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Southern Belles in London #2
The Making of His Marchioness
Get swept away by this Victorian Cinderella story
She trusted him with her life…
But what about her heart?
After the American Civil War propels widow Clara and her daughter to England, they’re given refuge by the enigmatic Marquess of Clairmount. Being the damsel in distress doesn’t come easy to independent Clara, so after finding his estate in disarray, she seizes her chance to help him . As she plays the role of marchioness, her attraction to the guarded marquess is bittersweet, as this Cinderella knows she doesn’t belong in his aristocratic world…
From Harlequin Your romantic escape to the past.
Southern Belles in London
Book 1: The Making of His Marchioness
Book 2: Falling for His Pretend Countess
She trusted him with her life…
But what about her heart?
After the American Civil War propels widow Clara and her daughter to England, they’re given refuge by the enigmatic Marquess of Clairmount. Being the damsel in distress doesn’t come easy to independent Clara, so after finding his estate in disarray, she seizes her chance to help him . As she plays the role of marchioness, her attraction to the guarded marquess is bittersweet, as this Cinderella knows she doesn’t belong in his aristocratic world…
From Harlequin Your romantic escape to the past.
Southern Belles in London
Book 1: The Making of His Marchioness
Book 2: Falling for His Pretend Countess
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published January 24, 2023
5 people are currently reading
14 people want to read
About the author
Lauri Robinson
175 books127 followersLauri Robinson's chosen genre to write is Western historical, and when asked why, she says, "Because I know I wasn't the only girl who wanted to grow up and marry Little Joe Cartwright."
With a degree in early childhood education, Lauri has spent three decades working in the non-profit field for Head Start, Child Abuse Intervention, the March of Dimes, and United Way. She claims the once upon a time and happily ever after premise of romance novels has always been a form of stress relief. When her husband suggested she write one, she took the challenge and has loved every minute of the journey.
Lauri lives in rural Minnesota, where she and her husband spend every spare moment with their three grown sons and their families, which includes three granddaughters, two stepgrandsons and two granddogs. She volunteers for several organizations, including her local library, and spends most fall weekends filling the freezer with homemade foodstuffs from the bountiful harvest of her husband's green thumb. She's a diehard Elvis fan (yes, she's been to Graceland), and loves to spend Sundays watching NASCAR, either live or on TV. However, she says her favorite weekends are spent in the woods of northern Minnesota on the land homesteaded by her great-grandfather.
Most of her childhood was spent in western Kansas, which is the setting for several of her stories. Lauri is a member of RWA, Northern Lights Writers,and Hearts Through History Romance Writers, as well as several online writing groups. She writes for Harlequin, Mills and Boon and The Wild Rose Press.
For updates on her writing please visit www.laurirobinson.blogspot.com
With a degree in early childhood education, Lauri has spent three decades working in the non-profit field for Head Start, Child Abuse Intervention, the March of Dimes, and United Way. She claims the once upon a time and happily ever after premise of romance novels has always been a form of stress relief. When her husband suggested she write one, she took the challenge and has loved every minute of the journey.
Lauri lives in rural Minnesota, where she and her husband spend every spare moment with their three grown sons and their families, which includes three granddaughters, two stepgrandsons and two granddogs. She volunteers for several organizations, including her local library, and spends most fall weekends filling the freezer with homemade foodstuffs from the bountiful harvest of her husband's green thumb. She's a diehard Elvis fan (yes, she's been to Graceland), and loves to spend Sundays watching NASCAR, either live or on TV. However, she says her favorite weekends are spent in the woods of northern Minnesota on the land homesteaded by her great-grandfather.
Most of her childhood was spent in western Kansas, which is the setting for several of her stories. Lauri is a member of RWA, Northern Lights Writers,and Hearts Through History Romance Writers, as well as several online writing groups. She writes for Harlequin, Mills and Boon and The Wild Rose Press.
For updates on her writing please visit www.laurirobinson.blogspot.com
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
May 26, 2023
Excellent second installment in the series. In the previous book,
The Return of His Promised Duchess
, Clara's friend Annabelle found happiness and a new life in England after fleeing the ravages of the US Civil War. At the end of that book, Annabelle and her husband ask Roger, Marquess of Clairmount, to find her friends Clara, Clara's daughter Abigail, and Suzanne and bring them to England. This book opens as they arrive in England.
Clara is in rough shape. She is grieving the death of her husband and the loss of their dreams and home. The ravages of their living conditions physically wear her down before they are found and swept away to safety in England. However, Clara's independent and stubborn nature is still strong, and she doesn't react well to what greets her on arrival. I wanted to shake her for being rude, but I also understood that she felt overwhelmed and out of her depth.
Roger was happy to help Annabelle and Drew while they were away. He planned to take Clara and the others to his country home, Clairmount, where they could stay while waiting, and he would return to London. But something about Clara drew him to her, and he wanted to spend more time with her.
The development of the relationship between Roger and Clara was interesting. Clara is so wrapped up in her grief for her husband that she isn't living her life. But once she is away from Virginia and the home of her grief, the outside world begins to break through the wall she's built around herself. Clara resists the feelings Roger's kindness and attention stir in her and feels guilty over what she sees as a betrayal of her husband's love. The more time she spends with him, the harder it is to deny her growing feelings for Roger. But she believes she doesn't belong in his aristocratic world and pushes him away.
Roger has spent most of his life firmly resisting the idea of ever getting married, the background of which is heartbreaking. But from the moment he met them, Clara and little Abigail made their way into his heart. The way he took care of Clara when she was ill and the thoughtfulness of his actions showed a different Roger than the one seen by the rest of the world. I loved the scenes with Abigail and her "Doger." His conversations with Drew as he adjusted to the changes in his views of love and marriage were fantastic. I ached for him as Clara pushed him away, and I loved how he continued to find ways to help her.
The ending was terrific. I loved seeing Clara finally break out of her prison of grief and realize that she could love again. Her big scene with Roger was emotional and very satisfying. I liked the epilogue and seeing the happiness that Roger and Clara have finally allowed themselves to experience.
I'm looking forward to reading Suzanne's story.
Clara is in rough shape. She is grieving the death of her husband and the loss of their dreams and home. The ravages of their living conditions physically wear her down before they are found and swept away to safety in England. However, Clara's independent and stubborn nature is still strong, and she doesn't react well to what greets her on arrival. I wanted to shake her for being rude, but I also understood that she felt overwhelmed and out of her depth.
Roger was happy to help Annabelle and Drew while they were away. He planned to take Clara and the others to his country home, Clairmount, where they could stay while waiting, and he would return to London. But something about Clara drew him to her, and he wanted to spend more time with her.
The development of the relationship between Roger and Clara was interesting. Clara is so wrapped up in her grief for her husband that she isn't living her life. But once she is away from Virginia and the home of her grief, the outside world begins to break through the wall she's built around herself. Clara resists the feelings Roger's kindness and attention stir in her and feels guilty over what she sees as a betrayal of her husband's love. The more time she spends with him, the harder it is to deny her growing feelings for Roger. But she believes she doesn't belong in his aristocratic world and pushes him away.
Roger has spent most of his life firmly resisting the idea of ever getting married, the background of which is heartbreaking. But from the moment he met them, Clara and little Abigail made their way into his heart. The way he took care of Clara when she was ill and the thoughtfulness of his actions showed a different Roger than the one seen by the rest of the world. I loved the scenes with Abigail and her "Doger." His conversations with Drew as he adjusted to the changes in his views of love and marriage were fantastic. I ached for him as Clara pushed him away, and I loved how he continued to find ways to help her.
The ending was terrific. I loved seeing Clara finally break out of her prison of grief and realize that she could love again. Her big scene with Roger was emotional and very satisfying. I liked the epilogue and seeing the happiness that Roger and Clara have finally allowed themselves to experience.
I'm looking forward to reading Suzanne's story.
February 5, 2023
Annoyed By the Heroine...and So Much More!!
Even though this is a Harlequin Historical—about as traditionally published as you can get in romance!--I didn't think the book was well written. I found the heroine annoying right from the beginning, even though she should have been a sympathetic character because of the plight that brings her to England's shores and into the hero's protection. This is set in the Victorian era in the middle of the United States’ Civil War. The heroine is escaping after losing all her family and farm because of battles, burning, and soldiers taking what isn’t rightfully there.
The heroine is nonsensical at the beginning of the story. The author goes to great pains to show how exhausted she is as she leaves the boat, barely able to make it the few steps to shore, yet right away she has enough energy to argue for an extended period of time with the hero, who is just doing his good friend—the husband of her good friend—a solid and taking care of the friends' wife's best friend. Given all that she'd been through, too, it just made little sense. She should have been grateful! Some ways she thinks are just illogical, too. For instance, she seems dead set on reclaiming her home in Virginia—though there wouldn’t be much left for her, probably—after the Civil War. For some reason, too, both she and her good friend don't like English titles or titled men. Say what? Was that a thing back in the day? I somehow doubt it. Nobility and royalty usually impress Americans, even if we don't have that here.
Other things made little sense to me, either. For instance, at the very beginning, they take a trip entirely by carriage. This book takes place in 1862, and railroads were very common. I would have thought that at least part of the journey would have taken place by rail, making everything happen quicker and easier. I also thought the heroine's dress on the cover wasn't really Victorian or reflective of American south Civil War fashion. I don't know what time frame it is supposed to go with, but none that spring readily to mind! This book is supposed to be a part of a series called Southern Belles in London, but the book takes place primarily in the country, not the city. I get easily annoyed by little details like that!
The book did have a few highlights, like the heroine's adorable young daughter and the hero's interactions with her. The dog was also sweet and protective of the toddler. But I just didn't buy the romance aspect, especially from the hero’s perspective, as he was so dead set against any marriage and she was far too prickly and unlikable for him to believably consider her as a reason to change his thinking. Frankly, I thought he deserved a better heroine, which is not a great thing to think about a romance!
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Even though this is a Harlequin Historical—about as traditionally published as you can get in romance!--I didn't think the book was well written. I found the heroine annoying right from the beginning, even though she should have been a sympathetic character because of the plight that brings her to England's shores and into the hero's protection. This is set in the Victorian era in the middle of the United States’ Civil War. The heroine is escaping after losing all her family and farm because of battles, burning, and soldiers taking what isn’t rightfully there.
The heroine is nonsensical at the beginning of the story. The author goes to great pains to show how exhausted she is as she leaves the boat, barely able to make it the few steps to shore, yet right away she has enough energy to argue for an extended period of time with the hero, who is just doing his good friend—the husband of her good friend—a solid and taking care of the friends' wife's best friend. Given all that she'd been through, too, it just made little sense. She should have been grateful! Some ways she thinks are just illogical, too. For instance, she seems dead set on reclaiming her home in Virginia—though there wouldn’t be much left for her, probably—after the Civil War. For some reason, too, both she and her good friend don't like English titles or titled men. Say what? Was that a thing back in the day? I somehow doubt it. Nobility and royalty usually impress Americans, even if we don't have that here.
Other things made little sense to me, either. For instance, at the very beginning, they take a trip entirely by carriage. This book takes place in 1862, and railroads were very common. I would have thought that at least part of the journey would have taken place by rail, making everything happen quicker and easier. I also thought the heroine's dress on the cover wasn't really Victorian or reflective of American south Civil War fashion. I don't know what time frame it is supposed to go with, but none that spring readily to mind! This book is supposed to be a part of a series called Southern Belles in London, but the book takes place primarily in the country, not the city. I get easily annoyed by little details like that!
The book did have a few highlights, like the heroine's adorable young daughter and the hero's interactions with her. The dog was also sweet and protective of the toddler. But I just didn't buy the romance aspect, especially from the hero’s perspective, as he was so dead set against any marriage and she was far too prickly and unlikable for him to believably consider her as a reason to change his thinking. Frankly, I thought he deserved a better heroine, which is not a great thing to think about a romance!
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
January 24, 2023
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
The Making of His Marchioness continues the Southern Belles of London series with an emotional romance with layer upon layer of discovering precisely who Clara and Roger genuinely are with each other… it might seem to be obvious, two people falling in love, but it’s more than that. It’s also letting go of the past, without guilt, and embracing a different future from what was expected, or even desired in some ways.
Clara is not only grieving the death of her husband but the loss of their home, and the ravages of the Civil War on her friends, family, neighbors, and herself. She’s independent beyond reason at times, makes assumptions quite easily, yet stays within her cocoon of grief while the world passes by… until Roger, his staff, and her friend begin to crack open that comfortable refuge and let reality in. There were times when I experienced her grief as well, and times when she really needed a stern conversation about letting go of the past and seeing her future right in front of her. She’s a complex and complicated character. Watching her emerge into the land of the living and possibilities was, perhaps, the most satisfying part of The Making of His Marchioness.
Roger is also complicated, yet in a far different way. He’s made his choice about his future… there will be no Marchioness at his side, ever. Yet, one frail but stubborn woman and her adorable daughter will begin to crack that hardened exterior with possibilities, seeing his past differently, and perhaps opening up enough to let two ladies into his heart without guilt or hesitation. I liked Roger, his thoughtfulness on so many occasions really showed the man he is at the core, not what he wants the world to see.
The Making of His Marchioness is an emotional, well-written romance that easily captured me from the first pages, and delighted me with the unraveling of the past and acceptance of the hope and love that the future could hold for this couple… if they only took the risk of offering up their hearts without fear of the consequences. I loved this couple, I don’t think I’ve run into a more complex situation in a long time. Grief is a powerful thing, and we each mourn differently. Roger helped Clara through her grief, and perhaps, his own for his past as well. I thoroughly enjoyed myself back in this world and definitely would recommend this series to any reader who loves a good romance, believable characters, a well-written plot, and second chances.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or author’s team via Booksprout. The opinions expressed in this review are my own – good, bad, or indifferent.*
The Making of His Marchioness continues the Southern Belles of London series with an emotional romance with layer upon layer of discovering precisely who Clara and Roger genuinely are with each other… it might seem to be obvious, two people falling in love, but it’s more than that. It’s also letting go of the past, without guilt, and embracing a different future from what was expected, or even desired in some ways.
Clara is not only grieving the death of her husband but the loss of their home, and the ravages of the Civil War on her friends, family, neighbors, and herself. She’s independent beyond reason at times, makes assumptions quite easily, yet stays within her cocoon of grief while the world passes by… until Roger, his staff, and her friend begin to crack open that comfortable refuge and let reality in. There were times when I experienced her grief as well, and times when she really needed a stern conversation about letting go of the past and seeing her future right in front of her. She’s a complex and complicated character. Watching her emerge into the land of the living and possibilities was, perhaps, the most satisfying part of The Making of His Marchioness.
Roger is also complicated, yet in a far different way. He’s made his choice about his future… there will be no Marchioness at his side, ever. Yet, one frail but stubborn woman and her adorable daughter will begin to crack that hardened exterior with possibilities, seeing his past differently, and perhaps opening up enough to let two ladies into his heart without guilt or hesitation. I liked Roger, his thoughtfulness on so many occasions really showed the man he is at the core, not what he wants the world to see.
The Making of His Marchioness is an emotional, well-written romance that easily captured me from the first pages, and delighted me with the unraveling of the past and acceptance of the hope and love that the future could hold for this couple… if they only took the risk of offering up their hearts without fear of the consequences. I loved this couple, I don’t think I’ve run into a more complex situation in a long time. Grief is a powerful thing, and we each mourn differently. Roger helped Clara through her grief, and perhaps, his own for his past as well. I thoroughly enjoyed myself back in this world and definitely would recommend this series to any reader who loves a good romance, believable characters, a well-written plot, and second chances.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or author’s team via Booksprout. The opinions expressed in this review are my own – good, bad, or indifferent.*
January 27, 2023
Clara Walton leaves America during the Civil War along with her small daughter Abigail and her friend Suzanne, having been found by the agents of the Marquess of Clairmont, Roger Hardgroves, at the request of an American friend of theirs, Annabelle, who had moved to England previously. Clara's husband had died in the Civil War and she, Abigail and Suzanne had desperately tried to survive in Virginia, with most of their farm being ransacked by soldiers. By the time they reach England's shores, Clara is exhausted and ill. Despite her shaky introduction to Roger Hardgroves, he sits with her while she is ill, nursing her back to health so they can move on with their journey to his country estate.
Feeling awkward at the Marquess' estate until her friend Annabelle and her husband come back from Scotland, Clara attempts to be of use to the Marquess, by clearing up his father's old greenhouse and replacing the drapes in the house he has oddly spent little time in. In the meantime, Roger finds himself becoming attached to not only little Abigail, but Clara as well. He has vowed to never marry, primarily because he believes his mother wants him to, and he doesn't want to do anything his mother wants him to do, considering their strained relationship in the past.
When feelings between Clara and Roger start to bloom, Clara can only think of her husband who died in the war, and the land back in America that they had planned on building up for Abigail to live on. At the same time, she finds herself starting to like the Marquess' estate, as well as the Marquess.
This story was very enjoyable to read. The meddling of certain people was also comical.
Feeling awkward at the Marquess' estate until her friend Annabelle and her husband come back from Scotland, Clara attempts to be of use to the Marquess, by clearing up his father's old greenhouse and replacing the drapes in the house he has oddly spent little time in. In the meantime, Roger finds himself becoming attached to not only little Abigail, but Clara as well. He has vowed to never marry, primarily because he believes his mother wants him to, and he doesn't want to do anything his mother wants him to do, considering their strained relationship in the past.
When feelings between Clara and Roger start to bloom, Clara can only think of her husband who died in the war, and the land back in America that they had planned on building up for Abigail to live on. At the same time, she finds herself starting to like the Marquess' estate, as well as the Marquess.
This story was very enjoyable to read. The meddling of certain people was also comical.
January 30, 2023
Finding a Family Life . . .
Independent Clara Walton is still grieving the death of her husband and what the Civil War has done to everyone she knows. She and her daughter Abigail, along with her friend Suzanne Bishop and Sammy the dog, end up in England under the care of Roger Hardgroves, the fourth Marquess of Clairmount. When Roger arrived to pick them up, Clara rudely ignored him, would not speak a word to him as if he wasn’t there, insisting that she would go nowhere with him and would wait for her friend Annabelle with whom she would be staying. It had actually been Roger who had her brought to England, trying to help her and obviously getting no thanks for his efforts. Once he gets her settled, Annabelle will make contact and they can be reunited. Although the truth of the matter is that Drew and Annabelle Barkly had been called to Scotland the week before due to the illness of one of Drew’s aunts. No one knew when they would be returning.
Clara’s life is more a basic existence than actually living at times, as she finds no happiness in anything, and she needs a reminder to let go of the past and move forward. Finding his estate in disarray, will Clara’s determination to organize everything, as would be expected of the marchioness, bring her closer to the Marquess? Will his mother and the staff’s scheme to get him married to Clara work? Or has she convinced herself that she does not belong here and will return to America when the war is over, despite what Roger may want by then?
Independent Clara Walton is still grieving the death of her husband and what the Civil War has done to everyone she knows. She and her daughter Abigail, along with her friend Suzanne Bishop and Sammy the dog, end up in England under the care of Roger Hardgroves, the fourth Marquess of Clairmount. When Roger arrived to pick them up, Clara rudely ignored him, would not speak a word to him as if he wasn’t there, insisting that she would go nowhere with him and would wait for her friend Annabelle with whom she would be staying. It had actually been Roger who had her brought to England, trying to help her and obviously getting no thanks for his efforts. Once he gets her settled, Annabelle will make contact and they can be reunited. Although the truth of the matter is that Drew and Annabelle Barkly had been called to Scotland the week before due to the illness of one of Drew’s aunts. No one knew when they would be returning.
Clara’s life is more a basic existence than actually living at times, as she finds no happiness in anything, and she needs a reminder to let go of the past and move forward. Finding his estate in disarray, will Clara’s determination to organize everything, as would be expected of the marchioness, bring her closer to the Marquess? Will his mother and the staff’s scheme to get him married to Clara work? Or has she convinced herself that she does not belong here and will return to America when the war is over, despite what Roger may want by then?
January 24, 2023
Lauri Robinson continues her Southern Belles in London series with another heartwarming Victorian tale, The Making of His Marchioness.
The American Civil War has left widow Clara with no choice but to seek refuge in England with her daughter at the Marquess of Clairmont's estate. The Marquess is brooding and enigmatic and seemingly keen to keep Clara at arm's length. Not usually someone who likes to sit idly by, Clara likes to make herself useful and with the Marquess having opened his doors to her, she decides to repay him by taking charge of his estate, which is currently in complete and utter disarray.
As Clara begins to reverse the ailing fortunes of the Marquess' estate, she takes on the role of Marchioness like a duck to water. However, as she begins to fall for him, she realizes that her infatuation is in vain because she doesn't belong in the aristocrat's world and a future for the two of them is out of the question...or is it?
Lauri Robinson has written a lovely historical romance that cannot fail to move and delight readers everywhere. A tender, touching and passionate tale about two polar opposites coming together, The Making of His Marchioness is the latest enjoyable and enchanting historical romance by Lauri Robinson.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The American Civil War has left widow Clara with no choice but to seek refuge in England with her daughter at the Marquess of Clairmont's estate. The Marquess is brooding and enigmatic and seemingly keen to keep Clara at arm's length. Not usually someone who likes to sit idly by, Clara likes to make herself useful and with the Marquess having opened his doors to her, she decides to repay him by taking charge of his estate, which is currently in complete and utter disarray.
As Clara begins to reverse the ailing fortunes of the Marquess' estate, she takes on the role of Marchioness like a duck to water. However, as she begins to fall for him, she realizes that her infatuation is in vain because she doesn't belong in the aristocrat's world and a future for the two of them is out of the question...or is it?
Lauri Robinson has written a lovely historical romance that cannot fail to move and delight readers everywhere. A tender, touching and passionate tale about two polar opposites coming together, The Making of His Marchioness is the latest enjoyable and enchanting historical romance by Lauri Robinson.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 12, 2023
A slowly building romance between Marquiss Roger and widow Clara with child.
After a long search, Roger has found Annabelle's 2 girlfriends (Annabelle from earlier story; The Return of His Promised Duchess) and helps the weakened women to his country house while waiting for Annabelle and Drew to return from Scotland. From the moment Roger sets his eyes on Clara, he is in awe of her strength after surviving America's misery in the beginning of the Civil War between South and North. But the adorable miss Abigail also steals his heart. Roger who promises himself never to let go of his single life finds Clara changing his mind. But the resentment he carries from his own childhood stops him from falling in love with a widow with a child. Like you can hold back love?
Clara struggles with emotions surrounding her heart. How can she fall for a man and not betray her love for her dead husband?
Sweet story with a HEA and a wonderful role for the happy Abigail.
For the readers who have read earlier part; also nice to 'meet' Drew and Annabelle again in this story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After a long search, Roger has found Annabelle's 2 girlfriends (Annabelle from earlier story; The Return of His Promised Duchess) and helps the weakened women to his country house while waiting for Annabelle and Drew to return from Scotland. From the moment Roger sets his eyes on Clara, he is in awe of her strength after surviving America's misery in the beginning of the Civil War between South and North. But the adorable miss Abigail also steals his heart. Roger who promises himself never to let go of his single life finds Clara changing his mind. But the resentment he carries from his own childhood stops him from falling in love with a widow with a child. Like you can hold back love?
Clara struggles with emotions surrounding her heart. How can she fall for a man and not betray her love for her dead husband?
Sweet story with a HEA and a wonderful role for the happy Abigail.
For the readers who have read earlier part; also nice to 'meet' Drew and Annabelle again in this story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 2, 2023
At first, I got a little miffed with the heroine because she was so stuck on loving her husband who died and saying that any feelings, she had for anyone else would be cheating. I get that she loved him, but she was so young and still had so much life left to live for her and her daughter. However, by the end of the book I adored both her and the hero and the rest of the characters. How could you not love a precious little girl, a protective dog, an uppity barn cat and a staff that will go to great lengths to procure happiness for all. I want to go back and read the first book in this series and then I want to read the next book that comes out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2023
Enjoyed this wonderful book with widowed Clara who is trying to feed herself, her daughter Abigail and her friend Suzanna during the civil war by hiding in her root cellar. They get rescued by the captain of a ship owned by Roger who is a friend to her friend Annabelle who moved to England a few years ago. When she meets Roger she fights the attraction she has to him because she still loves her dead husband but she is not the only one falling for Roger her daughter loves him. Can Clara accept the love Roger has for her and Abigail and move forward with her life? Loved this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 22, 2023
Fleeing the US Civil War, widow Clara and her baby daughter end up in England under the protection of Roger, Marquess of Clairmount. An unforeseen circumstance has her pretending to be his marchioness. But can she ever truly belong in his world?
I enjoyed the characters in this book. Roger's relationship with baby Abigail was adorable. The plot was on the quiet side. I look forward to the next book by this author.
Thanks, Booksprout, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
I enjoyed the characters in this book. Roger's relationship with baby Abigail was adorable. The plot was on the quiet side. I look forward to the next book by this author.
Thanks, Booksprout, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
December 24, 2023
I liked the premise of this book, and it could have been a 4* book but for the errors.
Multiple spelling and grammar.
Many instances where things described, which would not be acceptable at time the book is set.
Use of words not in use in the time the book is set.
Far too many 'americanisms' - would expect some from Susanna or Clara, not not from Giles a British aristocrat.
Pity really.
Such a disappointment after first book in series. I hope book three is more like the first book in the trilogy.
Multiple spelling and grammar.
Many instances where things described, which would not be acceptable at time the book is set.
Use of words not in use in the time the book is set.
Far too many 'americanisms' - would expect some from Susanna or Clara, not not from Giles a British aristocrat.
Pity really.
Such a disappointment after first book in series. I hope book three is more like the first book in the trilogy.
January 24, 2023
Civil war widow in England…
Clara arrives in England a shell shocked widow. Fleeing the harsh conditions of the civil war with her young daughter and friend, she’s suffered loss and just wants to see her friend Annabelle. Only, she gets Roger instead. Roger is a marquess, a rake and ladies man with no intention of ever marrying (to spite his mother). He’s happy charming the ladies but never settling down. Clara is beautiful but a conundrum he doesn’t need or want. Until he does.
Clara arrives in England a shell shocked widow. Fleeing the harsh conditions of the civil war with her young daughter and friend, she’s suffered loss and just wants to see her friend Annabelle. Only, she gets Roger instead. Roger is a marquess, a rake and ladies man with no intention of ever marrying (to spite his mother). He’s happy charming the ladies but never settling down. Clara is beautiful but a conundrum he doesn’t need or want. Until he does.
January 25, 2023
Love a good historical romance. There are a lot of unexpected twists and turns in the story. The road to romance is not always easy as our lead characters find out. Great characters to follow on this journey. Good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 8, 2025
i didn't enjoy this book as much as the last one sadly.
i did like seeing the hero with the heroine little girl those where wonderfully.
i do like the hero and heroine in this and think they work well together. maybe i would like to have seen them spend more time together.
well very enjoyable. can't wait for book 3
i did like seeing the hero with the heroine little girl those where wonderfully.
i do like the hero and heroine in this and think they work well together. maybe i would like to have seen them spend more time together.
well very enjoyable. can't wait for book 3
January 19, 2023
It was hard to put down. It was a page turner. Once I started I was unable to stop reading. I loved reading Lauri Robinson story. Beautifully written, wonderful characters engaging story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2023
I enjoyed this book it is a good read It is a real page turner one I very much enjoyed reading it is a good historical romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 15, 2023
My first read from this author. A very nice story indeed. I really enjoyed reading this book and can recommend it to all my friends.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
January 2, 2023Historical Fiction, Sagas, Victorian Historical Fiction
Miniseries
Southern Belles in London (Book #2)
Miniseries
Southern Belles in London (Book #2)
October 19, 2023
Excellent book, I love all of Laurie's books, bought read every one and just love the fun fresh new stories she comes up with.
January 20, 2023
I adored Bertha and Annabelle.
Clara was one stubborn southern beauty she had suffered so much lost in such a short time and then faced with an unexpected and different life. Roger was just trying to do what was right but he had some history that held him back. These two characters went round and round I love how the author wrote their interactions. It was a very good story and it was easy to get lost in its pages. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
Clara was one stubborn southern beauty she had suffered so much lost in such a short time and then faced with an unexpected and different life. Roger was just trying to do what was right but he had some history that held him back. These two characters went round and round I love how the author wrote their interactions. It was a very good story and it was easy to get lost in its pages. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
January 21, 2023
This is a well written book with strong characters and an entertaining storyline. The author does a great job developing her characters and story and pulled me in with their interactions. It moves fluidly with perfectly painted scenes and is a great read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
January 13, 2023
She trusted him with her life…
But what about her heart?
After the American Civil War propels widow Clara and her daughter to England, they’re given refuge by the enigmatic Marquess of Clairmount. Being the damsel in distress doesn’t come easy to independent Clara, so after finding his estate in disarray, she seizes her chance to help him. As she plays the role of marchioness, her attraction to the guarded marquess is bittersweet, as this Cinderella knows she doesn’t belong in his aristocratic world…
From Harlequin Historical: Your romantic escape to the past.
I love Lauri Robinson books, with the exception of a few, and this one didn’t disappoint. It is essentially a Cinderella retelling, with the main characters from different social classes. Being a Harlequin title, it follows their typical plot format, and of course, there is a happy ending.
Such a fun read, I finished it in a single sitting. I can’t wait for her next title!
Thank you to BookSprout for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
But what about her heart?
After the American Civil War propels widow Clara and her daughter to England, they’re given refuge by the enigmatic Marquess of Clairmount. Being the damsel in distress doesn’t come easy to independent Clara, so after finding his estate in disarray, she seizes her chance to help him. As she plays the role of marchioness, her attraction to the guarded marquess is bittersweet, as this Cinderella knows she doesn’t belong in his aristocratic world…
From Harlequin Historical: Your romantic escape to the past.
I love Lauri Robinson books, with the exception of a few, and this one didn’t disappoint. It is essentially a Cinderella retelling, with the main characters from different social classes. Being a Harlequin title, it follows their typical plot format, and of course, there is a happy ending.
Such a fun read, I finished it in a single sitting. I can’t wait for her next title!
Thank you to BookSprout for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
January 14, 2023
We first meet Clara, Abigail, and Suzanne when they step off the ship following their rescue. As her best friend, Annabelle and her husband are off to Scotland to visit her husband's relatives, Roger (Marquess of Clairmont) brings them to his home until such time as they're able to meet up with Annabelle and her husband, Drew.
In the meantime, to keep busy, Clara decides to take over the running of the house given the housekeeper's injury. It is during this time when Roger and Clara spend time and grow to care and love each other. Added to the mix is her cute daughter Abigail who worms her way into Roger's heart. As a bonus, Roger and his mother's relationship improves for the first time in decades and the misunderstandings are cleared up and they grow closer as a family.
A sweet story and a nice read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In the meantime, to keep busy, Clara decides to take over the running of the house given the housekeeper's injury. It is during this time when Roger and Clara spend time and grow to care and love each other. Added to the mix is her cute daughter Abigail who worms her way into Roger's heart. As a bonus, Roger and his mother's relationship improves for the first time in decades and the misunderstandings are cleared up and they grow closer as a family.
A sweet story and a nice read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 19, 2024
They were stuck in the past and couldn’t move forward, but thank God for creative household staff who made them see what was in front of them. Excellent story of caring people who needed a little nudge to get on the right path.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 18, 2023
Interesting characters , beautiful romance and adorable child . Enjoyed very much
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