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The Shackleford Sisters #5
Patience
With her four older sisters now married, it’s Patience Shackleford’s turn to take charge of her younger siblings’ education. But given that Patience’s most prodigious skill is lock picking, any abilities she passes on to her younger sisters are unlikely to provide any assistance in the drawing rooms of the genteel, especially as she has no interest in either high society, or horror of horrors… marriage. Indeed, her father the Reverend Augustus Shackleford is firmly of the opinion that the less society knows about his fifth daughter the better…
When Grace and Temperance, now married to influential members of the ton, offer to take her in hand and bring her out, both Patience and her father are entirely horrified. For once in total accord, they endeavour to hatch a plan to somehow avoid the upcoming Season.
But that’s before a chance meeting with the enigmatic and undeniably handsome Marquis of Guildford when Patience discovers that lock picking is exactly the expertise he happens to be looking for…
Perfect for fans of Regency Romances with wit and humor and a little bit of steam.
Praise for the Shackleford
‘Very funny, kept laughing out loud when reading them.’
‘Such an entertaining series, full of laughter and delightfully quirky characters.’
‘Terrific series, very funny.’
‘Thoroughly enjoyed this series, love the humour.’
‘There is constant action and so much funny banter, I couldn’t help laughing.’
‘These were wonderful. Lots of fun and great love stories.’
When Grace and Temperance, now married to influential members of the ton, offer to take her in hand and bring her out, both Patience and her father are entirely horrified. For once in total accord, they endeavour to hatch a plan to somehow avoid the upcoming Season.
But that’s before a chance meeting with the enigmatic and undeniably handsome Marquis of Guildford when Patience discovers that lock picking is exactly the expertise he happens to be looking for…
Perfect for fans of Regency Romances with wit and humor and a little bit of steam.
Praise for the Shackleford
‘Very funny, kept laughing out loud when reading them.’
‘Such an entertaining series, full of laughter and delightfully quirky characters.’
‘Terrific series, very funny.’
‘Thoroughly enjoyed this series, love the humour.’
‘There is constant action and so much funny banter, I couldn’t help laughing.’
‘These were wonderful. Lots of fun and great love stories.’
242 pages, Paperback
Published June 26, 2022
2351 people are currently reading
756 people want to read
About the author
Beverley Watts
47 books252 followersBeverley spent 8 years teaching English as a Foreign Language to International Military Students in Britannia Royal Naval College, the Royal Navy’s premier officer training establishment in the UK. She says that in the whole 8 years there was never a dull moment and many of her wonderful experiences at the College were not only memorable but were most definitely 'the stuff of fiction.' Her debut novel An Officer And A Gentleman Wanted is very loosely based on her adventures at the College.
Beverley particularly enjoys writing books that make people laugh and currently she has two series of Romantic Comedies, both contemporary and historical, as well as a humorous cosy mystery series under her belt.
She lives with her husband in an apartment overlooking the sea on the beautiful English Riviera. Between them they have 3 adult children and two gorgeous grandchildren plus a menagerie of animals including 5 dogs - 3 Romanian rescues of indeterminate breed called Florence, Trixie, and Lizzie, a neurotic 'Chorkie' named Pepé and a 'Chichon" named Dotty who was the inspiration for Dotty in The Dartmouth Diaries.
You can find out more about Beverley’s books at www.beverleywatts.com
Beverley particularly enjoys writing books that make people laugh and currently she has two series of Romantic Comedies, both contemporary and historical, as well as a humorous cosy mystery series under her belt.
She lives with her husband in an apartment overlooking the sea on the beautiful English Riviera. Between them they have 3 adult children and two gorgeous grandchildren plus a menagerie of animals including 5 dogs - 3 Romanian rescues of indeterminate breed called Florence, Trixie, and Lizzie, a neurotic 'Chorkie' named Pepé and a 'Chichon" named Dotty who was the inspiration for Dotty in The Dartmouth Diaries.
You can find out more about Beverley’s books at www.beverleywatts.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
February 17, 2024
Patience is the sister who likes to be outside and on her own.
Max comes home from the war, to find his brother has sold the family jewels and left the family near to ruin. Patience offers to help Max find the jewel.💎
Max comes home from the war, to find his brother has sold the family jewels and left the family near to ruin. Patience offers to help Max find the jewel.💎
September 14, 2024
“Mayhap” is the most overused word in this series. A good editor should have sorted out the repetitive usage I have borrowed these books from the library, which is why I continue reading them. If they were edited better, “Mayhap” I would have bought them.
July 20, 2024
Patience by Beverley Watts
I was very happy to reach Book 5 of the Shackleford Sisters series and was not disappointed.
Patience Shackleford has a reputation for being undisciplined and engaging in conduct unbecoming a young lady. She’d rather be climbing trees than embroidering and lets everyone know how she feels. So when her eldest sisters hatch a plan to sponsor her debut in the London Season, Payience is horrified and wholeheartedly uncooperative. Can the handsome Marquis Wolverton change her mind about marriage while also accepting Patience as she is?
I loved the mischievous, unconventional character of Patience and couldn’t help but feel for Max in his family troubles. I loved the spy thriller feel of this story and Payience made me laugh with her refusal to be managed. As always, the audiobook narrators did a fantastic job with the cast of characters and I was swept away into the ‘Ton and its ballrooms. This is fast becoming my favourite regency romance series.
I was very happy to reach Book 5 of the Shackleford Sisters series and was not disappointed.
Patience Shackleford has a reputation for being undisciplined and engaging in conduct unbecoming a young lady. She’d rather be climbing trees than embroidering and lets everyone know how she feels. So when her eldest sisters hatch a plan to sponsor her debut in the London Season, Payience is horrified and wholeheartedly uncooperative. Can the handsome Marquis Wolverton change her mind about marriage while also accepting Patience as she is?
I loved the mischievous, unconventional character of Patience and couldn’t help but feel for Max in his family troubles. I loved the spy thriller feel of this story and Payience made me laugh with her refusal to be managed. As always, the audiobook narrators did a fantastic job with the cast of characters and I was swept away into the ‘Ton and its ballrooms. This is fast becoming my favourite regency romance series.
September 29, 2024
Fun as always
Patience Shackleford is the wildest and loudest of her sisters fearing she is about to ruin her family her sisters set upon her coming out into society. She'd rather be running around in men's clothing picking locks.
Max is a Marques his brother a favourite of the regent. When his brother dies after squandering the family jewels Max forced to go to Bath for the funeral. He ends up meeting the Shacklefords. He's instantly amused by Patience and her lack of conformity to the rules. They come up with a fake courtship scheme to get Max's family diamond back from a gross Earl.
This installment wasn't as exciting as the last two books but I enjoyed Patience as mouth and there were a few great moments.
Patience Shackleford is the wildest and loudest of her sisters fearing she is about to ruin her family her sisters set upon her coming out into society. She'd rather be running around in men's clothing picking locks.
Max is a Marques his brother a favourite of the regent. When his brother dies after squandering the family jewels Max forced to go to Bath for the funeral. He ends up meeting the Shacklefords. He's instantly amused by Patience and her lack of conformity to the rules. They come up with a fake courtship scheme to get Max's family diamond back from a gross Earl.
This installment wasn't as exciting as the last two books but I enjoyed Patience as mouth and there were a few great moments.
March 8, 2024
I don’t get it but I liked it
I still don’t understand why Patience and her whole family think she’s not fit for marriage? She doesn’t seem any wilder than her siblings?
I don’t get that crucial plot point but otherwise this was a good read.
I still don’t understand why Patience and her whole family think she’s not fit for marriage? She doesn’t seem any wilder than her siblings?
I don’t get that crucial plot point but otherwise this was a good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 25, 2024
Patience
Although I didn't find this as funny as the others it certainly kept me on the edge of my seat. 😊 This series is extremely enjoyable and I have been reading one after the other.
Although I didn't find this as funny as the others it certainly kept me on the edge of my seat. 😊 This series is extremely enjoyable and I have been reading one after the other.
August 14, 2023
Just ok in my opinion. Took me awhile to get thru this one. Stories seem to be pretty much the same. I’m going to take a break and read something else.
October 14, 2024
This was the audiobook. I liked it, and the author has discovered interesting ways for the sisters to get into scrapes. I am getting a bit tired of the father, however, I was gratified to see that he was put where he belonged at the end of this episode.
These books are mindless, distracting fluff--and I don't say that as an insult AT ALL. They are meant to be entertaining and fun, and they are. Are they great literature? No, but they don't have to be. In a stressful world, they serve a delightful purpose of allowing the reader to escape for a few hours. For the most part, they seem to be historically accurate, although I sincerely doubt that in real life, there were as many tolerant aristocrats for one family to get them all. LOL.
I also like that they don't drag along. You can listen to them while doing your chores or taking a walk and be done in a day.
These books are mindless, distracting fluff--and I don't say that as an insult AT ALL. They are meant to be entertaining and fun, and they are. Are they great literature? No, but they don't have to be. In a stressful world, they serve a delightful purpose of allowing the reader to escape for a few hours. For the most part, they seem to be historically accurate, although I sincerely doubt that in real life, there were as many tolerant aristocrats for one family to get them all. LOL.
I also like that they don't drag along. You can listen to them while doing your chores or taking a walk and be done in a day.
January 13, 2025
IM FREEEEE!!!! WORST EXPERIENCE OF MY FCKING LIFE.. this was by far the most frustrating shackleford sister i’ve encountered. her behaviour was beyond irritating. she kept wishing for max to make her his, but when he mentioned marriage, she had the audacity to turn him down, saying she didn’t want his “charity”?? GIRL FUCK YOU!! the story was boring and annoying from beginning to end. i’m honestly shocked this came from the same writer as the other books. i’m so disappointed i’ve lost all motivation to continue the series
also what’s with this author making the girls so insecure while the men are flawless from head to toe? i’ve honestly lost count of how many times the fls are talking about how unattractive they are or listing off their endless insecurities???
also what’s with this author making the girls so insecure while the men are flawless from head to toe? i’ve honestly lost count of how many times the fls are talking about how unattractive they are or listing off their endless insecurities???
March 28, 2025
PATIENCE has plenty of light moments, action scenes and a “believable”problem to solve (but perhaps I’m simply getting used to the craziness) in this Light Historical Adventure Comedy Romance Romp series, which contains a dollop of steam. I am finding this series a light diversion from my regular mysteries and other genres.
MY RATING GUIDE: 3.5 (rounded to 4) Stars. A crazy kind of fun.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/fairly good; 3.5= I ENJOYED THIS; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved this; it was great! (I SELDOM give 5 Stars).
Bath, England, 1811 ~
Reverend Shackleford, the local vicar of Blackmoor, Devonshire has eight daughters. With a 5yr old son trailing all the daughters, Shackleford decided to begin marrying them off and has been surprisingly successful thus far. Patience, his 5th daughter, might present his biggest challenge, as at 17 she remains quite stubborn. She has no intention of conforming herself to meet any of society’s rules, nor does she want to marry, anyone. Nevertheless, the Earl of Ravenstone, one of Patience’s oldest sister’s husband, has offered to sponsor Patience in the upcoming season of young ladies. Since the family agrees that Patience requires a “bit of polish”, they have decided to begin her Come Out in Bath, regardless of what Patience actually desires.
Rather than dancing at the first ball, Patience finds herself outside discussing grievances with a gentleman outdoors. He claims to have lost a valuable family item which he hopes to retrieve. Patience makes a deal to retrieve it for him if he will somehow rescue her from the Marriage Mart scene.
Comments ~
1) Each book in the Shackleford Sister series features one of Reverend Shackleford’s eight daughters with the 9th and final book, featuring the Reverend’s only son.
2) PATIENCE is bk5 in the 9bk Shackleford Sisters Historical/Comedy Romance series and can probably be read and enjoyed as a standalone title. Each novel after bk1, however, includes the older siblings and their spouses in peripheral roles in the books that follow.
3) In my previous reviews of bks 1-3, I remarked upon the frequent & ridiculous behavior of Mr Shackleford. (His character has been the comic relief, especially in the earlier books). But the characters in HOPE and PATIENCE, I felt were more restrained. Plenty of adventure and craziness still occurs and the stories move quickly. This is my first series by this author.
4) Readers looking for a light palate cleanser, a Regency Comedic Romp Romance, something a bit crazy and not particularly deep might enjoy checking out this series. Books 3, 4 and 5 (FAITH, HOPE & PATIENCE)) are my favorites so far.
READER CAUTIONS ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language and English slang are used.
VIOLENCE - PG-13+. Mention of attempted rape and past sexual assaults (by antagonist) is brief but present. Justice prevails.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. Open door intimacy occurs in latter chapters which could be skipped if desired.
MY RATING GUIDE: 3.5 (rounded to 4) Stars. A crazy kind of fun.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/fairly good; 3.5= I ENJOYED THIS; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved this; it was great! (I SELDOM give 5 Stars).
Bath, England, 1811 ~
Reverend Shackleford, the local vicar of Blackmoor, Devonshire has eight daughters. With a 5yr old son trailing all the daughters, Shackleford decided to begin marrying them off and has been surprisingly successful thus far. Patience, his 5th daughter, might present his biggest challenge, as at 17 she remains quite stubborn. She has no intention of conforming herself to meet any of society’s rules, nor does she want to marry, anyone. Nevertheless, the Earl of Ravenstone, one of Patience’s oldest sister’s husband, has offered to sponsor Patience in the upcoming season of young ladies. Since the family agrees that Patience requires a “bit of polish”, they have decided to begin her Come Out in Bath, regardless of what Patience actually desires.
Rather than dancing at the first ball, Patience finds herself outside discussing grievances with a gentleman outdoors. He claims to have lost a valuable family item which he hopes to retrieve. Patience makes a deal to retrieve it for him if he will somehow rescue her from the Marriage Mart scene.
Comments ~
1) Each book in the Shackleford Sister series features one of Reverend Shackleford’s eight daughters with the 9th and final book, featuring the Reverend’s only son.
2) PATIENCE is bk5 in the 9bk Shackleford Sisters Historical/Comedy Romance series and can probably be read and enjoyed as a standalone title. Each novel after bk1, however, includes the older siblings and their spouses in peripheral roles in the books that follow.
3) In my previous reviews of bks 1-3, I remarked upon the frequent & ridiculous behavior of Mr Shackleford. (His character has been the comic relief, especially in the earlier books). But the characters in HOPE and PATIENCE, I felt were more restrained. Plenty of adventure and craziness still occurs and the stories move quickly. This is my first series by this author.
4) Readers looking for a light palate cleanser, a Regency Comedic Romp Romance, something a bit crazy and not particularly deep might enjoy checking out this series. Books 3, 4 and 5 (FAITH, HOPE & PATIENCE)) are my favorites so far.
READER CAUTIONS ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language and English slang are used.
VIOLENCE - PG-13+. Mention of attempted rape and past sexual assaults (by antagonist) is brief but present. Justice prevails.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. Open door intimacy occurs in latter chapters which could be skipped if desired.
March 16, 2025
I skipped through a lot of this book and don’t understand all of the people who said this was their favorite of the series, but everyone is entitled to their opinion. I do not care for books where the looks of a character are described like they are here. We were repeatedly reminded Patience was pretty much a troll, but her fair, porcelain skin was lustful and when she smiled she had dimples that made her face beautiful. Because of course. And then others enforced these points to her, mostly her family. The author wrote her personality in an unappealing way in the prior book and continues in this one.
It was so repetitive how she said she didn’t wish to marry, almost the entire plot was set around this point,yet when she saw…HIM!! Good lord, whatever. And of course Max’s looks rivaled those of Michelangelo, he was always impeccably dressed and all the women of the Ton lusted after him and OF COURSE he falls for our homely Patience. I did NOT need to hear he became hard upon her entering a room especially having seen her not long before and her feet were nasty. I don’t know how an author could sell their story any less to me. Of course I know the author isn’t writing to appease ME, plenty of other readers enjoyed this. I don’t know why I dislike this type of dynamic in books, but here we are.
I could possibly accept what the author was trying to sell if Patience was written as a someone who was a lovely person and didn’t come off as a mangy, immature and feral sounding person. I mean, I guess she was worried about tarnishing her brothers in law’s names, and Felicity, but with her actions in the last book and her surliness in this one I couldn’t get on board with this as it was told. And the author making Max around the same age as the male characters in the other books, while maybe making her around 20 at this point I believe? I really am not sure how old she was, but I wish the author would have made Max closer to her age.
It was so repetitive how she said she didn’t wish to marry, almost the entire plot was set around this point,yet when she saw…HIM!! Good lord, whatever. And of course Max’s looks rivaled those of Michelangelo, he was always impeccably dressed and all the women of the Ton lusted after him and OF COURSE he falls for our homely Patience. I did NOT need to hear he became hard upon her entering a room especially having seen her not long before and her feet were nasty. I don’t know how an author could sell their story any less to me. Of course I know the author isn’t writing to appease ME, plenty of other readers enjoyed this. I don’t know why I dislike this type of dynamic in books, but here we are.
I could possibly accept what the author was trying to sell if Patience was written as a someone who was a lovely person and didn’t come off as a mangy, immature and feral sounding person. I mean, I guess she was worried about tarnishing her brothers in law’s names, and Felicity, but with her actions in the last book and her surliness in this one I couldn’t get on board with this as it was told. And the author making Max around the same age as the male characters in the other books, while maybe making her around 20 at this point I believe? I really am not sure how old she was, but I wish the author would have made Max closer to her age.
June 2, 2024
The fifth book in the Shackleford Sisters series is just as intriguing as the first four. After seeing her four elder sisters happily married, Patience dreads that it will be her turn next. In fact, she has no intention of getting married. She has no desire to live in high society which she makes no secret of. Besides, the only skill she has to take to marriage, is the ability to pick locks. Even Reverend Shackleford doesn't want Patience to meet high society. There has been enough gossip about the Shackleford sisters with the older four having married amidst some type of scandal. The older Shackleford sisters are not giving up on Patience. Then, she sees Max Wolverton, Marquise of Gilford and in intrigued with him.
Although Max has a title, he had gone into service of the Queen who had sent him to the continent with the army. He could not defy the Queen as besides being the head of the government, she was his godmother. He enjoyed his service and left the running of his estates to his brother. His brother promptly brought his estate to the brink of bankruptcy. He even sold many of the heirlooms that Max cherished. Now Max has to figure out a way to restore the estate. The best and fastest way is to marry a young lady of wealth. Although he attends the season's ball to meet the women on the marriage list, he finds he hates it and is attracted to none of the eligible young girls.
Then he meets Patience Shackleford who has precisely the skills he needs in a wife- her lockpicking skills.
Although Max has a title, he had gone into service of the Queen who had sent him to the continent with the army. He could not defy the Queen as besides being the head of the government, she was his godmother. He enjoyed his service and left the running of his estates to his brother. His brother promptly brought his estate to the brink of bankruptcy. He even sold many of the heirlooms that Max cherished. Now Max has to figure out a way to restore the estate. The best and fastest way is to marry a young lady of wealth. Although he attends the season's ball to meet the women on the marriage list, he finds he hates it and is attracted to none of the eligible young girls.
Then he meets Patience Shackleford who has precisely the skills he needs in a wife- her lockpicking skills.
September 21, 2024
Just when you think Beverley Watts cannot possibly deliver another surprise, she does. After four of the Shackleford sisters find themselves in scrapes and the stakes raised with every sister's dilemma, Beverley Watts digs deeper and the dangers get higher. In Book 3 Faith, we discover murder isn't beyond Ms. Watts. Yet Book 4, we begin with our hero's attempted murder with of course, the Shacklefords always in the wrong place at the wrong time. Hope finds herself innocently attempting to help, now on her way to her demise. Why then would we think the outrageous, odd, lock-picking expert Patience of all the sisters not find herself in jeopardy? Ms. Watts avoids murder in book 5; however, takes us down a horrid degenerate path. Of course, by this time the delightful Reverend has been somewhat shackled by his high-ranking and wealthy sons-in-law, or at least they try, but his determination always prevails where his daughters are concerned. Our villain, who is so depraved and evil, believes himself untouchable due to his royal connections and can outwit them all. The angst in this book is drawn out a bit longer than in the others, but is not unbelievable. Therefore, I hung in there and ultimately finished the book within 24 hours, attempting to find a calm stopping point...not happening... it's a page-turner. The heat, again, is there with Ms. Watts, so if it offends, be prepared.
June 11, 2024
Enjoyment level: 5 ⭐
Plot: 5 ⭐
Characters: 5 ⭐
Spice: 🌶️
Overall 4.5
I have had a long break between book four and five and honestly, I don't know why. These books are such an absurd joy to read. Reverend Shackleford is hilarious. Not a single plan he makes goes to plan and his children are equally as absurd!
I loved Patience. She is so bold and brave in how she does things, and like her sisters before her leaves everyone wondering what she will do next! I love how she deliberately brought her father into her schemes!
Max is everything you would want in a Marquis and gives off the long suffering vibe.
I wish there had been more of a period of time where they were actually together! Also, I would have loved his conversation with the Queen. I also wish we knew what he did for his finances. I feel like the end was very sudden and needed a bit more joy in it!
I always get a bit frustrated by the covers because they are not regency period dresses and that really pisses me off!
However, I have loved reading it and think it is an absolute joy!
Plot: 5 ⭐
Characters: 5 ⭐
Spice: 🌶️
Overall 4.5
I have had a long break between book four and five and honestly, I don't know why. These books are such an absurd joy to read. Reverend Shackleford is hilarious. Not a single plan he makes goes to plan and his children are equally as absurd!
I loved Patience. She is so bold and brave in how she does things, and like her sisters before her leaves everyone wondering what she will do next! I love how she deliberately brought her father into her schemes!
Max is everything you would want in a Marquis and gives off the long suffering vibe.
I wish there had been more of a period of time where they were actually together! Also, I would have loved his conversation with the Queen. I also wish we knew what he did for his finances. I feel like the end was very sudden and needed a bit more joy in it!
I always get a bit frustrated by the covers because they are not regency period dresses and that really pisses me off!
However, I have loved reading it and think it is an absolute joy!
July 3, 2023
Unexpected Love
Patience Shackleford likes her solitude and doesn't want to get married. Her older sisters have other ideas. They are taking her to Bath to bring her out.
Maximilian Wolverton is the Marquees of Guildford, he resigned his commission at the death of his younger brother. His brother has cold all the family jewelry including the diamond that was a gift.
Max goes to London to retrieve his brother body. Finds out the Prince took the body to be entombed in Bath.
His friend tells him his sister-in-law is not like the other sisters. Patience is the odd one, no real beauty, out spoken. Max meets Patience at the ball tells him to leave. They meet again while walking. They banter back and forth, she steps over the line and us is rude to him.
We have intrigue, theft, kidnap, attraction where will it end?
Patience Shackleford likes her solitude and doesn't want to get married. Her older sisters have other ideas. They are taking her to Bath to bring her out.
Maximilian Wolverton is the Marquees of Guildford, he resigned his commission at the death of his younger brother. His brother has cold all the family jewelry including the diamond that was a gift.
Max goes to London to retrieve his brother body. Finds out the Prince took the body to be entombed in Bath.
His friend tells him his sister-in-law is not like the other sisters. Patience is the odd one, no real beauty, out spoken. Max meets Patience at the ball tells him to leave. They meet again while walking. They banter back and forth, she steps over the line and us is rude to him.
We have intrigue, theft, kidnap, attraction where will it end?
October 26, 2024
Book 5 in the Shackleford Sisters Series.
Patience is a free spirit and enjoys being by herself for long periods of time. She is not like her name and has a bad temper, much like her vicar father Augustus.
She has also declared her wish to never marry.
Max is a Marquis who has been fighting in Portugal for the Crown and is a good and loyal friend to Queen Charlotte. His 10 month younger brother Hugo has given away or sold the family jewels to entertain Prince George the Prince Regent in his lavish lifestyle. A diamond brought over from India by their great grandfather is worth a lot of money and Max is desperate to find it.
The untimely death of his brother brings Max to the funeral and burial in Bath where he meets Patience who is being sponsored by her sisters for her debut.
Her skills as a lock picker are invaluable to Max and their adventure begins.
Patience is a free spirit and enjoys being by herself for long periods of time. She is not like her name and has a bad temper, much like her vicar father Augustus.
She has also declared her wish to never marry.
Max is a Marquis who has been fighting in Portugal for the Crown and is a good and loyal friend to Queen Charlotte. His 10 month younger brother Hugo has given away or sold the family jewels to entertain Prince George the Prince Regent in his lavish lifestyle. A diamond brought over from India by their great grandfather is worth a lot of money and Max is desperate to find it.
The untimely death of his brother brings Max to the funeral and burial in Bath where he meets Patience who is being sponsored by her sisters for her debut.
Her skills as a lock picker are invaluable to Max and their adventure begins.
August 16, 2024
I have listened to the Audible version of these books. Aside from book 4, I have enjoyed the series. It has offered some comedic relief and typically just one steamy part per book. All the books are very similar in plot, but they are light and entertaining. Book four, Faith, had an abundant use of the "f-word" which I find offensive. I am glad that Beverley Watts chose not to do that again in Patience.
I complain each and every time about the many different narrators. It creates extremely inconsistent characterization with the use of so many different voices and interpretations. I would probably give this book four stars if Eilidh Beaton read the whole thing. The male narrators trying to do the female voices are rather awful.
I complain each and every time about the many different narrators. It creates extremely inconsistent characterization with the use of so many different voices and interpretations. I would probably give this book four stars if Eilidh Beaton read the whole thing. The male narrators trying to do the female voices are rather awful.
October 21, 2024
Patience and Max
Such a sweet, humble story about self acceptance in a specific world with a small view and set of implied rules and outspoken expectations. Patience is different, quirky and simple; she also is out of turn, defying her own station's expectations, unpredictable and in love with nature and freedom. Max on the other hand is the most handsome man with the queen's herself friendship, being his godmother and him being her confidante, plus with an envied title.
Patience is so used to being different that has already accepted that she will have no suitors so when she finds one in the marquees she's very confused and shocked so much so that she refuses him, followed by a very unexpected turn of events.
Such a sweet, humble story about self acceptance in a specific world with a small view and set of implied rules and outspoken expectations. Patience is different, quirky and simple; she also is out of turn, defying her own station's expectations, unpredictable and in love with nature and freedom. Max on the other hand is the most handsome man with the queen's herself friendship, being his godmother and him being her confidante, plus with an envied title.
Patience is so used to being different that has already accepted that she will have no suitors so when she finds one in the marquees she's very confused and shocked so much so that she refuses him, followed by a very unexpected turn of events.
January 19, 2024
Love, love this series!!!
These books are such fun, easy and enjoyable reads! Even though the themes throughout are of the same bearing, you can't help but enjoy following the lives of the Shakleford sisters. I have enjoyed all of the books, and Patience did not disappoint. Absolutely adore the Reverend and his Curate, they bring lots of comic relief. These books are unapologetically cliche, farcical and a whimsical delight. They are a perfect light hearted book series of love, intrigue, adventure and comedy set as a period drama, not to be taken seriously. On to the next book!!!
These books are such fun, easy and enjoyable reads! Even though the themes throughout are of the same bearing, you can't help but enjoy following the lives of the Shakleford sisters. I have enjoyed all of the books, and Patience did not disappoint. Absolutely adore the Reverend and his Curate, they bring lots of comic relief. These books are unapologetically cliche, farcical and a whimsical delight. They are a perfect light hearted book series of love, intrigue, adventure and comedy set as a period drama, not to be taken seriously. On to the next book!!!
December 15, 2023
Man, while this book at least showed slightly more the protagonist as a gentleman - he wouldn't take her virginity till marriage, it just fell short in so many ways.
The heroine is an out an outer in the other stories, so for her so easily and quickly to become a simpering, scared miss is ridiculous.
It's like the author was writing about someone completely different from what she laid out in previous stories and I was so disappointed. This was the story I was looking forward to. But, no headstrong live as a Tomboy heroine was no more.
The heroine is an out an outer in the other stories, so for her so easily and quickly to become a simpering, scared miss is ridiculous.
It's like the author was writing about someone completely different from what she laid out in previous stories and I was so disappointed. This was the story I was looking forward to. But, no headstrong live as a Tomboy heroine was no more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2024
Love this series
The stories are great and continue to grow and pull the reader into this family. I love all the characters and the incidents they find themselves in. I really enjoy reading about previous members of the family and how they all interact within the story. Patience is the fifth sister that has been forced into the marriage mart. Though due to her wild personality it was decided she should finish her season in Bath. Most of the family adjourn to the town and that is where the havoc and mystery begins. The story read quickly and kept the reader interested, Enjoy!
The stories are great and continue to grow and pull the reader into this family. I love all the characters and the incidents they find themselves in. I really enjoy reading about previous members of the family and how they all interact within the story. Patience is the fifth sister that has been forced into the marriage mart. Though due to her wild personality it was decided she should finish her season in Bath. Most of the family adjourn to the town and that is where the havoc and mystery begins. The story read quickly and kept the reader interested, Enjoy!
May 24, 2024
Fun
Overall, this was a fun story. The usual antics of the Shackleford family. Always entertaining. This middle sister has decided she is going to keep her independence, which doesn't include marriage. Being a Shackleford you can imagine the machinations she goes though to maintain that independence. So we have this fun story happening, then drama happens. By now we have reached about page 200. Resolve drama, say yes, end of story. After all those fun antics, we get an abrupt ending. Kind of anticlimactic. Otherwise, a fun read.
Overall, this was a fun story. The usual antics of the Shackleford family. Always entertaining. This middle sister has decided she is going to keep her independence, which doesn't include marriage. Being a Shackleford you can imagine the machinations she goes though to maintain that independence. So we have this fun story happening, then drama happens. By now we have reached about page 200. Resolve drama, say yes, end of story. After all those fun antics, we get an abrupt ending. Kind of anticlimactic. Otherwise, a fun read.
May 29, 2024
Best of the bunch? (so far)
This is one of if not the best book in the series my one and only problem is the conclusion of the book. I feel like I would’ve been much happier if I had actually been able to see the reunion between the characters and the conversation about marriage and the conversations between family members at the end of the book. the author for some unknown reason chose to just skip to the meet of the end, when all the details was provided for the rest of the story and that same level of detail would’ve been much appreciated for the last chapter of the book.
This is one of if not the best book in the series my one and only problem is the conclusion of the book. I feel like I would’ve been much happier if I had actually been able to see the reunion between the characters and the conversation about marriage and the conversations between family members at the end of the book. the author for some unknown reason chose to just skip to the meet of the end, when all the details was provided for the rest of the story and that same level of detail would’ve been much appreciated for the last chapter of the book.
December 2, 2024
a bit slow to start but good in the end
All the sisters’ names are given in irony! This was a slow story at first and frustrating when Max’s brother passed away. I wonder if Bamford stole more than just the prized diamond.. they never said so who knows
The story was slow.. for a while! It was a bit odd how Max and then Patience realized they had feelings for one another. I guess all is well that ends well.. I liked it in the end and was glad that they got Patience out before she was abused like the other ladies.
All the sisters’ names are given in irony! This was a slow story at first and frustrating when Max’s brother passed away. I wonder if Bamford stole more than just the prized diamond.. they never said so who knows
The story was slow.. for a while! It was a bit odd how Max and then Patience realized they had feelings for one another. I guess all is well that ends well.. I liked it in the end and was glad that they got Patience out before she was abused like the other ladies.
January 11, 2025
Funny, Silly, Hilarious
If you like to read historical rom-coms, this series should be on the top of your list. The conversational language does not resemble that of Jane Austen's delicate characters. It is course and common and unprecedented. The idiomatic expressions, from rum-dubber to bacon-brained, have me snorting with glee. The situations are ridiculous. The heroines are uniquely unqualified to become "ladies" as the titled heroes succumb to their charms. This series is just plain fun.
If you like to read historical rom-coms, this series should be on the top of your list. The conversational language does not resemble that of Jane Austen's delicate characters. It is course and common and unprecedented. The idiomatic expressions, from rum-dubber to bacon-brained, have me snorting with glee. The situations are ridiculous. The heroines are uniquely unqualified to become "ladies" as the titled heroes succumb to their charms. This series is just plain fun.
April 12, 2024
I listened to the audiobook version of this title and I confess that, at the first book in the series - Grace - I truly couldn’t bear the narrator’s depiction of the Reverend (their father), but now, I have warmed to him. His voice is so distinctive that, it actually adds to the story.
I think that I got to appreciate him better by book 3, Faith.
This is a very good series, as an ensemble, the first two books are not as good as the subsequent ones, thus far.
I think that I got to appreciate him better by book 3, Faith.
This is a very good series, as an ensemble, the first two books are not as good as the subsequent ones, thus far.
January 5, 2025
Patience’s was his
I absolutely loved Patience and Max’s story. He’s a Marquee who finds out his brother has lost the families cherished diamond and she a Hoyden who does not want to marry. But when the two meet everything changes. She knows how to pick locks and he needs to get his family treasure back. With the help of Patience and her bumbling father will they find happily ever after.
I absolutely loved Patience and Max’s story. He’s a Marquee who finds out his brother has lost the families cherished diamond and she a Hoyden who does not want to marry. But when the two meet everything changes. She knows how to pick locks and he needs to get his family treasure back. With the help of Patience and her bumbling father will they find happily ever after.
February 22, 2025
5 STARS, DIAMONDS, KIDNAPPINGS, & LOVE
Book 5 gets 5 STARS for its wonderful & exciting storyline for the hit Series: The Shackleford Sisters. Plus, we are provided with a good Blurb. Great characters with some from previous books in the series.
A most enchanting tale of historic pink diamonds & romance. This is Patience & Max's story that is definitely a most unusual & harrowing one!
RECOMMEND
Book 5 gets 5 STARS for its wonderful & exciting storyline for the hit Series: The Shackleford Sisters. Plus, we are provided with a good Blurb. Great characters with some from previous books in the series.
A most enchanting tale of historic pink diamonds & romance. This is Patience & Max's story that is definitely a most unusual & harrowing one!
RECOMMEND
June 23, 2025
Delightful tale
The sometimes annoying characters, the tongue-in-cheek humor and the wonderful glimpses of vulnerability in these characters,
makes each of these happy ending stories a lot of fun to read. Patience and Max's tale does take some leaps when it comes to their developing feelings though - I would have preferred a bit more detail to justify the rapid development of their feelings. Still, great fun!
The sometimes annoying characters, the tongue-in-cheek humor and the wonderful glimpses of vulnerability in these characters,
makes each of these happy ending stories a lot of fun to read. Patience and Max's tale does take some leaps when it comes to their developing feelings though - I would have preferred a bit more detail to justify the rapid development of their feelings. Still, great fun!
December 19, 2025
This series of books about the energetic, fun loving, mischievous Shackelford sisters, their romantic adventures, and the well intended trouble that their vicar father, the Rev. Shackelford, and his devoted assistant clergy, Percy, get into is always full of fun and humor! I love this series of books! I love this writer who uses such witty prose and the slang terminology is such fun! I enjoyed this love story of Patience and Max! Cannot wait to continue this lovely, humorous series! ❤️
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