I’ve said this many times–I love novella collections!  And this book, Her Country Gentleman, is no exception.  Each story is incredibly written to represent the time era that each author portrays.

There are three stories–“Spring at Tribbley Hall,” “Love of My Heart,” and “Miss Smith Goes to Wiltshire.”  All three stories can be read individually, but they are all set during the Georgian period.  Personally, I read them in order, but that is only because I basically read the entire book in one sitting–I enjoyed it that much!

I don’t want to give too much away, because that it is easy to do when explaining a novella story, but I will say, if you love this period in English history, I gladly recommend this book.  And if you love historical fiction, you will enjoy reading about the lives of these characters who lived in a world so long ago, which is why historical fiction is one of my favorite genres to read.  It is so wonderful to be able to step back in time and enter a place we know little about, but through the pages of a story, we can gather a glimpse so we can better understand yesterday.  Happy reading friends!

About The Book

Not all love is found in London . . .

Spring at Tribbley Hall by Sian Ann Bessey

When Charlotte’s grandmother invites her to accompany her to Norfolk, Charlotte jumps at the chance to visit the sea and escape the fuss surrounding her sister’s wedding preparations in London. Lord William Cheston, on the other hand, is most unhappy when his mother informs him that her old friend and a granddaughter are coming to stay. Not only is it lambing season, but he’s also dealing with the mysterious loss of several sheep. The last thing he needs is a child underfoot. When Charlotte and William first meet, he does not realize that the lovely young lady is the granddaughter in question, and she assumes that the man dressed in work clothes in the barn is a servant. Soon afterward, however, Charlotte stumbles upon a clue to William’s sheep’s disappearance, and when her life is placed in jeopardy, William is forced to choose between saving his unwanted houseguest and catching the thief.

Love of My Heart by Sarah M. Eden

Cordelia Wakefield has never lived anywhere but London and is not overly happy when her family is forced to retrench to a small estate near Teviotbrae, Scotland. An ill-fated game of battledore and shuttlecock brings her face-to-racquet with Sebastian, who runs the home farm at nearby Teviot Castle. What begins as a clash of personalities, expectations, and preferences, soon leads to a friendship neither had expected. As the magic of Teviotbrae weaves its spell, the possibility of something more than friendship begins to blossom. But what future is there for a lowly farmer and a London lady?

Miss Smith Goes to Wiltshire by Rebecca Connolly

Martha Smith wants to marry for love, and will not be persuaded otherwise. She is highly sought after in Society for her beauty and status, but refuses to consider any suitor whose only claim is that his prospects meet with her mother’s approval. Her widowed mother has had enough of Martha’s romantic sensibilities, and is sending her to stay with unfortunate cousins in Wiltshire to show her that marrying for love is a risk that is too great. Benjamin Steele, Lord Hillier, is working on his new and dilapidated estate when he first catches sight of the striking Martha Smith. Becoming Lord Hillier has only brought him a house that needs significant repairs, tenant farms that had been abandoned, and only the money he’d already possessed. He wants meaning in his life, and he’s more than willing to work for it. Though worlds apart in all else, on this point they can agree: a life of meaning would change everything.

Available Here  

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About the Author

Laura Rollins is a newly discovered author for me, and I can honestly say I cannot wait to read her other stories.  This particular book, Silver Bells and Secrets, was an absolutely wonderful book!  And I am so happy to learn that there will be two more books in this series–with the second book coming out this December, which of course is perfect timing for the Christmas season. 

As I have stated before, I love Christmas stories, but there never seems to be enough time in December to get all the reading done that I would like.  Thankfully, I was able to finish three Christmas books this month, and this Regency story was one of them.  This text focuses on two characters–Lord Ezra Weston and Miss Grace Stewart.  Of course, other characters get in the mix to make these two people’s lives a bit hectic and crazy–although, Lord Ezra seems to accomplish creating havoc all on his own!  Miss Stewart is quite observant regarding the Earl’s mishaps and wonders why he of all people would be so concerned with her.  After all, she is far below his station in society.

Lord Ezra hopes to catch the attention of Miss Stewart but knows that doing so will cause gossip among the others.  How can an Earl find an appropriate moment to talk with Miss Stewart alone, especially when such an action would be frowned upon.  Yet there is a great secret he carries, and with every day that passes, his struggles are starting to overwhelm him to a point that he believes his heart and the heart of Miss Stewart will forever be broken.  Can he mend his erroneous actions?

If you love Christmas stories, I recommend reading this one!  I know I will be reading the next book in the series as well as Rollins’ A Dickens of a Christmas series.  Happy reading friends!

About The Book

Grace plans to marry the host of their Christmas house party.
Ezra has only until it ends to convince her otherwise.

Lord Ezra Weston has done something incredibly stupid. Through a series of events he prefers not to consider too closely, he has begun a written correspondence with Miss Grace Stewart under the guise of being his own sister. She’s witty, considerate, and as much in need of a friend as he is. So, why not continue? That is, until Grace writes and says she’s set her cap at someone. In only a few words, Ezra realizes he hasn’t only made a friend these past many months, he’s fallen in love.

As an earl, Ezra can get himself invited to the Christmas house party hosted by Grace’s would-be husband. But once there, how does he plead his case? Either he loses Grace’s trust and friendship, or he loses his one chance at happiness. But that seems only fitting, seeing as he’s already lost his heart.

Available Here  

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About the Author

Even though it is January, I am still feeling the Christmas spirit.  In fact, January is my least favorite month of the year, so it is nice to continue reading Christmas stories, listening to Christmas music, and watching Christmas movies.  Does anyone else feel that way? 

I have been reading Heirloom Christmas, which is a compilation of stories by several authors.  I love these types of books, because I usually get introduced to authors I have not read before, which is the case with the first story in this book.  Misty Beller’s story is the first, and it is titled “A Mountain Christmas Romance.”  It was wonderful!  I have not stayed up late reading in quite some time, but I made an exception for this Christmas story.  It is filled with intrigue, sorrow, love, and of course romance!  It was simply the perfect read to dash away the January blues.  I’m so excited to read the other stories in this book.  What are some of your favorite January reads?

About The Book

There’s something magical about a holiday filled with traditions like making cookies, gathering with family around the tree, and reading under a snowy sky. Grab your hot chocolate and snuggly blanket and get ready to curl up for hours of reading about Christmases past with this romance collection from six of your favorite Christian fiction authors.

A Mountain Christmas Romance by Misty M. Beller

Opal Boyd learned long ago that most men can’t be trusted. But when a gruff mountain man on a desperate mission travels through her remote Wyoming mountain town, she can’t deny how Matthias Bjork’s loneliness touches her heart.
When Matthias shares the magical experience of his family’s traditional Viking Yule celebration, Opal can’t help but fall a little bit in love… But when his search for his missing sister puts Opal in danger, Matthias must sacrifice everything to rescue her.

Bundle of Joy by Robin Lee Hatcher

In this sweet contemporary romance, Alicia Harris can’t bear to disappoint her grandfather by telling him she’s two months away from being a single mother—so she tells a white lie. But when Grandpa Roger drops in unexpectedly to spend the holidays with Alicia and her husband, Alicia needs to find a fill-in—fast. Childhood friend Joe Palermo fits the bill and is willing to play along. Still, the longer they spend playing pretend, the closer Alicia and Joe come to discovering what love, faith, and marriage truly mean.

Christmas Bride by Linda Ford

Josh Kinsley thought he’d be eating a Christmas turkey with his family—not trapped and forced to work in a mine. He escapes along with beautiful Katie Webster, who was also captured by the band of outlaws.
As Josh and Katie are forced to survive a cruel winter in the wilderness, they must learn to trust each other. But will their adventures help them admit their growing feelings or will the danger keep them apart?

A Sugar Plum Christmas by Kari Trumbo

Nadia has always been on the fringe of society. As a former prostitute, she knows what people think as they look at her. But is there a way to overcome their disdain? Or is she destined to be lonely forever? When Rock, her boss and owner of the Last Chance Saloon, issues a challenge she can’t refuse, she hopes her efforts will finally make a difference. The first person who accepts her is the one she least expected. Changing her life just might also mean…love.

Baby, It’s Cold Outside by Susan May Warren

Dottie Morgan, alone and bitter, would like nothing more than to hide and let the Christmas season pass her by.
After serving as a mechanic in the Army’s motor pool, spinster Violet Hart has returned home to a community that doesn’t quite know what to do with her.
Former soldier Jake Ramsey has been in love with Violet for years—about as long as he’s been keeping a secret that just might break her heart.
And then there’s Gordon Lindholm, the farmer from across the field who harbors his own grief—and love—for the woman he can’t forget.
When the blizzard of the decade traps Dottie in her home, along with Violet, Jake, Gordon and a wandering child in need of rescue, the strangers must band together to survive. And in doing so, they just might discover the magic of Christmas and a miracle that will heal all their hearts.

A Cowboy for Christmas by Lacy Williams

Cowboy Ricky White has been running from his past for so long that he’s lost his way. When he hires on as a ranch hand for Daisy’s father, he believes he’s found his one chance to find redemption. But his secrets are looming and he’ll need a Christmas miracle to win the prickly Daisy’s heart—and maybe find his way home again. 

Available Here  

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About the Author

This book hooked me from the very start. I quickly connected with the characters and was drawn into their plight. There was mystery, intrigue, and rich historical details that left me wanting more. In fact, I stayed up way too late to finish reading because I couldn’t put it down.

Rose and Alex are both facing some really hard problems in this story and watching them find courage and forgiveness was inspiring. I loved how their relationship blossomed and also how it challenged them. His family, as well as some of the other women working at the factory, stole my heart in this story too.

I’m a huge fan of historical fiction and Kate Breslin’s work never disappoints. I highly recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My opinions are my own.

About the Book

Amid the Great War in 1918 England, munitions worker Rosalind Graham is desperate to escape the arranged marriage being forced on her by her ruthless guardian and instead follow her own course. When the Chilwell factory explodes, killing hundreds of unidentified workers, Rose realizes the world believes she perished in the disaster. Seizing the chance to escape, she risks all and assumes a new identity, taking a supervisory position in Gretna, Scotland, as Miss Tilly Lockhart.

RAF Captain Alex Baird is returning home to Gretna on a secret mission to uncover the saboteur suspected in the Chilwell explosion, as Gretna’s factory is likely next. Fearing for his family’s safety, he’s also haunted by guilt after failing to protect his brother. Alex is surprised to discover a young woman, Miss Lockhart, renting his boyhood room, but the two eventually bond over their mutual affection for his family–until Alex receives orders to surveil her.

Rose squirms beneath Alex’s scrutiny while she struggles to gain her workers’ respect. But when her deception turns to danger, she and Alex must find a way to put their painful pasts behind them and together try to safeguard the future.

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About the Author

As many know, stories set in England tend to be my favorite, which is why I enjoyed A Most Noble Heir by Susan Ann Mason so much.  However, this text is definitely a twist from the typical tale—gentleman meets lady—because it starts in the stables.  Yes, I know at first that does not make much sense.  How can the male protagonist of the story be a person of nobility if all he does is tend to the horses?  Well my reader friends, you will have to read the book to find out.  I will say though, I love the way Mason pens the journeys of both the lead male and female characters in this text, because both individuals learn more about themselves throughout their joys and strife.  As they better understand their strengths and weaknesses, each will discover their purpose and role within the society they are deemed to enter.

Nolan Price has lived one particular way all his life.  It is all he has ever known, and thankfully he is perfectly content in his station.  Despite certain difficulties Nolan encounters, he is healthy, he has a good job, and he has found the love of his life.  Nolan believes his needs are met and that there is nothing else he could ever desire—except the love of a father.

Hannah Burnham wants nothing more than to marry Nolan and to live happily ever after.  Yet with everything in life, a little rain must fall, and indeed it does rain on her future and possible happiness.  Everything seems perfect, after Nolan declares his love, yet deep down she knows something might occur which might ruin what they share together.  Could she be wrong though?  Even so, could she and Nolan face and rise above whatever life might throw at them?

I love historical fiction, because it places the reader right in the middle of a particular time period, which in turn helps the reader understand the people who lived during those days.  This book exemplifies that statement, because not only will the reader recognize the troubles of the characters, but the reader will begin to fathom what it must have been like to live during these days—with all its rules and regulations.  Therefore, if you enjoy historical pieces as much as I do, I highly recommend checking out this book.  I hope you will enjoy getting to know the individuals and places in this novel as much as I did.  Happy reading!

This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to Bethany House Publishers for my copy.

About The Book

When stable hand Nolan Price learns from his dying mother that he is actually the son of the Earl of Stainsby, his plans for a future with kitchen maid Hannah Burnham are shattered. Once he is officially acknowledged as the earl’s heir, Nolan will be forbidden to marry beneath his station.

Unwilling to give up the girl he loves, he devises a plan to elope–believing that once their marriage is sanctioned by God, Lord Stainsby will be forced to accept their union. However, as Nolan struggles to learn the ways of the aristocracy, he finds himself caught between pleasing Hannah and living up to his father’s demanding expectations.

At every turn, forces work to keep the couple apart, and a solution to remain together seems further and further away. With Nolan’s new life pulling him irrevocably away from the woman he loves, it seems only a miracle will bring them back together.

Available Here  

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About the Author

Welcome back to the blog, Cynthia. I’m so excited to have you join us today and celebrate your new release, Beyond These War-Torn Lands. It is a beautiful story and one that I will remember!

After writing your prairie series, what drew you to write Civil War fiction?

Originally, I had thoughts of making this fourth book a part of my Prairie Sky Series and having a boy named Johnny (from Books 2 & 3) grow up and become the hero for Beyond These War-Torn Lands. But the nature of this novel seemed so different from the other books that I felt it best to make it the start of a new Wounded Heart Series. Each book will have at least one character with a wounded heart that needs healing.

What will you remember most about writing “Beyond These War-Torn Lands”?

All the research! This is the first novel I’ve written that incorporates real history and historical figures within the storyline. Because of that, I had to do extensive research to ensure every detail was historically accurate. It was a lot of hard work, but it was so much fun weaving my characters into the framework of history through encounters with actual people and events of the past.

I loved how real historical facts connected to the fictional journey of these characters. You did a great job with it.

I know this past year has been so hard with your health, family, and deadlines. Can you share something with us that has given you great joy? Some blessing from God, big or small?

Yes! In the midst of dealing with a cancer diagnosis and treatments and the loss of my father, one blessing really brought me joy – that of my son’s wedding in June. I’m thrilled to have gained a daughter and to see the outstanding young man and husband my son has become. Such a joy and blessing!

I love this! Congrats to you all and the happy couple too! (And I’m still lifting you up in prayer daily for God’s continued grace and healing. Praise Him for His unfailing strength!)

Do you have a favorite character or scene from the book?

Hmm. I love both Drew and Caroline. I enjoyed writing the scenes in which they interacted and their budding romance. But, one scene with Drew and his horse was particularly fun to write. Drew is hiding from Confederate soldiers and fears his untethered horse will be his undoing. Without giving too much away, I’ll just say the horse proves to be a spirited ally for Drew in a very touchy situation.

Can you tell us a few books you’ve enjoyed reading this year?

I really enjoyed Conni Cossette’s To Dwell Among Cedars, also All Through the Night by Tara Johnson and The Rock by friend, Cara Grandle.

I’ve read the last two and loved them as well. Conni’s is definitely on my TBR pile! 🙂

Thank you so much for joining us today, Cynthia. It’s always a joy to have you here. Is there anything else you’d like to add? Any upcoming projects you can share with us?

I’m currently working on Book 2 in my Wounded Heart Series currently slated to release in November of 2022 and also have a Christmas novella project in the works with three other talented authors due out September 2023.

So excited to hear this, Cynthia. What wonderful news. Can’t wait to read them and continue following your writing journey. Blessings to you!

MY REVIEW

This book opened at an exciting pace. It stole my breath away with its vivid imagery of battles and soldiers in distress and our lovely heroine stepping out in courage and kindness to help her enemy. I loved this couple and their journey to freedom and healing. The world around them is at war and yet they show great compassion and grace to those around them.

The story delicately deals with fears, unforgiveness, bitterness, others’ expectations, and family losses. It’s not the easiest read at times due to these heavy subjects, but the author weaves beautiful elements of faith and hope throughout.

I personally loved the historical details and learned more about the time period, which is always something I enjoy and appreciate. If you too are a fan of Civil War fiction with a subtle romance tucked inside, you won’t want to miss this excellent tale!

About the Book

Available Here

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GIVEAWAY!!

Cynthia has graciously offered to give away a signed print copy of her new book, Beyond These War-Torn Lands to one lucky winner. Enter below and it could be YOU! 😉

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thanks for entering! Contest ends September 14, 2021. (US residents only, please.) The winner will be notified by email. Happy Reading, everybody!

I have been enjoying reading a new mystery series by Paige Shelton,  In fact, this is the second book in the series–I reviewed the first book a few weeks ago.  These have been amazing mysteries thus far, and it has been fun getting to know a new set of characters, especially since the setting is Edinburgh, Scotland!  If you enjoy reading cozy mysteries, I highly suggest checking these out.

About The Book

Delaney Nichols has settled so comfortably into her new life in Edinburgh that she truly feels it’s become more home than her once beloved Kansas. Her job at the Cracked Spine, a bookshop that specializes in rare manuscripts as well as other sundry valuable historical objects, is everything she had dreamed, with her new boss, Edwin MacAlister, entrusting her more and more with bigger jobs. Her latest task includes a trip to Castle Doune, a castle not far out of Edinburgh, to retrieve a hard-to-find edition of an old Scottish comic, an “Oor Wullie,” in a cloak and dagger transaction that Edwin has orchestrated.

While taking in the sights of the distant Highlands from the castle’s ramparts, Delaney is startled when she spots a sandal-clad foot at the other end of the roof. Unfortunately, the foot’s owner is very much dead and, based on the William Wallace costume he’s wearing, perfectly matches the description of the man who was supposed to bring the Oor Wullie. As Delaney rushes to call off some approaching tourists and find the police, she comes across the Oor Wullie, its pages torn and fluttering around a side wall of the castle. Instinct tells her to take the pages and hide them under her jacket.

It’s not until she returns to the Cracked Spine that she realizes just how complicated this story is and endeavors to untangle the tricky plot of why someone wanted this man dead, all before getting herself booked for murder.

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About the Author

Recently, I have really been enjoying listening to audiobooks.  This is completely new to me, because I was never a fan to sit down and listen to a book–I would rather read it myself.  However, sometime I find that reading too many chapters all at once tires my eyes out–does anyone else have this problem?  So this is where the land of audiobooks comes in!  Not only can I listen to books while I’m washing the dishes, but I can also listen in my car, which I think is pretty fantastic.

Paige Shelton is a new author to me, and as you may have already guessed, I discovered her books as I was perusing and deciding what audiobook to check out next.  Her mysteries set in Scotland interested me, because I visited Edinburgh, Scotland back in college.  So far I have listened to the first in the series, and I am almost done listening to the second.  I’m super impressed with these stories, and I find that I cannot turn off the audiobook–always a sign of a good book!

Delaney Nichols has embarked upon the adventure of a lifetime.  She has decided to move to Scotland to work in a bookshop!  Of course, this adventure is not without its ups and downs.  Even though she loves the people she works with, Delaney beings to understand that many of them have secrets she would love to uncover and understand, but will they trust her enough to reveal another side of their lives?  Particularly, her boss, Edwin MacAlister, seems to have the most to hide, and when his sister is murdered, Delaney must uncover the details.  But will she be hurt in the process?  And will her new friends come to love an welcome this American from Kansas?

There are so many details in this first book, The Cracked Spine.  From the first page to the last, it keeps the reader entertained and guessing, so that by the end of the book, I truly had no idea who the culprit was.  If you love reading mysteries, I recommend checking this book out, and if you have not tried audiobooks, I recommend that too!  Happy reading friends!

About The Book

Wanted: A bold adventurer who wants to travel the world from a comfortable and safe spot behind a desk that has seen the likes of kings and queens, paupers and princes. A humble book and rare manuscript shop seeks a keenly intelligent investigator to assist us in our search for things thought lost, and in our quest to return lost items to their rightful owners.

Never an adventurer, no one was more surprised than Delaney Nichols when she packed her bags and moved halfway across the world to Edinburgh, Scotland to start a job at The Cracked Spine, a bookshop located in the heart of the city. Her new boss, Edwin MacAlister, has given her the opportunity of a lifetime, albeit a cryptic one, and Delaney can’t wait to take her spot behind the desk.

The Cracked Spine is filled with everything a book lover could want, each item as eclectic as the people who work there; the spirited and lovable Rosie, who always has tiny dog Hector in tow; Hamlet, a nineteen-year-old thespian with a colored past and bright future; and Edwin, who is just as enigmatic and mysterious as Delaney expected. An extra bonus is Tom the bartender from across the street, with his cobalt eyes, and a gentle brogue—and it doesn’t hurt that he looks awfully good in a kilt.

But before she can settle into her new life, a precious artifact goes missing, and Edwin’s sister is brutally murdered. Never did Delaney think that searching for things lost could mean a killer, but if she’s to keep her job, and protect her new friends, she’ll need to learn the truth behind this Scottish tragedy.

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About the Author

Carolyn Miller’s book The Elusive Miss Ellison is set in England during the Regency period.  It is the story of the young Miss Ellison, who is the daughter of a kind vicar in a small village.  Miss Lavinia’s goal in life is to serve others.  Not because she is haughty and feels it might be her duty, but because her tender heart has great concern for those who have less than her.  Even though Livvie tends mostly to the poor, she does rub shoulders with those is society.  In fact, one of her best friends, Sophia Milton, is in pursuit of finding a husband.  Livvie has other thoughts in mind though, and is content to live out her days unmarried.  However, she is open to whatever the Lord may bring her way.

Nicholas, the young Earl of Hawkesbury, makes a surprise entrance into the village of St. Hampton Heath.  It is now his duty to take care of his local tenants making sure their homes are looked after.  Although, he never imaged meeting Miss Ellison again, he soon learns about her intense passions, which are often spoken out loud without abandon to anyone who may be willing to listen—including the young earl.

After meeting him, Livvie spends many of her days furious at this Earl of Hawkesbury.  Not only has his past touched her family’s life in ways that are unforgivable, but his present actions do nothing to help the people of her village.  He seems content to live in his stately home while never considering those he is more than able to help.  She does not understand who this man is or why his actions are so lacking in possibility.  Will he ever change his ways?  Or is she being too harsh in her judgement of him?

Miller’s book showcases a lovely glimpse into the days of Regency England, which is one of my favorite time periods to read about.  Her characters portray what individuals may have felt during this time and the struggles they endured.  It is interesting to read about the different levels of society and propriety and how various characters intermingle with each status of persons.

The goodness of Livvie and her bent to become too involved with charities and the sometimes brashness of Nicholas make for a delightful read.  The scenes between these two characters cause the reader to wonder what future events will be part of their lives while also considering their past connections.

I liked that Miller also included family members to play a vital role as they gave invaluable wisdom and advice to those around them.  Livvie would not have known how to make proper choices without it, and she would never have grown up into the woman she needed to be.  In the same way, servants around Nicholas are often bold enough to give their thoughts on certain subjects to him.

If you enjoy reading stories set in beautiful England, you will adore this book.  Also, if you delight in reading historical works, you will love learning more about the people who lived in Regency England.  I highly recommend checking this book out!  Happy reading!

About The Book

The arrival of the new Earl of Hawkesbury has the entire village aflutter–everone except Lavinia Ellison, that is.  In fact, in Livvie’s eyes, he is just as arrogant and thoughtless as his brother–who stole the most important person in her world.

Nicholas is weighted down by guilt, by ancestral obligations, and by the legacy of war.  He hadn’t anticipated that a perfunctory visit home would engage either his mind or his heart.  Then the hoydenish, intelligent, and very opinionated Miss Ellison challenges him to see past his pain and pride.  But between society’s opposition, his brother’s reckless past, and a shocking family secret, there may be too many obstacles for the two of them to ever truly get along.

Fans of Georgette Heyer, Lori Wick, and Julie Klassen will enjoy the spirited exchanges between the bluestocking minister’s daughter and the bruised war hero as they move past their painful histories and presumptions to a humbles appreciation of God’s grace and the true strength of love.

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About the Author

About a month after reading this novel, I heard the term bluestocking spoken and discussed in a scene from the Masterpiece series Victoria.  Have you watched it?  It is so lovely!  The characters are brilliantly written, and the historical stories are so incredible to learn from and understand–the idea of living in the Victorian era is quite interesting.

Back to Sally Britton’s story–The Bluestocking Bride–this is an intriguing tale of the journey of Ellen Bringhurst.  She is the bluestocking, and if you are wondering what that means, the term bluestocking makes reference to a woman who is highly intelligent and educated by books.  Unfortunately, during the Regency period, this declaration was a horrific statement to make, because a woman was not to be educated in this manner.  Her purpose was to marry and to have children, thereby leaving the intellectual decisions to her husband.  Ellen desires no such thing.  She wants to marry for love but to also marry someone who appreciates her passion for the written word.  Could there be such a man?

Marcus must marry.  Yet the pressure he feels from his family does not help him to move forward in this area of his life.  How can he pursue a lady he does not love?  Fortunately one distraction for him is an eagerness to visit his childhood friends, and he is surprised to be reacquainted with Ellen–a very young girl in his memory who used to follow him around when they were children.  Obviously, Ellen is much changed, and there is so much he does not know about her–so much he wishes to learn.  However, deep down, he knows Ellen is concealing a secret.  Will she trust him enough to let her guard down–perhaps even open her heart a little?

If you enjoy reading stories from the Regency era, you will love this book!  This particular novel is the third book in the Branches of Love series by Sally Britton.  I’m so excited to read the rest of the series–it is always wonderful to discover new books to read!  Have a wonderful week friends and happy reading!

About The Book

Overlooked by society and underappreciated in her family, Ellen Bringhurst has resigned herself to spinsterhood and a life of reading. Until her match-making friends contrive to reintroduce Ellen to the man she has secretly loved since their shared childhood.

As the younger son to an earl, Marcus Calvert must wed in order to inherit his estate. Still nursing a broken heart, he prefers a practical approach to matrimony rather than romantic love. When Ellen is presented as a possible bride, he proposes a marriage of convenience.

Ellen accepts his hand, hiding her feelings rather than risking her husband’s rejection. Marcus, though determined not to expose his heart again, finds more to admire in his childhood friend with each passing day. What began as a sensible arrangement now has the possibility to become so much more. But is Marcus willing to risk his heart a second time?

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About the Author