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Matchmakers #2
To Capture His Heart
“The couple's connection is undeniable. This delectable treat is sure to keep readers guessing.”
—Publishers Weekly, starred review
“Readers will enjoy how the intrigue and romance increase in tandem, ratcheting up the suspense, while Eva's competent demeanor that hides a bruised heart makes this love story all the more touching.”
—Library Journal
Seaside, England 1886
Eva Caldwell is an accomplished and well-known photographer who often works with the local constabulary to assist in documenting crime scenes, which means she also often works alongside the handsome and charming Detective Nathan Winston. She appreciates his intellect and how he treats her like an equal, but Eva’s heart is still healing from a past relationship, so, for now, she decides to keep her feelings for Nathan a secret.
One evening, Nathan arrives on her doorstep asking for a personal favor. Would Eva be available to photograph his mother’s legendary, week-long dinner party and matchmaking event? The catch is that Eva would also have to pretend they are courting in order for Nathan to avoid the many single women seeking his attention.
Though wary of the charade, Eva agrees. Spending a week with the two things she loves most—her detective and her camera—sounds simple enough. And if she wants to imagine that Nathan’s pretend courtship of her is real, well, what’s the harm in that?
But when a criminal from Nathan’s past threatens revenge on the detective, Nathan must be extra vigilant to keep his mother and the rest of the partygoers safe. He confides in Eva, and as the two work together to solve the mystery and apprehend the criminal, they find that they might capture more than they expected—each other’s heart.
—Publishers Weekly, starred review
“Readers will enjoy how the intrigue and romance increase in tandem, ratcheting up the suspense, while Eva's competent demeanor that hides a bruised heart makes this love story all the more touching.”
—Library Journal
Seaside, England 1886
Eva Caldwell is an accomplished and well-known photographer who often works with the local constabulary to assist in documenting crime scenes, which means she also often works alongside the handsome and charming Detective Nathan Winston. She appreciates his intellect and how he treats her like an equal, but Eva’s heart is still healing from a past relationship, so, for now, she decides to keep her feelings for Nathan a secret.
One evening, Nathan arrives on her doorstep asking for a personal favor. Would Eva be available to photograph his mother’s legendary, week-long dinner party and matchmaking event? The catch is that Eva would also have to pretend they are courting in order for Nathan to avoid the many single women seeking his attention.
Though wary of the charade, Eva agrees. Spending a week with the two things she loves most—her detective and her camera—sounds simple enough. And if she wants to imagine that Nathan’s pretend courtship of her is real, well, what’s the harm in that?
But when a criminal from Nathan’s past threatens revenge on the detective, Nathan must be extra vigilant to keep his mother and the rest of the partygoers safe. He confides in Eva, and as the two work together to solve the mystery and apprehend the criminal, they find that they might capture more than they expected—each other’s heart.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2022
59 people are currently reading
3623 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 479 reviews
October 13, 2022
It was very interesting to find this book was quite different to the first book in the series, although I enjoyed both! The first book was definitely an historical mystery with a romance on the side. To Capture His Heart on the other hand is mostly historical romance with just a little mystery.
It is a very enjoyable romance, carrying forward one which began in the first book. Eva and Nathan attend a house party where for various reasons they are playing the part of a couple in love. As the days progress they find that they are no longer acting their roles. It is all very sweet with very little angst and there is nothing wrong with that. Of course there is a mystery too and it does culminate in danger and excitement.
This is a well written and entertaining story with good characters (Nathan in particular is very appealing), an interesting story and a great ending. I wonder where the author will take the series next.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book
It is a very enjoyable romance, carrying forward one which began in the first book. Eva and Nathan attend a house party where for various reasons they are playing the part of a couple in love. As the days progress they find that they are no longer acting their roles. It is all very sweet with very little angst and there is nothing wrong with that. Of course there is a mystery too and it does culminate in danger and excitement.
This is a well written and entertaining story with good characters (Nathan in particular is very appealing), an interesting story and a great ending. I wonder where the author will take the series next.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book
April 24, 2024
This book was very similar to the first one but better.
There was fake dating, which, as we all know, always leads to real dating, because it’s the law. There was also a clever villain, so it was a little angsty, and a rescued street orphan, which was sweet.
The romance was more romantic, the mystery more mysterious, even the cover is cuter.
There was fake dating, which, as we all know, always leads to real dating, because it’s the law. There was also a clever villain, so it was a little angsty, and a rescued street orphan, which was sweet.
The romance was more romantic, the mystery more mysterious, even the cover is cuter.
November 30, 2024
4.5 stars, personally ✨
(Clean Historical Fiction with murder but no gruesome details, language, or sexual innuendoes)
She’s a photographer *and* they’re fake dating? Say less, I’m in. 😎
The title of this book? So punny, I love it.
The research behind this for the photography aspects? Stunning.
This comment: “‘Your acting abilities are to be commended.” “As are yours, good sir.” “I am not acting.’” Swoon worthy.
It’s said that: “More often than not, when she looked for him, he was already looking at her. He would give her his half smile, even while carrying on a conversation with someone else.” I giggled like a twelve-year-old.
Eva was great, but at the book got closer to the end, she kept saying foreshadowing things that made me nervous. Let’s be honest, whenever a character thinks “what could possibly go wrong?” (paraphrasing but close enough), you know that something is, in fact, about to go horribly, horrible wrong. 😬
Details/Tropes:
💖 Friends to more
💖 Fake dating
💖 Detective MMC
💖 Photographer FMC
💖 A ten-day-long party with lots of guests (planned by a matchmaking momma)
💖 Some suspense/mystery elements
There was a couple minor things that made this book not quite a 5 star for me and the romance tension (+ kisses) would make me mark this book for ages 16/17+ at least. (The tension didn’t feel lust-y at all to me, but it did feel a bit intimate at times, which is why I note it for older teens.) I won’t round it to a five star, but I did really enjoy them book and our main characters. The setting, the details, and just the overall vibe of the book was completely my cup of tea.
This was really cute! I’m 2 for 2 on my last 2 reads being 4.5 stars and now I don’t want to read anything else for fear of messing up that wonderful streak. 😂
Main Content:
(Clean Historical Fiction with murder but no gruesome details, language, or sexual innuendoes)
A few mentions of God (putting the fear of God in someone x2, that “God’s in His heaven” so all is as it should be, and someone having to explain herself to her Maker at the end of her life if she doesn’t correct the path she is on); A couple mentions of Eva and Nathan being advised to behave like priests so that their surprise (their falling for the other) isn’t ruined; A mention of someone swearing on a stack of Bibles and a household management book; A mention of a couple not being a match made in Heaven; A mention of someone from the Bible.
Mentions of ghosts (Eva says she has a healthy fear of them and young Sammy thinks he saw one); A few mentions of evolution (The Stone Age and The Mesozoic Age); A mention of someone playing with the devil (meaning an evil person); A mention of “lucifer matches”; A mention of fate; A ‘for heaven’s sake’ is said once.
Being kidnapped and held at gunpoint, threatened, an explosion, thinking others have died in the explosion, pain, injuries, passing out, & blood/bleeding; Seeing murdered bodies (a few sentences in details and how they were murdered); Hinted social drinking at parties/dinners & Nathan drinking with a friend (the latter is a wish); Because of the fake dating trope, Eva and Nathan do tell some lies to others but few little because their feelings for the other are sincere; Eva has “experienced panic so irrational that she questioned her own sanity” over something.
Mentions of murders (including one being a possible suicide), the bodies, crimes/crime scenes, threats of harm, blackmail, & kidnappings (up to a few sentence in details); Mentions of events in the first book (a murder, kidnapping of a woman and child, narrowly escaping death); Mentions of gunfire, being held at gunpoint, & someone being shot and killed (a few sentences); Mentions of an explosion, thinking others have died, injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (a few sentences); Mentions of poisons, a child being poisoned, & a man being drugged (); Mentions of the deaths of loved ones (including Nathan for his father); Mentions of gossip; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, social drinking at parties, pubs, & bribing a man to play an instrument with a bottle of brandy; Mentions of cigars & smoking; Mentions of mean girls & their snide remarks (Eva faced this in school and in this book as well on-page); A few mentions of stealing & thieves; A few mentions of hunting.
Mentions of suffragette events, society’s view of women changing (that marriage isn’t the only option), & new divorce laws and property enactments (a man also comments that he would have gladly seen his mother free from an unfortunate union).
No major language and nothing stronger than: blasted, blazes, confound it, drat, darned if I know, stupid, and what in blazes, but Nathan does curse a handful of times and Eva does once as well (not written-out, however).
There’s a good amount of kisses/kissing, some no-detailed ones ranging to ones being a few sentences in length (around twenty-six in total including hand kisses; Remembering kisses, almost kisses, & touches/embraces (up to a few sentences in length); Wanting to kiss, touch, & embrace (up to a few sentences, somewhat often throughout the book); Touches, Embraces, Nearness, Smelling, & Noticing (up to a handful of sentences in length); Winks, Blushes, Butterflies, & Flirting; Eva and her cousin tease their other newly married cousin about the “secrets” of being married (said cousin teases them back about if she had known what she was missing, she would have made an earnest effort to evade her chaperones); Nathan comments on wishing to see Eva with her hair down, but apologizes at realizing that it was inappropriate for him to say; Nathan teases Eva about her wearing breeches (glancing at her in a way that made her feel warm all over).
Mentions of a woman trying to trap a man into a compromising situation (); Mentions of reputations, chaperones, & couples being unchaperoned ruining the girl and the guy being branded as a cad; A few mentions of a man trying to force a kiss on a young Eva (which she did as her aunt advised her and her cousins to do: kicked him between the legs); A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of trollops; A mention of a man’s mistress and illegitimate children; A mention of Eva’s lips looking red and thoroughly kissed; A mention of a woman facing “self-imposed deadlines for beginning a family”; A mention of a cosmetic powder that makes no one mistake the wearer as a theatre harlot.
(Clean Historical Fiction with murder but no gruesome details, language, or sexual innuendoes)
She’s a photographer *and* they’re fake dating? Say less, I’m in. 😎
The title of this book? So punny, I love it.
The research behind this for the photography aspects? Stunning.
This comment: “‘Your acting abilities are to be commended.” “As are yours, good sir.” “I am not acting.’” Swoon worthy.
It’s said that: “More often than not, when she looked for him, he was already looking at her. He would give her his half smile, even while carrying on a conversation with someone else.” I giggled like a twelve-year-old.
Eva was great, but at the book got closer to the end, she kept saying foreshadowing things that made me nervous. Let’s be honest, whenever a character thinks “what could possibly go wrong?” (paraphrasing but close enough), you know that something is, in fact, about to go horribly, horrible wrong. 😬
Details/Tropes:
💖 Friends to more
💖 Fake dating
💖 Detective MMC
💖 Photographer FMC
💖 A ten-day-long party with lots of guests (planned by a matchmaking momma)
💖 Some suspense/mystery elements
There was a couple minor things that made this book not quite a 5 star for me and the romance tension (+ kisses) would make me mark this book for ages 16/17+ at least. (The tension didn’t feel lust-y at all to me, but it did feel a bit intimate at times, which is why I note it for older teens.) I won’t round it to a five star, but I did really enjoy them book and our main characters. The setting, the details, and just the overall vibe of the book was completely my cup of tea.
This was really cute! I’m 2 for 2 on my last 2 reads being 4.5 stars and now I don’t want to read anything else for fear of messing up that wonderful streak. 😂
Main Content:
(Clean Historical Fiction with murder but no gruesome details, language, or sexual innuendoes)
A few mentions of God (putting the fear of God in someone x2, that “God’s in His heaven” so all is as it should be, and someone having to explain herself to her Maker at the end of her life if she doesn’t correct the path she is on); A couple mentions of Eva and Nathan being advised to behave like priests so that their surprise (their falling for the other) isn’t ruined; A mention of someone swearing on a stack of Bibles and a household management book; A mention of a couple not being a match made in Heaven; A mention of someone from the Bible.
Mentions of ghosts (Eva says she has a healthy fear of them and young Sammy thinks he saw one); A few mentions of evolution (The Stone Age and The Mesozoic Age); A mention of someone playing with the devil (meaning an evil person); A mention of “lucifer matches”; A mention of fate; A ‘for heaven’s sake’ is said once.
Being kidnapped and held at gunpoint, threatened, an explosion, thinking others have died in the explosion, pain, injuries, passing out, & blood/bleeding; Seeing murdered bodies (a few sentences in details and how they were murdered); Hinted social drinking at parties/dinners & Nathan drinking with a friend (the latter is a wish); Because of the fake dating trope, Eva and Nathan do tell some lies to others but few little because their feelings for the other are sincere; Eva has “experienced panic so irrational that she questioned her own sanity” over something.
Mentions of murders (including one being a possible suicide), the bodies, crimes/crime scenes, threats of harm, blackmail, & kidnappings (up to a few sentence in details); Mentions of events in the first book (a murder, kidnapping of a woman and child, narrowly escaping death); Mentions of gunfire, being held at gunpoint, & someone being shot and killed (a few sentences); Mentions of an explosion, thinking others have died, injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (a few sentences); Mentions of poisons, a child being poisoned, & a man being drugged (); Mentions of the deaths of loved ones (including Nathan for his father); Mentions of gossip; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, social drinking at parties, pubs, & bribing a man to play an instrument with a bottle of brandy; Mentions of cigars & smoking; Mentions of mean girls & their snide remarks (Eva faced this in school and in this book as well on-page); A few mentions of stealing & thieves; A few mentions of hunting.
Mentions of suffragette events, society’s view of women changing (that marriage isn’t the only option), & new divorce laws and property enactments (a man also comments that he would have gladly seen his mother free from an unfortunate union).
No major language and nothing stronger than: blasted, blazes, confound it, drat, darned if I know, stupid, and what in blazes, but Nathan does curse a handful of times and Eva does once as well (not written-out, however).
There’s a good amount of kisses/kissing, some no-detailed ones ranging to ones being a few sentences in length (around twenty-six in total including hand kisses; Remembering kisses, almost kisses, & touches/embraces (up to a few sentences in length); Wanting to kiss, touch, & embrace (up to a few sentences, somewhat often throughout the book); Touches, Embraces, Nearness, Smelling, & Noticing (up to a handful of sentences in length); Winks, Blushes, Butterflies, & Flirting; Eva and her cousin tease their other newly married cousin about the “secrets” of being married (said cousin teases them back about if she had known what she was missing, she would have made an earnest effort to evade her chaperones); Nathan comments on wishing to see Eva with her hair down, but apologizes at realizing that it was inappropriate for him to say; Nathan teases Eva about her wearing breeches (glancing at her in a way that made her feel warm all over).
Mentions of a woman trying to trap a man into a compromising situation (); Mentions of reputations, chaperones, & couples being unchaperoned ruining the girl and the guy being branded as a cad; A few mentions of a man trying to force a kiss on a young Eva (which she did as her aunt advised her and her cousins to do: kicked him between the legs); A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of trollops; A mention of a man’s mistress and illegitimate children; A mention of Eva’s lips looking red and thoroughly kissed; A mention of a woman facing “self-imposed deadlines for beginning a family”; A mention of a cosmetic powder that makes no one mistake the wearer as a theatre harlot.
May 14, 2022
I was going to tag this a historical mystery, but after finishing the story, I thought it was more a HR with light suspense.
DI Nathan Winston was such an endearing hero; a kind and good man who truly loved Miss Eva Caldwell. He did everything properly because he didn’t want to scare her off, not knowing that she was learning of her love for him. His actions and words spoke volumes. I enjoyed his character and wish more authors would learn from this.
I really wish I read The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart, the first story in this series, because this is where Nathan first met Eva.
If you can handle kisses-only, a sweet H and a little bit of a mystery, consider reading this romance. Next, I look forward to Charlotte’s story.
Thank you to NetGalley, Nancy Campbell Allen and Shadow Mountain for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review.
DI Nathan Winston was such an endearing hero; a kind and good man who truly loved Miss Eva Caldwell. He did everything properly because he didn’t want to scare her off, not knowing that she was learning of her love for him. His actions and words spoke volumes. I enjoyed his character and wish more authors would learn from this.
I really wish I read The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart, the first story in this series, because this is where Nathan first met Eva.
If you can handle kisses-only, a sweet H and a little bit of a mystery, consider reading this romance. Next, I look forward to Charlotte’s story.
Thank you to NetGalley, Nancy Campbell Allen and Shadow Mountain for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review.
June 20, 2023
Oh my goodness this was such a delight to read! All the stars from me. Historical mystery and suspense with enough romance.
Strong independent Female Photographer Entrepreneur
A sweet hero that protects those he cares for
The chemistry and banter
Mystery Subplot with a twist
Mean girls and charming sisters
Sammy Eva’s photographer assistant
I like there was no misunderstanding between the two…they were always a team and have each other’s back.
This book is fast-paced and engaging with characters that will touch your heart, the writing style was simple and effective and the overall flow of the story felt very smooth. I loved the backdrop of a house party and the storyline, and I enjoyed the satisfying ending, I would recommend it to anyone looking for a romance with a side of mystery. It can be read as a stand-alone. Sweet-Clean-Closed-door romance. A fun entertaining read, Highly Recommend it!
Thanks, NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Strong independent Female Photographer Entrepreneur
A sweet hero that protects those he cares for
The chemistry and banter
Mystery Subplot with a twist
Mean girls and charming sisters
Sammy Eva’s photographer assistant
I like there was no misunderstanding between the two…they were always a team and have each other’s back.
This book is fast-paced and engaging with characters that will touch your heart, the writing style was simple and effective and the overall flow of the story felt very smooth. I loved the backdrop of a house party and the storyline, and I enjoyed the satisfying ending, I would recommend it to anyone looking for a romance with a side of mystery. It can be read as a stand-alone. Sweet-Clean-Closed-door romance. A fun entertaining read, Highly Recommend it!
Thanks, NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 8, 2022
Thank you Netgalley and Shadow Mountain for the ARC. I read the first book and really enjoyed it and recommend it. The timeframe covers when woman in the workplace and new technology is advancing. The story is a natural second book as, Eva and Nathan, from the previous book are building a relationship. The romance makes up the majority of the book with the mystery being secondary. Great description of photography used at the time. I would have enjoyed the mystery being more fleshed out. Good secondary characters and a nice epilogue. I rate the book a 3.5 and round up.
October 13, 2022
To Capture His Heart is for fans of mystery, detective work, and no nonsense romance.
While this is a second book in a series I do feel like it could be read as a standalone. And while the first was more detective work than romance this was the opposite...and my romance loving heart was definitely NOT in opposition.
Eva and Nathan have a great friendly dynamic. They have worked side by side solving cases in the past and now they have the opportunity for a different kind of partnership. When Nathan approaches Eva to pretend to be his better half in order to avoid other female attention, Eva readily agrees.
Both are harboring secret feelings for another BUT this is not a book full of miscommunication. Nathan is swift and forthcoming in his feelings and lays his heart on his sleeve readily and quite early on in the book.
There is a also a killer on the loose..and as the week long event starts to end, the body count starts to rise. Its a fun who dun it that makes for a lighthearted quick read. I liked the aspects of early photography and detective work during this period and that made a fun addition to the story.
I was only missing some angst. I love a no nonsense man...and Nathan was great, I love when adults act like adults and say how they feel...however I just wanted and NEEDED more moments between this couple that made me FEEL, that pushed me headfirst into their romance. It was a little on the slower side and I felt my attention span not as keen towards my reading.
3.5 stars
While this is a second book in a series I do feel like it could be read as a standalone. And while the first was more detective work than romance this was the opposite...and my romance loving heart was definitely NOT in opposition.
Eva and Nathan have a great friendly dynamic. They have worked side by side solving cases in the past and now they have the opportunity for a different kind of partnership. When Nathan approaches Eva to pretend to be his better half in order to avoid other female attention, Eva readily agrees.
Both are harboring secret feelings for another BUT this is not a book full of miscommunication. Nathan is swift and forthcoming in his feelings and lays his heart on his sleeve readily and quite early on in the book.
There is a also a killer on the loose..and as the week long event starts to end, the body count starts to rise. Its a fun who dun it that makes for a lighthearted quick read. I liked the aspects of early photography and detective work during this period and that made a fun addition to the story.
I was only missing some angst. I love a no nonsense man...and Nathan was great, I love when adults act like adults and say how they feel...however I just wanted and NEEDED more moments between this couple that made me FEEL, that pushed me headfirst into their romance. It was a little on the slower side and I felt my attention span not as keen towards my reading.
3.5 stars
October 15, 2022
Eva + Nathan -- true love or a convenient attachment? Nathan's mother has invited them both to her widely popular Seaside house party. Ten days of fun and games and Eva will help photograph the event while posing as Nathan's love interest. But it isn't all fun and games. There is an ominous presence causing trouble and Nathan is sure who is behind it all, but how to catch the culprit? The friends to lovers story line seemed to uneven in its pacing. I also felt like the most thrilling parts of the suspense were all bunched up at the end. Just seemed a little off to me. As a whole I loved the characters and the opportunity to enjoy a clean, wholesome romance. For me, Amelie's story in Book 1 The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart was more engaging. Looking forward to seeing Charlotte have her turn in Book 3.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
May 25, 2024
This story is set in Seaside, England in 1886. Eva Caldwell is an accomplished photographer who is also used by police for recording crime scenes. This entails working with detective Nathan Winston who she met the year before. When Nathan arrives at her door asking her to photograph his mother’s house party and fund raising event, Eva agrees. He also has a plan for keeping the society misses looking for a husband at bay and co-opts Eva’s help with that. It sounds simple. That is until a criminal from the detective’s past threatens his family. Will he be able to save those he cares about? He and Eva end up working together to sort out the situation and find the elusive Mr Toole before harm comes to those Nathan loves, one of whom is Eva.
Book 2 in this series, I had not read book 1 but this stands alone fine. I really liked Eva and Nathan, but also Nathan’s mother and sisters.
As well as the despicable Mr Toole, with his signature black feathers, there are some other decidedly unlikable characters.
This is a light, easy to read book. Murder, mystery, family situations and romance all coexist in this story, keeping it entertaining. I very much enjoyed it. Cute cover, charming book, and a lot of fun. A recommended read and I will be interested to now read more in the series.
Book 2 in this series, I had not read book 1 but this stands alone fine. I really liked Eva and Nathan, but also Nathan’s mother and sisters.
As well as the despicable Mr Toole, with his signature black feathers, there are some other decidedly unlikable characters.
This is a light, easy to read book. Murder, mystery, family situations and romance all coexist in this story, keeping it entertaining. I very much enjoyed it. Cute cover, charming book, and a lot of fun. A recommended read and I will be interested to now read more in the series.
February 22, 2025
clean historical romance in victorian era is now my favorite 👀
June 11, 2022
I loved everything about this! The plot seemed unique and original with the photography business. There was mystery and intrigue, a house party, fake dating and swoon!
🕵🏻
I really loved Allen’s first book in the series, The Matchmaker’s Lonely Heart, and I was so happy to see there would be another book in the series! This can be read as a stand alone, if you were to read it out of order you wouldn’t be lost as it recaps things from the first book.
🕵🏻
I loved Eva and how she was a strong independent women. She didn’t back down the other ladies present and she is a loyal friend but willing to be vulnerable. Nathan is as dashing as any hero can be and he loves his family. Which is even sweeter! He went to such lengths to keep them safe but there’s always something or someone to undo carefully laid plans.
🕵🏻
Pretty much the moment I saw the arc available on Net Galley, I downloaded ASAP. This book doesn’t release until Fall2022. And now that I want the next book in the series it means I’ll have to wait even longer 😅
🕵🏻
I love Allen’s work and she continues to show she’s an auto buy author for me. These are my own thoughts and opinions.
🕵🏻
I really loved Allen’s first book in the series, The Matchmaker’s Lonely Heart, and I was so happy to see there would be another book in the series! This can be read as a stand alone, if you were to read it out of order you wouldn’t be lost as it recaps things from the first book.
🕵🏻
I loved Eva and how she was a strong independent women. She didn’t back down the other ladies present and she is a loyal friend but willing to be vulnerable. Nathan is as dashing as any hero can be and he loves his family. Which is even sweeter! He went to such lengths to keep them safe but there’s always something or someone to undo carefully laid plans.
🕵🏻
Pretty much the moment I saw the arc available on Net Galley, I downloaded ASAP. This book doesn’t release until Fall2022. And now that I want the next book in the series it means I’ll have to wait even longer 😅
🕵🏻
I love Allen’s work and she continues to show she’s an auto buy author for me. These are my own thoughts and opinions.
May 19, 2022
I really liked this one, even more than the first!
Eva and Nathan have known each other for some time, from their mutual friends and in a professional capacity. They feel an attraction but haven't done anything about it so far.
This all changes when Nathan asks Evan to come photograph his mother's house party and pretend to be courting him. The new dynamic is just what they both need to move their relationship to more.
I also liked the mystery they try to solve, the criminal mind and the others with nefarious intents, and the way these situations escalate while bring Eva and Nathan together.
Catching up with old characters was also a treat.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
Eva and Nathan have known each other for some time, from their mutual friends and in a professional capacity. They feel an attraction but haven't done anything about it so far.
This all changes when Nathan asks Evan to come photograph his mother's house party and pretend to be courting him. The new dynamic is just what they both need to move their relationship to more.
I also liked the mystery they try to solve, the criminal mind and the others with nefarious intents, and the way these situations escalate while bring Eva and Nathan together.
Catching up with old characters was also a treat.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
May 4, 2022
I love the way Allen writes a story! You get a little action and adventure, some good history and a sweet amazing romance! Their story starts in The Matchmakers Lonely Heart. You can read this independent of that, but why would you! That one was so good too:} Nathaniel is awesome! I loved his little smile and his honesty! Eva is an independent female who has been hurt before and is not going to fall for any man:} These two have such a lovely story. I always like Allen's mystery and action she writes into her books. She really does it so well. Just loved everything about this story.
Proper romance with no religion.
Proper romance with no religion.
January 24, 2024
The way this completely consumed me to the point where I listened to the whole thing in a day? ✨iconic✨
I very much enjoyed book 1 in this series (The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart) but the bit of feedback I'd seen implied that THIS was pretty much everyone's favorite of the series, and after reading it, I can absolutely see why. Fake dating? Friends to lovers? Adorable banter? A capable female lead AND a swoon-worthy male lead? What's not to love??
I really loved both the lead characters, and I so appreciated that both of them accepted their attraction to each other pretty quickly, but that attraction was built on personality as well as looks. They've known each other for well over a year when the story starts (if I'm remembering correctly) and both know they genuinely care for the other, which leads to some adorable, heart-warming interactions.
The mystery element wasn't present through most of the book (I mean it is, to a degree, but it doesn't turn into a murder mystery until 60% ish?) but I didn't mind. It did lead to some intensity but nothing too gruesome. It's really more of a romance with a dash of mystery, rather than the other way around.
Overall I had a wonderful time reading this, and I'm so excited to see what book 3 has in store! 5 stars from me!
I very much enjoyed book 1 in this series (The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart) but the bit of feedback I'd seen implied that THIS was pretty much everyone's favorite of the series, and after reading it, I can absolutely see why. Fake dating? Friends to lovers? Adorable banter? A capable female lead AND a swoon-worthy male lead? What's not to love??
I really loved both the lead characters, and I so appreciated that both of them accepted their attraction to each other pretty quickly, but that attraction was built on personality as well as looks. They've known each other for well over a year when the story starts (if I'm remembering correctly) and both know they genuinely care for the other, which leads to some adorable, heart-warming interactions.
The mystery element wasn't present through most of the book (I mean it is, to a degree, but it doesn't turn into a murder mystery until 60% ish?) but I didn't mind. It did lead to some intensity but nothing too gruesome. It's really more of a romance with a dash of mystery, rather than the other way around.
Overall I had a wonderful time reading this, and I'm so excited to see what book 3 has in store! 5 stars from me!
October 9, 2022
An intriguing Victorian historical mystery romance!
Eva Caldwell is a photographer who occasionally works alongside the local constabulary. She’s accompanied by her sidekick, ten year old Sammy. Nathan Winston is a detective who works with her cousin Amelie Hampton Baker’s husband, Michael Baker.
There is an attraction between Eva and Nathan but neither is willing to admit to it. But now Nathan‘s mother is holding her annual week long house summer fundraiser at their family villa, Seaside.
Nathan asks Eva to attend firstly as a photographer, and secondly as a cover for him to hide behind from his matchmaking mother.
Add to this an escaped criminal from a previous case, Bernard Toole, who’s out to get Nathan’s family as payback for Toole’s sister dying from an infection caught in prison is stalking them. Already Nathan has had a black raven’s feather delivered in a cigar box. Toole wants vengeance and his targets are Nathan’s mother and sisters. The annual house party is ideal for Toole’s dark purposes.
A game of cat and mouse ensues that is both twisted and elusive. The game of love is afoot and Eva will have choices to make.
A very readable story. The attraction between Nathan and Eva is charged and delightful. A clean romance with the tension of all that is happening thrumming underneath. Eva will be called upon to show courage and open her heart.
A Shadow Mountain ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Eva Caldwell is a photographer who occasionally works alongside the local constabulary. She’s accompanied by her sidekick, ten year old Sammy. Nathan Winston is a detective who works with her cousin Amelie Hampton Baker’s husband, Michael Baker.
There is an attraction between Eva and Nathan but neither is willing to admit to it. But now Nathan‘s mother is holding her annual week long house summer fundraiser at their family villa, Seaside.
Nathan asks Eva to attend firstly as a photographer, and secondly as a cover for him to hide behind from his matchmaking mother.
Add to this an escaped criminal from a previous case, Bernard Toole, who’s out to get Nathan’s family as payback for Toole’s sister dying from an infection caught in prison is stalking them. Already Nathan has had a black raven’s feather delivered in a cigar box. Toole wants vengeance and his targets are Nathan’s mother and sisters. The annual house party is ideal for Toole’s dark purposes.
A game of cat and mouse ensues that is both twisted and elusive. The game of love is afoot and Eva will have choices to make.
A very readable story. The attraction between Nathan and Eva is charged and delightful. A clean romance with the tension of all that is happening thrumming underneath. Eva will be called upon to show courage and open her heart.
A Shadow Mountain ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
December 2, 2024
Eva Caldwell is focusing on her career as a photographer. She enjoys the process and even likes taking pictures of murder victims for the police. So what if she finds Detective Nathaniel Winston slightly attractive? She's been hurt before and is determined to focus on her career. When Nathan's mother strong arms him into attending her charity event of the season - a matchmaking party Nathan wants no part of, he blurts out his deepest secret. Nathan announces to his mother than his heart is interested in someone! When Mrs. Winston discovers the identity of that someone, she is eager to invite Eva as both guest AND party photographer with generous compensation to offset any losses from customers unable to rearrange their schedules. Before Nathan can leave for Seaside, he receives a mysterious and chilling gift he takes as a warning from a former adversary. He knows this villain is after his family in revenge but knows not what this man looks like. With a villain heading to Seaside to threaten his family, Nathan is ever vigilant and on edge. Eva is anxious about being among the Society guests, some of whom remind her of her school days, but soon she settles in and finds the company agreeable but when mysterious "accidents" happen to her photography equipment, she wants answers. Nathan fears his villain is the culprit and confides in Eva but that makes her a target! Can they figure out who the villain is in time to prevent a tragedy?
This is a sweet romance and a chilling, thrilling mystery. Normally I don't like fake dating tropes but Nathan is already in love with Ethan and knows she finds him attractive and interesting and she's already into him. They dance around each other's feelings a bit as they're both being cautious and slow but any misunderstandings are cleared up quickly and one potential big one doesn't happen, thankfully. The near touching scenes are very sweetly romantic and more sexy than any open door makeout session. The Victorian rules of etiquette are followed and Eva and Nathan fall more in love as they learn to trust one another- never doing more than holding hands, linking arms or a sweet kiss on the lips, of course. The mystery is a little dark. I never guessed who the villain was! I expected something a little different. I'm glad I was wrong. The ending is a little violent and scary.
My big complaint is that this story does not sound British. The new money/two generations maxim comes from Mrs. Astor's Four Hundred club in New York and Newport, not London. By this time in London, money rules and the era of the landed gentry is over. Lords are marrying American new money heiresses for the cash and not "good family" names. The police system also sounds American. One other quibble is I doubt TWO sets of twins would have survived and the mother. Yes it's in Anne of Green Gables but is it realistic? Maybe for a wealthy woman like Christine Winston but there was only so much a doctor could do at the time.
These characters are wonderful! Eva is independent, knows her own mind, talented, compassionate and smart. She's a good judge of character but doubts herself because of heartbreak in her past. She's good at what she does and most comfortable behind the lens of a camera. Eva has grown and matured since her school days. She weighs her options and decides when she should keep quiet and when to fire back. She is amazingly adept at dealing with mean girls. Eva is very kind to servants and the "lower orders" too. Eva has all but adopted Sammy, an urchin she and her cousins rescued after the first investigation. That, too, doesn't seem plausible given the time period, the class system and the inheritance laws. Sammy could be a ward, he could be sent to an orphanage, to Canada or stay on as an apprentice to Eva, which he seems to be. (Yes, yes Oliver Twist, Jane Eyre... I know... fiction!) There's ALWAYS an adorable urchin in fiction and Sammy is no exception. He's quick, loyal and charming. Having Sammy in the plot shows the reader Eva and Nathan's characters without the author having to state everything in writing. I don't mind that approach I guess. It's not realistic but showing makes for better reading than telling.
Nathan and the entire Winston clan are lovely. Nathan is a sweetheart. His father died young, leaving Nathan the man of the family. Even though his mother and sisters are strong, intellectual and capable, he feels responsibility for them. He loves his mother and can't be firm with her about why he doesn't want to attend her matchmaking party. There's a specific someone he's trying to avoid because he's too kind to tell his mother he wants this lady excluded from the party. He should have told his sisters and their mother should let them have a say in the guest list. A lot of drama could have been avoided if this wasn't a charity event but a regular house party. As is, only the largest donors can attend and no background checks done. Nathan tries but it's too late. Nathan is a sweetheart. He feels too deeply to be a police officer. He's not your average cop thinking in black and white. He understands the complications that led to the villain but also is not so compassionate for a villain who allowed his family to take the fall for his schemes. Nathan is a sweet big brother and his sisters adore him and want him to be happy with the woman of his choosing. He's a tiny bit overprotective but there's more sisters than there are brothers. Good thing he can tell them apart or they would have run circles around him. Christine Winston is amazing! She not only survived after her husband's death, she's thriving. She may even have been the mastermind behind her late husband's business decisions! She's turned her father's textile business into an empire and puts her money to good use. The Winston women support women's suffrage, divorce laws, property laws and other women's rights. They applaud Eva for being a working woman even if none of them have a trade the way she does. I believe Eva's job and support for women's rights goes a long way towards winning over Nathan's mother and sisters!
Nathan loves his mother, sisters and Eva and can't help worry that his job will bring them to harm. His organizational skills are nearly as good as his mother's. He is kind and helpful to young Sammy and intuitively knows what will make Sammy feel more comfortable. He's patient with Eva as she is reluctant to let down her guard with him. He's patient when she declines his half serious offer to elope to Gretna Green! Nathan isn't so patient with the villain. The terror of waiting has him on edge. Bernard Toole is a crafty villain. From a carnival family, he is adept at changing his looks, adapting and blending in when needs be. When we learn the whole story, we discover he is remorseless and chilling. Yet, he did love his mother and sister and somehow Eva reminds him of his sister and he kind of likes her. He's still willing to kill her and others to get to Nathan though so I don't have too much compassion for him. I feel sorry for his sister and mother though. Which one IS Toole? Is he a servant hired for the event? Is he hiding somewhere on the grounds evading Nathan's men somehow? Is he hiding in the hidden passageways? Is he a party guest hiding in plain sight? That last is the most horrible for Nathan to contemplate. If the man is hiding, his men will find him but if he's a guest, he could be anyone and strike at any time!
Nathan's sisters are cute and fun. They seem lively and mischievous. Like Eva, they're modern and progressive but some still dream of love. Alice and Grace seem to be the closest to Nathan and know him better than he knows himself. Olivia is an amazingly talented singer but lacks self-confidence and the bravery to defy the rules and become a professional.
The party guests are a mixed bag of good and bad. There's no real in between. Blanche Parker is a nasty, mean, cruel witch. She once tried to trap Nathan into marriage and he was kind enough not to tell his mother. She's holding out for a VERY wealthy AND influential man, her parents are hoping for a title. Yeah not going to happen with Gilded Age Dollar Princesses running around London. Also not going to happen unless her personality improves. Blanche is a narcissist. She always has to be the center of attention, have everyone adore her yet is catty and rude to other women. She sees Eva as inferior and can't fathom why Nathan would prefer Eva to herself and yet still sees Eva as competition judging from her snide comments. Her sister Ann seems lovely and must be to be close with the Winston sisters. Blanche's friend, Mathilda Dilworth is equally as awful, maybe more so. Blanche is so obvious and any woman must know where she stands. Does Mathilda go along with Blanche because she's a mean girl too or is it because she's not pretty and basks in Blanche's orbit hoping for Blanche's rejected suitors to choose her instead? How awful for them to live their lives that way. The Winston sisters are more appealing. Inez Shelton seems practical and modern. I don't know what she's doing at a matchmaking event!
Jens Sorensen, son of the Swedish ambassador is charming and friendly. He seems a little immature and there will be expectations there. He is also in love with his own reflection! Still, he's friendly and interested in Eva's photography process. His friend, Peter Meyer, visiting from Germany, also seems nice enough but a little reserved. The Honorable Mr. John Smythe is the rudest and snobbiest of all the gentlemen. He's not the eldest son but he does have money. John Smythe and Blanche Parker are two peas in a pod and deserve each other. He's awful and she's horrid. Mr. David Jacobson, an arborist, is bashful and Mr. Burton Handy is as well. He's mooning after Blanche and everyone knows that's a lost cause. Burton Handy responds to Eva's gentle questioning and she lends a sympathetic ear. Mr. Franklin Frampton is the life of the party, an incorrigible flirt but probably not marriage material.
Floyd Collins, a footman, seems nice but young and nervous. He's hiding something. Eva thinks Nathan put the fear of God into him regarding the seriousness of her darkroom caravan but I expect he's looking over his shoulder for the villain, either as a lookout or from fear. When he's taken ill and then disappears, I feel certain one of my theories is correct. Or both? On the other hand, I don't fully trust George Abernathy, the other footman who assists Eva. He seems steady, reliable and good with Sammy but it seems suspicious to me than he takes over when Collins is ill.
This was such a pleasant diversion from the real world and a nice bedtime read. I already requested the third volume from the library!
This is a sweet romance and a chilling, thrilling mystery. Normally I don't like fake dating tropes but Nathan is already in love with Ethan and knows she finds him attractive and interesting and she's already into him. They dance around each other's feelings a bit as they're both being cautious and slow but any misunderstandings are cleared up quickly and one potential big one doesn't happen, thankfully. The near touching scenes are very sweetly romantic and more sexy than any open door makeout session. The Victorian rules of etiquette are followed and Eva and Nathan fall more in love as they learn to trust one another- never doing more than holding hands, linking arms or a sweet kiss on the lips, of course. The mystery is a little dark. I never guessed who the villain was! I expected something a little different. I'm glad I was wrong. The ending is a little violent and scary.
My big complaint is that this story does not sound British. The new money/two generations maxim comes from Mrs. Astor's Four Hundred club in New York and Newport, not London. By this time in London, money rules and the era of the landed gentry is over. Lords are marrying American new money heiresses for the cash and not "good family" names. The police system also sounds American. One other quibble is I doubt TWO sets of twins would have survived and the mother. Yes it's in Anne of Green Gables but is it realistic? Maybe for a wealthy woman like Christine Winston but there was only so much a doctor could do at the time.
These characters are wonderful! Eva is independent, knows her own mind, talented, compassionate and smart. She's a good judge of character but doubts herself because of heartbreak in her past. She's good at what she does and most comfortable behind the lens of a camera. Eva has grown and matured since her school days. She weighs her options and decides when she should keep quiet and when to fire back. She is amazingly adept at dealing with mean girls. Eva is very kind to servants and the "lower orders" too. Eva has all but adopted Sammy, an urchin she and her cousins rescued after the first investigation. That, too, doesn't seem plausible given the time period, the class system and the inheritance laws. Sammy could be a ward, he could be sent to an orphanage, to Canada or stay on as an apprentice to Eva, which he seems to be. (Yes, yes Oliver Twist, Jane Eyre... I know... fiction!) There's ALWAYS an adorable urchin in fiction and Sammy is no exception. He's quick, loyal and charming. Having Sammy in the plot shows the reader Eva and Nathan's characters without the author having to state everything in writing. I don't mind that approach I guess. It's not realistic but showing makes for better reading than telling.
Nathan and the entire Winston clan are lovely. Nathan is a sweetheart. His father died young, leaving Nathan the man of the family. Even though his mother and sisters are strong, intellectual and capable, he feels responsibility for them. He loves his mother and can't be firm with her about why he doesn't want to attend her matchmaking party. There's a specific someone he's trying to avoid because he's too kind to tell his mother he wants this lady excluded from the party. He should have told his sisters and their mother should let them have a say in the guest list. A lot of drama could have been avoided if this wasn't a charity event but a regular house party. As is, only the largest donors can attend and no background checks done. Nathan tries but it's too late. Nathan is a sweetheart. He feels too deeply to be a police officer. He's not your average cop thinking in black and white. He understands the complications that led to the villain but also is not so compassionate for a villain who allowed his family to take the fall for his schemes. Nathan is a sweet big brother and his sisters adore him and want him to be happy with the woman of his choosing. He's a tiny bit overprotective but there's more sisters than there are brothers. Good thing he can tell them apart or they would have run circles around him. Christine Winston is amazing! She not only survived after her husband's death, she's thriving. She may even have been the mastermind behind her late husband's business decisions! She's turned her father's textile business into an empire and puts her money to good use. The Winston women support women's suffrage, divorce laws, property laws and other women's rights. They applaud Eva for being a working woman even if none of them have a trade the way she does. I believe Eva's job and support for women's rights goes a long way towards winning over Nathan's mother and sisters!
Nathan loves his mother, sisters and Eva and can't help worry that his job will bring them to harm. His organizational skills are nearly as good as his mother's. He is kind and helpful to young Sammy and intuitively knows what will make Sammy feel more comfortable. He's patient with Eva as she is reluctant to let down her guard with him. He's patient when she declines his half serious offer to elope to Gretna Green! Nathan isn't so patient with the villain. The terror of waiting has him on edge. Bernard Toole is a crafty villain. From a carnival family, he is adept at changing his looks, adapting and blending in when needs be. When we learn the whole story, we discover he is remorseless and chilling. Yet, he did love his mother and sister and somehow Eva reminds him of his sister and he kind of likes her. He's still willing to kill her and others to get to Nathan though so I don't have too much compassion for him. I feel sorry for his sister and mother though. Which one IS Toole? Is he a servant hired for the event? Is he hiding somewhere on the grounds evading Nathan's men somehow? Is he hiding in the hidden passageways? Is he a party guest hiding in plain sight? That last is the most horrible for Nathan to contemplate. If the man is hiding, his men will find him but if he's a guest, he could be anyone and strike at any time!
Nathan's sisters are cute and fun. They seem lively and mischievous. Like Eva, they're modern and progressive but some still dream of love. Alice and Grace seem to be the closest to Nathan and know him better than he knows himself. Olivia is an amazingly talented singer but lacks self-confidence and the bravery to defy the rules and become a professional.
The party guests are a mixed bag of good and bad. There's no real in between. Blanche Parker is a nasty, mean, cruel witch. She once tried to trap Nathan into marriage and he was kind enough not to tell his mother. She's holding out for a VERY wealthy AND influential man, her parents are hoping for a title. Yeah not going to happen with Gilded Age Dollar Princesses running around London. Also not going to happen unless her personality improves. Blanche is a narcissist. She always has to be the center of attention, have everyone adore her yet is catty and rude to other women. She sees Eva as inferior and can't fathom why Nathan would prefer Eva to herself and yet still sees Eva as competition judging from her snide comments. Her sister Ann seems lovely and must be to be close with the Winston sisters. Blanche's friend, Mathilda Dilworth is equally as awful, maybe more so. Blanche is so obvious and any woman must know where she stands. Does Mathilda go along with Blanche because she's a mean girl too or is it because she's not pretty and basks in Blanche's orbit hoping for Blanche's rejected suitors to choose her instead? How awful for them to live their lives that way. The Winston sisters are more appealing. Inez Shelton seems practical and modern. I don't know what she's doing at a matchmaking event!
Jens Sorensen, son of the Swedish ambassador is charming and friendly. He seems a little immature and there will be expectations there. He is also in love with his own reflection! Still, he's friendly and interested in Eva's photography process. His friend, Peter Meyer, visiting from Germany, also seems nice enough but a little reserved. The Honorable Mr. John Smythe is the rudest and snobbiest of all the gentlemen. He's not the eldest son but he does have money. John Smythe and Blanche Parker are two peas in a pod and deserve each other. He's awful and she's horrid. Mr. David Jacobson, an arborist, is bashful and Mr. Burton Handy is as well. He's mooning after Blanche and everyone knows that's a lost cause. Burton Handy responds to Eva's gentle questioning and she lends a sympathetic ear. Mr. Franklin Frampton is the life of the party, an incorrigible flirt but probably not marriage material.
Floyd Collins, a footman, seems nice but young and nervous. He's hiding something. Eva thinks Nathan put the fear of God into him regarding the seriousness of her darkroom caravan but I expect he's looking over his shoulder for the villain, either as a lookout or from fear. When he's taken ill and then disappears, I feel certain one of my theories is correct. Or both? On the other hand, I don't fully trust George Abernathy, the other footman who assists Eva. He seems steady, reliable and good with Sammy but it seems suspicious to me than he takes over when Collins is ill.
This was such a pleasant diversion from the real world and a nice bedtime read. I already requested the third volume from the library!
October 25, 2022
Are you ready for another great whodunnit Victorian style book? Nancy Campbell Allen delivered with this one. I loved the first book and was so happy to know that the author was continuing to write more books about the secondary characters that I loved from book one, The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart. Eva and Nathan kept my attention in the first book and I was really hoping we'd get to see more of them. And tah-dah!!! They got their very own book. And there are some cameos from the main characters of book one.
Nathan has a problem. Well, two, maybe three. Hahaha! Maybe even more than that, but I'll stick with three. 1-He loves Eva but can't work up the courage to tell her. 2-His mom is scheming by playing matchmaker with Nathan and inviting A LOT of eligible ladies to her huge annual fundraising house party. (And as you probably have guessed, Nathan is not too thrilled about it). 3-Nathan tells his mom he has someone he's interested in, garners an invitation for her and works up the courage to tell her what he told his mom (he's interested in her) but plays it off as being just an act because he's too scared to tell her the truth and what better way than to be around her for a couple weeks. Yep, he's smitten and in trouble with this scheme of his mother's and his!
But don't let his problems fool you. He's got everything well in hand. Minus the fact that there's someone from his past detective/police work case that is after him and wants revenge. That's just a minor thing. No need to fret Nathan. Or is there? Especially when all kinds of mysterious things start happening at the party. No need to panic. Keep calm and don't let anyone know and try to figure out who the bad guy is and how you're going to protect everyone, your heart and most importantly Eva.
Oh, this was such a delightful book! I loved having both Nathan and Eva's perspective throughout the book. These two characters are just so sweet and good. And their love story is just absolutely adorable!
So many fun historical aspects are included in the book as well. I really loved all the photography aspects. Wow! Such a great history of how photography started to what it is currently today. It was very fascinating reading about the process of it all through Eva's eyes as she was taking pictures throughout the house party.
Content: Clean. Some kisses and nothing further. Murder and mayhem. A sinister character. But nothing overly graphic. I'd share this with my teenagers happily! They'd love it!
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Nathan has a problem. Well, two, maybe three. Hahaha! Maybe even more than that, but I'll stick with three. 1-He loves Eva but can't work up the courage to tell her. 2-His mom is scheming by playing matchmaker with Nathan and inviting A LOT of eligible ladies to her huge annual fundraising house party. (And as you probably have guessed, Nathan is not too thrilled about it). 3-Nathan tells his mom he has someone he's interested in, garners an invitation for her and works up the courage to tell her what he told his mom (he's interested in her) but plays it off as being just an act because he's too scared to tell her the truth and what better way than to be around her for a couple weeks. Yep, he's smitten and in trouble with this scheme of his mother's and his!
But don't let his problems fool you. He's got everything well in hand. Minus the fact that there's someone from his past detective/police work case that is after him and wants revenge. That's just a minor thing. No need to fret Nathan. Or is there? Especially when all kinds of mysterious things start happening at the party. No need to panic. Keep calm and don't let anyone know and try to figure out who the bad guy is and how you're going to protect everyone, your heart and most importantly Eva.
Oh, this was such a delightful book! I loved having both Nathan and Eva's perspective throughout the book. These two characters are just so sweet and good. And their love story is just absolutely adorable!
So many fun historical aspects are included in the book as well. I really loved all the photography aspects. Wow! Such a great history of how photography started to what it is currently today. It was very fascinating reading about the process of it all through Eva's eyes as she was taking pictures throughout the house party.
Content: Clean. Some kisses and nothing further. Murder and mayhem. A sinister character. But nothing overly graphic. I'd share this with my teenagers happily! They'd love it!
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
September 19, 2022
I admit - this book doesn't exactly meet my expectation when I read the blurb and requested it from Netgalley. The blurb mentions that the female main character's occupation involves "documenting crime scenes" - and the male main character is a detective. It also mentions "the two work together to solve the mystery and apprehend the criminal". I expected a historical mystery/thriller.
What I get was, well, sweet romance (it does said PROPER romance, which basically clean, no sex scenes) with a touch of thriller. Yes, there's a criminal that sends sort of threat to Detective Nathan Winston, but dead bodies don't appear until around 80% of the book, and the rest of the story is more about Nathan and Eva and how they navigate their feelings while - at first - pretending that they're a couple of Nathan's mother's sake.
On one hand, I like the romance enough. Both characters are VERY likable.
Eva hides her vulnerability - she may be an accomplished photographer, but in her school days, Eva is bullied by the ladies above her station. She also still nurtured a broken heart when her first love left her; so Eva doesn't trust men easily.
Nathan has been on the way of falling in love with Eva for months, though (on that note I probably have to read the FIRST book of this series because that's when Nathan and Eva first met). Nathan is the kind of gentleman I like to read in romance. He appreciates and respect Eva, he doesn't belittle her just because she's a woman. He may feel a bit jealous at times when another man try to capture Eva's interest, but he doesn't act all primitively Alpha about it.
I enjoy their the progress of the relationship.
BUT STILL, I start this book imagining suspense in addition to the romance, and I feel kind of let down because of it. Yeah, expectation, it does things to you!
I like the author's writing style though. Maybe I will go back to the first book and then look forward to the third book (which I'm sure will feature the other cousin left, Charlotte). And next time, I will adjust what my expectation.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
What I get was, well, sweet romance (it does said PROPER romance, which basically clean, no sex scenes) with a touch of thriller. Yes, there's a criminal that sends sort of threat to Detective Nathan Winston, but dead bodies don't appear until around 80% of the book, and the rest of the story is more about Nathan and Eva and how they navigate their feelings while - at first - pretending that they're a couple of Nathan's mother's sake.
On one hand, I like the romance enough. Both characters are VERY likable.
Eva hides her vulnerability - she may be an accomplished photographer, but in her school days, Eva is bullied by the ladies above her station. She also still nurtured a broken heart when her first love left her; so Eva doesn't trust men easily.
Nathan has been on the way of falling in love with Eva for months, though (on that note I probably have to read the FIRST book of this series because that's when Nathan and Eva first met). Nathan is the kind of gentleman I like to read in romance. He appreciates and respect Eva, he doesn't belittle her just because she's a woman. He may feel a bit jealous at times when another man try to capture Eva's interest, but he doesn't act all primitively Alpha about it.
I enjoy their the progress of the relationship.
BUT STILL, I start this book imagining suspense in addition to the romance, and I feel kind of let down because of it. Yeah, expectation, it does things to you!
I like the author's writing style though. Maybe I will go back to the first book and then look forward to the third book (which I'm sure will feature the other cousin left, Charlotte). And next time, I will adjust what my expectation.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
November 29, 2022
To Capture His Heart was a really fun book. This is the second book in the Matchmakers series and the first book was great. Guess what? This second book is equal to the first. I so loved the characters, the plot, the mystery, and the romance.
The whole story revolves around a week-long matchmaking house party in Seaside, England in 1886. The secondary characters in the first book are now the main characters in the second book. Nathan and Eva have worked together on criminal cases before; he as a detective, and she as a police photographer. They have grown to like each other a lot but both are scared to ruin their friendship by declaring their true feelings. Nathan invites Eva to his mother's matchmaking party as his "love interest" and his mother wants her there for her photography talents. Blend in a criminal on the run who wants revenge on Nathan, jealous, petty males and females, witty banter, and you have a story that's hard to put down. The young boy Sammy is back as Eva's assistant and there are nasty mean girls too. It doesn't matter what era, they have always been there.
The best part of the book overall is how Nathan and Eva's romance advances in this 10-day journey at the party. There were so many moments that I had to re-read because I just loved them so much, especially those that involved caves and a maze. I also enjoyed Nathan's mother and his clever and supportive sisters. I would love to see more books in the future dedicated to each sister finding their true love.
To Capture His Heart can be read as a stand-alone read. This novel will make an excellent gift for any romance reader in your life, including yourself.
The whole story revolves around a week-long matchmaking house party in Seaside, England in 1886. The secondary characters in the first book are now the main characters in the second book. Nathan and Eva have worked together on criminal cases before; he as a detective, and she as a police photographer. They have grown to like each other a lot but both are scared to ruin their friendship by declaring their true feelings. Nathan invites Eva to his mother's matchmaking party as his "love interest" and his mother wants her there for her photography talents. Blend in a criminal on the run who wants revenge on Nathan, jealous, petty males and females, witty banter, and you have a story that's hard to put down. The young boy Sammy is back as Eva's assistant and there are nasty mean girls too. It doesn't matter what era, they have always been there.
The best part of the book overall is how Nathan and Eva's romance advances in this 10-day journey at the party. There were so many moments that I had to re-read because I just loved them so much, especially those that involved caves and a maze. I also enjoyed Nathan's mother and his clever and supportive sisters. I would love to see more books in the future dedicated to each sister finding their true love.
To Capture His Heart can be read as a stand-alone read. This novel will make an excellent gift for any romance reader in your life, including yourself.
March 29, 2023
A quick-thinking reply lands Nathan and Eva in a fake relationship for a Victorian house party. There is a mutual attraction from both parties, and as they occasionally work together (he as a detective and she as a photographer), this match seems to be natural and easy.
Mysterious happenings occur and with a wide cast of probable culprits, this duo is determined to solve it. I loved all the characters, from Eva's matter-of-fact and capable personality to Nathan's charming, smart self, and the house full of friend, strangers, and servants.
Nancy Campbell Allen creates a highly entertaining tale with believable characters and a convincing, swoony romance. I couldn't get enough of this story!
Content: mild moments of peril/danger; mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Mysterious happenings occur and with a wide cast of probable culprits, this duo is determined to solve it. I loved all the characters, from Eva's matter-of-fact and capable personality to Nathan's charming, smart self, and the house full of friend, strangers, and servants.
Nancy Campbell Allen creates a highly entertaining tale with believable characters and a convincing, swoony romance. I couldn't get enough of this story!
Content: mild moments of peril/danger; mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
December 8, 2024
Awh this book felt like a warm hug. I loved everyone! All the characters! The setting! The Victorian feels! I absolutely adored it. The romance was sweet and not too sensual either. The faith moments and references to scripture warmed my heart as well. This was a beautiful masterpiece. Thank u to my parents for buying this for my bday! 🥹🥹🥹 Now I want to read the rest of the series (since I read this series out of order)!
November 10, 2022
Swoonalicious!
A friends to more romance trope with villainy afoot, set at country house party? Yes please!!!! Oh, there's also a bit of mama matchmaking going on so our hero and heroine must pretend to be besotted with each other to avoid all the shenanigans. Only there's no pretence needed because they are...except neither knows the other is...well, it's complicated. Bwahahaha!
Funny and endearing and exciting with a dash of ominous danger! All combine to make this an enchanting, breezy read. The banter! The toe-curling kisses!! The subtle longing glances across a crowded room!!! The not so subtle -- audacious in fact -- winks from our irrepressible hero!!!! Fans and fainting couches are necessary accruements for this deliciously captivating read.
But there's a sinister twist to this tale as well and, luckily, our heroine is no shrinking violet. Love how Nathan and Eva work together to solve the mystery. She is a crime scene photographer, after all. And I love the way Nathan's instinct to protect is tempered by his appreciation for Eva's capabilities. It helps that his mother supports the suffragette movement and has raised his four sisters to be strong, independent thinkers. Eva fits in well!
This is the second book in the Matchmaker's series, but it can be read as a standalone. The series features three cousins who have moved to London to live with their independent and very unique aunt. The first book was about Amelie and some of those characters spill over into this one but not in a way that would be confusing to a new-to-the-series reader. I'm excited to discover what's in store for Charlotte next. Hopefully we won't have long to wait! Don't even have a title though, let alone a release date. Ack!
https://bestreads-kav.blogspot.com/20...
A friends to more romance trope with villainy afoot, set at country house party? Yes please!!!! Oh, there's also a bit of mama matchmaking going on so our hero and heroine must pretend to be besotted with each other to avoid all the shenanigans. Only there's no pretence needed because they are...except neither knows the other is...well, it's complicated. Bwahahaha!
Funny and endearing and exciting with a dash of ominous danger! All combine to make this an enchanting, breezy read. The banter! The toe-curling kisses!! The subtle longing glances across a crowded room!!! The not so subtle -- audacious in fact -- winks from our irrepressible hero!!!! Fans and fainting couches are necessary accruements for this deliciously captivating read.
But there's a sinister twist to this tale as well and, luckily, our heroine is no shrinking violet. Love how Nathan and Eva work together to solve the mystery. She is a crime scene photographer, after all. And I love the way Nathan's instinct to protect is tempered by his appreciation for Eva's capabilities. It helps that his mother supports the suffragette movement and has raised his four sisters to be strong, independent thinkers. Eva fits in well!
This is the second book in the Matchmaker's series, but it can be read as a standalone. The series features three cousins who have moved to London to live with their independent and very unique aunt. The first book was about Amelie and some of those characters spill over into this one but not in a way that would be confusing to a new-to-the-series reader. I'm excited to discover what's in store for Charlotte next. Hopefully we won't have long to wait! Don't even have a title though, let alone a release date. Ack!
https://bestreads-kav.blogspot.com/20...
April 12, 2023
I loved the first book The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart and was really excited to learn there would be another book. I love the Victorian era and how women had a little more freedom to have jobs, which Eva has. She's a photographer but also photographs crime scenes for local police which I found interesting. She enters into a fake relationship with Detective Nathan Winston so he can avoid all the young ladies his mother has lined up for him at her house party.
This was such a fun read with a mystery to solve and all the people at the house party to investigate. Nathan and Eva are perfect for each other and I found all the information about photography in the Victorian era very interesting. I really hope the author plans to write another book in this Matchmakers series.
I received a complimentary copy from Shadow Mountain via NetGalley, but also purchased a physical copy for my personal library. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
This was such a fun read with a mystery to solve and all the people at the house party to investigate. Nathan and Eva are perfect for each other and I found all the information about photography in the Victorian era very interesting. I really hope the author plans to write another book in this Matchmakers series.
I received a complimentary copy from Shadow Mountain via NetGalley, but also purchased a physical copy for my personal library. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
October 22, 2024
I put off this book for so long due to the cover, but I really enjoyed reading it.
May 16, 2022
I love Nancy Campbell Allen and her books! To Capture His Heart was just as great as I expected. Nancy’s very good at writing romantic suspense. I couldn’t put it down until I knew what happened and until Eva and Nathan had their happily ever after.
Eva and Nathan were so cute together. I love when things happen that I did not expect and one surprise was the great communication between Eva and Nathan. It was refreshing. They didn’t exactly keep things from each other and if either of them thought to keep a secret, those didn’t last long because they’re both are overly observant.
Eva and Nathan were so cute together. I love when things happen that I did not expect and one surprise was the great communication between Eva and Nathan. It was refreshing. They didn’t exactly keep things from each other and if either of them thought to keep a secret, those didn’t last long because they’re both are overly observant.
May 17, 2022
This was a fun read! I enjoyed the first book and I was excited to see that there was going to be another addition to the series. To Capture His Heart is the second book in Nancy Campbell Allen’s Matchmaker series.
This was such a sweet book to read! The characters are easy to read and connect with. I adored both Eva and Nathan. They both felt like complex characters, but I loved getting to know them. Eva was so strong but she was also weary of others. I loved seeing her strengths and reading about her falling for Nathan. Nathan was sweet, I adored his relationship with his family. He was trying so hard to protect those he cared for. It was cute to read about him falling for Eva and trying to protect her.
I enjoyed the blend of mystery with romance. I was on the edge of my seat trying to finish the book! Eve and Nathan were getting to know each other at the party all the while trying to stay safe. Nathan and Eva would have to come together as they face a criminal from Nathan’s past.
I liked this one even more than the first book. I loved the characters, the story, and the romance. The side characters were fun and I hope that Nathan’s sisters get their own books! I would definitely recommend this book, it can be read standalone but it is so much more fun to read in order. To Capture His Heart is a clean historical mystery romance.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
This was such a sweet book to read! The characters are easy to read and connect with. I adored both Eva and Nathan. They both felt like complex characters, but I loved getting to know them. Eva was so strong but she was also weary of others. I loved seeing her strengths and reading about her falling for Nathan. Nathan was sweet, I adored his relationship with his family. He was trying so hard to protect those he cared for. It was cute to read about him falling for Eva and trying to protect her.
I enjoyed the blend of mystery with romance. I was on the edge of my seat trying to finish the book! Eve and Nathan were getting to know each other at the party all the while trying to stay safe. Nathan and Eva would have to come together as they face a criminal from Nathan’s past.
I liked this one even more than the first book. I loved the characters, the story, and the romance. The side characters were fun and I hope that Nathan’s sisters get their own books! I would definitely recommend this book, it can be read standalone but it is so much more fun to read in order. To Capture His Heart is a clean historical mystery romance.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
June 27, 2022
This book is an assortment of genres: historical fiction, fantasy, suspense & mystery.
It's my first novel from the writer & I actually relished it. This variety had me engaged at every climacteric & I kept longing for more. I appreciated how the female personalities are demonstrated as liberated & willing to oppose the world to proclaim their own profession.
Nancy's story-telling is indeed impressive. She knew just when to present the flings & when to provoke the reader's apprehension. Also, the account is from both the central characters' POVs, though not established explicitly, which brings it up a notch.
Thanks, NetGalley, author & publisher, for supplying me with an e-ARC. I'm leaving this review willingly in exchange for the complimentary book.
It's my first novel from the writer & I actually relished it. This variety had me engaged at every climacteric & I kept longing for more. I appreciated how the female personalities are demonstrated as liberated & willing to oppose the world to proclaim their own profession.
Nancy's story-telling is indeed impressive. She knew just when to present the flings & when to provoke the reader's apprehension. Also, the account is from both the central characters' POVs, though not established explicitly, which brings it up a notch.
Thanks, NetGalley, author & publisher, for supplying me with an e-ARC. I'm leaving this review willingly in exchange for the complimentary book.
August 31, 2024
*4.25*
Oooh, this was so adorable!
Parts of this book had me giggling while other parts had me anxious to find out what was going on.
On the topic of suffragettes, I’m glad that it wasn’t pushed too much. Eva was a bold woman especially for her career, but in a good way. I loved learning more about photography. Nathan was amazing!! He was caring and considerate and compassionate. They were such a great couple, and I totally enjoyed pretty much all parts of this book.
If you’re looking for a clean historical romance that’s absolutely amazing, read this book!
Content: minor violence, kisses on lips and cheek and neck (up to semi-detailed for lips, completely shippable and clean), mentions of things that would be improper during that time period (nothing over the top)
Oooh, this was so adorable!
Parts of this book had me giggling while other parts had me anxious to find out what was going on.
On the topic of suffragettes, I’m glad that it wasn’t pushed too much. Eva was a bold woman especially for her career, but in a good way. I loved learning more about photography. Nathan was amazing!! He was caring and considerate and compassionate. They were such a great couple, and I totally enjoyed pretty much all parts of this book.
If you’re looking for a clean historical romance that’s absolutely amazing, read this book!
Content: minor violence, kisses on lips and cheek and neck (up to semi-detailed for lips, completely shippable and clean), mentions of things that would be improper during that time period (nothing over the top)
May 2, 2023
What an enjoyable Victorian mystery! To Capture His Heart is book two in the Matchmakers series, following The Matchmaker’s Lonely Heart. If you read book one, you will already know the two main characters in this story, Eva and Nathan. However, this book can also be read on its own, too, although the previous events in book one are referenced a few times in this novel.
I loved the gentleness and respect in this story between Eva and Nathan. They both greatly admire each other, yet are hesitant to put their hearts on the line when the novel begins, as they do not want to jeopardize their friendship. But I love watching as their playacting at courting becomes the real thing. The flirting and care that Nathan shows Eva begins to move him to be honest about his affections. So sweet!
I ended up listening to the audio version of this story and thought the narrator did a great job, too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I loved the gentleness and respect in this story between Eva and Nathan. They both greatly admire each other, yet are hesitant to put their hearts on the line when the novel begins, as they do not want to jeopardize their friendship. But I love watching as their playacting at courting becomes the real thing. The flirting and care that Nathan shows Eva begins to move him to be honest about his affections. So sweet!
I ended up listening to the audio version of this story and thought the narrator did a great job, too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
August 25, 2022
Eva Caldwell is a working woman. She's independent, educated and makes a living as a photographer. She's been able to help her detective friends on a few cases with her skills. When one of the detectives, Nathan, finds himself in need of rescue during his mother's house party, and the onslaught of eligible females, he tells his mother his heart is already engaged, unfortunately for him, it's truer than he lets on. Eva is invited to the house party as the photographer and when Nathan's nemesis from the past comes back, she's there to help him figure it out.
Eva's history doesn't allow her to trust easily, even though she wants to. The house party brings back unwanted memories of how she's been judged and dismissed in the past. We watch her wrestle with who she is and develop the confidence in the person she wants to be.
Written for general market it's a sweet, clean, suspenseful story.
*Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC and for the opportunity to post an honest review.
Eva's history doesn't allow her to trust easily, even though she wants to. The house party brings back unwanted memories of how she's been judged and dismissed in the past. We watch her wrestle with who she is and develop the confidence in the person she wants to be.
Written for general market it's a sweet, clean, suspenseful story.
*Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC and for the opportunity to post an honest review.
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