An Heiress at Heart (Love's Grace, #1)

Jan 08, 2013 Kathy Altman rated it 4 of 5 stars

An Heiress at Heart is Delamere's debut, and it's an impressive one! This first book of the Love's Grace trilogy explores the themes of honor, family and faith in a compelling balance of charm, sentiment and suspense. The author provides Lizzie with strong motivation for the deception she's carrying out—not only does she wish to honor a promise, she yearns to uncover the truth of her heritage. But her pretense becomes more and more complicated as the secrets become more and more layered, and wha...more

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Nov 29, 2012 Tahlia Newland rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

Lizzie Poole is a girl with guts, but still very much a woman of the time (1860s). After several years in Australia, she returns to London and takes up a role in society, but her past haunts in her more ways than one. Delamare does an exemplary job with her characters, both in their rendering and their development. Somehow, she manages to give us insight into Lizzie as she was in the past while at the same time showing us how she is now. Lizzie and Geoffrey are both extremely well-drawn, as are...more

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Nov 18, 2012 Melanie rated it 5 of 5 stars

There are so many things I just loved about this book, but before I get to it, here’s the story in a nut shell.

The story opens with a Prologue in 1846 and our heroine, Lizzie and her brother Tom are traveling by caravan through New South Wales in Australia toward new life and new opportunities.

While on route, we find out the reasons behind their leaving England to come to this strange new land and why both are looking forward to the end of their long journey. Their guide, Mr. Edward Smythe, has...more

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Oct 28, 2012 SOS Aloha rated it 4 of 5 stars

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart. – Helen Keller

Jennifer Delamere bursts on the Regency scene with a historical saga that sets the bar high for a debut author. HEIRESS AT HEART opens with Lizzie and Tom, sister and brother, escaping England after a duel. They land in Australia to embrace its opportunities. Lizzie meets Ria, a runaway heiress who looks like Lizzie. When Ria dies, she begs Lizzie to return to England,...more

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Oct 16, 2012 Shauni rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: netgalley

Once again Netgalley has found me a wonderful new author, one who addresses a very definite need in my reading. I love romance books, I admit it.. sometimes I even admit it out loud *grins* but lately with all the PNR and other aspects I have found the books to not only shy away from God but in subtle ways to be very anti Christian. Eventually I will be writing a post on this very subject but for now.. To that end I have been searching Netgalley for inspirational books, romances.. Love stories b...more Once again Netgalley has found me a wonderful new author, one who addresses a very definite need in my reading. I love romance books, I admit it.. sometimes I even admit it out loud *grins* but lately with all the PNR and other aspects I have found the books to not only shy away from God but in subtle ways to be very anti Christian. Eventually I will be writing a post on this very subject but for now.. To that end I have been searching Netgalley for inspirational books, romances.. Love stories based on something more than lust.. not that lust doesn't have its place. But sometimes I just want something more.

To that end I have discovered Jennifer Delamere and her wonderful Love's Grace Series. An Heiress at Heart is the first book and let me tell you I was totally and completely charmed and can not wait to read more.

Fleeing from a mistake in her past Lizzie Poole heads for Australia with her brother to find a new life. Once there she finds a woman who in looks and bearing can only be related to her. Together Lizzie and Ria piece together their pasts and realize that there is most definitely a connection. Upon the death of all Lizzie holds dear she returns to England in an attempt at redemption. Only she is returning as Ria, not Lizzie. She is there to help those who loved Ria to find peace and forgiveness and another chance. As well as to see if there really is a familial connection. Although she thought this would be easy she had no idea that things would get so complicated.

Geoffrey Somerville, was perfectly happy being a small parish vicar. Committed to those in need he spent his life ensuring that his parishioners had the best he could offer. He had absolutely no desire to become Lord Sommerville but with the death of his two older brothers the title is now his. Geoffrey quickly becomes a ton favorite but he wants more from his spouse/mate/wife than a shallow flighty miss of the ton.

When Lizzie literally falls at his feet, Geoffrey is instantly smitten and with the help of his friend James assists her. Unwittingly helping the Lizzie to establish herself as Ria. Ria, the woman who broke her betrothal to one brother and eloped with another. Ria, silly, vain, flighty woman of the ton who has seemingly returned after 10 long years, with news of his brother.

To watch these two slowly fall in love and have to deal with both the loss of a loved one, the laws of the land (you can't marry your former sister-in-law). Watching Lizzie try to walk a tightrope of what is right and what is wrong. In fulfilling her promise to Ria and in staying true to herself is a delight. Ms Delamere writes a wonderful story that so many of us understand. Telling the difference between in doing what is right and doing what is RIGHT..

This book made me think, we always picture regency England full of those lacking morals and integrity. That a Vicar is nothing more than a third son who needed a job not a man with a calling. It is nice to see that a man of faith. A man who may now live in a secular world, who deals with secular issues but still retains his faith. And yes a man who stumbles, grapples with his pride and eventually remembers where true strength came from.

This was a story about family and forgiveness. About redemption and yes about Love. It truly was a wonderfully sweet story and I enjoyed it immensely. I am very excited to read the next book in the series..

Shauni

This review is based on the ARC of An Heiress at Heart provided by netgalley

For more reviews by Shauni check out Tea and Book and
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy (less)

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Jul 21, 2012 Farrah rated it 4 of 5 stars

This review also appears on my blog at http://www.thegoldenruleof666.blogspo...

An Heiress at Heart is a very sweet love story that is filled with secrets. I loved it, except for one thing...

The story is one that has been used before: a woman who looks remarkably like a lady takes the ladies place. But it's by no means cliche. The author manages to make the story unique and wonderful.

Lizzie was a character I could feel for. She's stuck in a pretty bad position. First, her life as her own identity...more This review also appears on my blog at http://www.thegoldenruleof666.blogspo...

An Heiress at Heart is a very sweet love story that is filled with secrets. I loved it, except for one thing...

The story is one that has been used before: a woman who looks remarkably like a lady takes the ladies place. But it's by no means cliche. The author manages to make the story unique and wonderful.

Lizzie was a character I could feel for. She's stuck in a pretty bad position. First, her life as her own identity is ruined because of a mistake she made years ago. Then, as her identity impersonating Ria, she is pulled one way by her promise to her friend and another way by the guilt she feels for deceiving people she has grown to love. It's a tough situation. But she was strong through it. She handled it realistically. She's not the most memorable or remarkable heroine you'll ever see, but she is a lovely character.

Geoffrey was complicated. He was a clergyman, a third son, until his two older brothers died and he was suddenly shouldered with a title. He goes through some growth throughout the story. He starts out as unforgiving and cynical. But then he turns into a sweet man who will do anything for the one he loves. I kind of had a hard time with him. This is the one problem I had with this book. There wasn't enough character development. I never felt like a really knew him. I knew him enough to like him. But I didn't feel like I really knew him, didn't feel like I really understood his character. This underdevelopment happened with a few other characters, but it was most noticeable in Geoffrey. That's not to say I didn't like him. I did, but I just wanted to know more about him.

The story moves pretty quickly. The plot was fast and never dull. There was a constant tension throughout the plot as you wait to see if anyone finds out the truth about Lizzie's identity. The ending was very sweet, a perfect ending for the story.

Other than one problem, I really like An Heiress at Heart. It's not the most remarkable book you'll ever see, but it's worth a read. It's a sweet story full of romance and secrets. A perfect formula for a good read.

4/5

Thanks to Netgalley for a copy!(less)

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Oct 31, 2012 Heather Boustead rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: drama, clean-romance, christian-fiction, historical, historical-fiction, romance

An Heiress at Heart
Love’s Grace Book One
By Jennifer Delamere

Lizzie Poole and her brother Tom escape to Australia after Lizzie has an indiscretion with a man who leaves her destitute in Europe. Upon arriving they are both picked out to be free workers by a man who seems all too interested in Lizzie claiming his wife Ria and she will become fast friends. Once they have made their way to their final destination Lizzie soon realizes why Edward was so fascinated by her tale, she looks exactly like hi...more

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Oct 30, 2012 Melody May rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: inspirational, historical, netgalley, romance

Also on my blog at http://sillymelody.blogspot.com

Last night I spent most of the night finishing An Heiress at Heart by Jennifer Delamere. I must say that it was a wonderful read. So, let share what it's about and why I liked it.

The story starts off with Lizzie Poole and her brother in Australia, where they meet Edward and Ria Smythe (whose actual last name was Somerville). When Lizzie and Ria come face to face for the first time there is an uncanny resemblance to one another that could make the...more Also on my blog at http://sillymelody.blogspot.com

Last night I spent most of the night finishing An Heiress at Heart by Jennifer Delamere. I must say that it was a wonderful read. So, let share what it's about and why I liked it.

The story starts off with Lizzie Poole and her brother in Australia, where they meet Edward and Ria Smythe (whose actual last name was Somerville). When Lizzie and Ria come face to face for the first time there is an uncanny resemblance to one another that could make them possibly sisters.

Hard times hits them and on Ria's deathbed she asks to Lizzie to become her and go to the family. What are you going to do? After all, Lizzie lost her brother to the sea, Ria's husband is dead and Ria is dying, might as well assume Ria's position. What could go wrong?

So, Lizzie makes it back to England and everything is going swell. Ria's family accepts her as Ria. However, there is always a snag in road. For one thing, she's falling for her "Brother-in-Law," which was a big no-no back then. If it couldn't get any worse, she has a blast from her past, who was supposedly to be dead. Sounds like trouble ahead for Lizzie, hopefully it works out for her.

Overall, I found this story delightful. I mean I usually steer clear of inspirational romance novels for a couple of reasons: 1) they tend to be to preachy and 2) they struggle with there inner conflict, no real villain. However, I didn't find that at all with this story. It wasn't overly preachy. I just chalked up to the hero being a former vicar who came into a title, so he would still has his tendency to be like a vicar. I love that there was real villain in the story. Yes, there was that inner struggle thing, but there was a real bad guy. Which gave the story more depth. I was truly amazed. I loved that it wasn't overly sappy and I'm looking forward to reading more books from Jennifer Delamere.

So, I leave you today and I hope you have a wonderful day. Enjoy the books your reading.

eARC provided by NetGalley(less)

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Aug 22, 2012 Melinda rated it 4 of 5 stars

London has always been her home but one act of shame and impulsiveness has Lizzie Poole living in Australia now. She expected a lot of things like hard work and accommodating to a new lifestyle but never expected a sister. Life in Australia was good considering she had Ria she was learning new things about her life. Ria explained about her past and how she, Lizzie Poole, must go back to London to make things right and hopefully makes amends to a family she gave up. Now years later in London she...more London has always been her home but one act of shame and impulsiveness has Lizzie Poole living in Australia now. She expected a lot of things like hard work and accommodating to a new lifestyle but never expected a sister. Life in Australia was good considering she had Ria she was learning new things about her life. Ria explained about her past and how she, Lizzie Poole, must go back to London to make things right and hopefully makes amends to a family she gave up. Now years later in London she is trying to make amends to a family that are foreign to her yet seem like a memory because of Ria. She expected a lot of things from her new family but Ria never told her about Lord Somerville, Geoffrey, her brother-in-law. One minute he is brooding and the next he is giving her kisses that confuse her. Can she keep up with the charade as Ria and live a life she always dreamed of, wealth and a family to love her?

Lord Somerville a.k.a Geoffrey is still coming to terms with his new title. In his heart he is still a clergyman but now that all his brothers are dead he must adjust to his new title. The thing is that he is better as a clergyman than a man of the ton. Everything changes though when his lost sister-in-law, Ria come back from the dead. Ten years ago she disappeared with his brother, Edward and now is back as a widow. Once again another brother is gone but something about her story of survival seems farfetched. There are people that say she is not what she seems but nothing matters in his eyes except her beauty. Something about Ria is making him think like a man even though as her brother in law he cannot marry her. Geoffrey knows she is hiding something but has no idea only knows that one day more apart from her is driving him crazy. Can he find out what she is hiding before her family finds out and tragedy strikes again?

This is a first I have read from Jennifer Delamere and have to say I was very pleased with An Heiress at Heart. I fell in love with Lizzy Poole and her predicament in this story. There is love, passion, confusion and one woman’s second chance at having a family that loves her. The story line was sweet and to the point and a villain ought to ruin everything Lizzy has worked for. Jennifer Delamere did a great job in showing us that beneath Lizzy’s heart is a real woman trying to find her identity and heritage. Geoffrey was great in the book showing us his confusion at the love he was feeling towards his sister in law and joy in knowing that one day they could be together. All in all it was a good book and part one of a series that is looking good. (less)

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Oct 13, 2012 Aliaa El-Nashar rated it 4 of 5 stars

I have absolutely no idea why it took me so long to read this book. Maybe because I hadn't expected it to turn out as great as it did? Two things had drawn me to it, the cover - which assuming you know me, you'd realize it would be a great incentive to read the book - and the fact that it was a Regency Historical Romance. The title held some interest to be sure, but I didn't get how fitting it was until I actually read the book.

As I always say, I am very wary of historical romances, because I am...more I have absolutely no idea why it took me so long to read this book. Maybe because I hadn't expected it to turn out as great as it did? Two things had drawn me to it, the cover - which assuming you know me, you'd realize it would be a great incentive to read the book - and the fact that it was a Regency Historical Romance. The title held some interest to be sure, but I didn't get how fitting it was until I actually read the book.

As I always say, I am very wary of historical romances, because I am not usually fond of all styles. I am more likely known to settle on specific writers and not explore unless I have good reason to think the author's style would be to my liking. In this case Jennifer did not disappoint. I took very well to her writing and the way she portrayed her characters as well as the settings in the 1800's. The language, the references, and the surroundings were all well developed and I felt like I was right there alongside the characters, which is obviously a winning point to anyone embarking on such a complicated thing as a historical book.

The premise of the story was quite new. I mean sure, I've heard of brothers taking each other's places to correct an injustice, or to uncover a secret, or claim a birthright, sometimes even cousins. But in this case, it was a bit different and I quite enjoyed that. The prologue was befitting to the whole story, then came the gripping first chapter. I was hooked from the start with the writing, and enjoyed the ride along the lines of this read.

I must say I was disappointed that Tom didn't appear much in the book and in a way his role was passed onto James, Ria's cousin. Tom was the overprotective brother, and in a way James held that position after Lizzie came back claiming to be Ria. Though I guess I loved James' character, the sarcastic and not so serious heir to the estate. I enjoyed the clash between his character and Geoffrey's, they were different and their interactions with Lizzie were amusing.

I can safely say Jennifer Delamere is now officially on my favourite Regency Historical Romance authors! I can't wait to read more by her, especially in this series!

Rating: 4/5(less)

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Dec 14, 2012 My Book Addiction and More MBA rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

AN HEIRESS AT HEART by Jennifer Delamere is an exciting historical romance. Set from 1846 South Wales, Australia to 1851 London, England. Book 1 in the "Love's Grace" series,and what a beginning. Follow, Lizzie Poole and Geoffrey Somerville on a journey of love,deception and forgiveness. Filled with mistaken identify,passion,desire,secrets,love,misunderstanding,forgiveness,and healing. While Lizzie might not started as a heiress but a heiress she is. Fast paced,filled with an intriguing plot,int...more

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Nov 30, 2012 Jessica rated it 4 of 5 stars

I seriously cannot get enough of historical romances, especially during this time of year (somehow the holidays make me want to read about that fantastic era). Needless to say, I could not wait to get into this one!

The story starts off when Lizzie almost gets run over by two gentlemen on the street. Lizzie was in the middle of contemplating going into the house of her long lost sister Ria (who happens to have just died) and fulfilling her dying wish of taking her place in an upperclass home. Lu...more I seriously cannot get enough of historical romances, especially during this time of year (somehow the holidays make me want to read about that fantastic era). Needless to say, I could not wait to get into this one!

The story starts off when Lizzie almost gets run over by two gentlemen on the street. Lizzie was in the middle of contemplating going into the house of her long lost sister Ria (who happens to have just died) and fulfilling her dying wish of taking her place in an upperclass home. Luckily, the men happen to be Ria's cousin and Ria's husband's brother. Lizzie is forced into taking Ria's persona on right away and has to fool everyone into thinking she's the woman who ran away with her then fiance's brother and is only returning because her love has died, leaving her devastated and alone.

Seems simple enough, right? Well, it is until Lizzie begins to grow closer and closer with Geoffrey, who happens to be the other brother of Ria's deceased husband. Since Ria and Geoffrey are related by marriage and everyone assumes Lizzie is Ria, there is no way they can ever be together. But Geoffrey seems to be the only one who gets the "new" Ria and is one perfect gentleman. That's not the only problem either. People keep on popping up from Lizzie's past who threaten to expose her little charade. Lizzie has to stop this from happening before she loses her new home, family, and budding love. Talk about a crazy life!

While I greatly enjoyed the time this took place, with the balls, courting, walks in the park, and callings, the story ended up being a bit too slow for my taste. There was a lot of talking going on among the characters, so I definitely thing it could have used some more action. Also, some parts seemed to drag by because it was all Lizzie's thoughts or someone else's thoughts. Things definitely could have picked up and if they did, I probably would have enjoyed this one a lot more. I'm happy, though, that the author could take a unique side of a story that seems to be overdone by the way she makes Ria already dead and certain people from Lizzie's life come back into the story. So overall, An Heiress At Heart was a pretty good read, I just wish there was more action and a livelier plot.(less)

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Nov 01, 2012 Kelly rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: review-copy, romance, inspirational

In short: I loved this book. I have a bit of a soft spot for inspirational romance that doesn’t strangle one with sweetness and sparkly rainbows, and this book more than fit that bill. It is a lovely romance featuring a slew of flawed but likable characters, a case of assumed identity, some pining, a bit of despair, a spoonful of righteous indignation, and a fantastically awful villain (and he TOTALLY did the Wilhelm scream). Further, even though Lizzie endures years of unpleasant consequences a...more

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Aug 02, 2012 Mal rated it 3 of 5 stars

An Heiress at Heart is a good romantic novel. It is set in the 1800's with a rather simple storyline that is captivating. I believe it captivates your attention due to the writing style - it has a fast pace and the dialog/descriptions meet the era of the story which is a pet peeve of mine when this fails. The storyline is consistent with great transitions - in my opinion most romance novels are choppy and rough - not the case with this novel.

The characters aren't over developed, however, the au...more

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Mar 08, 2013 Jo Ann rated it 5 of 5 stars

"An Heiress at Heart" by Jennifer Delamere is a wonderful, well-written story that grabs the reader's attention and holds it to the very last word. The Prologue takes place in New South Wales, Australia, in 1846 and introduces Lizzie Poole, her brother Tom and Edward and Ria Smythe. However, Chapter One moves the story to London five years later with Lizzie taking center stage and Geoffrey Somerville introduced as her intense yet appealing male counterpart.

"An Heiress at Heart" is a tale of mist...more

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Nov 04, 2012 The Window Seat added it

One of the perks to my writing for this blog has been the opportunity to increase my exposure to different types of stories within the Romance genre. When I chose to read An Heiress at Heart, I was expecting a standard story about mistaken identities and the conflicts between honor and the heart. What I found was a wonderful story dealing with two people each facing crisis within themselves and how they are able to create a bond through love and faith that heals them both.

Lizzie Poole has been g...more

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Mar 01, 2013 Meag rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, romance

This is a very sweet romance novel. If you are looking for hot, steamy scenes ... this isn't that book.

I like the plot, the misunderstanding and how it gets resolved. People don't over react in theatrical ways but try to solve the problem realistically. As with all romances, love wins all and forgiveness comes a little too quickly to wrap everything up.

One interesting quirk with this book is (besides lack of sex) is while it is not a "Christian Romance" - there are a few religious mentions in th...more

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Nov 13, 2012 Katrina Sutton rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads-won

*Good Reads Winner*
I am so excited to receive a free copy of An Heiress at Heart!
I can't wait until it arrives. :)

There is a time when I have found that romance books in this time and age to be too graphic it was almost like lust rather than love. I find these books poorly written because it is so filled with junk. But with Jennifer Delamere's An Heiress at Heart, it was not like that at all. I found the writing to be well written, the love story to be enchanting, and the characters to be what t...more

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Nov 19, 2012 Chelsey rated it 4 of 5 stars

Lizzie Poole led a simple and enjoyable life until one act of foolishness forced her to leave her home in London and head to Australia to start a new life. That is, until she met Ria, her new friend and sister. Ria’s dying wish was for Lizzie to go back to London and reclaim her life. The only catch is that she will be impersonating Ria and trying her best to keep Ria’s family from believe otherwise. From the start Lizzie is faced with a long and tiresome road ahead of her, not to mention all th...more Lizzie Poole led a simple and enjoyable life until one act of foolishness forced her to leave her home in London and head to Australia to start a new life. That is, until she met Ria, her new friend and sister. Ria’s dying wish was for Lizzie to go back to London and reclaim her life. The only catch is that she will be impersonating Ria and trying her best to keep Ria’s family from believe otherwise. From the start Lizzie is faced with a long and tiresome road ahead of her, not to mention all the colorful and cruel characters she meets along the way.

What I loved most about this book was that our heroine is not your typical hopeless romantic with her head in the air. She is a real woman with real values and a smart head on her shoulders. She is not naïve and is certainly not waiting for some man to come and sweep her off her feet unexpectedly. She is a character that you can put stock in and really feel sympathy for because her lot in life has not been the easiest one to face. I had such an emotional tie to Lizzie and I was definitely on her team. I love realistic characters like her and although Jennifer writes Lizzie as vulnerable sometimes, I think it only illuminates her depth as a character and her ability to overcome even the most extenuating circumstances.

Geoffrey was probably the character that Lizzie interacted with the most, and I must admit that I wasn’t too fond of him at first. When we meet Geoffrey, he has been given a new title because of the recent death of his two brothers. He seems like a noble and intelligent man, but I almost wanted to tell him to lighten up at times. He knew that something wasn’t right with Ria (Lizzie), but he also knew that he couldn’t stay away from her. I loved their relationship because it was once that I would have never picked the couple and paired them together. I guess that’s why I am just the reader and not the writer!

This book was nicely paced and a highly enjoyable read! I am ready to see what is next from this author and in this series!

***Hugs and love to the author, Jennifer Delamere, for sending me my very own copy of this book in exchange for my honest review***
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Jan 25, 2013 Englishrose rated it 5 of 5 stars

This was a cute and sweet romance that I really enjoyed. With great emotional turmoil and realistic characters, the story pulled you in. It was a little predictable in my opinion, but had such a flirty flair to it that it was a great read. Lizzie is fun a brave and caught up in a tangled web of lies and loyalty. Geoffrey is a great and life-like character. The story shows an ever-growing understanding of what true compassion and love can do. Great side characters fleshed out the story and perhap...more

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Jan 14, 2013 Melanie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Good Clean Adult Romance. Nice!

So I enjoyed this book, I thought it tastefully added Christian morals and stuff, Nice!

I found her accuracy with timelines impressive, however I was not so impressed with her English Victorian portrayal.. I was not so convinced that her characters were English, or Victorian, certain things screamed United Stater at me, but maybe I am just a jerk snob. That bothered me throughout the book, but the story was so fun and clean that I can easily overlook it.

I am excit...more

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Dec 31, 2012 Andrea rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-historical-romance

Lots of raving reviews about this one, but I just couldn't get into this book. I took me forever to read and I usually FLY through historic romance novels. I believe I just had a problem with the premise of the book - girl looks like girl she meets in Australia. They work out they are related. 2nd girl dies, 1st girl takes her place. Hmmmm....I wonder how that will turn out? In this way, I just couldn't believe the happily ever after that I crave when reading books in this genre. As for the endi...more

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Nov 20, 2012 Jen (Red Hot Books) rated it 4 of 5 stars

I had no idea when I started reading this book that it was an inspirational romance. I tend to like my romance with a sexy kick --and frankly, the last thing I am looking for is a sermon or even a "message" while I am trying to get my lovin' going on. Had I known this could fall under that category, I would have never picked it up. But I would have missed out. This was a sweet love story and I actually enjoyed it. I didn't really miss the sex (*gasp*) and I never felt beat over the head with a l...more I had no idea when I started reading this book that it was an inspirational romance. I tend to like my romance with a sexy kick --and frankly, the last thing I am looking for is a sermon or even a "message" while I am trying to get my lovin' going on. Had I known this could fall under that category, I would have never picked it up. But I would have missed out. This was a sweet love story and I actually enjoyed it. I didn't really miss the sex (*gasp*) and I never felt beat over the head with a lesson to be learned.

The story follows a young woman named Lizzie who fled London with her brother after she was shamed by an affair, and her brother shot the man in a duel. They made a new home for themselves in Australia where fate put her in the path of a woman who could be her twin. A woman who Lizzie came to believe truly was her half sister. Sadly, the woman --Ria-- and her husband died in Australia, along with Lizzie's brother, but not before Ria could convince Lizzie to return to London and assume her identity. Ria had left town in an elopement a decade earlier and she hoped to make things rights with her family through Lizzie. Having no one else --and really believing that she was part of Ria's family-- Lizzie honors Ria's wish.

The deception goes amazingly well. But there's a big hitch. Lizzie falls in love with a man Ria could never have. Geoffrey was younger brother to Ria's husband. And he turns to Lizzie for answers about what happened to Edward. He thinks he is getting close with his brother's widow, who could never be his. Yet he can't fight his growing feelings. Neither can Lizzie.

You know it's only a matter of time before the secrets and lies are exposed, but it's hard not to empathize with the main characters. Lizzie's motives are understandable and her feelings for Geoffrey are true. And Geoffrey is trying so hard to do the right thing, but his heart belongs to the woman he thinks was his brother's wife.

The writing is good, even if the story plays out in a somewhat predictable fashion. The characters are likeable, though I wish Geoffrey, especially, had been a bit more fleshed out. It's a sweet and gentle romance with a feel good ending and just a liiittle bit of a message.

Rating: B-

*ARC Provided by Grand Central Publishing via NetGalley(less)

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May 21, 2013 Purplerebecca rated it 4 of 5 stars

Very fun and well done! Through outlandish situations, the author masterfully ramps up the sexual tension, the twists, and the impossibility of the heroine resolving this tangle she is in, while keeping the characters real, and the story sweetly Christian and clean. Suffers some at the end, where I wanted to see more of the hero working through his feelings, and less of the heroine fretting in ignorance until everyone else comes to tell her how they have solved her problems for her.

But I will de...more

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Nov 21, 2012 Marie rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: goodreads-winnere

This was a goodreads winner book for me. New Author Ms Delamere does a wonderful job of creating a different kind of historical romance novel. This is Book One in her "Love's Grace Trilogy". Set in the mid 19th century this story follows the life of Lizzie Poole who leaves London with her brother after being led astray by a member of the ton to find themselves in Australia where she meets a woman Ria Smythe who could pass for her twin and after several years Ria's husband dies then Lizzie's brot...more

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Dec 18, 2012 Kim rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction, religious, historical-romance

My friend Kelly (from Reading With Analysis) and I are in a constant state of book recommendations. The most recent gem Kelly recommended to me is a book calledAn Heiress at Heartby Jennifer Delamere. The first of theLove's Grace series,Heartweaves an international trail of love, adventure, and friendship that drew me right in.

After falling in love with a man named Freddie and moving with him to Europe (unmarried!), Lizzie Poole's reputation becomes tarnished when Freddie leaves her a year later...more My friend Kelly (from Reading With Analysis) and I are in a constant state of book recommendations. The most recent gem Kelly recommended to me is a book called An Heiress at Heart by Jennifer Delamere. The first of the Love's Grace series, Heart weaves an international trail of love, adventure, and friendship that drew me right in.

After falling in love with a man named Freddie and moving with him to Europe (unmarried!), Lizzie Poole's reputation becomes tarnished when Freddie leaves her a year later. Her brother Tom to comes get her and decides upon their return to England to duel Freddie for his sister's honor. When Freddie is killed in the duel, both Tom and Lizzie must flee to Australia to escape persecution for the duel. There, they meet a girl named Ria, who bears an uncanny resemblance to Lizzie. Ria, her husband Edward, and Lizzie and Tom all become fast friends. Unfortunately for them, this peaceful time doesn't last for long. Sadly, Edward is murdered and Tom dies in a shipwreck. Left alone, Lizzie begins to lean about Ria's life in England and the two come to find that Ria is actually Lizzie's half sister. Unfortunately, tragedy strikes again when Ria dies of complications from a stillbirth (and a broken heart). On her deathbed, Ria makes Lizzie promise to return to England and masquerade as her to make amends for her and also to prove that the two were sisters. Now back in England and in disguise, Lizzie meets Ria's brother-in-law Geoffrey Somerville who has inherited the title of Lord after Edward's death. Although he is attracted to "Ria", Geoffrey knows he cannot have her as she is the widow of his own brother, which is against the law. Fighting a growing attraction herself, how long can Lizzie keep up her facade?

I was extremely unsure of how I'd like this romance because of my feelings towards Geoffrey at first. His initial dislike of "Ria" didn't make sense to me. He seemed to have transferred the hurt he suffered from his brother's absence into dislike of his sister-in-law. When I was reading these parts I kept saying to myself, "Edward and Ria eloped together. It's unfair of Geoffrey to place all of the blame for the ensuing scandal totally upon Ria's shoulders" (and yes, I understand that Edward was dead and he could not longer blame him, but still.) As time went on however I grew to love Geoffrey's steadfastness, especially when a certain male character began making life difficult for Ria/Lizzie.

There were definite plot twists that I did NOT see coming, and I often found myself greatly enjoying the unknown aspects of the story. It's not often that romance novels throw me for a loop plot-wise. The formula for romance novels (at least the ones I've read) doesn't vary in structure too much. We know that the main male and female protagonists fall in love, but cannot be together until they get over a major conflict hurdle. What makes romance novels differ from each other are the details and the way an author shares those details with the reader. I was highly impressed with Delamere's storytelling capabilities, and will definitely be adding her as an author to watch for new releases from. Not only is her writing exquisite to read, but she writes with depth. Throughout the story the theme of redemption is beautifully interwoven in the plot. We see redemption for not only Lizzie and Geoffrey, but for Edward and Ria as well. In all, I'm definitely grateful to Kelly for this great recommendation. It was truly a beautiful read on multiple levels.

Kimberly (Reflections of a Book Addict)
Originally Posted: http://wp.me/p18lIL-1nE (less)

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Sep 29, 2012 Anna (Bobs Her Hair) rated it 3 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Insprational/Wholesome Historical Romance Fans

Shelves: arc, ebook, historical-romance, netgalley, for-review

Grade: C+ or 3.5 stars… Sweet Inspirational Victorian Romance

London, June 1851

Five years ago, Lizzie Poole fled in shame to Australia. She has returned to fulfill a dear friend’s dying wish. Her friend Ria had been engaged to the eldest Somersville, but she eloped with his brother Edward, leaving behind scandal for their respective families. Alone, having lost her friends and brother, Lizzie will assume Ria’s identity. She will make amends for past wrongs and seek proof of her paternity.

Geoffre...more

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Oct 28, 2012 Bookworm1858 rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance, read-2012, historical-fiction, netgalley

The pretty dress on the cover is what captured my eye. I do adore a nice historical romance; they tend to be comfort reads for me and this one was not an exception although it does feature a story I don't think I've read before. This story is about look-alikes. Lizzie ran off with a gentleman who did not do the gentlemanly thing by her and then she sought safety in Australia along with her brother. There she met Ria, who looked extraordinarily like her. After the deaths of Lizzie's brother and R...more The pretty dress on the cover is what captured my eye. I do adore a nice historical romance; they tend to be comfort reads for me and this one was not an exception although it does feature a story I don't think I've read before. This story is about look-alikes. Lizzie ran off with a gentleman who did not do the gentlemanly thing by her and then she sought safety in Australia along with her brother. There she met Ria, who looked extraordinarily like her. After the deaths of Lizzie's brother and Ria's husband, Ria herself fell ill and begged Lizzie to assume her identity and make amends in England for Ria's wrongs. She also guessed that the two were half-sisters and encouraged her to find proof of it.

This information (and a lot more) is slowly shared in manageable chunks over course of the book as we grow to love Lizzie. She lost her virtue to a man she loved but it jeopardized her entire future. Now she has the chance to make amends on behalf of her dearest friend while also claiming a family to replace those lost. I really loved Lizzie: her struggles over her mistake with the arrogant first guy; the real love she has to offer; and her reluctance to practice deceit warring with her commitment to her best friend.

Her love interest, as this is a historical romance, is Ria's husband's younger brother. Geoffrey was a clergyman, elevated to the role of baron after the death of his two older brothers and finding the transition difficult. He is now a very desirable match but he wants a real marriage, of love and companionship, not a society match. Although he and "Ria" clash initially, it is soon very clear that they are falling in love. Although I liked Geoffrey, I'm not sure we really got enough insight in to him to fully make him come alive.

Overall I found the plot points to be pretty predictable. Not to get spoilery, but when certain pieces of information were revealed, I thought that certain events would happen and I was right. This is not a bad thing as it's part of the reason I expected a comfort read and this was a very easy read. But it didn't rock my socks off. Still I'm excited for the second book which will be connected but focusing on a different character in Australia.(less)

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Feb 18, 2013 Miriam Reeves rated it 5 of 5 stars

This book was great! It was a nice clean Romance. There were a few things that were off about the time like saying they were worth millions but the story was lovely. I had no idea how it could possibly end well but it did. Perhaps not completely believable but still fantastic in this world of fiction. I would recommend it to anyone who wants a nice light hearted read with a lovely beginning middle and end.

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Dec 23, 2012 Amy rated it 3 of 5 stars

This is a quick, easy read. I liked the story in this one. It was kind of original for this type of book. The romance was clean and the characters were well written for how short it is. I thought the ending was a little rushed and convenient, but a lot of these kinds of books have that. It is just a fun, light and clean read. I finished it in about 2 hours.

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title link	preview: An Heiress at Heart
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An Heiress at Heart (Love's Grace #1)

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