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Inconvenient Brides #5
Caroline Saves the Blacksmith
A fallen woman. A tortured blacksmith. When the holidays force them together, can they mend their broken hearts?
She will not repeat past mistakes ...
Caroline Brown once made an unforgiveable mistake with a handsome earl, betraying a beloved friend in the process. Now she is rebuilding her life as the new owner of a dressmaker's shop in the busy town of Chatternwell. She is determined to guard her heart from all men, including the darkly handsome blacksmith, until the local doctor requests her help on the night before Christmas.
He can’t stop thinking about her ...
William Jackson has avoided relationships since his battle wounds healed, but the new proprietress on his street is increasingly in his thoughts, which is why he is avoiding her at all costs. But an unexpected injury while his mother is away lays him up on Christmas Eve and now the chit is mothering him in the most irritating and delightful manner.
Can the magic of the holiday season help two broken souls overcome their dark pasts to form a blissful union?
She will not repeat past mistakes ...
Caroline Brown once made an unforgiveable mistake with a handsome earl, betraying a beloved friend in the process. Now she is rebuilding her life as the new owner of a dressmaker's shop in the busy town of Chatternwell. She is determined to guard her heart from all men, including the darkly handsome blacksmith, until the local doctor requests her help on the night before Christmas.
He can’t stop thinking about her ...
William Jackson has avoided relationships since his battle wounds healed, but the new proprietress on his street is increasingly in his thoughts, which is why he is avoiding her at all costs. But an unexpected injury while his mother is away lays him up on Christmas Eve and now the chit is mothering him in the most irritating and delightful manner.
Can the magic of the holiday season help two broken souls overcome their dark pasts to form a blissful union?
192 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 22, 2023
584 people are currently reading
249 people want to read
About the author
Nina Jarrett
23 books313 followersNina started writing her own stories in elementary school but quickly grew distracted when she finished school and moved on to non-profit work with recovering drug addicts. There she worked with people from every walk of life from privileged neighborhoods to the shanty towns of urban and rural South Africa.
One day she met a real-life romantic hero. She instantly married her fellow bibliophile and moved to the USA where she enjoyed a career as a sales coaching executive at an Inc 500 company. She lives with her husband on the Florida Gulf Coast.
Nina believes in kindness and the indomitable power of the human spirit. She is fascinated by the amazing, funny people she has met across the world who dared to change their lives. She likes to tell mischievous tales of life-changing decisions and character transformations while drinking excellent coffee and avoiding cookies.
One day she met a real-life romantic hero. She instantly married her fellow bibliophile and moved to the USA where she enjoyed a career as a sales coaching executive at an Inc 500 company. She lives with her husband on the Florida Gulf Coast.
Nina believes in kindness and the indomitable power of the human spirit. She is fascinated by the amazing, funny people she has met across the world who dared to change their lives. She likes to tell mischievous tales of life-changing decisions and character transformations while drinking excellent coffee and avoiding cookies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
did-not-finish
October 30, 2025DNF @ 26%. No Rating.
The heroine is a homewrecking hussy.
The writing did my head in. The author doesn't know how to use punctuation correctly to save her life. A bunch of run on awkward sentences that made no sense. There's so much more telling rather than showing which I absolutely hate. I was bored by all the repetitive info dumping about things that happened in the past or off the page. It just made this story come off like a rough draft with all the endless internal rambling to set up scenes. The characters had zero personality and lacked charm. And I'm not sure why the author thought writing a heroine who slept with her employer's fiance was worth a redemption? Her employer mind you who was also her friend and taught her how to read and how to book keep. Who does that to a friend?? Who needs enemies when you have maids and "friends" like Ms. Caroline Brown. 😕 And to add insult to injury the jerk ex-fiance gifting the heroine Caroline with a whole business and modiste shop of her own to "make amends" just sat really poorly for me. What about his fiance he cheated on? I know her friend is the heroine of Book 1 so I'm sure more maybe is explained there but this didn't really do enough to convince me Caroline was worth the effort of getting her own story. Rewarding bad behavior isn't the thing. Don't care how sorry she is or how her reputation is on the line. She fucked her friend's fiance and I'm supposed to feel sorry for her cause she was naive? Her friend who even went so far as to give a letter of reference and finding her a new job position after firing her? Oof. So it wasn't like she was destitute or in trouble for the guy to do this for her. It was doing too much. I could maybe overlook all that but the flat fumbling wooden writing just annoyed me more and made the decision for me. Pass.
The heroine is a homewrecking hussy.
The writing did my head in. The author doesn't know how to use punctuation correctly to save her life. A bunch of run on awkward sentences that made no sense. There's so much more telling rather than showing which I absolutely hate. I was bored by all the repetitive info dumping about things that happened in the past or off the page. It just made this story come off like a rough draft with all the endless internal rambling to set up scenes. The characters had zero personality and lacked charm. And I'm not sure why the author thought writing a heroine who slept with her employer's fiance was worth a redemption? Her employer mind you who was also her friend and taught her how to read and how to book keep. Who does that to a friend?? Who needs enemies when you have maids and "friends" like Ms. Caroline Brown. 😕 And to add insult to injury the jerk ex-fiance gifting the heroine Caroline with a whole business and modiste shop of her own to "make amends" just sat really poorly for me. What about his fiance he cheated on? I know her friend is the heroine of Book 1 so I'm sure more maybe is explained there but this didn't really do enough to convince me Caroline was worth the effort of getting her own story. Rewarding bad behavior isn't the thing. Don't care how sorry she is or how her reputation is on the line. She fucked her friend's fiance and I'm supposed to feel sorry for her cause she was naive? Her friend who even went so far as to give a letter of reference and finding her a new job position after firing her? Oof. So it wasn't like she was destitute or in trouble for the guy to do this for her. It was doing too much. I could maybe overlook all that but the flat fumbling wooden writing just annoyed me more and made the decision for me. Pass.
November 20, 2024
It was ok with a touch from the Ghost of the Christmas past.
October 21, 2023
A wonderful Christmas romance!
I just loved the story! „Caroline Saves the Blacksmith“ is definitely one of the best Christmas romances I have ever read!
I simply adore the narrative of the author, she has an exceptional way of conveying feelings of her characters, their inner struggles are very palpable.
The storyline is heartwarming and touching with wonderful characters. It put me right in Christmas spirit and reminded me of Charles Dickens‘ „A Christmas Carol“.
Caroline, a modiste, is ashamed and feels guilty of her past and how she has betrayed her childhood friend.
William, the blacksmith, blames himself for his cousin‘s death in war. He is still in pain of that loss and guilt.
Both prefer solitude, but when William injures himself on Christmas Day, Caroline is the only person available to care for him.
During their forced close proximity, their mutual attraction and compassion grow and Caroline shows William a new perspective of life whilst he helps her coming to terms with her past...
If you like heartwarming and emotional romances, you will adore this book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I just loved the story! „Caroline Saves the Blacksmith“ is definitely one of the best Christmas romances I have ever read!
I simply adore the narrative of the author, she has an exceptional way of conveying feelings of her characters, their inner struggles are very palpable.
The storyline is heartwarming and touching with wonderful characters. It put me right in Christmas spirit and reminded me of Charles Dickens‘ „A Christmas Carol“.
Caroline, a modiste, is ashamed and feels guilty of her past and how she has betrayed her childhood friend.
William, the blacksmith, blames himself for his cousin‘s death in war. He is still in pain of that loss and guilt.
Both prefer solitude, but when William injures himself on Christmas Day, Caroline is the only person available to care for him.
During their forced close proximity, their mutual attraction and compassion grow and Caroline shows William a new perspective of life whilst he helps her coming to terms with her past...
If you like heartwarming and emotional romances, you will adore this book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 27, 2023
This was a holiday novella about second chances. It was well written and had heartfelt moments. An open door romance with undeniably attraction. They were perfect for each other and I loved the ending.
The author writes delightful, romantic tales I always look forward to.
Thanks Booksirens.
The author writes delightful, romantic tales I always look forward to.
Thanks Booksirens.
October 25, 2023
Two Hurt People help each other heal
I received the book from Booksprout as an ARC to review.
I enjoyed the book tremendously. There was a true holiday theme to it and made me remember “The Christmas Carol” by Dickens in some of the best ways. There was no Scrooge but it worked well with the theme with the dreams.
Caroline had just started her own dressmaker shop in the town when they met. Caroline carried the guilt of hurting her childhood friend.
William was the blacksmith who had taken over the business from his Uncle and Aunt after they retired. The Uncle had raised William after his parents had died and he was raised with his cousin who was the same age. Both boys had went into the military together but the cousin had died in combat. William felt that he was the cause for the death of his cousin and the loss for his Uncle and Aunt.
Both H and h had carried baggage in to the relationship and neither believed that they could have love in their lives due to each having so much pain, believing they were unable to be loved or worthy of others in their lives.
I received the book from Booksprout as an ARC to review.
I enjoyed the book tremendously. There was a true holiday theme to it and made me remember “The Christmas Carol” by Dickens in some of the best ways. There was no Scrooge but it worked well with the theme with the dreams.
Caroline had just started her own dressmaker shop in the town when they met. Caroline carried the guilt of hurting her childhood friend.
William was the blacksmith who had taken over the business from his Uncle and Aunt after they retired. The Uncle had raised William after his parents had died and he was raised with his cousin who was the same age. Both boys had went into the military together but the cousin had died in combat. William felt that he was the cause for the death of his cousin and the loss for his Uncle and Aunt.
Both H and h had carried baggage in to the relationship and neither believed that they could have love in their lives due to each having so much pain, believing they were unable to be loved or worthy of others in their lives.
October 25, 2023
Thanks to BookSprout for a copy of this story and this is my freely given opinion.
This is a Christmas themed story and revisits a character from book 1, Caroline Brown. She is the maid who was caught in the stables with Richard, the Earl of Staunton, by his then-fiancee, Annabel Ridley. She was dismissed and sent away from Annabel's family estate, but with some consideration and compassion, because Annabel, despite the betrayal by someone she grew up with and considered a friend, ensured that Caroline still got a reference and a new job working in the home of a local doctor.
It would be easy to revile Caroline for betraying her employer and friend. But in this story, we get to read Caroline's perspective and her sense of loss and guilt. Caroline went to Annabel's home after the passing of her only family when she was a young girl, brought in by a family friend, the housekeeper. She found a good home there with friends, including the daughter of the home, Annabel, who taught her to read and manage accounts, and encouraged Caroline's dreams of opening her own dressmaking shop one day, with a promise to help fund it. These were all dashed when Caroline was seduced by Richard. When she made her choices, she did not think of the consequences beyond her pleasurable liaison with the handsome, seductive Earl. In the time afterwards though, she carried her losses deeply - she lost all her friends and family, and her future opportunities. As well, she carried a great deal of self blame and guilt for her betrayal of her friend, and shame.
She realizes though she was lucky, and even luckier when Richard offered a further step up - as part of his personal amends, in facing the wrongs of his own past. She took a loan from him and the use of his man of business to finance her old dream of opening a shop, with their help, in a town near one of his estates, Chatternwell. She started with a clean slate and reputation, as Mrs. Brown, but also determined to maintain a good reputation, and not fall into what she felt was her wanton, untrustworthy ways. She was determined to work hard, and keep herself from temptation by eschewing personal relationships.
William Jackson is the owner of the local smithy, a good blacksmith, and successful businessman as well. He also has regrets and guilt from his own past, related to his and his beloved cousin's decision as brash youth to join the military to fight Napoleon. Unfortunately he witnessed his cousin's death and had to bring that loss home to his own remaining relatives, his aunt and uncle. He carries the guilt of his cousin's death, believing it was because of him, that his cousin joined the military, and like Caroline, felt that he was not deserving of love and happiness with others, focusing only on his work.
But the funny thing about humans is that we are all mostly social animals who seek connections with others. Caroline discovers Annie and her mother, who is a poor war widow, and takes them under her wing. William helps his elderly neighbour on the sly, doing repairs to her cottage when she is away... and this was his downfall at Christmas. Unfortunately he falls and sprains his ankle, but it is Christmas Eve and it was difficult to find help. The local doctor is only able to find Caroline available and she and William are forced to spend a few days together while she helps him while he is laid up.
During that time, thanks to Caroline's bright, hopeful, insightful nature, William views his past and his relationships with a different perspective, and comes to the conclusion that he does deserve happiness and love - and is willing to let go of his grief and guilt so he can perhaps work towards a better, happier future for himself. And perhaps Caroline can be a part of that.
But Caroline, despite her ability to help William resolve his grief and guilt, and see a different view, cannot do so for herself, and has not resolved her own shame and guilt, and cannot see herself as deserving of love and happiness - yet. But maybe William can help her find a way forward, the way she helped him.
Such a lovely Christmas themed romance about two self-hating, tortured, guilty souls who need each other to see that they are each worthy of forgiveness and happiness. A warm, loving, heart tugging romance, and it was lovely to see a different perspective to that brief, awful betrayal at the beginning of Book 1, and some resolution of that old hurt.
4.5 stars out of 5
Full disclosure - I have yet to find a Nina Jarrett story I dislike... she is definitely on my must read list.
This is a Christmas themed story and revisits a character from book 1, Caroline Brown. She is the maid who was caught in the stables with Richard, the Earl of Staunton, by his then-fiancee, Annabel Ridley. She was dismissed and sent away from Annabel's family estate, but with some consideration and compassion, because Annabel, despite the betrayal by someone she grew up with and considered a friend, ensured that Caroline still got a reference and a new job working in the home of a local doctor.
It would be easy to revile Caroline for betraying her employer and friend. But in this story, we get to read Caroline's perspective and her sense of loss and guilt. Caroline went to Annabel's home after the passing of her only family when she was a young girl, brought in by a family friend, the housekeeper. She found a good home there with friends, including the daughter of the home, Annabel, who taught her to read and manage accounts, and encouraged Caroline's dreams of opening her own dressmaking shop one day, with a promise to help fund it. These were all dashed when Caroline was seduced by Richard. When she made her choices, she did not think of the consequences beyond her pleasurable liaison with the handsome, seductive Earl. In the time afterwards though, she carried her losses deeply - she lost all her friends and family, and her future opportunities. As well, she carried a great deal of self blame and guilt for her betrayal of her friend, and shame.
She realizes though she was lucky, and even luckier when Richard offered a further step up - as part of his personal amends, in facing the wrongs of his own past. She took a loan from him and the use of his man of business to finance her old dream of opening a shop, with their help, in a town near one of his estates, Chatternwell. She started with a clean slate and reputation, as Mrs. Brown, but also determined to maintain a good reputation, and not fall into what she felt was her wanton, untrustworthy ways. She was determined to work hard, and keep herself from temptation by eschewing personal relationships.
William Jackson is the owner of the local smithy, a good blacksmith, and successful businessman as well. He also has regrets and guilt from his own past, related to his and his beloved cousin's decision as brash youth to join the military to fight Napoleon. Unfortunately he witnessed his cousin's death and had to bring that loss home to his own remaining relatives, his aunt and uncle. He carries the guilt of his cousin's death, believing it was because of him, that his cousin joined the military, and like Caroline, felt that he was not deserving of love and happiness with others, focusing only on his work.
But the funny thing about humans is that we are all mostly social animals who seek connections with others. Caroline discovers Annie and her mother, who is a poor war widow, and takes them under her wing. William helps his elderly neighbour on the sly, doing repairs to her cottage when she is away... and this was his downfall at Christmas. Unfortunately he falls and sprains his ankle, but it is Christmas Eve and it was difficult to find help. The local doctor is only able to find Caroline available and she and William are forced to spend a few days together while she helps him while he is laid up.
During that time, thanks to Caroline's bright, hopeful, insightful nature, William views his past and his relationships with a different perspective, and comes to the conclusion that he does deserve happiness and love - and is willing to let go of his grief and guilt so he can perhaps work towards a better, happier future for himself. And perhaps Caroline can be a part of that.
But Caroline, despite her ability to help William resolve his grief and guilt, and see a different view, cannot do so for herself, and has not resolved her own shame and guilt, and cannot see herself as deserving of love and happiness - yet. But maybe William can help her find a way forward, the way she helped him.
Such a lovely Christmas themed romance about two self-hating, tortured, guilty souls who need each other to see that they are each worthy of forgiveness and happiness. A warm, loving, heart tugging romance, and it was lovely to see a different perspective to that brief, awful betrayal at the beginning of Book 1, and some resolution of that old hurt.
4.5 stars out of 5
Full disclosure - I have yet to find a Nina Jarrett story I dislike... she is definitely on my must read list.
October 21, 2023
Caroline made a mistake a few years ago, which cost her a friendship and her safe place to live and work. She now builds up a new life in another village, where she has started a modiste and milliner shop. She is determined never to make such a mistake again, and therefore no longer enters into close contact with people. William is the local blacksmith. Since his return from the Napoleonic Wars, he has lived a withdrawn life and avoids social contacts. He feels a heavy guilt because he survived the war. These two people, of all people, are forced to be together on Christmas Eve. Despite her past, Caroline is able to continue to see the blessings in her life, unlike William. In a way befitting Christmas, William starts to look at his life differently. And he wants nothing more than to share that life with Caroline. However, in order to dare to take this step and let go of her own guilt, Caroline will need a little help herself. The characters are well described and easy to sympathize with. The author conveys the feelings of the characters well. Well written, entirely in the style of Christmas, without becoming sentimental. An accessible writing style and a good build up. The story is part of a series, but can easily be read as a standalone story. Followers of the series have already encountered Caroline before in the series, as well as other characters. One of the better stories in the series, because within a compact story an extensive emotional world emerges, without the story becoming boring or long-winded.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 1, 2023
A steamy story. I am undecided on this one rating wise. The story is about a maid who is a fallen woman setting up a shop and meeting the local blacksmith who has his own issues. Firstly I am not sure the doctor would be asking a single woman to care for a man with all the reputational risks. There is Mrs Greer who is a widow, who he would know, seems eminently sensible and would be a better choice. The doctor would also know that the blacksmith would likely reward her for caring for him which the widow needs. I cannot see why there was a need for someone to be there all the time. He has injured his ankle, needs to keep the weight off so merely needs his meals preparing plus keeping the fire going. I also wonder if some of his staff would be able to do that, surely they are all not inebriated! Then we have the heroine who has sworn off men after her debacle, swears she will not let herself fall for another man, and within an hour or so of being near him she’s leaping into bed! The dream sequences were also not for me, i get that it’s a take on Dickens A Christmas Carol, but …. So it was okay but did not grab me so only 3 stars.
October 25, 2023
Very well written, full of action, love, mistakes, romance, kindness with lots of twists and turns. Caroline is a woman who made a past mistake, noe given a chance to fix it. She uses a loan from a Lord to buy and own her own dress shop. It's there she meets the blacksmith- William. Quite upset with the way she is feeling about him, she decides to stay away. On Christmas Eve, after William's mishap the town doctor asks her to look after him as there is no one else. During the night , a ghost looking like Caroline appears to him in his dreams. Each showing him the reality of what his would be like or was/is for him. Just loved the idea of the Christmas Carol theme. Fantastic book to read. Would recommend to everyone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 11, 2023
What a delicious addition to this series! Caroline lives with supreme guilt and shame, relagating herself to a life of loneliness. William does the same for different reasons. I loved how the author used a bit of the “Christmas Carol” theme of past, present and future dreams with a twist to help William, and so adorable to see him do his best to help Caroline.It was grand to see some characters from past books, putting right what went wrong. The chemistry between these two just leapt off the page.! Grand book!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 26, 2023
The Magic of Christmas . . .
Caroline Brown once made a terrible mistake, betraying a friend in the process. Now she wants to avoid men and relationships and just devote herself to her dressmaking shop. William Jackson is a blacksmith who has avoided relationships for a long time. Attracted to Caroline, he is particularly diligent in staying away from her because she is a temptation to him. But when he is injured, the doctor enlists Caroline’s help in caring for his patient, and William is finding it difficult to ignore her now. Will the magic of Christmas bring them together, help them forgive themselves, and find a HEA?
Caroline Brown once made a terrible mistake, betraying a friend in the process. Now she wants to avoid men and relationships and just devote herself to her dressmaking shop. William Jackson is a blacksmith who has avoided relationships for a long time. Attracted to Caroline, he is particularly diligent in staying away from her because she is a temptation to him. But when he is injured, the doctor enlists Caroline’s help in caring for his patient, and William is finding it difficult to ignore her now. Will the magic of Christmas bring them together, help them forgive themselves, and find a HEA?
October 14, 2023
William is the town blacksmith out of misbegotten remorse for his cousin. He was his best friend and family. He takes over his uncle and aunts blacksmith business since their only son is gone and they retired. It’s a successful business and profits a lot.
Caroline is still feeling guilty after two years of betraying Annabel. She cannot even trust herself so she keeps everyone at a distance. You cannot betray loved ones if you have no loved ones or close friends.
These two have guilt and pasts that they may need each other to help them overcome.
Caroline is still feeling guilty after two years of betraying Annabel. She cannot even trust herself so she keeps everyone at a distance. You cannot betray loved ones if you have no loved ones or close friends.
These two have guilt and pasts that they may need each other to help them overcome.
October 6, 2023
I love this author she writes such beautiful stories .
This story of remorse , regret and self punishment of long ago sins until love and passion find a way to to forgive and forget ..
A Christmas story where the past is reflected and the realisation that life does indeed go on .
Caroline and the blacksmith were made for each other , they just had to realise it themselves and the past will be forgiven .
A lovely read as always and looking forward to more .
This story of remorse , regret and self punishment of long ago sins until love and passion find a way to to forgive and forget ..
A Christmas story where the past is reflected and the realisation that life does indeed go on .
Caroline and the blacksmith were made for each other , they just had to realise it themselves and the past will be forgiven .
A lovely read as always and looking forward to more .
October 25, 2023
Caroline and William the blacksmith have both got regrets of past actions and consequences but it’s the here and now and if they open their hearts they can live a whole life instead of an existence together. Injured on Christmas Day Caroline nurses the blacksmith when he has no one to fend for him and despite his grumpiness she can see the vulnerable , kind heart beneath. Beautiful Christmas story . Great , immersive storytelling.
I read an advance copy and my review is voluntary
I read an advance copy and my review is voluntary
November 6, 2023
William Jackson, the town blacksmith has an accident and needs someone to take care of him. Caroline Brown, the modiste, is the only one who can help him. In the time they spend together, they began to find forgiveness for past mistakes. William dreams of a life with Caroline, but she has a lot more to forgive. A holiday romance that embraces the spirit of Christmas.
Some open bedroom door.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a free copy of this book.
Some open bedroom door.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a free copy of this book.
October 25, 2023
An emotional, captivating romance about Caroline and William. Full of regret, remorse and shame for these characters, this is a beautiful Christmas story in the Inconvenient Brides series. They had a beautiful love and grow throughout the story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2023
Holidays have a way of bringing people together, there’s something about the holidays that makes impossible love possible. When holiday meets two hearts who don’t even know that their hearts are ready for love, there’s nothing standing in the way anymore. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
October 28, 2023
Have a tissue handy the day you read this NC17 Regency Christmas redemption tale with a hint of Christmas Carol set mainly in Chatternwell in 1820.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 20, 2024
Caroline Saves the Blacksmith is a novella in Nina Jarrett’s Inconvenient Brides series. It is a heartwarming tale of two lost souls finding each other at Christmas.
Caroline Brown has just moved into the town of Chatternwell as the new owner of a dressmakers shop. She is attempting to rebuild her life after she betrayed her friend in an unforgiveable fashion. Full of self-recriminations, Caroline is determined to live a life of respectability by closing herself off from all entanglements – and that includes keeping as far away as possible from the handsome blacksmith. But when he is injured the night before Christmas Caroline cannot refuse the local doctor’s request for help.
William Jackson has also vowed to keep away from all meaningful relationships after the tragic death of his cousin in battle. He does not feel he deserves any family or love in his life so keeps everyone at a distance. He is intrigued by the new modiste but has consciously avoided her. But the forced proximity of having her help him when he is injured and some visitations in his dreams help him realise that life deserves a second chance. But can he convince Caroline that they are meant to rebuild their lives together?
This was such a sweet and emotional story. Caroline has spent years blaming herself for her mistake in the past and cannot forgive herself. She tries to keep herself aloof from others but her sweet and caring nature shines through. Your heart aches for her loneliness but I love that she still counts her blessings every day and she is definitely deserving of William’s moniker of ‘sunshine’.
William has also seen much tragedy in his life but he reacts by shutting everyone out of his life – too frightened to feel too much for anyone. He can’t help but be enchanted by Caroline though.
I love how the author incorporates aspects of Dicken’s A Christmas Carol via Williams nightly dreams in which he learns what could be – this was done in such a whimsical but believable way. William believes in their future first but Caroline still cannot forgive herself. It takes his intervention and a much needed meeting before Caroline can receive closure and look to the future.
I received an advanced review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I genuinely enjoyed this uplifting tale of second chances, forgiveness and love.
Caroline Brown has just moved into the town of Chatternwell as the new owner of a dressmakers shop. She is attempting to rebuild her life after she betrayed her friend in an unforgiveable fashion. Full of self-recriminations, Caroline is determined to live a life of respectability by closing herself off from all entanglements – and that includes keeping as far away as possible from the handsome blacksmith. But when he is injured the night before Christmas Caroline cannot refuse the local doctor’s request for help.
William Jackson has also vowed to keep away from all meaningful relationships after the tragic death of his cousin in battle. He does not feel he deserves any family or love in his life so keeps everyone at a distance. He is intrigued by the new modiste but has consciously avoided her. But the forced proximity of having her help him when he is injured and some visitations in his dreams help him realise that life deserves a second chance. But can he convince Caroline that they are meant to rebuild their lives together?
This was such a sweet and emotional story. Caroline has spent years blaming herself for her mistake in the past and cannot forgive herself. She tries to keep herself aloof from others but her sweet and caring nature shines through. Your heart aches for her loneliness but I love that she still counts her blessings every day and she is definitely deserving of William’s moniker of ‘sunshine’.
William has also seen much tragedy in his life but he reacts by shutting everyone out of his life – too frightened to feel too much for anyone. He can’t help but be enchanted by Caroline though.
I love how the author incorporates aspects of Dicken’s A Christmas Carol via Williams nightly dreams in which he learns what could be – this was done in such a whimsical but believable way. William believes in their future first but Caroline still cannot forgive herself. It takes his intervention and a much needed meeting before Caroline can receive closure and look to the future.
I received an advanced review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I genuinely enjoyed this uplifting tale of second chances, forgiveness and love.
September 28, 2025
If you've read the previous books in the Inconvenient Brides series, you'll recognize Caroline Brown right away. You won't be lost though if this is the first book you read, as the author skillfully pulls in pertinent points of the backstory in the series. It's a delightful story of forgiving yourself and second chances.
Caroline Brown has rebuilt her life and is now running a successful business as a modiste in the town of Chatternwell. She has a secret in her past that she is deeply ashamed of, she allowed herself to be taken in by a charming rake and made a terrible choice that resulted in the loss of her virtue, her reputation, a good friend (the rake's betrothed), and her own self-respect. The charming rake took stock of his own behavior (Richard Balfour in book 2), and in reparation for his behavior helped Caroline with her dream goal by providing an interest-free loan to open and run her dressmaker's shop. But Caroline cannot forget. Burdened with guilt she keeps to herself, both to avoid her past becoming known or making another mistake.
William Jackson is the blacksmith of Chatternwell. He's been home from fighting in the war with Napoleon for a couple of years now and keeps to himself too. William feels he's responsible for the death of his cousin and closest friend. Charles died fighting alongside him, and William had no chance to save him. He couldn't even bring Charles' body home for burial. Just like Caroline, William is burdened with grief, believing he has no right for a joyful life.
A mishap leads to an injury, and the town doctor asks Caroline to check on William to prevent the injury from getting worse since everyone else is away with family celebrating Christmas. Mix in some holiday magic, and their souls begin to heal, turn toward each other, and grow into a strong and abiding love. It was wonderful seeing how the connection between them grew as they forgave themselves. It was a heartwarming story of healing, a beautiful theme I've enjoyed through the whole series.
Thank you BookSirens & Nina Jarrett for the ARC. My reviews are my own opinions of what I have read.
Caroline Brown has rebuilt her life and is now running a successful business as a modiste in the town of Chatternwell. She has a secret in her past that she is deeply ashamed of, she allowed herself to be taken in by a charming rake and made a terrible choice that resulted in the loss of her virtue, her reputation, a good friend (the rake's betrothed), and her own self-respect. The charming rake took stock of his own behavior (Richard Balfour in book 2), and in reparation for his behavior helped Caroline with her dream goal by providing an interest-free loan to open and run her dressmaker's shop. But Caroline cannot forget. Burdened with guilt she keeps to herself, both to avoid her past becoming known or making another mistake.
William Jackson is the blacksmith of Chatternwell. He's been home from fighting in the war with Napoleon for a couple of years now and keeps to himself too. William feels he's responsible for the death of his cousin and closest friend. Charles died fighting alongside him, and William had no chance to save him. He couldn't even bring Charles' body home for burial. Just like Caroline, William is burdened with grief, believing he has no right for a joyful life.
A mishap leads to an injury, and the town doctor asks Caroline to check on William to prevent the injury from getting worse since everyone else is away with family celebrating Christmas. Mix in some holiday magic, and their souls begin to heal, turn toward each other, and grow into a strong and abiding love. It was wonderful seeing how the connection between them grew as they forgave themselves. It was a heartwarming story of healing, a beautiful theme I've enjoyed through the whole series.
Thank you BookSirens & Nina Jarrett for the ARC. My reviews are my own opinions of what I have read.
October 20, 2023
I loved the first book in this series but got more and more disappointed as the series went on until the short novella Miracle on St. James’s Street (included in The Grand Mistletoe Assembly anthology) came along. This story is also set at Christmas time and at first, I was not sure if I wanted to continue the series as Caroline and Richard’s ‘stable incident’ is the betrayal to her friend Annabel that Caroline cannot forgive herself for. It would have been highly patriarchal of me though, having read Richard’s redemption story not to also read Caroline’s. Oftentimes the man ‘gets away’ with unfaithful behaviour but the woman has her life completely ruined. Also, men are allowed to have many sexual relations, but women are ‘required’ to be virginal and chaste. I liked how Caroline was portrayed as liking these relations (although distraught that she had done so with her friend’s betrothed). Both Caroline and William hold guilt over past actions and therefore think themselves undeserving of happiness, love, or having a family. Nina weaves a lovely element of ‘A Christmas Carol’ and ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ with a dream Caroline showing William his past, present, and future and he in turn helps pave the way for Annabel and Caroline to reconcile and forgive. A lovely festive redemptive romance and a return to form for the series. Also, I don’t judge books by their covers, but Caroline’s cloak is as beautiful as described in the book.
January 5, 2024
Interesting how this book came across as both prissy and saccharine whilst containing more than one instance (and other references) to premarital sex. For all the guilt Caroline said she felt about the past (in which she dallied with her best friend’s fiancé and left in disgrace), she seemed to fall into bed with William, whom she’d just met. Internally, she kept telling herself to steer clear of close relationships but that never translated into actually doing so.
The other oddity here is the seeming parallels to A Christmas Carol as William—with his own guilt over past actions—dreamed of Caroling in his past, present, and future, which helped him change his way of thinking about harbouring that guilt forever. I guess that’s a nod to the fact this is set at Christmas.
Of course, everything works itself out to a happy ending (I’m not spoiling here, surely!) and if not a wildly satisfying ending, it works out well enough--with the apparently obligatory set-up for the next story in the tale, which I found rather a stretch… After squeezing all the possible drama out of this story, we’re suddenly tossed a teaser about a murder that we’re apparently supposed to need to resolve because there’s a small connection to Caroline’s reconciled friend. Meh.
The other oddity here is the seeming parallels to A Christmas Carol as William—with his own guilt over past actions—dreamed of Caroling in his past, present, and future, which helped him change his way of thinking about harbouring that guilt forever. I guess that’s a nod to the fact this is set at Christmas.
Of course, everything works itself out to a happy ending (I’m not spoiling here, surely!) and if not a wildly satisfying ending, it works out well enough--with the apparently obligatory set-up for the next story in the tale, which I found rather a stretch… After squeezing all the possible drama out of this story, we’re suddenly tossed a teaser about a murder that we’re apparently supposed to need to resolve because there’s a small connection to Caroline’s reconciled friend. Meh.
January 31, 2024
Caroline Saves the Blacksmith is a cute Christmas book about two broken souls.
Caroline betrayed her friend by laying with her fiance. William, the blacksmith, took his cousin off to fight Bonaparte, and his cousin died. They both can't forgive themselves.
William snuck up on an elderly neighbor's roof to mend it while she was away, then his ladder broke, and he fell. The Dr can't take care of him, so he begs Caroline to do so. If anyone found out Caroline was alone with William , she would be ruined, but it's Christmas, so she agrees to help.
The funny thing is that she has cut herself off from people to keep away from temptation, but she is immediately tempted by William. It's like girl, get ahold of your hormones. It's sweet, though, because her optimism and the way she counts her blessings starts a chain reaction in William, and he starts to heal.
And she comes to him in dreams that are such a wonderful nod to "A Christmas Carol" with scenes from his past and hopefully the
future laid out before him.
I must say I was surprised that there were sex scenes, not put off or upset, merely surprised.
Caroline betrayed her friend by laying with her fiance. William, the blacksmith, took his cousin off to fight Bonaparte, and his cousin died. They both can't forgive themselves.
William snuck up on an elderly neighbor's roof to mend it while she was away, then his ladder broke, and he fell. The Dr can't take care of him, so he begs Caroline to do so. If anyone found out Caroline was alone with William , she would be ruined, but it's Christmas, so she agrees to help.
The funny thing is that she has cut herself off from people to keep away from temptation, but she is immediately tempted by William. It's like girl, get ahold of your hormones. It's sweet, though, because her optimism and the way she counts her blessings starts a chain reaction in William, and he starts to heal.
And she comes to him in dreams that are such a wonderful nod to "A Christmas Carol" with scenes from his past and hopefully the
future laid out before him.
I must say I was surprised that there were sex scenes, not put off or upset, merely surprised.
September 20, 2024
A Story of Love and Redemption
Caroline betrayed her friend with the man she was to marry, changing her life forever. It has been two years, but the guilt was as fresh as ever. Because of this mistake, Caroline did not feel worthy of love. Could she find redemption? How could someone come back from such a colossal mistake?
Like Caroline, William was battling his own demons, causing him to isolate himself from his friends and loved ones. He thought it was his fault his cousin died during the war. Now, it was Christmastime, William was doing a good deed for a neighbor, resulting in him falling and injuring his ankle. Caroline was the only person the doctor could find to take care of William. It would change both their lives. Caroline saved the blacksmith; could he save her?
Caroline and William think they are not worthy of love. However, they find themselves falling for each other. What will it take for them to find redemption and happiness? This is an emotional story. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to those who like Regency romance about redemption and second chances.
Caroline betrayed her friend with the man she was to marry, changing her life forever. It has been two years, but the guilt was as fresh as ever. Because of this mistake, Caroline did not feel worthy of love. Could she find redemption? How could someone come back from such a colossal mistake?
Like Caroline, William was battling his own demons, causing him to isolate himself from his friends and loved ones. He thought it was his fault his cousin died during the war. Now, it was Christmastime, William was doing a good deed for a neighbor, resulting in him falling and injuring his ankle. Caroline was the only person the doctor could find to take care of William. It would change both their lives. Caroline saved the blacksmith; could he save her?
Caroline and William think they are not worthy of love. However, they find themselves falling for each other. What will it take for them to find redemption and happiness? This is an emotional story. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to those who like Regency romance about redemption and second chances.
September 27, 2024
This is a sweet and heartfelt story of love and redemption for both main characters along with enough spice to light it up.
Caroline appears briefly in the first book of this series but is a catalyst so it is lovely to revisit her and follow Caroline’s own story.
I felt great sympathy for both Caroline and William. Nina always breathes life into her characters making them feel real and relatable with flaws and problems just as we all have.
There is a touch of Dicken’s Scrooge with a series of dreams past and future showing William, the blacksmith, his way which I enjoyed.
This is the last book in The Inconvenient Brides Series and a very fitting send off bringing the stories full circle. All can be read as stand alone stories but have closely connected characters. I have read all but one of the five in the series so far (to be remedied shortly) and can certainly recommend them to anyone who enjoys regency romance with a side of spice. Nina Jarrett is one of my favourite authors now.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Caroline appears briefly in the first book of this series but is a catalyst so it is lovely to revisit her and follow Caroline’s own story.
I felt great sympathy for both Caroline and William. Nina always breathes life into her characters making them feel real and relatable with flaws and problems just as we all have.
There is a touch of Dicken’s Scrooge with a series of dreams past and future showing William, the blacksmith, his way which I enjoyed.
This is the last book in The Inconvenient Brides Series and a very fitting send off bringing the stories full circle. All can be read as stand alone stories but have closely connected characters. I have read all but one of the five in the series so far (to be remedied shortly) and can certainly recommend them to anyone who enjoys regency romance with a side of spice. Nina Jarrett is one of my favourite authors now.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 14, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and am so delighted to have discovered the amazing work of another historical romance author for the first time. One of my most favorite tropes is that of two broken people with painful pasts finding healing through one another, and that is precisely what our main characters were for each other. Both William Jackson and Caroline Brown have past mistakes they can't seem to forgive themselves for, and have thus sworn off connection with another as penance for their perceived sins. But the magic of the Christmas season brings them together, and a few days of close proximity and intimate interaction help them discover that they might still have a chance at happiness and love. It was captivating to witness how their story unfolded: how each became pivotal in achieving acceptance and closure of their past, thereby finally allowing them to grasp their chance for a new hopeful beginning. The message of the story, for me, was clear: we cannot love another wholly and fully until we ourselves are whole and feel worthy. I find that a very powerful message indeed.
June 9, 2025
Mrs Brown and The Blacksmith's Christmas Carol
Caroline and William each try to stop themselves from engaging in relationships due to pain or incidents from their past. However their good nature's, they each can't resist from doing helpful deeds for their neighbours. A good deed of repairing a roof with William falling off his ladder brings William and Caroline together but each is resistant to their mutual attraction to prevent future hurt. I enjoyed the dreams similiar Christmas Carol of Willam's past, present and future with William learning how to let himself live, reconnect and to love and be loved while Caroline struggles with her past enough to deny herself future happiness. "There could be no idyllic future for a woman keeping shameful secrets—no trusting her to care for others when she had no faith in herself. - Chapters 8, Caroline's thoughts.
Caroline and William each try to stop themselves from engaging in relationships due to pain or incidents from their past. However their good nature's, they each can't resist from doing helpful deeds for their neighbours. A good deed of repairing a roof with William falling off his ladder brings William and Caroline together but each is resistant to their mutual attraction to prevent future hurt. I enjoyed the dreams similiar Christmas Carol of Willam's past, present and future with William learning how to let himself live, reconnect and to love and be loved while Caroline struggles with her past enough to deny herself future happiness. "There could be no idyllic future for a woman keeping shameful secrets—no trusting her to care for others when she had no faith in herself. - Chapters 8, Caroline's thoughts.
January 17, 2024
Heartwarming
Caroline is a fallen woman who moves to an obscure town to open a modiste shop. William is a former soldier who is dealing with the death of his cousin in battle. Caroline feels guilty for the man she was with was the fiancé of her good friend. William feels guilty because he is the one who talked his cousin into joining the military. Both have decided to shut down their emotions and live trying to atone for their mistakes. Can they ever hope to heal? Will Caroline receive forgiveness from her friend Annabel? Will William forgive himself and move forward? Can two damaged people find healing and love with each other? This is another great example of Nina’s ability to weave a great story with endearing characters. R. K. C.
Caroline is a fallen woman who moves to an obscure town to open a modiste shop. William is a former soldier who is dealing with the death of his cousin in battle. Caroline feels guilty for the man she was with was the fiancé of her good friend. William feels guilty because he is the one who talked his cousin into joining the military. Both have decided to shut down their emotions and live trying to atone for their mistakes. Can they ever hope to heal? Will Caroline receive forgiveness from her friend Annabel? Will William forgive himself and move forward? Can two damaged people find healing and love with each other? This is another great example of Nina’s ability to weave a great story with endearing characters. R. K. C.
January 18, 2024
A Tender Christmastide Love Story of Forgiveness
Caroline lives with a shameful secret. William lives with horrific memories. Both have made vows to never be close to another person. Then a request is made and an unexpected relationship is forged.
Caroline Saves the Blacksmith by Nina Jarrett was an entertaining read with a tender story and characters who were both relatable and likable. Although the author's style was a bit wordy, it did not keep me from enjoying this uplifting tale of regret and forgiveness.
Content 411: This standalone book contains a few mild swear words and one described intimacy scene.
Disclosure: I received this book for free from BookSirens. I am voluntarily reviewing this book, and this is my honest review.
Caroline lives with a shameful secret. William lives with horrific memories. Both have made vows to never be close to another person. Then a request is made and an unexpected relationship is forged.
Caroline Saves the Blacksmith by Nina Jarrett was an entertaining read with a tender story and characters who were both relatable and likable. Although the author's style was a bit wordy, it did not keep me from enjoying this uplifting tale of regret and forgiveness.
Content 411: This standalone book contains a few mild swear words and one described intimacy scene.
Disclosure: I received this book for free from BookSirens. I am voluntarily reviewing this book, and this is my honest review.
October 17, 2025
I loved how Nina Jarrett wove A Christmas Carol motif into this charming Regency tale. Seeing Caroline get her second chance at happiness with the blacksmith was heartwarming and full of festive spirit. What made the story truly special for me was how both Caroline and the blacksmith weren’t just healing themselves, but also helping others. The holiday cheer radiates from every page — it’s the perfect cozy read for Christmas time. I also adored the detail of Caroline’s care for the little girl apprenticing in her modiste shop; it added a lovely touch of compassion and realism true to the Regency era. Sweet, hopeful, and full of heart — this is a story I absolutely recommend for anyone who wants a tender, uplifting holiday romance.
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