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A Romance of Rank #2
The Earl’s Hideaway, No Ladies Allowed
If there is one woman Samson Rutherford, Earl of Riverton, can’t abide, it is his meddling sister. He has spent his whole life being a pawn in her plans and tricks, but when one of her schemes leaves him dressed in women’s clothing, he has finally had enough. He cannot beat her at her games, or even say no to her, his only option to save his sanity and pride is to run away--and fortunately, his solicitor knows just the place…
Catherine Wallace wasn’t born to be a governess, but with her family’s fall from grace, she has become one. A good one. However, when the chance arises to stay at her uncle’s home so she can care for his horticulture project while he is absent, she jumps at the chance. Leaving her position, she plans to gather her sisters together so they can be a family again--even if it is only for a little while.
But the last thing Catherine expected to find upon her arrival was her childhood friend. Samson has sequestered himself at the cottage and claims to have been invited to watch over her uncle’s business while he is away. But Catherine insists that’s what she’s been asked to do. The quiet retreat is what they both need, but who will get to stay?
Not Samson, because he has never gotten the better of a woman, not since… well, not since Catherine let him kiss her years ago…
Come to think of it, perhaps it is time for Samson to win after all.
Catherine Wallace wasn’t born to be a governess, but with her family’s fall from grace, she has become one. A good one. However, when the chance arises to stay at her uncle’s home so she can care for his horticulture project while he is absent, she jumps at the chance. Leaving her position, she plans to gather her sisters together so they can be a family again--even if it is only for a little while.
But the last thing Catherine expected to find upon her arrival was her childhood friend. Samson has sequestered himself at the cottage and claims to have been invited to watch over her uncle’s business while he is away. But Catherine insists that’s what she’s been asked to do. The quiet retreat is what they both need, but who will get to stay?
Not Samson, because he has never gotten the better of a woman, not since… well, not since Catherine let him kiss her years ago…
Come to think of it, perhaps it is time for Samson to win after all.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2022
229 people are currently reading
968 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 276 reviews
January 16, 2023
You know those book that take themselves very seriously? The ones with dark and mist shrouded castles, and secret keeping men of rank with more than one skeleton in their closet?
Yeah, this isn't one of those books.
This is a cottage-core, victorian era inspired rom com at peak frivolity.
Take a people pleasing, kind and clueless earl and pair him with a down on her luck governess all tossed together in childhood friendship and years of pining...well that makes for one downright light hearted and humorous story.
This is a couple who completely tells propriety to "kindly" laugh off as they find themselves in more close proximity situations than should be acceptable. BUT I was here for it. Nothing is better than force proximity for the increasing of romantic content.
Like the first book this is just full of ridiculousness, great kissing, meddling, and Esther Hatch trademark humor. I definitely will continue to read this series because it put a smile on my face.
Also...now I can't get rocking horse innuendo jokes out of my head so there's that. haha #iykyk
Yeah, this isn't one of those books.
This is a cottage-core, victorian era inspired rom com at peak frivolity.
Take a people pleasing, kind and clueless earl and pair him with a down on her luck governess all tossed together in childhood friendship and years of pining...well that makes for one downright light hearted and humorous story.
This is a couple who completely tells propriety to "kindly" laugh off as they find themselves in more close proximity situations than should be acceptable. BUT I was here for it. Nothing is better than force proximity for the increasing of romantic content.
Like the first book this is just full of ridiculousness, great kissing, meddling, and Esther Hatch trademark humor. I definitely will continue to read this series because it put a smile on my face.
Also...now I can't get rocking horse innuendo jokes out of my head so there's that. haha #iykyk
September 18, 2023
3 stars, personally. ✨
[Clean/No Christian Faith Content.]
I didn’t like this one as much as the first book in the series (because that one set the bar high), but it was still a fun and entertaining read. Catherine and Samson were cute together despite this book having one of my least favorite tropes—forced proximity. It did have a favorite trope of mine though (she fell first but he fell harder—and boy, did he fall hard) which definitely added to my enjoyment of the story.
Random thoughts while reading:
-We got their backstory pretty quick which was so nice instead of teasing the reader for the majority of the book.
-Though this is only my second book by this author, I must say, she writes good ballroom/ball scenes. I love a good ball in a regency book. 😌
-The angst towards the end nearly did me in, I swear.
-Some of his lines were Darcy-level perfection.
Like the first book in the series, there were a few kiss scenes that were a bit much for my tastes…I would say this second book had more details of the kisses, which isn’t my thing and dropped the rating for me personally.
Looking forward to the rest of the series and hopefully seeing Dru’s story—but first hopefully Victoria’s? Please and thank you. 😘
Main Content:
No Christian Faith content; A mention of Samson rathering to "go to the devil" than do something.
Regency language such as "blasted", "what/why the devil", and "bastard" (used as a derogatory name for a man, not in the literal word meaning); A mention of something being damning to someone; Mentions of curses (said but not written out); Mentions of alcohol & drinking; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of hunting.
There's a lot of kissing towards the end (up to detailed); Touches, Embraces, Noticing, Smelling, Shivers/Zings, etc. (up to semi-detailed to detailed); Wanting to touch & embrace (up to semi-detailed); Catherine goes into Samson's bedroom to see something & there's some awkwardness about the reputation/scandal part of this time period; On a trip in a carriage/coach, Catherine falls asleep on Samson (his point of view, easily up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of kisses, kissing, & remembering kisses; Many mentions of reputations, scandals, and forcing a couple to get married because they were alone together ; Mentions of flirting & blushes; A few mentions of the possibility of women being taken advantage of.
[Clean/No Christian Faith Content.]
I didn’t like this one as much as the first book in the series (because that one set the bar high), but it was still a fun and entertaining read. Catherine and Samson were cute together despite this book having one of my least favorite tropes—forced proximity. It did have a favorite trope of mine though (she fell first but he fell harder—and boy, did he fall hard) which definitely added to my enjoyment of the story.
Random thoughts while reading:
-We got their backstory pretty quick which was so nice instead of teasing the reader for the majority of the book.
-Though this is only my second book by this author, I must say, she writes good ballroom/ball scenes. I love a good ball in a regency book. 😌
-The angst towards the end nearly did me in, I swear.
-Some of his lines were Darcy-level perfection.
Like the first book in the series, there were a few kiss scenes that were a bit much for my tastes…I would say this second book had more details of the kisses, which isn’t my thing and dropped the rating for me personally.
Looking forward to the rest of the series and hopefully seeing Dru’s story—but first hopefully Victoria’s? Please and thank you. 😘
Main Content:
No Christian Faith content; A mention of Samson rathering to "go to the devil" than do something.
Regency language such as "blasted", "what/why the devil", and "bastard" (used as a derogatory name for a man, not in the literal word meaning); A mention of something being damning to someone; Mentions of curses (said but not written out); Mentions of alcohol & drinking; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of hunting.
There's a lot of kissing towards the end (up to detailed); Touches, Embraces, Noticing, Smelling, Shivers/Zings, etc. (up to semi-detailed to detailed); Wanting to touch & embrace (up to semi-detailed); Catherine goes into Samson's bedroom to see something & there's some awkwardness about the reputation/scandal part of this time period; On a trip in a carriage/coach, Catherine falls asleep on Samson (his point of view, easily up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of kisses, kissing, & remembering kisses; Many mentions of reputations, scandals, and forcing a couple to get married because they were alone together ; Mentions of flirting & blushes; A few mentions of the possibility of women being taken advantage of.
August 21, 2023
I started off liking the book even though there were some issues... but I'm feeling so completely unsatisfied how it went and I kind of hate the hero, so I'm marking this down to a 2.
The book you hate the most is the one that has the most promise but leaves you completely unsatisfied.
I LOVED the hero in the beginning. He genuinely loves his sisters and acted "normally" through a potentially humiliating event. He has only ever kissed the heroine. That made me excited. We NEVER get a hero that has saved himself for the heroine while he pines.
But, the author screwed the pooch on this one and the longer I read past 50%, the more I wanted to kick the hero for his cowardice.
It made sense that the heroine wouldn't pursue him or show him any potential soft emotions. When she was younger, she was told her father proposed a marriage between her and the hero and the hero rejected her. Yes, it's obvious to the reader that the hero wouldn't have known... but there's a line near the end that made me so incredibly angry, "I was too young to know how extraordinary Catherine was. I thought what we had could be found with any number of young women, if only I got to know them well enough."
WTF, author!? Why would you make him so fickle? He finds his childhood love a position as a governess and then NEVER tries to communicate with her again? And when they are thrown together years later, he DOESN'T TELL HER HE LOVES HER! Even when he is kissing her and compromising her and letting her take the fall for the scandal.
So, you haven't loved her since you were young. That kiss didn't really mean much to you back then... and yes, you didn't know your father rejected her on your behalf... but you also never tried to talk to her!
Ugh.
I cannot tell you how much I ended up hating this book. I usually love this author, but she wrote a terrible and weak hero.
I am incredibly annoyed.
To add to my annoyance, so much of this DID NOT MAKE ANY SENSE!
1. The heroine is working as a governess. However, somehow she is able to make enough money to send her sister to school, pay for her parents' debts, and take a 3-month vacation with her sisters.
2. The whole drama over the plants. I could go on, but it was incredibly stupid.
3. The "hero" who also doesn't seem to give a crap for the heroine's reputation and just comes off as a selfish little boy who can't stand up to his sister so he's willing to not only put his childhood friend out of her once in a blue moon vacation spot, but he's also willing to ruin her reputation by insisting that he continue to live with her... and kiss her in a closed room... etc.
4. Them NOT TALKING ABOUT THE STUPID SECRET FOR THE WHOLE FREAKING BOOK!!!
I hate this book so much. I should have stopped reading when I started getting annoyed. But I persevered hoping it would start to make sense and he would stop being a coward...
The book you hate the most is the one that has the most promise but leaves you completely unsatisfied.
I LOVED the hero in the beginning. He genuinely loves his sisters and acted "normally" through a potentially humiliating event. He has only ever kissed the heroine. That made me excited. We NEVER get a hero that has saved himself for the heroine while he pines.
But, the author screwed the pooch on this one and the longer I read past 50%, the more I wanted to kick the hero for his cowardice.
It made sense that the heroine wouldn't pursue him or show him any potential soft emotions. When she was younger, she was told her father proposed a marriage between her and the hero and the hero rejected her. Yes, it's obvious to the reader that the hero wouldn't have known... but there's a line near the end that made me so incredibly angry, "I was too young to know how extraordinary Catherine was. I thought what we had could be found with any number of young women, if only I got to know them well enough."
WTF, author!? Why would you make him so fickle? He finds his childhood love a position as a governess and then NEVER tries to communicate with her again? And when they are thrown together years later, he DOESN'T TELL HER HE LOVES HER! Even when he is kissing her and compromising her and letting her take the fall for the scandal.
So, you haven't loved her since you were young. That kiss didn't really mean much to you back then... and yes, you didn't know your father rejected her on your behalf... but you also never tried to talk to her!
Ugh.
I cannot tell you how much I ended up hating this book. I usually love this author, but she wrote a terrible and weak hero.
I am incredibly annoyed.
To add to my annoyance, so much of this DID NOT MAKE ANY SENSE!
1. The heroine is working as a governess. However, somehow she is able to make enough money to send her sister to school, pay for her parents' debts, and take a 3-month vacation with her sisters.
2. The whole drama over the plants. I could go on, but it was incredibly stupid.
3. The "hero" who also doesn't seem to give a crap for the heroine's reputation and just comes off as a selfish little boy who can't stand up to his sister so he's willing to not only put his childhood friend out of her once in a blue moon vacation spot, but he's also willing to ruin her reputation by insisting that he continue to live with her... and kiss her in a closed room... etc.
4. Them NOT TALKING ABOUT THE STUPID SECRET FOR THE WHOLE FREAKING BOOK!!!
I hate this book so much. I should have stopped reading when I started getting annoyed. But I persevered hoping it would start to make sense and he would stop being a coward...
January 3, 2023
Not as good as I was expecting, almost didn’t finish
After reading the first couple of chapters I actually walked away from the book and thought I wouldn’t finish it. The beginning was so ridiculous. I felt like I had no respect for this Earl who was bullied by girls and afraid of his sisters. He seemed like some kind of shell of a man. It pains me to say that since I adored the first book in the series so entirely. Based on the first book I forced myself to try again to get into the book. It still took a couple more chapters until it wasn’t unbearably immature. If they were all in their mid teens and it was a modern day story many of the scenes and situations would have been believable but they weren’t that young, they were more like mid twenties, and it was a Historical Romance.
The sister Dru was portrayed as crazy mean/manipulative. I don’t think she completely was redeemed by the end though.
Lots of things happening in this story including extensive horticultural experiments. It got better as the book went on but just wasn’t as good as I had been expecting unfortunately.
Rating: G/PG, clean, sweet, some kissing scenes that were more than pecks but no one getting carried away.
After reading the first couple of chapters I actually walked away from the book and thought I wouldn’t finish it. The beginning was so ridiculous. I felt like I had no respect for this Earl who was bullied by girls and afraid of his sisters. He seemed like some kind of shell of a man. It pains me to say that since I adored the first book in the series so entirely. Based on the first book I forced myself to try again to get into the book. It still took a couple more chapters until it wasn’t unbearably immature. If they were all in their mid teens and it was a modern day story many of the scenes and situations would have been believable but they weren’t that young, they were more like mid twenties, and it was a Historical Romance.
The sister Dru was portrayed as crazy mean/manipulative. I don’t think she completely was redeemed by the end though.
Lots of things happening in this story including extensive horticultural experiments. It got better as the book went on but just wasn’t as good as I had been expecting unfortunately.
Rating: G/PG, clean, sweet, some kissing scenes that were more than pecks but no one getting carried away.
January 5, 2023
I can always count on Esther Hatch for a fun read full of swoony romance!
I adored the first book in this series and was so excited to pick this one up! Samson's sisters are meddling and manipulative and he decided he has to get away for a while where neither they nor any other woman can find him. Can you blame him? If I had a sister like Dru, I would do the same thing!
Samson does not expect his childhood friend Catherine to show up where he is hiding out. Or to insist that she is staying and he needs to leave. Despite the scandal it may cause, they both stay...
Read this if you love:
Childhood friends to lovers
Forced Proximity
Best friend's brother
Gap in status (earl & governess)
Hilarious scenes
Swoony but sweet kisses
He falls first
This is the second book in the series and though it has cameos of characters from the first book, it can be read as a standalone. I am keeping fingers crossed there is more to come in this series - Esther Hatch is and will always be an auto-read author for me!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but a positive review was not required.
I adored the first book in this series and was so excited to pick this one up! Samson's sisters are meddling and manipulative and he decided he has to get away for a while where neither they nor any other woman can find him. Can you blame him? If I had a sister like Dru, I would do the same thing!
Samson does not expect his childhood friend Catherine to show up where he is hiding out. Or to insist that she is staying and he needs to leave. Despite the scandal it may cause, they both stay...
Read this if you love:
Childhood friends to lovers
Forced Proximity
Best friend's brother
Gap in status (earl & governess)
Hilarious scenes
Swoony but sweet kisses
He falls first
This is the second book in the series and though it has cameos of characters from the first book, it can be read as a standalone. I am keeping fingers crossed there is more to come in this series - Esther Hatch is and will always be an auto-read author for me!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but a positive review was not required.
December 24, 2022
Five stars. Alll the five stars. Esther Hatch can do no wrong.
If you’re looking for your next sweet romance that will have you laughing and swooning, this one should be it.
We have
childhood friends,
best friend’s older brother,
different class levels,
he falls first,
forced proximity,
and many more of the tropes we all seem to love and crave.
I have to say, if there is any writer out there that can craft a memorable kissing scene, it’s Esther Hatch. I need to go through all her books and just tab those scenes. If I were to ever jump into the writing scene, I would want to take a writing course from this lady on getting the romance down. Seriously, she nails it every. Single. Time. And this book is definitely an example of it.
Loved it, you’ll want a physical copy to add to your shelf.
If you’re looking for your next sweet romance that will have you laughing and swooning, this one should be it.
We have
childhood friends,
best friend’s older brother,
different class levels,
he falls first,
forced proximity,
and many more of the tropes we all seem to love and crave.
I have to say, if there is any writer out there that can craft a memorable kissing scene, it’s Esther Hatch. I need to go through all her books and just tab those scenes. If I were to ever jump into the writing scene, I would want to take a writing course from this lady on getting the romance down. Seriously, she nails it every. Single. Time. And this book is definitely an example of it.
Loved it, you’ll want a physical copy to add to your shelf.
January 19, 2023
What does a plant named Fernadale, a hippo, and a rocking horse have to do with a Victorian romcom? You’ll have to read to find out. But with an amazing, funny, swoony writer like Esther Hatch, you know this book is bound to put a smile on your face.
Childhood friends Samson & Catherine have both been pining for each other for years. With scandal and class differences between them, the odds seem stacked against them. A misunderstanding about caring for a prized hibiscus leads them to spending time at the same cottage.
Though Catherine’s determined to keep things strictly professional, she can’t help but feel the old attraction she’s always had. Samson’s never met her equal. Will these two ever find happiness together or will the past and their stations get in the way?
One thing I’ll say about this author is she is an expert at writing amazing kissing scenes! This slow build romance takes a while to get into, but the build up is well worth it along with the laughs along the way. Samson is all about pleasing others and somewhat of a pushover when it comes to his sisters. It was nice to see him finally take charge of his life. Catherine is understandably confused about Samson’s feelings for her and stubbornly refuses to think he could actually be in love with her. I loved the way Samson convinces her of his feelings.
It’s a funny, sweet, enjoyable read that will have you laughing and swooning at the same time! Highly recommend to historical romance and clean romcom fans! Definitely enjoy this series and look forward to more. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and also purchased a copy through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
Childhood friends Samson & Catherine have both been pining for each other for years. With scandal and class differences between them, the odds seem stacked against them. A misunderstanding about caring for a prized hibiscus leads them to spending time at the same cottage.
Though Catherine’s determined to keep things strictly professional, she can’t help but feel the old attraction she’s always had. Samson’s never met her equal. Will these two ever find happiness together or will the past and their stations get in the way?
One thing I’ll say about this author is she is an expert at writing amazing kissing scenes! This slow build romance takes a while to get into, but the build up is well worth it along with the laughs along the way. Samson is all about pleasing others and somewhat of a pushover when it comes to his sisters. It was nice to see him finally take charge of his life. Catherine is understandably confused about Samson’s feelings for her and stubbornly refuses to think he could actually be in love with her. I loved the way Samson convinces her of his feelings.
It’s a funny, sweet, enjoyable read that will have you laughing and swooning at the same time! Highly recommend to historical romance and clean romcom fans! Definitely enjoy this series and look forward to more. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and also purchased a copy through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
January 4, 2023
4.5*
I've loved this Romance of Rank series for the reason that they are rom-coms in the Victorian era. So before you pick this book up, know that there will be plenty of laugh out loud moments that you might not be used to when reading a story set in this time period, especially due to the strictures of society.
Poor Samson. He's a little tired of all of the tricks his sisters play on him. His twin sister has changed and is not the kindest to him. And she starts the beginning of the book off with quite the practical joke on him. But it was pretty funny. But enough is enough!!! He needs to hideaway from her and in a place no one will think to look. Until he and the girl he has loved for years, Catherine, shows up and ruins his hiding plans.
Samson and Catherine were so fun together. They're both sharp and quick-witted. They're both trying to avoid the big elephant in the room of their past. They're both just trying to survive the moment and find peace. But life keeps happening and throwing more and more changes at them. And let me just tell ya, I loved watching them navigate those changes. And them discovering some of their earlier notions and beliefs of the elephant and other faux pas were not quite what they thought.
There were some fun aspects in the book that I haven't seen done in other Victorian books that added another great layer to it all. Get ready to laugh out loud, sigh and swoon and just be entertained.
Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing further. Clean language.
I received a copy from the author and have since purchased my own copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I've loved this Romance of Rank series for the reason that they are rom-coms in the Victorian era. So before you pick this book up, know that there will be plenty of laugh out loud moments that you might not be used to when reading a story set in this time period, especially due to the strictures of society.
Poor Samson. He's a little tired of all of the tricks his sisters play on him. His twin sister has changed and is not the kindest to him. And she starts the beginning of the book off with quite the practical joke on him. But it was pretty funny. But enough is enough!!! He needs to hideaway from her and in a place no one will think to look. Until he and the girl he has loved for years, Catherine, shows up and ruins his hiding plans.
Samson and Catherine were so fun together. They're both sharp and quick-witted. They're both trying to avoid the big elephant in the room of their past. They're both just trying to survive the moment and find peace. But life keeps happening and throwing more and more changes at them. And let me just tell ya, I loved watching them navigate those changes. And them discovering some of their earlier notions and beliefs of the elephant and other faux pas were not quite what they thought.
There were some fun aspects in the book that I haven't seen done in other Victorian books that added another great layer to it all. Get ready to laugh out loud, sigh and swoon and just be entertained.
Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing further. Clean language.
I received a copy from the author and have since purchased my own copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
April 29, 2024
The hero of this book was an earl. A wealthy earl. Who was hiding from his SISTER. This takes the beta hero to a whole new level.
While this novel had its moments, mostly it explored every way known to man for two people to sabotage themselves by misstatements, half statements, hesitation, incorrect assumptions, projection, and lots and lots of plain old silence. They got so twisted up at the end over who was sacrificing for what and who felt what for whom that I got lost for a minute or two.
It made my head hurt and stretched my patience to the breaking point.
While this novel had its moments, mostly it explored every way known to man for two people to sabotage themselves by misstatements, half statements, hesitation, incorrect assumptions, projection, and lots and lots of plain old silence. They got so twisted up at the end over who was sacrificing for what and who felt what for whom that I got lost for a minute or two.
It made my head hurt and stretched my patience to the breaking point.
January 9, 2023
I love Esther Hatches beautiful regency stories and this is the first time I read one of her historical rom-coms! I definitely enjoyed this sweet friends to lovers story!
It would be hard not to like Samson and Catherine. Poor Samson! He is such a noble lord who is terrorized and paranoid by one of his sisters so much so that he goes into hiding to avoid her. And Catherine becomes a governess after a financial fall out in her family and takes care of her two sisters. I admired her sense of duty and how she did what she had to do for her family.
I loved Samson and Catherine's time at the cottage. Neither one was expecting the other to be there and both wanted each other to leave at first, but when they realized there wasn’t any other choice then to live together they became more comfortable with each other again and fell into a beautiful routine there. I loved the carriage scene, the ball, and that swoony first kiss. Kisses are something that Esther Hatch does extremely well!
Full of wit and humor; this book had me smiling! Also I love how I learn new things when I read these historicals. I often find myself looking up words and learning more about the time period. Like I did when I learned about the thaumatrope toy. It was a very entertaining read from beginning to end!
This is the second book in the series but it can be read as a standalone. If you like historicals and enjoy witty banter and swoony kisses you will want to read this!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It would be hard not to like Samson and Catherine. Poor Samson! He is such a noble lord who is terrorized and paranoid by one of his sisters so much so that he goes into hiding to avoid her. And Catherine becomes a governess after a financial fall out in her family and takes care of her two sisters. I admired her sense of duty and how she did what she had to do for her family.
I loved Samson and Catherine's time at the cottage. Neither one was expecting the other to be there and both wanted each other to leave at first, but when they realized there wasn’t any other choice then to live together they became more comfortable with each other again and fell into a beautiful routine there. I loved the carriage scene, the ball, and that swoony first kiss. Kisses are something that Esther Hatch does extremely well!
Full of wit and humor; this book had me smiling! Also I love how I learn new things when I read these historicals. I often find myself looking up words and learning more about the time period. Like I did when I learned about the thaumatrope toy. It was a very entertaining read from beginning to end!
This is the second book in the series but it can be read as a standalone. If you like historicals and enjoy witty banter and swoony kisses you will want to read this!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 19, 2023
***4.5 stars***
I loved this book. It's basically about two childhood friends with hidden feelings for each other. Their paths cross when they are adults and thrown into awkward situations. Really, it's a recipe for disaster, or it will be amazing. You must read the "stays" chapter. It is brilliant.
This is a rom/com set in the Victorian period. I had a perma-grin for most of the book. I also wanted to scream at them to "wake up!"
I loved this book. It's basically about two childhood friends with hidden feelings for each other. Their paths cross when they are adults and thrown into awkward situations. Really, it's a recipe for disaster, or it will be amazing. You must read the "stays" chapter. It is brilliant.
This is a rom/com set in the Victorian period. I had a perma-grin for most of the book. I also wanted to scream at them to "wake up!"
April 10, 2023
CINNAMON ROLL SWEETNESS.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I think it’s been a minute since I’ve noticeably read a more cinnamon roll/beta hero and I HAVE MISSED THIS. Samson was the absolute sweetest and just wanted a moment for himself but that turns into a wonderful second chance / childhood friends romance.
The cottage setting brought about the perfect dose of forced proximity (my favorite). I do think it slowed down a little in the middle with continuous talks of learning plays and such, but that’s my only minor complaint.
I looove the way Esther Hatch writes her characters. They’re all someone I want to be friends with and are filled with strengths and weaknesses that are worked through by the final pages. This book was light and made my heart just feel happy. Hatch’s regency romances are some of my favorite and can’t wait for what’s next!
Overall audience notes:
- Regency Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I think it’s been a minute since I’ve noticeably read a more cinnamon roll/beta hero and I HAVE MISSED THIS. Samson was the absolute sweetest and just wanted a moment for himself but that turns into a wonderful second chance / childhood friends romance.
The cottage setting brought about the perfect dose of forced proximity (my favorite). I do think it slowed down a little in the middle with continuous talks of learning plays and such, but that’s my only minor complaint.
I looove the way Esther Hatch writes her characters. They’re all someone I want to be friends with and are filled with strengths and weaknesses that are worked through by the final pages. This book was light and made my heart just feel happy. Hatch’s regency romances are some of my favorite and can’t wait for what’s next!
Overall audience notes:
- Regency Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
January 3, 2023
Oh my word! This was the perfect book to kick off the new year! Esther Hatch is so good at coming up with new, interesting, and different stories in her books. This story had everything I never knew I needed. The plot was entertaining, the pace perfect, and of course the characters were simply amazing.
Esther is also so incredibly good at writing those swoony scenes. The building tension and the crackling chemistry between Catherine and Samson were some of the best moments of the book for me.
And I loved the different dynamics of the various relationships in this book. Hatch perfectly portrays the highs and lows of sibling relationships and it was both endearing and hilarious.
Plus I *loved* seeing Lord and Lady Farnsworth again! I still hope Victoria gets her own story, and now I want the stories of the sisters as well.
This book is truly delightful and another great story by Esther.
Esther is also so incredibly good at writing those swoony scenes. The building tension and the crackling chemistry between Catherine and Samson were some of the best moments of the book for me.
And I loved the different dynamics of the various relationships in this book. Hatch perfectly portrays the highs and lows of sibling relationships and it was both endearing and hilarious.
Plus I *loved* seeing Lord and Lady Farnsworth again! I still hope Victoria gets her own story, and now I want the stories of the sisters as well.
This book is truly delightful and another great story by Esther.
December 24, 2022
I have been waiting for another book by Esther Hatch and this book is everything I wanted and more! It has Esther’s wit and charm, LOL moments, smiling like a fool, heart breaking for the characters, and unique moments in the Victorian era.
🌺
Samson has a lot of sisters and in general surrounded by too many women. He needs an escape after an embarrassing moment, particularly when a childhood friend sees his embarrassment at the the hands of his sister. The one rule to his hideaway - there can be no women.
🌺
Catherine is watching her uncle’s home to take care of his plants. She’s invited her sisters for a reunion but the most unlikely gentleman is staying in her room at her uncle’s house. Samson!
🌺
Second chance romance, forced proximity, unrequited love, secret identity, rags to riches - I could go on more. 🦛 This had fun unexpected moments, sweet passionate kisses with some innuendo but still clean and in a teasing way.
🌺
This book comes out next week. Thank you to the author for the arc copy. These are my own thoughts and opinions.
🌺
Samson has a lot of sisters and in general surrounded by too many women. He needs an escape after an embarrassing moment, particularly when a childhood friend sees his embarrassment at the the hands of his sister. The one rule to his hideaway - there can be no women.
🌺
Catherine is watching her uncle’s home to take care of his plants. She’s invited her sisters for a reunion but the most unlikely gentleman is staying in her room at her uncle’s house. Samson!
🌺
Second chance romance, forced proximity, unrequited love, secret identity, rags to riches - I could go on more. 🦛 This had fun unexpected moments, sweet passionate kisses with some innuendo but still clean and in a teasing way.
🌺
This book comes out next week. Thank you to the author for the arc copy. These are my own thoughts and opinions.
April 14, 2023
I love rom-coms with depth, but I usually find them in the contemporary genre. Esther Hatch has skillfully applied it to the Regency era with delightful results! I adored the first book and novella, and this second full length novel ranked right up with them. Samson's sisters are driving him crazy, and their latest prank sends him desperately retreating into seclusion. The forced proximity at Catherine's uncle's home gives Samson and her plenty of opportunities to get reacquainted, and learn how their past has affected their present circumstances, influencing the potential for the future. Plenty of banter and amazing chemistry made this a highly entertaining story, but the undercurrent of angst tempered the comedy perfectly, and I enjoyed every minute of reading! It's going on my list of favorite books to re-read, and I hope there will be more added to this series!
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
December 24, 2022
Totally binged this book, and totally loved it! I'm convinced that Esther Hatch can't write a bad book!
This book is:
•Childhood friends-to-lovers (I looove childhood friends! Friends with history!)
•Fantastic sisters
•Forced proximity
•Class differences (Earl vs. governess)
•Hilarious moments and dialogue
•He falls first
•Swooooony kisses
•Grand declarations of love
I absolutely enjoyed watching these two lifelong friends, Samson and Catherine, overcome their pasts, their current predicaments, and their differing social statuses to be together!
There were so many moments that made me laugh and smile, and many moments that made me feel all the love🥰
Totally recommend for those that enjoy historical romantic comedy!
This book is:
•Childhood friends-to-lovers (I looove childhood friends! Friends with history!)
•Fantastic sisters
•Forced proximity
•Class differences (Earl vs. governess)
•Hilarious moments and dialogue
•He falls first
•Swooooony kisses
•Grand declarations of love
I absolutely enjoyed watching these two lifelong friends, Samson and Catherine, overcome their pasts, their current predicaments, and their differing social statuses to be together!
There were so many moments that made me laugh and smile, and many moments that made me feel all the love🥰
Totally recommend for those that enjoy historical romantic comedy!
September 26, 2024
Oh my heart…
Another wonderful story with amazing characters, lots of humor and playfulness and oh the kissing - sizzling, and romantic and a bit of diet spice. And who doesn’t love to hear about Gertrude the Hippopotamus and her breaking a broom from the Queen because Mr. Rivers had to clean up the poop? Hahaha, freaking enjoyable and so charming. That being said, I am glad he kissed her senseless, but he should have also beaten Chatterton senseless.
Another wonderful story with amazing characters, lots of humor and playfulness and oh the kissing - sizzling, and romantic and a bit of diet spice. And who doesn’t love to hear about Gertrude the Hippopotamus and her breaking a broom from the Queen because Mr. Rivers had to clean up the poop? Hahaha, freaking enjoyable and so charming. That being said, I am glad he kissed her senseless, but he should have also beaten Chatterton senseless.
January 8, 2023
This is one of those books to read when you're not in the mood for anything serious. Delightful banter, a somewhat clueless MMC, a governess doing the best she can to care for her sisters, and some unique settings we rarely see in a historical romance make this a fun romp!
January 14, 2023
4.5*
What a wonderful Christmas gift from author Esther Hatch to her readers! I absolutely LOVED the first book in this series Manor for Sale, Baron Included so I was excited to read about Lord Rutherford. I don't know where the author gets her ideas for these Victorian rom-coms but they make for great entertainment.
Samson Rutherford is swimming in an estrogen ocean. He's the only male in a house he shares with his mother and many sisters. After a particularly embarrassing incident at the hands of his sisters lead by his twin sister Drusilla, and witnessed by childhood friend, Catherine, he decides he needs to find a place to where he can hide and no one, especially Dru, can find him.
Catherine Wallace is taking a few months away from her governess position to care for her uncle's plants while he's out of the country. Upon her arrival, she's shocked to find Samson there and going by the name Mr. Rivers. And thus the fun begins because neither is willing to leave. Catherine has invited her sisters to stay with her at the cottage and Samson has given his word to Catherine's uncle that he will care for his plants--so they end up sharing the cottage and Samson again finds himself surrounded by women!!
Samson and Catherine are such likeable characters but it takes awhile for them to admit their feelings to each other. Samson needs to learn he doesn't have to be a carbon copy of his father and Catherine has to let go of her feelings that because she's a governess she and Samson can't be together. She was so stubborn about that I wanted to slap some sense into her to open her eyes--Samson loved her and would do anything for her.
This is a fun second-chance/close proximity/secret identity romance. I liked getting to see Lord and Lady Farnsworth and Victoria from Manor For Sale, Baron Included. They had wonderful advice for our hardheaded couple, who I wanted to yell at a few times.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
What a wonderful Christmas gift from author Esther Hatch to her readers! I absolutely LOVED the first book in this series Manor for Sale, Baron Included so I was excited to read about Lord Rutherford. I don't know where the author gets her ideas for these Victorian rom-coms but they make for great entertainment.
Samson Rutherford is swimming in an estrogen ocean. He's the only male in a house he shares with his mother and many sisters. After a particularly embarrassing incident at the hands of his sisters lead by his twin sister Drusilla, and witnessed by childhood friend, Catherine, he decides he needs to find a place to where he can hide and no one, especially Dru, can find him.
Catherine Wallace is taking a few months away from her governess position to care for her uncle's plants while he's out of the country. Upon her arrival, she's shocked to find Samson there and going by the name Mr. Rivers. And thus the fun begins because neither is willing to leave. Catherine has invited her sisters to stay with her at the cottage and Samson has given his word to Catherine's uncle that he will care for his plants--so they end up sharing the cottage and Samson again finds himself surrounded by women!!
Samson and Catherine are such likeable characters but it takes awhile for them to admit their feelings to each other. Samson needs to learn he doesn't have to be a carbon copy of his father and Catherine has to let go of her feelings that because she's a governess she and Samson can't be together. She was so stubborn about that I wanted to slap some sense into her to open her eyes--Samson loved her and would do anything for her.
This is a fun second-chance/close proximity/secret identity romance. I liked getting to see Lord and Lady Farnsworth and Victoria from Manor For Sale, Baron Included. They had wonderful advice for our hardheaded couple, who I wanted to yell at a few times.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
January 4, 2023
This regency RomCom has all of the best things! It has laugh out loud moments, all of the sparks and fireworks kissing scene, and friends to lovers. Hatch easily makes you a part of Catherine and Samson’s world. And I wanted to stay and not come back to reality! I loved the tie in to the first book (although you can completely read this as a standalone).
Samson was adorable and endearing while Catherine was steadfast and so fiercely independent. The meddling sisters on both sides made for some pretty embarrassing and hilarious moments! If you like regency or rom com this is the book for you!
I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Samson was adorable and endearing while Catherine was steadfast and so fiercely independent. The meddling sisters on both sides made for some pretty embarrassing and hilarious moments! If you like regency or rom com this is the book for you!
I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 12, 2023
Once again, Esther Hatch skirts around the rules of “society” in the Victorian era in the most delightful ways. The silly, laugh-out-loud situations that the characters find themselves in is what makes this not just a fabulous Historical romance, but a RomCom as well.
I really loved both Samson and Catherine. They had great chemistry and got themselves in humorous situations as well as super swoony situations.
It was fun that the setting was taking care of greenhouse plants and they both took their jobs very seriously. I loved forced proximity and all the page time these two have together!
I absolutely loved the first book in the series, Manor for Sale, Baron Included and was so happy to see cameos from those characters.
I really loved both Samson and Catherine. They had great chemistry and got themselves in humorous situations as well as super swoony situations.
It was fun that the setting was taking care of greenhouse plants and they both took their jobs very seriously. I loved forced proximity and all the page time these two have together!
I absolutely loved the first book in the series, Manor for Sale, Baron Included and was so happy to see cameos from those characters.
January 19, 2023
There aren’t many authors out there writing books the way Esther Hatch does. Her books are historical, but they’re more like rom-com historical. And that makes her one of my very favorite authors.
I loved Catherine in this book. She’s a strong young woman. Catherine has faced a lot of opposition in the last few years. Her parents lost everything and she had to go to work. I loved how resilient that made her. And I loved how she cared for and supported her younger sisters. She goes home at the beginning of the book, and her mother was awful. I can’t even imagine how Catherine dealt with her.
And the reader gets to see Samson’s point of view as well. I was amazed at how he just went along with his sisters in the corset scene. Oh. My. Goodness. So funny, and yet so mean. Samson just needs to get away from his sisters. And that’s how he ends up at Catherine’s uncle’s house caring for his plants. He never counted on Catherine showing up to care for them as well.
There were so many parts of this book that made me laugh. I loved everything about it. And I’m really hoping for more soon!
I was sent an e-copy of The Earl’s Hideaway, No Ladies Allowed as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.
I loved Catherine in this book. She’s a strong young woman. Catherine has faced a lot of opposition in the last few years. Her parents lost everything and she had to go to work. I loved how resilient that made her. And I loved how she cared for and supported her younger sisters. She goes home at the beginning of the book, and her mother was awful. I can’t even imagine how Catherine dealt with her.
And the reader gets to see Samson’s point of view as well. I was amazed at how he just went along with his sisters in the corset scene. Oh. My. Goodness. So funny, and yet so mean. Samson just needs to get away from his sisters. And that’s how he ends up at Catherine’s uncle’s house caring for his plants. He never counted on Catherine showing up to care for them as well.
There were so many parts of this book that made me laugh. I loved everything about it. And I’m really hoping for more soon!
I was sent an e-copy of The Earl’s Hideaway, No Ladies Allowed as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.
January 2, 2023
Thank you so much @authorestherhatch for the e-arc of your new release!
Here’s what I loved about this book:
• Samson is the dreamiest
• time in the country and the city
• sibling relationships
• the swooniest of swoony kissing
scenes
• childhood friends to lovers
Esther Hatch is one of my very favorite authors and this book did not disappoint. It was like a cozy hug, full of characters I fell in love with. The story is oh so romantic and fun! You should definitely add it to your TBR.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★/5
Steam: kissing
TW: none
Here’s what I loved about this book:
• Samson is the dreamiest
• time in the country and the city
• sibling relationships
• the swooniest of swoony kissing
scenes
• childhood friends to lovers
Esther Hatch is one of my very favorite authors and this book did not disappoint. It was like a cozy hug, full of characters I fell in love with. The story is oh so romantic and fun! You should definitely add it to your TBR.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★/5
Steam: kissing
TW: none
January 18, 2023
Super fun, some good swooning parts . Liked the earl more than the heroine
September 12, 2024
PG
Delightful fun. The poor Earl just needs some bro time!
Delightful fun. The poor Earl just needs some bro time!
January 6, 2023
Oh, how I adore Esther Hatch’s novels ❤️ Her books are perfect examples of historical romance done right: humor, heart, and plenty of swoon. The Earl’s Hideaway, No Ladies Allowed checks these boxes and more. I hope we see all of these characters again in future books! I may or may not already be shipping some of them…Esther’s books are always worth the wait, so do yourself a favor and pick up one of her stories if you haven’t yet, while the rest of us ~patiently~ wait for another! 4/5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 30, 2022
“I choose you everyday, and I will continue to choose you every day.”
“Why be in a play if you cannot be dramatic?”
“Everyone always think they came to the right place. But I can’t always fix every problem.”
✨Book Review & Release Day✨
The Earl’s Hideaway, No Ladies Allowed
@authorestherhatch
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I knew from the moment she announced this book in the spring that I wanted on this ARC team. Her first book in the series, Manor for Sale, Baron Included was a hilarious story that was set in the regency era, I didn’t know you could have humor in regency. But Esther makes it happen, and does it flawlessly.
While there were not squirrels in this book, there was Fernadale. A quiet character, but without him the book wouldn’t probably have any structure. To find out more about this silent, yet internal character, you’re going to have to read the book! #sneaky
You should read this book if you enjoy:
🌺close proximity
🌺sibling bonds /rivalry
🌺regency, but with humor
🌺titled lords that don’t act entitled
🌺governesses
🌺gardening
🌺friends to more troupes
🌺unrequited loves
🌺rocking horses
Synopsis: A Lord is trying to get away from his household of conniving, controlling sisters. He finds a “cabin in the woods” kind of situation, but finds that it is also inhabited by a group of sisters. One of which he discovers he’s been in love with for years. And none can leave because there is no transportation (thank you regency era). 🥰
I also love Esther’s covers for these books! It’s not quite watercolor, but it’s tone on tone and it just makes me happy! I cannot wait to own this beauty on my own shelf!
Thank you Esther for allowing me to be on your ARC team! It’s always a pleasure and an honor to be accepted on a team for each authors precious “babies” going out into the world! And today is the big day! A positive review was not required, but so well deserved.
“Why be in a play if you cannot be dramatic?”
“Everyone always think they came to the right place. But I can’t always fix every problem.”
✨Book Review & Release Day✨
The Earl’s Hideaway, No Ladies Allowed
@authorestherhatch
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I knew from the moment she announced this book in the spring that I wanted on this ARC team. Her first book in the series, Manor for Sale, Baron Included was a hilarious story that was set in the regency era, I didn’t know you could have humor in regency. But Esther makes it happen, and does it flawlessly.
While there were not squirrels in this book, there was Fernadale. A quiet character, but without him the book wouldn’t probably have any structure. To find out more about this silent, yet internal character, you’re going to have to read the book! #sneaky
You should read this book if you enjoy:
🌺close proximity
🌺sibling bonds /rivalry
🌺regency, but with humor
🌺titled lords that don’t act entitled
🌺governesses
🌺gardening
🌺friends to more troupes
🌺unrequited loves
🌺rocking horses
Synopsis: A Lord is trying to get away from his household of conniving, controlling sisters. He finds a “cabin in the woods” kind of situation, but finds that it is also inhabited by a group of sisters. One of which he discovers he’s been in love with for years. And none can leave because there is no transportation (thank you regency era). 🥰
I also love Esther’s covers for these books! It’s not quite watercolor, but it’s tone on tone and it just makes me happy! I cannot wait to own this beauty on my own shelf!
Thank you Esther for allowing me to be on your ARC team! It’s always a pleasure and an honor to be accepted on a team for each authors precious “babies” going out into the world! And today is the big day! A positive review was not required, but so well deserved.
January 10, 2023
Esther Hatch is my favorite proper romance author and this is probably my least favorite of all her books. It was cute but not funny like she usually is and the premise was a little too run-of-the-mill. I was very frustrated when the two main characters just needed to have a conversation and could just not make it happen!! That is my least favorite way to structure a romance! I did enjoy the setting of the orangery and the talk of plants. 2.5 stars rounded up to 3.
Content: kissing only
Content: kissing only
December 28, 2022
The highly anticipated next story in the Romance of Rank series, The Earl’s Hideaway, No Ladies Allowed is a fun regency rom-com to start the year off with! Samson Rutherford, Earl of Riverton has spent his entire life being an unwilling participant in his meddling sister’s plans and tricks. When her latest scheme leaves him embarrassed in front of an old friend, he has had enough. Samson cannot beat her or even say no to her, so he runs away. Thankfully, his solicitor knows just the place. Catherine Wallance is a good governess, even if she wasn’t born to be one. However, the chance to stay at her uncle’s home and to care for his horticulture project in his absence, is too good to pass. Leaving her position, she plans to gather her sisters together so they can be a family again, even for a little while. But finding her childhood friend, Samson, who claims that he has been invited to watch her uncle’s business, at the cottage is a surprise. They both need a retreat, but can they stay there together?
What a fun story! I was so excited to read this, because I enjoyed the first story so much. This book centers around Catherine and Samson. I really enjoyed Catherine’s POV. She felt very relatable and practical, even if she was holding onto some hurts from their childhood. She felt the weight of her family’s fall from grace and the weight of her strained relationship with Samson. She cared for him, but there was a lot in their way. I really enjoyed seeing her with her sisters, it was really cute. Samson was quite funny! I definitely felt for him as he struggled with his sister, she certainly had a strong personality! But he was pretty dramatic himself and I appreciated his sense of humor. It was sweet to watch him try to find his place with Catherine again.
Overall, I thought that the story was sweet and lighthearted. It was nice to have the characters know each other beforehand, because their story did progress pretty quickly. It was so lovely to see all the characters from Manor for Sale, and from a different perspective. I enjoyed going back to this world.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
What a fun story! I was so excited to read this, because I enjoyed the first story so much. This book centers around Catherine and Samson. I really enjoyed Catherine’s POV. She felt very relatable and practical, even if she was holding onto some hurts from their childhood. She felt the weight of her family’s fall from grace and the weight of her strained relationship with Samson. She cared for him, but there was a lot in their way. I really enjoyed seeing her with her sisters, it was really cute. Samson was quite funny! I definitely felt for him as he struggled with his sister, she certainly had a strong personality! But he was pretty dramatic himself and I appreciated his sense of humor. It was sweet to watch him try to find his place with Catherine again.
Overall, I thought that the story was sweet and lighthearted. It was nice to have the characters know each other beforehand, because their story did progress pretty quickly. It was so lovely to see all the characters from Manor for Sale, and from a different perspective. I enjoyed going back to this world.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
January 16, 2023
If you want books that are full of hilarious, original and oh so swoony scenes pick up an Esther Hatch book. She nails it EVERY SINGLE TIME and The Earl's Hideaway, No Ladies Allowed was such a satisfying read.
You will laugh throughout this entire book, enjoy rich and witty banter, fall in love with Catherine and Samson-believe me it is unavoidable. There really is so much to love about this book, a few more things that might pull you in-the childhood friends to lovers trope, secret crushes, sibling competition, hilarious circumstances, harsh society. I could keep going!
Catherine and Samson have had a lot of things change in the four years they haven't seen each other, and a lot that hasn't. Reading as they learn to communicate with one another and find their footing in society and their hearts opens up such a beautiful story. I love Catherine and her loving nature for her sisters as she works hard to provide for their futures. Her parents are the worst, you quickly realize this in a conversation she has with her mother. Despite the circumstances she was handed she makes the best of them and truly grows into a wonderful individual, a woman who only catches Samson's eye more.
And Samson. I'll let other readers find out just how wonderful he is on their own. Also enjoy a few characters from A Romance of Rank #1 as well, loved seeing a bit more of them. Don't worry if you haven't read the first one. This could be read as a standalone, but I highly suggest you read the first one as well because it is another hit in the witty banter and romance department.
So, go pick this one up today and enjoy all the witty banter and romance your heart could want. This is a Victorian romance, rom com, done right and packed with moments that will make your heart swoon.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publishers, publicists, and/or author. A review was not required, and all opinions are my own.
You will laugh throughout this entire book, enjoy rich and witty banter, fall in love with Catherine and Samson-believe me it is unavoidable. There really is so much to love about this book, a few more things that might pull you in-the childhood friends to lovers trope, secret crushes, sibling competition, hilarious circumstances, harsh society. I could keep going!
Catherine and Samson have had a lot of things change in the four years they haven't seen each other, and a lot that hasn't. Reading as they learn to communicate with one another and find their footing in society and their hearts opens up such a beautiful story. I love Catherine and her loving nature for her sisters as she works hard to provide for their futures. Her parents are the worst, you quickly realize this in a conversation she has with her mother. Despite the circumstances she was handed she makes the best of them and truly grows into a wonderful individual, a woman who only catches Samson's eye more.
And Samson. I'll let other readers find out just how wonderful he is on their own. Also enjoy a few characters from A Romance of Rank #1 as well, loved seeing a bit more of them. Don't worry if you haven't read the first one. This could be read as a standalone, but I highly suggest you read the first one as well because it is another hit in the witty banter and romance department.
So, go pick this one up today and enjoy all the witty banter and romance your heart could want. This is a Victorian romance, rom com, done right and packed with moments that will make your heart swoon.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publishers, publicists, and/or author. A review was not required, and all opinions are my own.
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