and has also worked diligently to improve herself and despite her lingering fears, has managed to do amazing things on her own.
Freddie and Mena have a complicated relationship and are often apart from each other, they are both self-made people, and both feel inferior, even though Freddie has a circle of friends in high society and is welcomed into the ton, they both think they are unworthy. Even after their relationship changes and they become lovers, they still don’t believe they are deserving of a HEA with each other and struggle with feelings of inadequacy. Especially Freddie, whose past is coming back to haunt him.
This was an odd read for me and I wonder if it was because this is the third book in the series and I didn’t read the previous books. While the idea of the book intrigued me when I started reading it, there were things that I found offputting, such as Freddie’s relationship with Lady Mary, they were just a bit too cozy for my liking, and in this era, there is no way they could spend as much time together as they did without controversy or risk to Mary’s reputation. I also wasn’t a fan of Freddie’s resistance to committing to Mena, or the fact that he knowingly hurt her. OK – I guess, I was just not a fan of Freddie in general. Overall, I thought the book had potential but was a bit too repetitive and slow-moving, and I certainly wouldn’t classify it as a “Gothic Romance”.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
After years of travel, Freddie Walton has finally put down roots and purchased a building to not only open his business but also as a place to live. He is inspecting the property when he comes upon a half-starved, terrified girl. He invites her in to eat and get warm, knowing that he can’t turn her away, but not realizing how this decision will ultimately change his life.
Philomena “Mena” Nichols has come a long way from the ragamuffin that was saved that December night by Freddie. She has worked hard with Freddie to make his business a success and has also worked diligently to improve herself and despite her lingering fears, has managed to do amazing things on her own.
Freddie and Mena have a complicated relationship and are often apart from each other, they are both self-made people, and both feel inferior, even though Freddie has a circle of friends in high society and is welcomed into the ton, they both think they are unworthy. Even after their relationship changes and they become lovers, they still don’t believe they are deserving of a HEA with each other and struggle with feelings of inadequacy. Especially Freddie, whose past is coming back to haunt him.
This was an odd read for me and I wonder if it was because this is the third book in the series and I didn’t read the previous books. While the idea of the book intrigued me when I started reading it, there were things that I found offputting, such as Freddie’s relationship with Lady Mary, they were just a bit too cozy for my liking, and in this era, there is no way they could spend as much time together as they did without controversy or risk to Mary’s reputation. I also wasn’t a fan of Freddie’s resistance to committing to Mena, or the fact that he knowingly hurt her. OK – I guess, I was just not a fan of Freddie in general. Overall, I thought the book had potential but was a bit too repetitive and slow-moving, and I certainly wouldn’t classify it as a “Gothic Romance”.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
December 6, 2022
This was written well, so 4 stars for a creative plot. Normally this type of trope wears out quickly, but Lotte gave legit reasons these two felt they couldn't be together. I loved when the tension broke and these two finally came together...and by "came together" I mean banged LOL!
November 30, 2022
I have mixed feelings about this book. I enjoyed the story of two people who came from nothing and built a successful business together. Freddie was taken in as a youth by a man who educated and mentored him. As the book opens on a cold winter night, Freddie is ready to start his shop of intriguing items from around the world. As he enters his newly acquired building for the first time, he pictures how it will look. When he steps back outside, he encounters an emaciated young woman hiding out in his courtyard. Unable to send her away, he invites her inside for the night for warmth and food, fully intending to send her on her way in the morning. Instead, he asks her to stay, paying forward the help he received.
Philomena, or "Mena," never forgot the night Freddie took a chance on her. Over the past eight years, she has worked hard to be worthy of his confidence. Not only does she run his business when he is away, but she has also branched out on a project of her own. I loved seeing Mena's passion for her vision and pride in how it progresses. The only problem is that she has kept it secret from Freddie and doesn't know how to tell him about it.
I liked watching the relationship develop between Mena and Freddie. They are friends, first and foremost, living and working together. Both are survivors, having come through unpleasant pasts to where they are now. However, neither one talks about what they've been through, afraid of what the other would think if they knew. Over the years, Mena has fallen in love with Freddie but believes she is unworthy of him. She plans to leave, clearing the way for the relationship she thinks he deserves.
Freddie is oblivious to Mena's feelings. He appreciates their friendship and partnership and always looks forward to his return home after his voyages. However, on this return after his final voyage, he suddenly realizes that Mena means much more to him. He fights against naming these new feelings because he knows nothing about love. He also believes that his past makes him unworthy of love.
There are multiple bumps in the road to their happy ending, the greatest of which are their insecurities. While they long for the other's love, they continually try to push the other away. The other big obstacle is Mena's project. She is so proud and happy about its progress and that she has done it on her own using the skills she learned from Freddie. She feels guilty about keeping it from him and wonders the best time to tell him. When Freddie finds out about it on his own, he doesn't react well. I wanted to shake him for his selfish attitude. I could understand being hurt by not knowing about it, but how he lashed out at Mena was uncalled for. I was also frustrated by how Freddie knew he was hurting Mena with some of his actions but did them anyway. It takes Mena stepping in and saving Freddie from his past to finally let go of his insecurities and believe in Mena's love. Meanwhile, Mena gets some advice that helps her past her fears.
My biggest problem with the book is that there was an excessive amount of inner monologue. I skipped pages every time Mena or Freddie started in on how unworthy they were. They were frequently repetitive, and I just wanted to get back to the story. I much preferred seeing them interact with each other and their friends and coworkers.
#netgalley
Philomena, or "Mena," never forgot the night Freddie took a chance on her. Over the past eight years, she has worked hard to be worthy of his confidence. Not only does she run his business when he is away, but she has also branched out on a project of her own. I loved seeing Mena's passion for her vision and pride in how it progresses. The only problem is that she has kept it secret from Freddie and doesn't know how to tell him about it.
I liked watching the relationship develop between Mena and Freddie. They are friends, first and foremost, living and working together. Both are survivors, having come through unpleasant pasts to where they are now. However, neither one talks about what they've been through, afraid of what the other would think if they knew. Over the years, Mena has fallen in love with Freddie but believes she is unworthy of him. She plans to leave, clearing the way for the relationship she thinks he deserves.
Freddie is oblivious to Mena's feelings. He appreciates their friendship and partnership and always looks forward to his return home after his voyages. However, on this return after his final voyage, he suddenly realizes that Mena means much more to him. He fights against naming these new feelings because he knows nothing about love. He also believes that his past makes him unworthy of love.
There are multiple bumps in the road to their happy ending, the greatest of which are their insecurities. While they long for the other's love, they continually try to push the other away. The other big obstacle is Mena's project. She is so proud and happy about its progress and that she has done it on her own using the skills she learned from Freddie. She feels guilty about keeping it from him and wonders the best time to tell him. When Freddie finds out about it on his own, he doesn't react well. I wanted to shake him for his selfish attitude. I could understand being hurt by not knowing about it, but how he lashed out at Mena was uncalled for. I was also frustrated by how Freddie knew he was hurting Mena with some of his actions but did them anyway. It takes Mena stepping in and saving Freddie from his past to finally let go of his insecurities and believe in Mena's love. Meanwhile, Mena gets some advice that helps her past her fears.
My biggest problem with the book is that there was an excessive amount of inner monologue. I skipped pages every time Mena or Freddie started in on how unworthy they were. They were frequently repetitive, and I just wanted to get back to the story. I much preferred seeing them interact with each other and their friends and coworkers.
#netgalley
November 25, 2022
I’m so happy to be on the blog tour today for The Gentleman of Holly Street by Lotte R. James. I enjoyed this slow-burning, angsty historical romance. It has a great setting, the charm of the holiday season, and a wonderful romance. There are also some exciting and suspenseful scenes that added a bit of intrigue to the story, especially as Freddie faces secrets from his past.
The story begins as Freddie, newly returned to England and excited to begin his own business venture, rescues a penniless and malnourished Mena, who he finds outside on his grounds. Freddie brings her in to his new home and cares for her. Eight years later, Freddie is a successful merchant, and Mena is his business partner. They have great lives, both independently and together, and they are the best of friends. However, they’ve both been hiding long-held feelings for each other. With secrets in his past threatening his future, Freddie can’t give into his feelings and put Mena’s life at risk, but their feelings are impossible to deny.
Mena and Freddie are well-developed protagonists with interesting stories, and they have a wonderful friends-to-lovers romance. They have known each other for a long time and have been through a lot together. They have an interesting dynamic, and their chemistry is great. I think they know and like each other so much, and there is an ease to their friendship that’s charming. There’s also a lot of angst, as they try to repress their love for each other. Theirs is a slow-burn love story, as both characters struggle with feelings of inadequacy. Neither feels like they’re good enough for the other, and even once they become more intimate, they don’t trust that there’s a future for them.
Overall, I thought this was an entertaining read. I did think it was a little odd that Mena and Freddie lived together and were unmarried. That seems so atypical of the time, especially considering he is friends with many people of the ton. I’m not sure how widely accepted this unconventional relationship would be, but it totally worked for me. lol
Special thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources and Harlequin Historical for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
The story begins as Freddie, newly returned to England and excited to begin his own business venture, rescues a penniless and malnourished Mena, who he finds outside on his grounds. Freddie brings her in to his new home and cares for her. Eight years later, Freddie is a successful merchant, and Mena is his business partner. They have great lives, both independently and together, and they are the best of friends. However, they’ve both been hiding long-held feelings for each other. With secrets in his past threatening his future, Freddie can’t give into his feelings and put Mena’s life at risk, but their feelings are impossible to deny.
Mena and Freddie are well-developed protagonists with interesting stories, and they have a wonderful friends-to-lovers romance. They have known each other for a long time and have been through a lot together. They have an interesting dynamic, and their chemistry is great. I think they know and like each other so much, and there is an ease to their friendship that’s charming. There’s also a lot of angst, as they try to repress their love for each other. Theirs is a slow-burn love story, as both characters struggle with feelings of inadequacy. Neither feels like they’re good enough for the other, and even once they become more intimate, they don’t trust that there’s a future for them.
Overall, I thought this was an entertaining read. I did think it was a little odd that Mena and Freddie lived together and were unmarried. That seems so atypical of the time, especially considering he is friends with many people of the ton. I’m not sure how widely accepted this unconventional relationship would be, but it totally worked for me. lol
Special thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources and Harlequin Historical for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
December 20, 2022
A really nicely done friends-to-lovers romance set in the 1830s.
December 2, 2022
4 1/2 stars. This book grabbed me from the very beginning, quite unexpectedly, and I read it entirely in one sitting. I always enjoy the "friends to lovers" trope, and Freddie and Mena are such likable MC's. Both are working class, although Freddie has elevated himself to the upper echelons of the merchant class through his own--and Mena's--efforts. The flashbacks to the early days of their relationship, starting at the point when Freddie took Mena in, are effective and compelling. Admittedly, it is rather unrealistic that Freddie would expect society to see Mena as his partner, not his mistress, considering the mores of the time period and the fact that women had very little clout.
I felt sympathy for Mena that Freddie did quite a bit of traveling and hobnobbing that she was never a part of. Because of the trauma she experienced in her early days on the streets of London, she has become what we would call today almost agoraphobic, but she has been working through her fears over time. Freddie has had to contend with his own feelings of guilt about his associations and actions in childhood (there is also a bit of a mention of his feelings of inferiority about his background, which I wish had been explored more).
This author's writing style is frequently lyrical, creating vivid imagery and helping the reader to become more deeply invested in Freddie and Mena's relationship. The steamy scenes are effective as well; you especially get a sense of Mena's longing for a future with Freddie.
My only real caveats: As much as I liked Mary as a character, it is too much to believe that Freddie could get away with having intimate conversations with an unmarried, unescorted woman of the ton and not declare himself.. Also, after everything Mena did for Freddie by the end, I couldn't believe he STILL dragged his feet about marriage.
Overall, this is one of those reads that hit the spot for me emotionally, and I was truly drawn into the main characters' relationship. I am definitely interested in reading more books by this author.
Steam level: 2-3,
I read an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary review. Opinions are my own. Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this opportunity.
I felt sympathy for Mena that Freddie did quite a bit of traveling and hobnobbing that she was never a part of. Because of the trauma she experienced in her early days on the streets of London, she has become what we would call today almost agoraphobic, but she has been working through her fears over time. Freddie has had to contend with his own feelings of guilt about his associations and actions in childhood (there is also a bit of a mention of his feelings of inferiority about his background, which I wish had been explored more).
This author's writing style is frequently lyrical, creating vivid imagery and helping the reader to become more deeply invested in Freddie and Mena's relationship. The steamy scenes are effective as well; you especially get a sense of Mena's longing for a future with Freddie.
My only real caveats: As much as I liked Mary as a character, it is too much to believe that Freddie could get away with having intimate conversations with an unmarried, unescorted woman of the ton and not declare himself.. Also, after everything Mena did for Freddie by the end, I couldn't believe he STILL dragged his feet about marriage.
Overall, this is one of those reads that hit the spot for me emotionally, and I was truly drawn into the main characters' relationship. I am definitely interested in reading more books by this author.
Steam level: 2-3,
I read an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary review. Opinions are my own. Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this opportunity.
November 8, 2022
I was excited to read this one because of the Christmas setting and the main characters. Freddie and Philomena's meet-cute was odd, to say the least. Freddie had just acquired a property to open as a store and a place to live. He surveyed his building including his yard and came across a malnourished Philomena. Freddie then takes his newfound ward inside and cares for her until she is better. This started their working relationship between Freddie and Philomena. I didn't see how they were going to make the dynamic work as lovers. I wanted to love this romance between Philomena and Freddie but their initial meeting set the tone for the rest of the book for me. It was such a slow burn and had so much potential, but it just didn't move enough for me. I did love Philomena's spirit and determination to pass her good spirit to others.
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
November 25, 2022
Thank you so much Lotte R. James, Mills and Boon and Rachel’s random resources for gifting me a digital copy of ‘The gentleman of Holly Street’ in exchange for an honest review. As someone who suffers from social anxiety (as well as other forms) it was really intriguing seeing how Mena handled herself throughout the book. I was so proud of her for pushing through all her personal struggles to build a sanctuary for others as well as herself. The relationship between Freddie and Mena is a slow burn that sizzles. I love historical fiction as it takes me an almost different world, somehow familiar but so different that I can escape fully.
Read
November 2, 2022Holiday Romance, Gothic Fiction, Sagas, Regency Romance
Miniseries
Gentlemen of Mystery (Book #3)
Miniseries
Gentlemen of Mystery (Book #3)
October 22, 2022
The Gentleman of Holly Street was an enjoyable read. Captain George Weston had been writing Miss Beverly Buttons. He had fallen in love with her letters he one day he would finally get to see her and meet her I'm person. That day finally came when
Captain George Weston had send telegram to Miss Beverly Buttons that he will be arriving the same day. He got the chance to meet Miss Beverly Buttons.
There waa something wrong the woman wearing that hat couldn’t be Beverly. She was elderly. Quite elderly. Captain George Weston was hours g to play along to see what the mystery was all about.. 5 star read 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I was provided an arc e-copy by the publisher Harlequin for honest review. thank you so much for sending me a copy.
Happy Reading Lisa 📚
Captain George Weston had send telegram to Miss Beverly Buttons that he will be arriving the same day. He got the chance to meet Miss Beverly Buttons.
There waa something wrong the woman wearing that hat couldn’t be Beverly. She was elderly. Quite elderly. Captain George Weston was hours g to play along to see what the mystery was all about.. 5 star read 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I was provided an arc e-copy by the publisher Harlequin for honest review. thank you so much for sending me a copy.
Happy Reading Lisa 📚
December 3, 2022
My Dearest Freddie,
I must apologise for my lack of correspondence and beg yours and Mena’s forgiveness.
You, Freddie Walton, (along with Miss Mena) were a complete surprise. (Admittedly I had been in somewhat of a Spencer Daze. What can I say? *shrugs* I blame the linen breeches.) A part of me wanted to bask in the afterglow of feelings resulting from your story. In other words, I had the mother of all book hangovers (The Creator can explain this term…). The other part (as usual) was struggling to come up with the words to adequately convey my love for your story which I realise is an oft-used lament of mine.
When one thinks themselves incapable (and undeserving) of love, it can come as a shock to realise the depth of love they feel for another. Love can happen in an instant or it can be stoked over many a year until the fire burns with such intensity it will never go out. It will only ever burn brighter and deeper. I think we both know what category you fall under, eh? (*sighs* Reader, some Menas have all the luck!)
I must confess that I haven’t entirely forgiven you for the heart-stopping suspense-laden finale of your story. Nor your sheer stubbornness throughout. I have quite enough grey hairs to be going on with, thank you! *folds arms* (Gothic-y vibes to the max or what?)
Never fear, I have written separately to your lovely Mena. I may have gone a tad overboard praising her resilience and bravery in many things… I worry I may have come across as slightly obsequious *blushes*. I just hope she realises it comes from a place of love.
Please do write soon with news of everyone. I’d appreciate any updates on Nichols House, Hawk, Susie, and most especially, Mary and Luca.
Ever your affectionate friend,
Laura
I must apologise for my lack of correspondence and beg yours and Mena’s forgiveness.
You, Freddie Walton, (along with Miss Mena) were a complete surprise. (Admittedly I had been in somewhat of a Spencer Daze. What can I say? *shrugs* I blame the linen breeches.) A part of me wanted to bask in the afterglow of feelings resulting from your story. In other words, I had the mother of all book hangovers (The Creator can explain this term…). The other part (as usual) was struggling to come up with the words to adequately convey my love for your story which I realise is an oft-used lament of mine.
When one thinks themselves incapable (and undeserving) of love, it can come as a shock to realise the depth of love they feel for another. Love can happen in an instant or it can be stoked over many a year until the fire burns with such intensity it will never go out. It will only ever burn brighter and deeper. I think we both know what category you fall under, eh? (*sighs* Reader, some Menas have all the luck!)
I must confess that I haven’t entirely forgiven you for the heart-stopping suspense-laden finale of your story. Nor your sheer stubbornness throughout. I have quite enough grey hairs to be going on with, thank you! *folds arms* (Gothic-y vibes to the max or what?)
Never fear, I have written separately to your lovely Mena. I may have gone a tad overboard praising her resilience and bravery in many things… I worry I may have come across as slightly obsequious *blushes*. I just hope she realises it comes from a place of love.
Please do write soon with news of everyone. I’d appreciate any updates on Nichols House, Hawk, Susie, and most especially, Mary and Luca.
Ever your affectionate friend,
Laura
November 19, 2022
🎄The Gentleman of Holly Street ❤️🩹
Gentlemen of Mystery Book 3
✒️ Lotte R. James
https://www.lottejamesbooks.com
Release Date 11/29/2022 & 11/24/2022
Publisher Harlequin Historical / Mills&Boon Historical
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09XVGCQ84?...
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09YQR18SW?...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Friends become lovers in this gothic romance
Will this Christmas…
Change their lives again?
After self-made gentleman Freddie Walton rescued penniless Philomena Nichols at Christmas eight years ago, he never imagined that he would build his empire with her. Yet whilst they have created a life together as friends, Freddie can’t let their special connection become more than that. Not when his dangerous past continues to haunt him… But what happens when Freddie’s feelings for Philomena also refuse to stay hidden?
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will he let his past errors fester the best thing in his life …
I did not expected it but in some way, it is quite an angsty read, with a side of Dickens’ Christmas Carol as they explore the present, wonder about the future and revisit the past.
Philomena or Mena and Freddie both lived some shady moments during their younger years, survivors in their own way, one gave back what he has been once granted, a second chance, this is how they have built a life together but estranged from the other at the same time, sharing the minimum all the while comforting one another but never revealing the wounds of their years before they met.
When feelings began to intrude, Freddie chose to stay blind and deaf when Mena buried them, each certain they were not deserving of the other and that their sentiments would never be returned.
In doing so, they hurt one another a lot as they continually deny what is between them, so scared to speak about the elephant in the shop.
This story is so many things, from cheerful moments to goosebumps ones with some sighs in between, a second chance at life and love for two persons battered by life, a gothic tale as Freddie’s past come knocking at the door to demand accountability and a Christmas romance as everything comes to fruition around the end of year festivities.
Freddie needed a good bashing on his head to accept no one is perfect and it is only him who is asking it on himself this why he feels so unworthy and unredeemable when he proved time and time again by his action how a good man he is in the inside. Mena understands him as no other, still she too struggles to make him see what is in front of him and how good it is.
Luckily for them, despite everything, they are not alone and can count on very reliable and straightforward people to knock some reasons inside their head.
4 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes
I have been granted an advance copy by the author and Rachel’s Random Ressources, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/ClJJpZ...
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Gentlemen of Mystery Book 3
✒️ Lotte R. James
https://www.lottejamesbooks.com
Release Date 11/29/2022 & 11/24/2022
Publisher Harlequin Historical / Mills&Boon Historical
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09XVGCQ84?...
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09YQR18SW?...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Friends become lovers in this gothic romance
Will this Christmas…
Change their lives again?
After self-made gentleman Freddie Walton rescued penniless Philomena Nichols at Christmas eight years ago, he never imagined that he would build his empire with her. Yet whilst they have created a life together as friends, Freddie can’t let their special connection become more than that. Not when his dangerous past continues to haunt him… But what happens when Freddie’s feelings for Philomena also refuse to stay hidden?
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will he let his past errors fester the best thing in his life …
I did not expected it but in some way, it is quite an angsty read, with a side of Dickens’ Christmas Carol as they explore the present, wonder about the future and revisit the past.
Philomena or Mena and Freddie both lived some shady moments during their younger years, survivors in their own way, one gave back what he has been once granted, a second chance, this is how they have built a life together but estranged from the other at the same time, sharing the minimum all the while comforting one another but never revealing the wounds of their years before they met.
When feelings began to intrude, Freddie chose to stay blind and deaf when Mena buried them, each certain they were not deserving of the other and that their sentiments would never be returned.
In doing so, they hurt one another a lot as they continually deny what is between them, so scared to speak about the elephant in the shop.
This story is so many things, from cheerful moments to goosebumps ones with some sighs in between, a second chance at life and love for two persons battered by life, a gothic tale as Freddie’s past come knocking at the door to demand accountability and a Christmas romance as everything comes to fruition around the end of year festivities.
Freddie needed a good bashing on his head to accept no one is perfect and it is only him who is asking it on himself this why he feels so unworthy and unredeemable when he proved time and time again by his action how a good man he is in the inside. Mena understands him as no other, still she too struggles to make him see what is in front of him and how good it is.
Luckily for them, despite everything, they are not alone and can count on very reliable and straightforward people to knock some reasons inside their head.
4 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes
I have been granted an advance copy by the author and Rachel’s Random Ressources, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
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November 26, 2022
When Freddie first stepped foot into the property on Holly Street that he had recently acquired his plans were to set up a shop. But what he got was so much more when he encountered Philomena (Mena). Mena was clearly in trouble and instead of turning her away he took her in, gave her shelter, food and a home. What was a temporary situation then changed into something more permanent. Eight years later Freddie and Mena have continued to stay together becoming a central part of each other’s lives. But are Freddie and Mena more than friends? As secrets from their past start to come to light is there a future for Freddie and Mena.
I knew from the first page that there was something special about this book. In the opening chapter there was the most perfect description of a Victorian snow filled street and flecks of falling snow highlighted by gas lamps. I felt like I was with Freddie and seeing everything that he was seeing. I’ve not read a historical romance that featured a will they won’t they trope and it made me realise how much I missed reading this trope. I really enjoyed the storyline. Although the storyline is largely based around a budding romance between Freddie and Mena it also included a sense of mystery around the pasts of the characters.
I really liked Freddie and Mena. Freddie I would describe as an honourable noble dashing hero and to me that is what he is after he saves Mena. He sees something in Mena that he recognises in himself that they both have come from a troubled and difficult backgrounds. Instead of giving Mena a home for one night he gives her the opportunity to better herself. I really liked Mena as a character. There was just something about her that felt like she was a fighter and she would never give up. It was interesting to see Mena’s character evolve and the driving force behind her evolving is Freddie. Freddie changed her life so she decides to help others and pass on the opportunities that were given to her.
In each other Freddie and Mena find a place of belonging. To the outside world they have a very unconventional relationship with no name but to them it works and it’s their normal. They’re comfortable with each other but there is a simmering tension between them that bubbles to the surface which is more than friendship or affection; its love but neither of them have the courage to say it aloud. Freddie feels that if he speaks his true feelings this will hold Mena back from what she could have achieved as in his eyes he believes that Mena only stayed because she feels indebted to him. For Mena this couldn’t be further from the truth. Mena doesn’t want to leave because she is comfortable where she is and because she has strong feelings for him. She believes that because they are from two different worlds and stations in life that she and Freddie could never be together. As for the ending it was everything I hoped it would be and I was so pleased that Freddie and Mena got their happily ever after.
A heart-warming Christmas story about love and new beginnings.
I knew from the first page that there was something special about this book. In the opening chapter there was the most perfect description of a Victorian snow filled street and flecks of falling snow highlighted by gas lamps. I felt like I was with Freddie and seeing everything that he was seeing. I’ve not read a historical romance that featured a will they won’t they trope and it made me realise how much I missed reading this trope. I really enjoyed the storyline. Although the storyline is largely based around a budding romance between Freddie and Mena it also included a sense of mystery around the pasts of the characters.
I really liked Freddie and Mena. Freddie I would describe as an honourable noble dashing hero and to me that is what he is after he saves Mena. He sees something in Mena that he recognises in himself that they both have come from a troubled and difficult backgrounds. Instead of giving Mena a home for one night he gives her the opportunity to better herself. I really liked Mena as a character. There was just something about her that felt like she was a fighter and she would never give up. It was interesting to see Mena’s character evolve and the driving force behind her evolving is Freddie. Freddie changed her life so she decides to help others and pass on the opportunities that were given to her.
In each other Freddie and Mena find a place of belonging. To the outside world they have a very unconventional relationship with no name but to them it works and it’s their normal. They’re comfortable with each other but there is a simmering tension between them that bubbles to the surface which is more than friendship or affection; its love but neither of them have the courage to say it aloud. Freddie feels that if he speaks his true feelings this will hold Mena back from what she could have achieved as in his eyes he believes that Mena only stayed because she feels indebted to him. For Mena this couldn’t be further from the truth. Mena doesn’t want to leave because she is comfortable where she is and because she has strong feelings for him. She believes that because they are from two different worlds and stations in life that she and Freddie could never be together. As for the ending it was everything I hoped it would be and I was so pleased that Freddie and Mena got their happily ever after.
A heart-warming Christmas story about love and new beginnings.
January 6, 2023
Historical romance readers will want to get their hands of Lotte R. James latest book, The Gentleman of Holly Street.
I know I will never be disappointed when I read a Lotte R. James book. She is a wonderful storyteller. Her attention to detail is remarkable, and she is a master at weaving this spell over her readers. I always get swept away in her stories, and this book is no exception. This book has a lot of meat; it’s chock full of lush and vivid descriptions. The characters are complex and add so much richness to the story. The story starts a little slow, but once things start to pick up, it keeps your attention right to the last page. I loved how Lotte blended this mystery of Freddie’s past into the overall love story. It added this element of unknown danger, which I found exciting, and I wasn’t expecting all the action that went with it.
The story itself weaves between two different timelines. The first is the current timeline leading up to Christmas, and the other touches upon past Christmases that Mena and Freddie experience. Lotte does a great job at going back and forth between these two different timelines in a cohesive, thoughtful way. Through these flashback chapters, readers will learn more about Freddie and Mena’s past and what drives them. We also watch as their relationship deepens and see the moment they realize that their feelings for one another are more romantic in nature.
This book is a friends-to-lovers trope love. I don’t come across many romances that focus on the friends-to-lovers trope (our book club can confirm this), so I was excited to see how Lotte would use it in her story. Overall, I loved these two, both independently and as a couple. They are strong-willed, intelligent, and care for others around them. Their history is rich, and they have that solid foundation that sometimes romantic couples are missing. There are plenty of hurdles that these two have to overcome (often from their own doing) before they truly become a couple. Freddie doesn’t believe that he is deserving of Mena’s love and also doesn’t believe that she could love him without feeling obliged to do so. Mena thinks she isn’t good enough to be in a relationship with Freddie because of her past living on the streets. A lot of this book is spent watching as these two try to deal with these internal struggles. This self-doubt results in a lot of misunderstandings and hurt feelings. But do not fear. They get the happy ending that they deserve. There are also lots of spice parts in this book that will help keep you warm during this wintery season.
The Gentleman of Holly Street is a beautiful gothic romance that you will want to read again and again.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
I know I will never be disappointed when I read a Lotte R. James book. She is a wonderful storyteller. Her attention to detail is remarkable, and she is a master at weaving this spell over her readers. I always get swept away in her stories, and this book is no exception. This book has a lot of meat; it’s chock full of lush and vivid descriptions. The characters are complex and add so much richness to the story. The story starts a little slow, but once things start to pick up, it keeps your attention right to the last page. I loved how Lotte blended this mystery of Freddie’s past into the overall love story. It added this element of unknown danger, which I found exciting, and I wasn’t expecting all the action that went with it.
The story itself weaves between two different timelines. The first is the current timeline leading up to Christmas, and the other touches upon past Christmases that Mena and Freddie experience. Lotte does a great job at going back and forth between these two different timelines in a cohesive, thoughtful way. Through these flashback chapters, readers will learn more about Freddie and Mena’s past and what drives them. We also watch as their relationship deepens and see the moment they realize that their feelings for one another are more romantic in nature.
This book is a friends-to-lovers trope love. I don’t come across many romances that focus on the friends-to-lovers trope (our book club can confirm this), so I was excited to see how Lotte would use it in her story. Overall, I loved these two, both independently and as a couple. They are strong-willed, intelligent, and care for others around them. Their history is rich, and they have that solid foundation that sometimes romantic couples are missing. There are plenty of hurdles that these two have to overcome (often from their own doing) before they truly become a couple. Freddie doesn’t believe that he is deserving of Mena’s love and also doesn’t believe that she could love him without feeling obliged to do so. Mena thinks she isn’t good enough to be in a relationship with Freddie because of her past living on the streets. A lot of this book is spent watching as these two try to deal with these internal struggles. This self-doubt results in a lot of misunderstandings and hurt feelings. But do not fear. They get the happy ending that they deserve. There are also lots of spice parts in this book that will help keep you warm during this wintery season.
The Gentleman of Holly Street is a beautiful gothic romance that you will want to read again and again.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
November 27, 2022
This is my first Lotte James novel and it captured the essence of unrequited love between a successful merchant and a penniless young woman.
Freddie is a self-made man who travels far and frequently to purchase goods for his shop in London, leaving the very capable Mena to run the shop during his absence. It's when he suddenly realizes that he is in love with his friend and shop assistant of 8 years, that he needs to let her go. What he did in the past makes him undeserving of her and his dangerous past has come back to haunt him. He will not put her in harm's way.
Mena is a bright and kind young woman who is building her own future to prove herself to Freddie. She has loved him for years. Though she has become a keen businesswoman in her own right, she feels she will be nothing more than the homeless woman he rescued years ago. Besides everyone knows he is meant for another. How can she tell him she must go?
Both Freddie and Philomena "Mena" come from sad and unpleasant pasts that cause a lot of their own self-doubts and insecurities that seem to convolute the romance between them. Both seem to think they are unworthy of each other because of their pasts so there is a lot of pushing away as they fight for their love for each other. Needless to say, they do give in to their passion, but at what cost? I understand Freddie doesn't have a clue what love means, but seriously? Why lead this lovely woman along when he knows he will be pushing her away? Yes, there is danger in his past that he wants to keep away from Mena and I applauded him for finally filling her in on his past, but he was only a boy then and made up for it being the moral and kind man at present. Mena has a phobia about going far away from home, but her strength shines through as she follows her dream and builds the Nichols House on her own terms for those in need. However, it is her shame of knowing partly why she built it to prove to Freddie she could also build incredible things as he did and have a chance as his equal. Unfortunately, Freddie's reaction was to feel betrayed by keeping her project from him. It's frustrating to see characters continue to deny their love and when everything comes to a head in a suspense-filled climax, I honestly thought Freddie needed to grovel for Mena's forgiveness.
Supporting characters such as Mena's friend and co-worker, Susan, and Freddie's friend Mary are important confidantes who end up helping the star-crossed lovers when they need it most. I'm hoping to read more about Mary and Luca in a future book.
Though the story was a bit too slow-moving for me, I found Mena's business endeavors to be refreshing for the timeframe. It's an unconventional and engaging story.
Thank you to Ms. James for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Freddie is a self-made man who travels far and frequently to purchase goods for his shop in London, leaving the very capable Mena to run the shop during his absence. It's when he suddenly realizes that he is in love with his friend and shop assistant of 8 years, that he needs to let her go. What he did in the past makes him undeserving of her and his dangerous past has come back to haunt him. He will not put her in harm's way.
Mena is a bright and kind young woman who is building her own future to prove herself to Freddie. She has loved him for years. Though she has become a keen businesswoman in her own right, she feels she will be nothing more than the homeless woman he rescued years ago. Besides everyone knows he is meant for another. How can she tell him she must go?
Both Freddie and Philomena "Mena" come from sad and unpleasant pasts that cause a lot of their own self-doubts and insecurities that seem to convolute the romance between them. Both seem to think they are unworthy of each other because of their pasts so there is a lot of pushing away as they fight for their love for each other. Needless to say, they do give in to their passion, but at what cost? I understand Freddie doesn't have a clue what love means, but seriously? Why lead this lovely woman along when he knows he will be pushing her away? Yes, there is danger in his past that he wants to keep away from Mena and I applauded him for finally filling her in on his past, but he was only a boy then and made up for it being the moral and kind man at present. Mena has a phobia about going far away from home, but her strength shines through as she follows her dream and builds the Nichols House on her own terms for those in need. However, it is her shame of knowing partly why she built it to prove to Freddie she could also build incredible things as he did and have a chance as his equal. Unfortunately, Freddie's reaction was to feel betrayed by keeping her project from him. It's frustrating to see characters continue to deny their love and when everything comes to a head in a suspense-filled climax, I honestly thought Freddie needed to grovel for Mena's forgiveness.
Supporting characters such as Mena's friend and co-worker, Susan, and Freddie's friend Mary are important confidantes who end up helping the star-crossed lovers when they need it most. I'm hoping to read more about Mary and Luca in a future book.
Though the story was a bit too slow-moving for me, I found Mena's business endeavors to be refreshing for the timeframe. It's an unconventional and engaging story.
Thank you to Ms. James for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
November 27, 2022
Can two best friends become more, despite the demons of their pasts?
Freddie Walton was able to turn his life around and has now become a self – made gentleman. Although he has to admit that his empire wouldn’t be what it is now if it weren’t for Philomena. Mena, who has been rescued by Freddie eight years ago, and since then have been best friends. But despite his own feelings, Freddie won’t allow their bond to become more, as his dark past continues to haunt him. And Mena, believing that Freddie deserves so much more than ‘mere Mena’, is trying to hide her feelings too, as she doesn’t want to lose her best friend. However, how long can those feelings remain hidden? And what happens when the pull becomes too strong to resist?
I always have a weakness for stories where best friends stat to develop deeper feelings. So when I started to read, I was looking forward to read the bits where the main characters would FINALLY stop fighting those feelings.
But… that took a very long, frustrating time! And while I understood where the both of them were coming from, I just wanted to knock some sense in both their heads! Couldn’t they just see how perfect they are for each other! Stop being so stubborn and afraid!!!
I loved that both Freddie and Mena has come from far away, as their pasts are both rather dark ones. Freddie is still haunted by his Uncle, while it takes a very long time for the readers to discover the exact depth of it. That made it a bit difficult to exactly understand his motivations of keeping Mena at distance. But on the other hand, I also liked him as he is very protective of Mena. He would do anything to protect her from any harm.
The first sight we have of Mena is a rather dishevelled one. So seeing her after eight years, and seeing how much she has changed, learnt and matured, shows us that with the right help you can turn your life around. I admired Mena also for her entrepreneurship. She wants to pay the kindness she received years ago back, by offering help on her own way. She understands how lucky she was, and it was sweet to see how she wants other people who weren’t that lucky, to have that same chance.
The gothic part of this romance got a bit lost on me, as yes there were dome darker moments, but I wouldn’t describe them as ‘gothic’, but that can be a matter of interpretation.
This book shows us that despite our feelings, sometimes fear can hold us back to act upon them. Fear of losing those we love, fear of feelings not being reciprocated, fear of a past that may hurt those we love. But when love is in the equation, we shouldn’t let fear rule over these emotions. Because loving the right person, and being loved by the right person, means that the past doesn’t matter and the only thing that does is being together with your loved one, despite what society may think.
Freddie Walton was able to turn his life around and has now become a self – made gentleman. Although he has to admit that his empire wouldn’t be what it is now if it weren’t for Philomena. Mena, who has been rescued by Freddie eight years ago, and since then have been best friends. But despite his own feelings, Freddie won’t allow their bond to become more, as his dark past continues to haunt him. And Mena, believing that Freddie deserves so much more than ‘mere Mena’, is trying to hide her feelings too, as she doesn’t want to lose her best friend. However, how long can those feelings remain hidden? And what happens when the pull becomes too strong to resist?
I always have a weakness for stories where best friends stat to develop deeper feelings. So when I started to read, I was looking forward to read the bits where the main characters would FINALLY stop fighting those feelings.
But… that took a very long, frustrating time! And while I understood where the both of them were coming from, I just wanted to knock some sense in both their heads! Couldn’t they just see how perfect they are for each other! Stop being so stubborn and afraid!!!
I loved that both Freddie and Mena has come from far away, as their pasts are both rather dark ones. Freddie is still haunted by his Uncle, while it takes a very long time for the readers to discover the exact depth of it. That made it a bit difficult to exactly understand his motivations of keeping Mena at distance. But on the other hand, I also liked him as he is very protective of Mena. He would do anything to protect her from any harm.
The first sight we have of Mena is a rather dishevelled one. So seeing her after eight years, and seeing how much she has changed, learnt and matured, shows us that with the right help you can turn your life around. I admired Mena also for her entrepreneurship. She wants to pay the kindness she received years ago back, by offering help on her own way. She understands how lucky she was, and it was sweet to see how she wants other people who weren’t that lucky, to have that same chance.
The gothic part of this romance got a bit lost on me, as yes there were dome darker moments, but I wouldn’t describe them as ‘gothic’, but that can be a matter of interpretation.
This book shows us that despite our feelings, sometimes fear can hold us back to act upon them. Fear of losing those we love, fear of feelings not being reciprocated, fear of a past that may hurt those we love. But when love is in the equation, we shouldn’t let fear rule over these emotions. Because loving the right person, and being loved by the right person, means that the past doesn’t matter and the only thing that does is being together with your loved one, despite what society may think.
November 17, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️
CHRISTMAS BOOK: 7
The Gentleman of Holly Street by Lottie James is a pure Harlequin romance featuring the dashing Freddie, a sea-faring merchant who inherits a house and begins to think of settling down and living in England. He owed it to his benefactor to make a life for himself that wasn’t always traveling and set up a retail shop in London. But first, he meets a poor girl sleeping under rags in his backyard who is nearly dead. Freddie beckons her in and feeds her, and lets her sleep in front of a fire. His kindness has no price…he is a gentleman. These two become the best of friends, and somewhat partners as Philomena (Mena) tries to make a life for herself. I liked the story and found both lead characters to be charming and suitably smitten, but the friend-to-romantic lover takes a long, long, and slooooowww burn to develop. Most of the book is about these two conversing in their head about how inappropriate their relationship was. It was one of my first thoughts, how could a poor, BEAUTIFUL, single girl live under the same roof (even if he was on the high seas most of the time) with a single man and show their faces in good society? I don’t see how they would have been accepted. The romance is timid and not at all gothic. Their relationship is spotty, with that inner dialogue continuing throughout the novel. Set during the Christmas season, so technically, I would consider this a Christmas story. I would also think it to be a cozy romance. #romance #friendToMore #cozy #tame #harlequin @harlequinhistorical #TheGentlemanOfHollyStreet #CHRISTMASread7 @netGalley Publish Date: Nov 29th.
🎄
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Historical, and the author for the opportunity to read this book.
#book #books #bookaddict #booksofinstagram #bookstagram #bookstagramer #bookshelf #booksbooksbooks #readersofinstagram #reader #booklove #bookreader #reader #reading
CHRISTMAS BOOK: 7
The Gentleman of Holly Street by Lottie James is a pure Harlequin romance featuring the dashing Freddie, a sea-faring merchant who inherits a house and begins to think of settling down and living in England. He owed it to his benefactor to make a life for himself that wasn’t always traveling and set up a retail shop in London. But first, he meets a poor girl sleeping under rags in his backyard who is nearly dead. Freddie beckons her in and feeds her, and lets her sleep in front of a fire. His kindness has no price…he is a gentleman. These two become the best of friends, and somewhat partners as Philomena (Mena) tries to make a life for herself. I liked the story and found both lead characters to be charming and suitably smitten, but the friend-to-romantic lover takes a long, long, and slooooowww burn to develop. Most of the book is about these two conversing in their head about how inappropriate their relationship was. It was one of my first thoughts, how could a poor, BEAUTIFUL, single girl live under the same roof (even if he was on the high seas most of the time) with a single man and show their faces in good society? I don’t see how they would have been accepted. The romance is timid and not at all gothic. Their relationship is spotty, with that inner dialogue continuing throughout the novel. Set during the Christmas season, so technically, I would consider this a Christmas story. I would also think it to be a cozy romance. #romance #friendToMore #cozy #tame #harlequin @harlequinhistorical #TheGentlemanOfHollyStreet #CHRISTMASread7 @netGalley Publish Date: Nov 29th.
🎄
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Historical, and the author for the opportunity to read this book.
#book #books #bookaddict #booksofinstagram #bookstagram #bookstagramer #bookshelf #booksbooksbooks #readersofinstagram #reader #booklove #bookreader #reader #reading
April 7, 2023
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Lotte R. James delights her readers with an intense, emotional and enthralling new historical romance, The Gentleman of Holly Street.
Freddie Walton has worked hard for everything he’s got. The self-made gentleman is now wealthy beyond his wildest dreams – and it’s largely thanks to penniless Philomena Nichols. Freddie had rescued Philomena eight years ago at Christmas and the two of them had built a hugely successful empire that has given them financial security and independence that would have otherwise been denied to them. The two of them are grateful towards one another and their friendship means everything to them. Freddie and Philomena will not do anything to jeopardise their platonic relationship – and they will certainly never dream of acting upon the attraction that sizzles between them…
Still haunted by his past, Freddie can never risk putting Philomena in any kind of danger. The best way forward for the two of them is to focus on their business and keep romance off the agenda. However, when giving into temptation proves inevitable and his feelings for Philomena refuse to stay hidden, Freddie realises that he needs to find the courage to tell Philomena how he truly feels about her – or else risk letting the woman who means the world to him slip through his fingers.
The Gentleman of Holly Street is a beautifully written and wonderfully evocative historical romance about old sins, dangerous secrets and everlasting love readers will find hard to resist. Lotte R. James is a very gifted and talented writer who writes powerful historicals infused with heart, heat, wit and drama that hold readers spellbound from beginning to end. In The Gentleman of Holly Street she has written a friends-to-lovers romance that will pluck at the heartstrings and will leave readers with a smile on their face and a tear in their eye.
Lotte R. James delights her readers with an intense, emotional and enthralling new historical romance, The Gentleman of Holly Street.
Freddie Walton has worked hard for everything he’s got. The self-made gentleman is now wealthy beyond his wildest dreams – and it’s largely thanks to penniless Philomena Nichols. Freddie had rescued Philomena eight years ago at Christmas and the two of them had built a hugely successful empire that has given them financial security and independence that would have otherwise been denied to them. The two of them are grateful towards one another and their friendship means everything to them. Freddie and Philomena will not do anything to jeopardise their platonic relationship – and they will certainly never dream of acting upon the attraction that sizzles between them…
Still haunted by his past, Freddie can never risk putting Philomena in any kind of danger. The best way forward for the two of them is to focus on their business and keep romance off the agenda. However, when giving into temptation proves inevitable and his feelings for Philomena refuse to stay hidden, Freddie realises that he needs to find the courage to tell Philomena how he truly feels about her – or else risk letting the woman who means the world to him slip through his fingers.
The Gentleman of Holly Street is a beautifully written and wonderfully evocative historical romance about old sins, dangerous secrets and everlasting love readers will find hard to resist. Lotte R. James is a very gifted and talented writer who writes powerful historicals infused with heart, heat, wit and drama that hold readers spellbound from beginning to end. In The Gentleman of Holly Street she has written a friends-to-lovers romance that will pluck at the heartstrings and will leave readers with a smile on their face and a tear in their eye.
November 28, 2022
It is eight years later since Freddie first rescued Mena, but during that time they have been hiding feelings for one another. But while Freddie’s past keeps threatening his future he must keep Mena at arm's length.
I love a historical romance but this one didn’t sit as comfortably with me, this may have been because it was a third in the series, and I would like to go back to see what the first two books were like, but also this was a very slow burn; however, don’t let this put you off.
I loved Mena’s strength and her independence as well as the side characters such as Susan. James writes with ease, I just wish it was a little more fast-paced; so, although I felt this to be a little slow for me, I haven’t let this put me off.
I love a historical romance but this one didn’t sit as comfortably with me, this may have been because it was a third in the series, and I would like to go back to see what the first two books were like, but also this was a very slow burn; however, don’t let this put you off.
I loved Mena’s strength and her independence as well as the side characters such as Susan. James writes with ease, I just wish it was a little more fast-paced; so, although I felt this to be a little slow for me, I haven’t let this put me off.
November 19, 2022
I enjoyed this story about the relationship ship between Philomena Nichols, known as Mena, and gentleman Freddie Walton. It starts with how he rescues penniless Mena and then how their relationship develops from being initially friends to business partners. They both have pasts that they are unwilling to share and this leads them to not being totally honest with each other. Do their feelings for each other go deeper than friendship and if so will they admit this to not only each other but themselves? Add Christmas and a great supporting cast of characters this is a lovely read. Thank you to Harlequin Mills and Boon for the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.
November 26, 2022
The Gentleman of Holly Street is a heartwarming romance that does away with trite sentiment and insists that the true spirit is not just love, it's kindness with no strings attached. This book makes me want to - if not change the world, then improve my little corner of it. It's most certainly idealistic, but when else will hope by rewarded with success and true love, if not at Christmas?
Freddie and Mena are two wonderful characters who spend far too much of the book mutually pining over each other, kept apart by reasons both valid and less so. I always have sympathy for women in this situation in historicals, as there's generally a power imbalance that may make the consequences of rejection far more dire. Given the situation, I think the author does a good job of putting Freddie and Mena on an equal footing not just inside their relationship but outside of it.
Freddie does often need a good talking to, which is why I loved Lady Mary. She was the clear voice of reason that everyone needed and I'd love to read more about her.
For a cosy Christmas romance with some slow burning angst, a thrill of danger, and a dose of hope, pick this one up.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own. For more reviews, check out my blog!
Freddie and Mena are two wonderful characters who spend far too much of the book mutually pining over each other, kept apart by reasons both valid and less so. I always have sympathy for women in this situation in historicals, as there's generally a power imbalance that may make the consequences of rejection far more dire. Given the situation, I think the author does a good job of putting Freddie and Mena on an equal footing not just inside their relationship but outside of it.
Freddie does often need a good talking to, which is why I loved Lady Mary. She was the clear voice of reason that everyone needed and I'd love to read more about her.
For a cosy Christmas romance with some slow burning angst, a thrill of danger, and a dose of hope, pick this one up.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own. For more reviews, check out my blog!
December 8, 2022
Freddie finds homeless Mena in the yard of his inherited shop and they build the business together. Romance ensues, mostly. Good writing, but Freddie was so self-sacrificial to the point of basically welcoming death. I think Mena was meant to have anxiety (I mean, she clearly did, she had a trauma response of not being able to leave her home for awhile), and she used the phrase "quite so" as a comfort refrain? I think my biggest problem was that we never saw them working together as a team, which they apparently did so well, because they were each fighting their feelings from very early on and things were awkward. I wanted to know more about what I was rooting for.
June 4, 2023
After gentleman Freddie Walton rescued penniless Philomena Nichols at Christmas eight years ago, he never imagined that he would build his empire with her. Yet while they have created a life together as friends, Freddie can’t let their special connection become more than that. But, what happens when the feelings are returned?
I started this story with a lot of expectations, and I was thoroughly disappointed. I couldn’t get into it because there was not enough to get me interested, just inner monologue. I didn’t finish this book. Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for this advanced reader’s copy. This review is my unbiased opinion.
I started this story with a lot of expectations, and I was thoroughly disappointed. I couldn’t get into it because there was not enough to get me interested, just inner monologue. I didn’t finish this book. Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for this advanced reader’s copy. This review is my unbiased opinion.
January 20, 2024
“And hopefully, this place, this endeavor will help redeem my sins” is the thought that Freddie Walton has as he starts this next chapter of his life. Freddie was beginning his journey to become a self-made gentleman by creating a shipping business with a shop to sell goods that he could feel good about providing. Little did he know that on the same night that he entered his new life, he would rescue the penniless Philomena Nichols. Together they would build an empire together as friends. However, while they have created this life of friendship together can they move past their carefully protected friendship to fall in love?
November 23, 2022
I loved this 'will they, won't they' romance. Neither opened up about their feelings for one another. Both had secrets they didn't want to share with each other. I just loved the back and forth from them and was so rooting for one or both of them to just speak up. They had been friends for years after he took her in so it was always going to be uncomfortable to cross the line. I loved the ghostly elements in this storyline with the unexplained sightings. Great addition to the series, I loved it
November 24, 2022
Freddie and Mena find it emotionally challenging to move away from their difficult beginnings, even though they succeed professionally in nineteenth-century society. Both deny their feelings which is easier when they are apart, which is often. The setting is authentic and festive in parts and balances the past, present and future hopes through the reflective thoughts of the couple. It is not a conventional historical romance but is an engaging read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
January 4, 2023
This was a nice book - I liked seeing Freddie and Mena's friendship develop into romance, but it was a little frustrating that they continually thought neither of them were good enough for the other. There were also some communication issues, but for the most part the romance itself was pretty solid. The only thing that drove my crazy was the author's overuse of commas.
November 5, 2022
A cute historical romance! There was an element of mystery involved and it was an enjoyable read! I'm appreciative to Harlequin and NetGalley for the ARC.
March 3, 2023
.5
My review of The Gentleman of Holly Street can be found on my blog...
https://quirkybookreads.wordpress.com...
My review of The Gentleman of Holly Street can be found on my blog...
https://quirkybookreads.wordpress.com...
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