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Castles and Courtship
A Heart to Keep
Five gentlemen, one eligible young lady…and her reluctantly jealous best friend.
Emma Eastwood can think of only two ways to escape a forced marriage to a detestable man: to run away, or to marry someone else. With few prospects for the second option, she escapes with the plan to audition to be a singer in London. When circumstances prevent her from reaching Town, she can think of no other place to hide than at the castle her friend Harry recently inherited. When her plan to hide herself in the castle’s keep fails, Harry’s mother invites her to stay, but with one condition. She must secure a husband from the list of eligible bachelors attending their upcoming house party. But with Harry, the man she has always loved, just an arm’s length away, the task becomes much more difficult.
After inheriting a castle, Harry Coleman hoped his luck would turn. But when he finds Emma in the keep, afraid and alone, he can’t help the feelings he buried years ago from resurfacing. But now it’s too late. He already engaged himself foolishly to a woman in London, and now all he can do is watch as five men descend upon his new home and vie for Emma’s heart—the only heart he has ever wanted.
Living within the same stone walls of the castle, both Emma and Harry hide their feelings behind walls of their own. But strongholds can’t stand forever. What will happen if it all falls to ruin?
A Heart to Keep is a sweet, wholesome regency romance novel.
Enjoy the other books in the multi-author Castles & Courtship series that can be read in any order:
An Amiable Foe by Jennie Goutet
To Know Miss May by Deborah M. Hathaway
A Heart to Keep by Ashtyn Newbold
A Noble Inheritance by Kasey Stockton
The Rules of Matchmaking by Rebecca Connolly
A Suitable Arrangement by Martha Keyes
An Engagement with the Enemy by Sally Britton
Charming the Recluse by Mindy Burbidge Strunk
Emma Eastwood can think of only two ways to escape a forced marriage to a detestable man: to run away, or to marry someone else. With few prospects for the second option, she escapes with the plan to audition to be a singer in London. When circumstances prevent her from reaching Town, she can think of no other place to hide than at the castle her friend Harry recently inherited. When her plan to hide herself in the castle’s keep fails, Harry’s mother invites her to stay, but with one condition. She must secure a husband from the list of eligible bachelors attending their upcoming house party. But with Harry, the man she has always loved, just an arm’s length away, the task becomes much more difficult.
After inheriting a castle, Harry Coleman hoped his luck would turn. But when he finds Emma in the keep, afraid and alone, he can’t help the feelings he buried years ago from resurfacing. But now it’s too late. He already engaged himself foolishly to a woman in London, and now all he can do is watch as five men descend upon his new home and vie for Emma’s heart—the only heart he has ever wanted.
Living within the same stone walls of the castle, both Emma and Harry hide their feelings behind walls of their own. But strongholds can’t stand forever. What will happen if it all falls to ruin?
A Heart to Keep is a sweet, wholesome regency romance novel.
Enjoy the other books in the multi-author Castles & Courtship series that can be read in any order:
An Amiable Foe by Jennie Goutet
To Know Miss May by Deborah M. Hathaway
A Heart to Keep by Ashtyn Newbold
A Noble Inheritance by Kasey Stockton
The Rules of Matchmaking by Rebecca Connolly
A Suitable Arrangement by Martha Keyes
An Engagement with the Enemy by Sally Britton
Charming the Recluse by Mindy Burbidge Strunk
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2023
323 people are currently reading
573 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
February 8, 2025
2 stars ✨ Clean Fiction - Regency
I read half of this book one night and unfortunately woke the next morning not in the mood for it, but a fairytale retelling (which is what I’ve been consuming lately) so I wasn’t as interested in the last half of the book. Add in the silly problems they were facing and unable to tell each other how they felt, I found myself not eager to read about this couple. The forbidden love trope isn’t a favorite of mine, but it’s not my least favorite either. With this book, however, he is engaged to someone else and that’s obviously a massive problem. Let’s also add that his mother is the true villain of this story and was despicable to Emma. She made my blood boil!
Some of the kisses were too much for my tastes and went on for quite a while. You could totally argue that he was cheating on his fiancée whether physically or emotionally or both. Obviously him and Emma are going to be the end couple, but it still felt wrong even if he didn’t love the woman he was engaged to.
I will definitely be trying out another book by this author as I’m interested in some or them, but I think this book just fell flat for me for different reasons listed above.
Main Content-
The suitor that Emma’s stepbrother and wife are pushing on her is a clergyman and Emma makes negative comments about him and his appearance (thinking about his spending hours in an ancient cathedral has made him look grey like the stone and could fit in with the corpses buried in the churchyard, recalls him telling her about all the wicked men outside of their town and tries to convince her that he is the only high-minded and principled man around, and continues to think of him negatively).
A couple mentions of praying (not said to Whom); A mention of the “fates” being against Emma and Harry.
No major language, other phrases like “blast it all”, “why the devil”, “devil take it”, are said; A few mentions of curses (including by Harry, said, not written); Lying.
Being attacked/robbed, pain, & injuries (up to a few sentences); Harry drinks port with some men; Emma feels unwanted by her stepbrother and his wife & the wife makes negative comments to her about her singing skills and appearance.
Mentions of deaths (of parents); Mentions of a duel with someone being almost fatally injured; Mentions of an abduction; Mentions of thieves, a robbery, stealing, & stolen items; Mentions of fights/fighting, someone being hit, injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of alcohol & drinking; A few mentions of hatred; A few mentions of prejudice (society members believing prima donnas are vain and attention-seeking wantons (which Harry hates the idea of others looking at Emma that way)); A couple mentions of a criminal & arrests.
1 fingers-to-lips touches (one lasting a few sentences),
1 forehead kiss,
1 almost kiss (lasting a couple sentences),
2 kiss with no details,
4 kisses lasting a sentence,
1 kiss lasting a couple sentences,
3 kisses lasting a few sentences (one unwanted and forced upon),
3 kisses lasting around 5-7 sentences (one unwanted and forced upon),
1 kiss lasting 10+ sentences/a full page (one including a “wave of desire” being mentioned).
Wanting to kiss/be kissed (up to a few sentences), Staring at lips; A man kisses Emma without her permission and to get him to stop, she pulls her knee upward; Afterwards, Emma is disgusted and thinks about how kissing ins’t enjoyable like she hoped (she tells this to Harry and he tells her that kissing the right man is all she’s dreamed of); Touches, Embraces, Shivers, Flutters, Nearness, Smelling, & Noticing (up to a few sentences); Remembering touches, embraces, & kisses (up to a few sentences); Blushes & Flirting.
Emma is told by Harry’s mother to flirt with the gentlemen at the house party (including giving her some tips on how to do it); Harry’s mother tells Emma that she better not try to tempt or seduce her son (Emma is angry at being called a seductress/temptress); *Major Spoilers*
I read half of this book one night and unfortunately woke the next morning not in the mood for it, but a fairytale retelling (which is what I’ve been consuming lately) so I wasn’t as interested in the last half of the book. Add in the silly problems they were facing and unable to tell each other how they felt, I found myself not eager to read about this couple. The forbidden love trope isn’t a favorite of mine, but it’s not my least favorite either. With this book, however, he is engaged to someone else and that’s obviously a massive problem. Let’s also add that his mother is the true villain of this story and was despicable to Emma. She made my blood boil!
Some of the kisses were too much for my tastes and went on for quite a while. You could totally argue that he was cheating on his fiancée whether physically or emotionally or both. Obviously him and Emma are going to be the end couple, but it still felt wrong even if he didn’t love the woman he was engaged to.
I will definitely be trying out another book by this author as I’m interested in some or them, but I think this book just fell flat for me for different reasons listed above.
Main Content-
The suitor that Emma’s stepbrother and wife are pushing on her is a clergyman and Emma makes negative comments about him and his appearance (thinking about his spending hours in an ancient cathedral has made him look grey like the stone and could fit in with the corpses buried in the churchyard, recalls him telling her about all the wicked men outside of their town and tries to convince her that he is the only high-minded and principled man around, and continues to think of him negatively).
A couple mentions of praying (not said to Whom); A mention of the “fates” being against Emma and Harry.
No major language, other phrases like “blast it all”, “why the devil”, “devil take it”, are said; A few mentions of curses (including by Harry, said, not written); Lying.
Being attacked/robbed, pain, & injuries (up to a few sentences); Harry drinks port with some men; Emma feels unwanted by her stepbrother and his wife & the wife makes negative comments to her about her singing skills and appearance.
Mentions of deaths (of parents); Mentions of a duel with someone being almost fatally injured; Mentions of an abduction; Mentions of thieves, a robbery, stealing, & stolen items; Mentions of fights/fighting, someone being hit, injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of alcohol & drinking; A few mentions of hatred; A few mentions of prejudice (society members believing prima donnas are vain and attention-seeking wantons (which Harry hates the idea of others looking at Emma that way)); A couple mentions of a criminal & arrests.
1 fingers-to-lips touches (one lasting a few sentences),
1 forehead kiss,
1 almost kiss (lasting a couple sentences),
2 kiss with no details,
4 kisses lasting a sentence,
1 kiss lasting a couple sentences,
3 kisses lasting a few sentences (one unwanted and forced upon),
3 kisses lasting around 5-7 sentences (one unwanted and forced upon),
1 kiss lasting 10+ sentences/a full page (one including a “wave of desire” being mentioned).
Wanting to kiss/be kissed (up to a few sentences), Staring at lips; A man kisses Emma without her permission and to get him to stop, she pulls her knee upward; Afterwards, Emma is disgusted and thinks about how kissing ins’t enjoyable like she hoped (she tells this to Harry and he tells her that kissing the right man is all she’s dreamed of); Touches, Embraces, Shivers, Flutters, Nearness, Smelling, & Noticing (up to a few sentences); Remembering touches, embraces, & kisses (up to a few sentences); Blushes & Flirting.
Emma is told by Harry’s mother to flirt with the gentlemen at the house party (including giving her some tips on how to do it); Harry’s mother tells Emma that she better not try to tempt or seduce her son (Emma is angry at being called a seductress/temptress); *Major Spoilers*
September 28, 2024
Aww…
Romantic and humorous, with lots of drama and suspense. That’s what I call a good book. It is also enjoyable to guess certain outcomes, without knowing for sure if I am right or not.
Romantic and humorous, with lots of drama and suspense. That’s what I call a good book. It is also enjoyable to guess certain outcomes, without knowing for sure if I am right or not.
December 1, 2023
This was a very sweet story with a great mix of characters. A lovesick couple, a very awful villain, mean and uncaring relatives, and a variety of eligible gentlemen ranging from a man who smelled of mildew to a slick, flirtatious rake.
Emma left her home with her stepbrother and his wife to avoid an unwanted marriage. She loses everything and is forced to take refuge at the home of the only man she’s loved, Harry. Unfortunately he’s already engaged to someone else. Since she’s now destitute the only way she can survive is to find someone to marry. She tries to engage her affections elsewhere, but how can she when she’s constantly in the company of Harry? Does he love her or are they only friends? What good would it do to find out since he’s bound by honor to another?
This was an interesting story with lots of twists and turns. Lots of anguish, swoony kisses and opposition. If you enjoy historical romance that’s clean and heartwarming you will love this. I really enjoyed how the villain was dealt with and the happily ever after.
Emma left her home with her stepbrother and his wife to avoid an unwanted marriage. She loses everything and is forced to take refuge at the home of the only man she’s loved, Harry. Unfortunately he’s already engaged to someone else. Since she’s now destitute the only way she can survive is to find someone to marry. She tries to engage her affections elsewhere, but how can she when she’s constantly in the company of Harry? Does he love her or are they only friends? What good would it do to find out since he’s bound by honor to another?
This was an interesting story with lots of twists and turns. Lots of anguish, swoony kisses and opposition. If you enjoy historical romance that’s clean and heartwarming you will love this. I really enjoyed how the villain was dealt with and the happily ever after.
May 31, 2023
This was a cute and sweet palate-cleanser of a book, great for enjoying between heavier reads. It wasn't my personal favorite set of tropes, but for some people it will really hit the spot: childhood friends, penniless orphan heroine, scheming relative trying to keep them apart. If this sounds like the type of story you adore, then go for it!
May 1, 2024
The FMC and the MMC are by turns clueless and selfish. The other love story was such a deux ex machina that it was easy to see coming from a mile away. Really don’t make me feel much better about their selfishness. Or stupidity. The five bachelor premise was also very far fetched.
September 26, 2023
“How should I ever expect to be loved more than the stars?” “You should expect nothing less.” Harry nudged her chin up with the knuckle of his forefinger until she met his gaze.”
I really enjoyed this book. This is the 3rd book I’ve read in the Castles and Courtship series and let me tell you, this stand alone series is wonderful. This story is a sweet forbidden romance between childhood friends, Emma and Harry.
Emma and Harry are so cute together. I loved the spectacles and castle keep, the sweetest lines and all of the swoony kisses!!! The setting was beautiful and this story was intriguing and unique!
Read for:
🤍forbidden love
🤍Childhood friends to more
🤍some matchmaking
🤍castle by the sea
🤍the pinning
🤍the chemistry
🤍the castle keep
🤍lots of swoony kisses
🤍the happily ever after
The suspense from the forbidden love aspect of this story had my heart pounding! I could not see a clear path to happiness for Emma and Harry. I had to keep reading to find out what would happen next. This story had twists and turns that were surprising and fun to read. I really enjoyed Emma and Harry’s sweet journey to their very own happily ever after!
.
.
.
Content:
Unwanted advances, cruel family members.
I really enjoyed this book. This is the 3rd book I’ve read in the Castles and Courtship series and let me tell you, this stand alone series is wonderful. This story is a sweet forbidden romance between childhood friends, Emma and Harry.
Emma and Harry are so cute together. I loved the spectacles and castle keep, the sweetest lines and all of the swoony kisses!!! The setting was beautiful and this story was intriguing and unique!
Read for:
🤍forbidden love
🤍Childhood friends to more
🤍some matchmaking
🤍castle by the sea
🤍the pinning
🤍the chemistry
🤍the castle keep
🤍lots of swoony kisses
🤍the happily ever after
The suspense from the forbidden love aspect of this story had my heart pounding! I could not see a clear path to happiness for Emma and Harry. I had to keep reading to find out what would happen next. This story had twists and turns that were surprising and fun to read. I really enjoyed Emma and Harry’s sweet journey to their very own happily ever after!
.
.
.
Content:
Unwanted advances, cruel family members.
June 1, 2023
I enjoyed reading this book. I always enjoy Ashtyn Newbold's books. This story follows the forbidden romance and friends to lovers tropes. I was a little disappointed by Harry's character that he would act on his feelings towards Emma before he broke off his engagement. It doesn't ruin the story, but I just thought it was surprising.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2025
Cute!
There are many reasons to like this story. It is cute, fun, enjoyable, and full of humor. I highly recommend it.
There are many reasons to like this story. It is cute, fun, enjoyable, and full of humor. I highly recommend it.
March 2, 2024
I am not sure what kept me reading this book. But I did. So here we are. One word: sweet.
January 16, 2024
This was such a cute read. I liked Emma and I just loved Harry. Ashtyn Newbold writes such swoony heroes. 😂 The way this story wrapped up was sweet and well done.
April 14, 2024
This was a very sweet read!
Emma and Harry were childhood friends who used to see each other in the Summer. They still talk through letters and Emma is in love with him, so is devastated to hear he’s now engaged.
After her parents are gone, she lives with her stepbrother but his wife is pushing her to marry someone terrible, so she leaves their home.
Due to misfortune, she goes to Harry’s house to ask for his help, despite knowing it would hurt her to see him.
This results in Harry’s mother giving Emma the opportunity to try and snare one of five eligible bachelors who are visiting Harry’s castle to maybe invest in his hotel.
Friends to lovers isn’t always my jam, but I liked them together! They’re both unaware of the others feelings, so you do want to knock their heads together a few times. But I liked their banter and they’re both just genuine and sweet.
Even though the situation could’ve been very angsty, it’s definitely a low angst type of story, and I never felt anxious. Harry doesn’t love his fiancée and it’s mostly a business deal so he can build his hotel.
There are a few jealous moments and problems, but overall it’s sweet and everything always seems to fall into place! (Maybe a little too well)
So if you want a light, cute historical friends to lovers, this could be for you!
Emma and Harry were childhood friends who used to see each other in the Summer. They still talk through letters and Emma is in love with him, so is devastated to hear he’s now engaged.
After her parents are gone, she lives with her stepbrother but his wife is pushing her to marry someone terrible, so she leaves their home.
Due to misfortune, she goes to Harry’s house to ask for his help, despite knowing it would hurt her to see him.
This results in Harry’s mother giving Emma the opportunity to try and snare one of five eligible bachelors who are visiting Harry’s castle to maybe invest in his hotel.
Friends to lovers isn’t always my jam, but I liked them together! They’re both unaware of the others feelings, so you do want to knock their heads together a few times. But I liked their banter and they’re both just genuine and sweet.
Even though the situation could’ve been very angsty, it’s definitely a low angst type of story, and I never felt anxious. Harry doesn’t love his fiancée and it’s mostly a business deal so he can build his hotel.
There are a few jealous moments and problems, but overall it’s sweet and everything always seems to fall into place! (Maybe a little too well)
So if you want a light, cute historical friends to lovers, this could be for you!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2023
I really enjoy reading Ashtyn Newbolds books a lot. Very cute friends to lovers regency romance
June 20, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
Super cute!
Super cute!
May 30, 2023
I thought this book was okay. I didn’t love it, I didn’t hate it. It had some cute sweet scenes and the storyline was unique. But it was a little boring, I didn’t love how she dismissed each of the 5 bachelors so quickly. I wanted that to be more funnier and last longer. Also I felt like I didn’t know Emma well. What did she even like to do, what were her interests? I means he sings, but it didn’t seem like she liked to do that.
I did like that this one has the castle more involved . The last one didn’t have hardly any of the castle in it. This one the castle is prominent!
I did like that this one has the castle more involved . The last one didn’t have hardly any of the castle in it. This one the castle is prominent!
September 13, 2023
Absolutely wonderful! Emma leaves her brothers house to get out of marriage with a man she doesn’t want. She is robbed and having no where else to turn she travels 18 miles on foot to her childhood friend Harry’s place. He takes her in right away. Harry is betrothed to another. Harry’s mother is afraid Emma is out to marry Harry even though Emma tells her repeatedly she is not after him. Harry wants investors for his castle in order to turn it into an inn. He has invited 5 men to his home and Harry and his mother decide that Emma should try to make a match with one of them. Of course the longer Emma and Harry are around one another they can’t fight the attraction between them.
Wonderful story! I really loved it. Harry and Emma are great together! They are great friends but also the chemistry is so good between them. My favorite part “I erased it” 😊💜 Harry’s mother is absolutely horrible! I really liked the ending and how they dealt with her. Overall great book and definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: forced unwanted kiss(es)
Wonderful story! I really loved it. Harry and Emma are great together! They are great friends but also the chemistry is so good between them. My favorite part “I erased it” 😊💜 Harry’s mother is absolutely horrible! I really liked the ending and how they dealt with her. Overall great book and definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: forced unwanted kiss(es)
May 27, 2023
This book will steal your heart!
What a rollercoaster of emotions in this book! Emma keeps finding all doors to her future closed but she keeps fighting to have control of her own narrative. I really appreciated her gumption. I truly felt all the despair of Harry and Emma’s absolute hopeless situation. Then I found myself hoping Harry’s betrothed was horrid or would have some gothic worthy terrible carriage accident. But his intended was just lovely and so kind. Eek! This book made me want to throw my tablet in frustration (preferably directed at Harry’s mom, Mrs. Coleman) and stay up all night reading. Plus the twists in the plot that I never saw coming….. fantastic!
I swear my heart melted when Emma had been treated poorly and Harry attempted to “erase” the moment for her. They were such an adorable couple! Loved the teasing, banter, and chemistry that leapt off the page. I loved the conclusion! It’s a way more overall happy ending than what I was expecting.
Rating: PG, clean, wholesome, shows some issues of family abandonment
What a rollercoaster of emotions in this book! Emma keeps finding all doors to her future closed but she keeps fighting to have control of her own narrative. I really appreciated her gumption. I truly felt all the despair of Harry and Emma’s absolute hopeless situation. Then I found myself hoping Harry’s betrothed was horrid or would have some gothic worthy terrible carriage accident. But his intended was just lovely and so kind. Eek! This book made me want to throw my tablet in frustration (preferably directed at Harry’s mom, Mrs. Coleman) and stay up all night reading. Plus the twists in the plot that I never saw coming….. fantastic!
I swear my heart melted when Emma had been treated poorly and Harry attempted to “erase” the moment for her. They were such an adorable couple! Loved the teasing, banter, and chemistry that leapt off the page. I loved the conclusion! It’s a way more overall happy ending than what I was expecting.
Rating: PG, clean, wholesome, shows some issues of family abandonment
June 24, 2023
In one of the Castles and Courtship novels there is a line about reviewing books and how just because it is something you don't like doesn't mean you should be negative or rude about it, just because it isn't something you enjoyed doesn't mean others won't like it . It has changed my perspective on writing reviews (which I actually don't do that often). This book didn't resonate with me. There is nothing overall bad with the book, which is why I gave it 3 stars, but I just couldn't get into it and skim read a lot of it.
November 9, 2023
3.75 stars. I enjoyed the characters in this story. It has some sweet moments and tender kisses. The plot is reminiscent of the bachelorette — regency style.
May 4, 2025
This is another sweet, clean Regency Romance from the Castles and Courtship series of eight stand-a-alone novels, which are very entertaining if you like these kinds of historical romances that do not include steamy sex scenes but do enjoy budding romances. Because it is a clean romance novel, the only affection shown between the hero and heroine are kisses, and their description are more tame than mainstream romance novels.
Emma is a burden to her stepbrother and his wife as she has no money, and no dowry, but her only prospect is an engagement to a man she cannot stand. Someone she finds detestable, and disgusting. Instead of marrying him, her plan is to run away to London and become a singer like what her mother used to be before she died. However, her plans are thwarted when she runs away and the first place she stops for passage to London, she is robbed of all her money and possessions. Her only option is to pray for help from a childhood friend who is somewhat a distance away, but she is determined to walk there.
Harry has inherited a castle and resides there determined to make it a luxury hotel in hopes of attracting the best, and maybe royal customers. That is his childhood dream, but he still needs some financial investors to make it happen. One source of help will be from an advantageous marriage who has a considerable dowry. His other source will be to secure investors in order to complete his dream.
When Emma comes to Harry for help, he is shocked to find her hurt, and in dire straits, and willing to give her any assistance necessary, including lodging, and everything needed for a genteel woman. His mother does not like this arrangement for obvious reasons and does everything to get rid of Emma, because she sees her as a threat to the engagement between Henry and his fiancé and his dreams of starting and running a hotel.
Since this is a romance, the obvious formula for the novel is the rekindled friendship between Harry and Emma since they haven’t seen each other for a while and how their feelings come to the surface but there are many obstacles along the way.
It is a nice escape read, and an entertaining, enjoyable novel, which is quick and easy, especially since it is under 250 pages. I recommend this if you like this kind of novel, 4****
Emma is a burden to her stepbrother and his wife as she has no money, and no dowry, but her only prospect is an engagement to a man she cannot stand. Someone she finds detestable, and disgusting. Instead of marrying him, her plan is to run away to London and become a singer like what her mother used to be before she died. However, her plans are thwarted when she runs away and the first place she stops for passage to London, she is robbed of all her money and possessions. Her only option is to pray for help from a childhood friend who is somewhat a distance away, but she is determined to walk there.
Harry has inherited a castle and resides there determined to make it a luxury hotel in hopes of attracting the best, and maybe royal customers. That is his childhood dream, but he still needs some financial investors to make it happen. One source of help will be from an advantageous marriage who has a considerable dowry. His other source will be to secure investors in order to complete his dream.
When Emma comes to Harry for help, he is shocked to find her hurt, and in dire straits, and willing to give her any assistance necessary, including lodging, and everything needed for a genteel woman. His mother does not like this arrangement for obvious reasons and does everything to get rid of Emma, because she sees her as a threat to the engagement between Henry and his fiancé and his dreams of starting and running a hotel.
Since this is a romance, the obvious formula for the novel is the rekindled friendship between Harry and Emma since they haven’t seen each other for a while and how their feelings come to the surface but there are many obstacles along the way.
It is a nice escape read, and an entertaining, enjoyable novel, which is quick and easy, especially since it is under 250 pages. I recommend this if you like this kind of novel, 4****
May 30, 2023
"A Heart to Keep" is Ashtyn Newbold's charming contribution to the multi-author Castles and Courtship collection. This short novel has a few unique elements, the biggest being that it's set in a castle, of course, long after it was no longer considered a defensive structure. Harry Coleman's desire to restore Garsley Castle requires lots of funds, and he plans to marry for money. Is it cold and mercenary? Of course. Is it shallow? Perhaps. It was also not uncommon for the time period.
Childhood friend Emma Eastwood is likewise plagued by the strictures placed on women back then. Her determination to forge her own path is admirable, yet her method is curious. Walking 18 miles does not sound feasible; didn't her household have a horse she could have absconded with? Her plan to be a singer apparently sounds better to her than to me, the reader, who considers it excessively naive.
Yet, I digress. This is a sweet and heartwarming story. Emma's half-hearted attempts to transfer her affections are amusing and once again, naive. The assortment of potential investors (and unwitting suitors) is quite interesting, from one who has an unusual affinity for snakes to the rake you can see coming from a mile away. The solution of mending several broken hearts is perhaps foreshadowed, but it's still clever, and the journey is still lots of fun. Meddling mother Mrs. Coleman's backstory could have been further developed, as the villain of a story is always intriguing.
Ashtyn Newbold is an engaging storyteller. This book is clean with few editing errors. I've read most of this author's works, and I have enjoyed them all.
Childhood friend Emma Eastwood is likewise plagued by the strictures placed on women back then. Her determination to forge her own path is admirable, yet her method is curious. Walking 18 miles does not sound feasible; didn't her household have a horse she could have absconded with? Her plan to be a singer apparently sounds better to her than to me, the reader, who considers it excessively naive.
Yet, I digress. This is a sweet and heartwarming story. Emma's half-hearted attempts to transfer her affections are amusing and once again, naive. The assortment of potential investors (and unwitting suitors) is quite interesting, from one who has an unusual affinity for snakes to the rake you can see coming from a mile away. The solution of mending several broken hearts is perhaps foreshadowed, but it's still clever, and the journey is still lots of fun. Meddling mother Mrs. Coleman's backstory could have been further developed, as the villain of a story is always intriguing.
Ashtyn Newbold is an engaging storyteller. This book is clean with few editing errors. I've read most of this author's works, and I have enjoyed them all.
June 22, 2023
This book is a wonderful new offering from author Ashtyn Newbold as part of the multi author ‘Castles and courtships’ series (although a standalone novel itself). The Castle setting made a wonderful backdrop to the story of Emma and Harry, childhood friends who are reunited when Emma is forced to hide out from an unwanted marriage proposal being thrust upon her by her uncaring sister in law. After her plan to run away to London to be a Prima Donna like her mother is thwarted, she changes course for Harry’s newly inherited castle. Emma finds herself caught in an all male house party of sorts & at Harrys mother’s suggestion, she tries her best to catch the attention of one of these men to marry instead. The problem is, the only man she’s really interested in is secretly engaged to another!
As with all of Ashtyns books, the story is beautifully written and sweeps you away with the narrative. The castle keep forms an important part of the story which makes the title very appropriate. I just adored both Emma and Harry and their story was very sweet. The presence of a few meddling mothers and a plot twist or two make this story a fun but satisfying read.
As with all of Ashtyns books, the story is beautifully written and sweeps you away with the narrative. The castle keep forms an important part of the story which makes the title very appropriate. I just adored both Emma and Harry and their story was very sweet. The presence of a few meddling mothers and a plot twist or two make this story a fun but satisfying read.
June 5, 2023
The setting of an old castle and the title of the book, A Heart to Keep, go together so well. Emma Eastwood feels unwanted by her stepbrother and his wife as they try to force her to marry a creepy bachelor from nearby. She feels her only option is to flee and seek help from her best friend and long time penpal, Harry Coleman. Ever helpful, Harry, with the help of his mother, create a way that Emma can have a session of her own through a house party of investors for a castle hotel that happens to be all men! Emma is determined to find a match, but she must convince her heart to find someone besides Harry. “She needed to fall in love with one of those five gentlemen. If she set her mind to it, surely her heart could change. She might find something new to dream about after all.”
It’s nice to be able to recommend a book without hesitation for readers of all ages. It is a clean and wholesome romance that shows that love is worth fighting for.
Things I loved:
the castle
Harry's helpful nature
well written antagonists
helping others find happiness
It’s nice to be able to recommend a book without hesitation for readers of all ages. It is a clean and wholesome romance that shows that love is worth fighting for.
Things I loved:
the castle
Harry's helpful nature
well written antagonists
helping others find happiness
June 4, 2023
clean romance
Four and a half stars for this sweet installation of the “Castle and Courtship “ series. Each are designed as stand alone books by separate authors but each have been delightful and this one holds true to that.
Both the characters and setting are well written. There are characters that make you dislike them as they degrade and meddle in others lives. Yet others you love and hope for success.
The hero has a dream and is pursuing it as his full focus until his childhood friend re-enters his life.
The heroine has been given little to no choice by her family and chooses to flee a forced marriage. She turns to the childhood friend for help and then the plot thickens.
With plenty of twists and turns and an extra twist here and there a delightful story unfolds.
I recommend reading this book and the others as well!
Four and a half stars for this sweet installation of the “Castle and Courtship “ series. Each are designed as stand alone books by separate authors but each have been delightful and this one holds true to that.
Both the characters and setting are well written. There are characters that make you dislike them as they degrade and meddle in others lives. Yet others you love and hope for success.
The hero has a dream and is pursuing it as his full focus until his childhood friend re-enters his life.
The heroine has been given little to no choice by her family and chooses to flee a forced marriage. She turns to the childhood friend for help and then the plot thickens.
With plenty of twists and turns and an extra twist here and there a delightful story unfolds.
I recommend reading this book and the others as well!
July 6, 2023
4.5 stars for me on this one
CUTE STORY. Harry and Emma are adorable. I was rooting for poor Emma to escape her horrible family and the man they wanted her to marry right from the start. One disaster after another puts Emma in her friend Harry's life, and I really enjoyed watching him finally realize that he loved her. Bachelorette vibes with this one, which made for some pretty entertaining scenes involving Emma's gentleman suitors. Can we just talk about Harry erasing the unwanted kiss from one of her suitors? OH MY GOSH. The chemistry in that scene, FIRE. You won't know what I'm talking about unless you read the book...so go read it XD
I was kind of sad Harry didn't get his dream in the end, but he got Emma and he was happy with that, so I guess I will be content too. They can be adorable together forever.
CUTE STORY. Harry and Emma are adorable. I was rooting for poor Emma to escape her horrible family and the man they wanted her to marry right from the start. One disaster after another puts Emma in her friend Harry's life, and I really enjoyed watching him finally realize that he loved her. Bachelorette vibes with this one, which made for some pretty entertaining scenes involving Emma's gentleman suitors. Can we just talk about Harry erasing the unwanted kiss from one of her suitors? OH MY GOSH. The chemistry in that scene, FIRE. You won't know what I'm talking about unless you read the book...so go read it XD
I was kind of sad Harry didn't get his dream in the end, but he got Emma and he was happy with that, so I guess I will be content too. They can be adorable together forever.
April 2, 2024
Not the typical Regency but not too far off. The H needed money, so you marry someone with a dowry. His mother was toxic and just awful. The bride to be was in love with someone else (fortunately). The h was essentially abandoned by parents, siblings and all family members. She was scheduled to marry an older unacceptable excuse for a husband by her brother and his excuse for a wife. Naturally she flees and is taken in by her childhood friend and the story cranks up. His mother loves the castle more than the son; the betroyal would fund her dreams and her goal was to get rid of the h and any obstacles in the way of her dreams. The bride to be elopes with the h's intended by the H's mother, oops, the h is kidnapped, found, Maw is evicted and HEA for main characters. Yeah.
Why 4 stars? The writing strength, character development, editing and pacing.
Why 4 stars? The writing strength, character development, editing and pacing.
May 24, 2025
Most of Newbold’s writing, I find a sense of comedic relief…however, in Emma’s and Harry’s story, there wasn’t a lot of comedy. Emma, due to the loss of both parents has been thrust onto her stepbrother who is fine with her being there until he marries. His new wife is less than agreeable. Through a couple rash decisions, Emma winds up at Harry’s castle. It is hard to keep her affection separate while she and Harry find their way.
Maybe it is the stage of life we are in or maybe it’s simply that Newbold didn’t mean for this novel to contain comedic relief, whatever the reason Newbold’s writing was as engaging as ever and she weaves an interesting tale. She is an author that I have yet to find a disagreeable story and I will be more than happy to bring her books to the lake or on vacations this year.
Maybe it is the stage of life we are in or maybe it’s simply that Newbold didn’t mean for this novel to contain comedic relief, whatever the reason Newbold’s writing was as engaging as ever and she weaves an interesting tale. She is an author that I have yet to find a disagreeable story and I will be more than happy to bring her books to the lake or on vacations this year.
June 26, 2023
I am a big fan of Ashtyn Newbold and while cute, this story did not feel as polished or as well-developed as her other books. To be honest, if I didn't know it was a new release, I would have actually guessed it was one of her earlier books, that's just how it felt in comparison to her other more recent novels. The romance was cute, but there were some inconsistencies and plot holes and things that never resolved really that felt like they should have mattered and needed to be addressed. I liked the premise, but the follow through just didn't land for me and it didn't feel as smooth as her other stories. It is still a good read, just not my favorite from this author.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 3.5 stars.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 3.5 stars.
April 18, 2024
Emma has always been in love with her friend Harry, but she gives up hope of him loving her in return when he becomes engaged to someone else. Through a serious of unfortunate events Emma finds herself without a home, money, and prospects and Harry is the only one she feels confident enough to seek help from. As they become reacquainted Harry realizes what a mistake he has made rushing into a marriage with someone other than Emma.
I liked this one. The beginning of the book was kind of boring and predictable but it seemed to get better and better as I read. I especially liked the scene where Harry pulled Emma into his study 😍. This would definitely be one I would be willing to read again!
I liked this one. The beginning of the book was kind of boring and predictable but it seemed to get better and better as I read. I especially liked the scene where Harry pulled Emma into his study 😍. This would definitely be one I would be willing to read again!
July 27, 2025
I have been enjoying this series written by different authors with castles featured in them. some of these authors I am familiar with, while others I am not. I am not certain these is a strong connection between the books beyond castles, though there was a character named in this book that was featured in another book. I liked the various personalities in this story. It had a bit of a fun situation with the whole friends to more vs five bachelors and one desperate lady. How the final chapters unraveled was easy to predict, but still entertained. I had a few eye roll moments in the story, but nothing too bad. Turning a castle into a hotel would be so fun and I enjoyed reading about plans to do so. The mother, well, she was a piece of work.
March 12, 2024
Maybe not a book to keep
I've enjoyed the other books in this series, and other works by this author, however, the closer to the end of the story I got the more I wanted to change it.
SPOILER ALERT
The kissing scenes between Emma and Harry seemed a bit too modern for the time period, and a touch too passionate for my tastes.
I was kind of hoping Harry's mother wasn't as evil as wemwerembeing lead to believe, and that maybe we just weren't seeing the side of her that recognized how much Emma and Harry meant to each other. When the ending was wrapped up, it just didn't seem very believable. Maybe it was just too perfect with the proverbial bow on top.
I've enjoyed the other books in this series, and other works by this author, however, the closer to the end of the story I got the more I wanted to change it.
SPOILER ALERT
The kissing scenes between Emma and Harry seemed a bit too modern for the time period, and a touch too passionate for my tastes.
I was kind of hoping Harry's mother wasn't as evil as wemwerembeing lead to believe, and that maybe we just weren't seeing the side of her that recognized how much Emma and Harry meant to each other. When the ending was wrapped up, it just didn't seem very believable. Maybe it was just too perfect with the proverbial bow on top.
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