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Willowbrook #4
A Lesson Learned
Is love strong enough to erase the mistakes of the past? Even murder?
Emma Sullivan flees a bloody scene, certain she’s killed an earl’s son. Using every coin she has only carries her and the maid whose life she had saved as far as Willowbrook. Is it far enough to evade the charge of murder?
When the Earl of Carnhaven takes her in, Emma is drawn to the man, but his tortured soul keeps her at an arm’s length. She cannot tell him her secret, and he will not share his own. How can he reveal to her the horrible nightmare that still haunts him? Even he can’t understand how he could have let his wife drown by choosing to save his child.
And then love opens both hearts.
But just as a future seems possible, the man Emma thought she murdered tracks her down to exact his vengeance.
Will he take his revenge on Emma? Or the man she has come to love?
Read Free in Kindle Unlimited!
The Willowbrook Series
A Willowbrook Miracle
A Page Turner Bookshop
A Bitter Pill to Swallow
A Lesson Learned
It's Not What it Seems
Emma Sullivan flees a bloody scene, certain she’s killed an earl’s son. Using every coin she has only carries her and the maid whose life she had saved as far as Willowbrook. Is it far enough to evade the charge of murder?
When the Earl of Carnhaven takes her in, Emma is drawn to the man, but his tortured soul keeps her at an arm’s length. She cannot tell him her secret, and he will not share his own. How can he reveal to her the horrible nightmare that still haunts him? Even he can’t understand how he could have let his wife drown by choosing to save his child.
And then love opens both hearts.
But just as a future seems possible, the man Emma thought she murdered tracks her down to exact his vengeance.
Will he take his revenge on Emma? Or the man she has come to love?
Read Free in Kindle Unlimited!
The Willowbrook Series
A Willowbrook Miracle
A Page Turner Bookshop
A Bitter Pill to Swallow
A Lesson Learned
It's Not What it Seems
164 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 19, 2023
42 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
Laura Landon
67 books366 followersLaura Landon taught high school for ten years before leaving the classroom to open her own ice-cream shop. As much as she loved serving up sundaes and malts from behind the counter, she closed up shop after penning her first novel. Now she spends nearly every waking minute writing, guiding her heroes and heroines to find their happily ever afters.
She is the author of more than a dozen historical novels, including SILENT REVENGE, INTIMATE DECEPTION, and her newest Montlake Romance release, INTIMATE SURRENDER.
Her books are enjoyed by readers around the world and you can find out more about her by visiting her website at www.lauralandon.com
She is the author of more than a dozen historical novels, including SILENT REVENGE, INTIMATE DECEPTION, and her newest Montlake Romance release, INTIMATE SURRENDER.
Her books are enjoyed by readers around the world and you can find out more about her by visiting her website at www.lauralandon.com
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
October 19, 2023
4.5 Stars
Emma Sullivan flees a crime scene, certain she’s killed an earl’s son. Using every coin she has only carries her and the maid whose life she had saved as far as Willowbrook. When the widowed Earl of Carnhaven takes her in as governess for his two daughters. Emma is drawn to the man, but his tortured soul keeps her at an arm’s length. Just as a future seems possible, the man Emma thought she murdered tracks her down to exact his vengeance.
The fourth book in the series but it’s easily read on its own. I loved the mix of romance & suspense. I loved both Spencer & Emma, the chemistry between them grew & grew but Emma fears her past will catch up with her & when it does her worst fears come true, however Spencer is determined to help. A well written romance which drew me in from the start & I devoured it in a sitting. The characters had depth & apart from the villain were very likeable. Cassie & Felicity were a delight & I loved how close they became not only to Emma but also to Spencer.
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Emma Sullivan flees a crime scene, certain she’s killed an earl’s son. Using every coin she has only carries her and the maid whose life she had saved as far as Willowbrook. When the widowed Earl of Carnhaven takes her in as governess for his two daughters. Emma is drawn to the man, but his tortured soul keeps her at an arm’s length. Just as a future seems possible, the man Emma thought she murdered tracks her down to exact his vengeance.
The fourth book in the series but it’s easily read on its own. I loved the mix of romance & suspense. I loved both Spencer & Emma, the chemistry between them grew & grew but Emma fears her past will catch up with her & when it does her worst fears come true, however Spencer is determined to help. A well written romance which drew me in from the start & I devoured it in a sitting. The characters had depth & apart from the villain were very likeable. Cassie & Felicity were a delight & I loved how close they became not only to Emma but also to Spencer.
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
April 7, 2024
**TRIGGER WARNINGS**
Reference to off page sexual assault and physical violence against women
A Lesson Learned. My Fellow Readers, man was this book a gripper. I get crazy excited when a story surprises me with some amazing entertainment. Not only that, but with characters who are written exceedingly well. Of course you also have the dialogue between the characters, as well as the descriptive details throughout the book.
All these components fused together easily boosted my opinion that this will be an outstanding story. The writing was truly unforgettable. There are one or two scenes that I found to be intense, but that added to how good the plot would play out. I felt that the writer did an amazing job with these scenes. During parts of the book that were calm, you have two enchanting romances that develop.
The one romance that really stood out for me is with the main characters, Spencer and Emma. They are two characters who I found to be very loyal, caring and the bravest people a young person could look up to. No two people truly needed one another at the most serious points in their life like Spencer and Emma. I think that you should read this book. If not for the romance, read it to discover how much of a hero Emma is to her best friend Janet.
The tragic behavior that the women fall to in the Slushman home is jaw dropping. The eldest son, Ronald Slushman stokes the dark clouds that hover over the family home. His character made it so easy to develop some not so nice thoughts about him. But that’s a good thing for this story. The development and writing of his character lets you know how extremely talented the writing is.
I feel if a writer can pull off making the villain to be the most evilest of all villains that you have read, then perhaps you may be reading a superb book from an extraordinary writer. I want to reassure you that this book is not about wicked people and their evil ways. It’s also a story about a father and the most precious bond that he has with his daughters. Oh my gosh. Pull out the tissue readers, this story is a faucet dripper.
Be fore warned readers Felicity and Cassandra will still your hearts. These two sisters has the warmest hearts and brightest souls. They absolutely melted my heart. The hiccup that Spencer and his girls work to over come is so profound and emotional. When Spencer places his daughter Felicity, on his lap and tells her to read the book “The Count of Monte Cristo” to him.
Instantaneously that part stole my heart. I was like, that’s it! You got me. You got me real good. I’m a watering pot.
The late night library scene is another one of my Kodiak moments. It had me thinking of that scene from Oliver Twist. You know the one. “Please sir can I have some more?”Jiminy crickets, I’m tearing up now just thinking about it.
Then when you’ve decided that this book was outstanding enough, the writer decides to insert Lady Emma Sullivan into this little family’s life. Boom! You have fireworks happening all through the book. By the time I reached the ending I was extremely honored to have read a book that was beautifully written. That is why I’m saying this.
I give this book two snaps and a, Ronald, I bet you didn’t see that coming, now did ya? Tsk. Tsk. A lesson learned. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
Reference to off page sexual assault and physical violence against women
A Lesson Learned. My Fellow Readers, man was this book a gripper. I get crazy excited when a story surprises me with some amazing entertainment. Not only that, but with characters who are written exceedingly well. Of course you also have the dialogue between the characters, as well as the descriptive details throughout the book.
All these components fused together easily boosted my opinion that this will be an outstanding story. The writing was truly unforgettable. There are one or two scenes that I found to be intense, but that added to how good the plot would play out. I felt that the writer did an amazing job with these scenes. During parts of the book that were calm, you have two enchanting romances that develop.
The one romance that really stood out for me is with the main characters, Spencer and Emma. They are two characters who I found to be very loyal, caring and the bravest people a young person could look up to. No two people truly needed one another at the most serious points in their life like Spencer and Emma. I think that you should read this book. If not for the romance, read it to discover how much of a hero Emma is to her best friend Janet.
The tragic behavior that the women fall to in the Slushman home is jaw dropping. The eldest son, Ronald Slushman stokes the dark clouds that hover over the family home. His character made it so easy to develop some not so nice thoughts about him. But that’s a good thing for this story. The development and writing of his character lets you know how extremely talented the writing is.
I feel if a writer can pull off making the villain to be the most evilest of all villains that you have read, then perhaps you may be reading a superb book from an extraordinary writer. I want to reassure you that this book is not about wicked people and their evil ways. It’s also a story about a father and the most precious bond that he has with his daughters. Oh my gosh. Pull out the tissue readers, this story is a faucet dripper.
Be fore warned readers Felicity and Cassandra will still your hearts. These two sisters has the warmest hearts and brightest souls. They absolutely melted my heart. The hiccup that Spencer and his girls work to over come is so profound and emotional. When Spencer places his daughter Felicity, on his lap and tells her to read the book “The Count of Monte Cristo” to him.
Instantaneously that part stole my heart. I was like, that’s it! You got me. You got me real good. I’m a watering pot.
The late night library scene is another one of my Kodiak moments. It had me thinking of that scene from Oliver Twist. You know the one. “Please sir can I have some more?”Jiminy crickets, I’m tearing up now just thinking about it.
Then when you’ve decided that this book was outstanding enough, the writer decides to insert Lady Emma Sullivan into this little family’s life. Boom! You have fireworks happening all through the book. By the time I reached the ending I was extremely honored to have read a book that was beautifully written. That is why I’m saying this.
I give this book two snaps and a, Ronald, I bet you didn’t see that coming, now did ya? Tsk. Tsk. A lesson learned. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
October 22, 2023
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
I loved the character of Emma here - she's a smart, fights for those she loves, and gives Spencer some much needed (although not always appreciated) hard truths about himself. It took me until about half way through the book to like Spencer. It's hard to like a guy who blames his 2-year old for the death of her mother and basically says he will never forgive her - let's not forget that it was her mother's fault that the boat capsized in the first place. And then all those years later to pretend that he loves his girls equally any time points out that he treats them very differently. I also thought he was quite pushy in getting Emma to agree to stay on as the girls' governess - he practically guilted her into it. One of my favorite parts of the book was Emma's relationship with the girls and how she helps Spencer reconcile with Felicity. As for the parts involving Slushman I'm not sure I totally believed that a court would have sided against him - although things may have been changing a little within society I don't think that progress would have had anyone punishing a peer for treatment of a servant. Of course I'm glad that they did, I just thought that part didn't totally ring true.
I loved the character of Emma here - she's a smart, fights for those she loves, and gives Spencer some much needed (although not always appreciated) hard truths about himself. It took me until about half way through the book to like Spencer. It's hard to like a guy who blames his 2-year old for the death of her mother and basically says he will never forgive her - let's not forget that it was her mother's fault that the boat capsized in the first place. And then all those years later to pretend that he loves his girls equally any time points out that he treats them very differently. I also thought he was quite pushy in getting Emma to agree to stay on as the girls' governess - he practically guilted her into it. One of my favorite parts of the book was Emma's relationship with the girls and how she helps Spencer reconcile with Felicity. As for the parts involving Slushman I'm not sure I totally believed that a court would have sided against him - although things may have been changing a little within society I don't think that progress would have had anyone punishing a peer for treatment of a servant. Of course I'm glad that they did, I just thought that part didn't totally ring true.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2024
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Governess Emma Sullivan has a comfortable position in an Earl's household, but when the heir attacks her friends, and she stabs him, both Emma and Janey need to flee. When their money only gets them as far as the new town of Willowbrook, it's as if fate has played a hand. Janey's old beau is now the solicitor in the town, and with his title, can protect them both. Emma still worries that staying in town would be a risk, but meeting the young daughters of Spencer, the Earl of Carnhaven, gives her a reason to stay. Spencer has struggled in the years since his wife's death, and the impact it had on his relationship with his daughters. Meeting Emma opens his eyes to the possibility of being a family once again, and he wants nothing more than to have her by his side. Can he convince Emma to stay?
I had really enjoyed the first three books in this series, and originally thought it was a trilogy, so was pleasantly surprised when I saw a fourth book was available to read. I loved the relationship Emma had with all of the characters in this book. She was a perfect friend to Janey, and her interactions with Felicity and Cassandra were sublime from the get go. I felt like Spencer was a little harsh and pushy initially, but he loved his daughters, and Emma. It was his pain and suffering that had created the wall that he needed to tumble, and Emma helped him become the person he was always meant to be. A lovely romance, and great addition to the series.
Governess Emma Sullivan has a comfortable position in an Earl's household, but when the heir attacks her friends, and she stabs him, both Emma and Janey need to flee. When their money only gets them as far as the new town of Willowbrook, it's as if fate has played a hand. Janey's old beau is now the solicitor in the town, and with his title, can protect them both. Emma still worries that staying in town would be a risk, but meeting the young daughters of Spencer, the Earl of Carnhaven, gives her a reason to stay. Spencer has struggled in the years since his wife's death, and the impact it had on his relationship with his daughters. Meeting Emma opens his eyes to the possibility of being a family once again, and he wants nothing more than to have her by his side. Can he convince Emma to stay?
I had really enjoyed the first three books in this series, and originally thought it was a trilogy, so was pleasantly surprised when I saw a fourth book was available to read. I loved the relationship Emma had with all of the characters in this book. She was a perfect friend to Janey, and her interactions with Felicity and Cassandra were sublime from the get go. I felt like Spencer was a little harsh and pushy initially, but he loved his daughters, and Emma. It was his pain and suffering that had created the wall that he needed to tumble, and Emma helped him become the person he was always meant to be. A lovely romance, and great addition to the series.
June 12, 2024
What an emotional and exciting story. The prologue was so moving, and in just a few pages, you felt the love the H and for his wife. The tragedy that happens broke my heart. Plus, the reaction the H had for his youngest daughter was another ache I had to endure.
I loved the way this author weaved her story and how it all unfolded. Their journey to HEA wasn't smooth which allowed their romance to be at a perfect pace.
The two little girls will melt your heart, especially the insight they had with each other. The dialogue the h had with the H was enlightening. She was a force to be reckoned with and I found her to be just what this family needed.
Lovemaking within marriage and door closed, but you will feel their love.
A very nasty villain and oh how I enjoyed the judge and how he handled everything. Certainly, wasn't what I was expecting, but so enjoyed it. For once the villain got what he deserved.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, mention of attempted rape. great main and secondary characters, HEA, romance, love, suspense, violence and emotional. This is a standalone story and I hope you pick up the rest of the series. The epilogue was not disappointing, and it left me with a smile on my face.
I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase, which I recommend. (ljb)
I loved the way this author weaved her story and how it all unfolded. Their journey to HEA wasn't smooth which allowed their romance to be at a perfect pace.
The two little girls will melt your heart, especially the insight they had with each other. The dialogue the h had with the H was enlightening. She was a force to be reckoned with and I found her to be just what this family needed.
Lovemaking within marriage and door closed, but you will feel their love.
A very nasty villain and oh how I enjoyed the judge and how he handled everything. Certainly, wasn't what I was expecting, but so enjoyed it. For once the villain got what he deserved.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, mention of attempted rape. great main and secondary characters, HEA, romance, love, suspense, violence and emotional. This is a standalone story and I hope you pick up the rest of the series. The epilogue was not disappointing, and it left me with a smile on my face.
I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase, which I recommend. (ljb)
November 30, 2023
Helping her friend Janey, Emma finds herself in the middle of a crime scene. Afraid that she has killed an earl's son, she takes her friend and flees. But she only has enough money to go as far as Willowbrook. Spencer, The Earl of Carnhaven, then takes her in as governess for his two daughters. Spencer is a tortured soul who still carries the pain of losing his wife. Emma is intrigued and drawn by him, but the pain that he harbors doesn't allow her to come close. Slowly, he starts to open up to her and just as it seems they might have a future, trouble arrives that puts Emma in danger. Spencer can no longer keep his feelings for Emma at bay, and his protective instincts kick in. Danger and suspense weaved into this story kept me turning the pages, anxious to see what happens next. The characters were strong and well-crafted and I became engrossed in the story from the very beginning. The storyline flowed smoothly and the plot progressed well. This is the fourth book of the series, but can easily be read as a standalone. A captivating addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
October 15, 2023
I found this book to be suspenseful and fairly fast-paced as Emma and her friend flee the scene of a crime. Protective of her friend, Emma discovers that whilst the situation services Janey well in that it reunites her with the love of her life, Emma is left floundering as she knows that her actions in defense of Janey will be misconstrued by her employers. Fortunately, she meets with the Earl of Carnhaven, who is carrying his own secrets and pain. The romance between the main characters develops slowly, especially given the era and class differences. However, when trouble arrives on his doorstep, Spencer can no longer remain immune and his protective instincts towards Emma emerge. A thread of suspense runs through this book right up to the closing chapters when justice is finally served. I enjoyed the book, and although there were aspects that I questioned, it nevertheless came to a happy conclusion. I received a copy of this romance as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
October 16, 2023
Love and suspense
Two hearts full of pain and wariness come together and recognize their soulmate. Emma hasn’t led an easy life, but when push comes to shove, she’s there to help her friend, Jenny, no matter what it takes. And they are on the run from what it took to save Jenny. They ended up as far from London as their money would take them, Willowbrook. My heart hurt for Spencer, the Earl of Carnhaven, and the loss he experienced. I loved seeing the spark and slow burn of a relationship built between Emma and Spencer.
I enjoyed this book immensely! There are wonderful characters and an air of suspense that had me captivated from the beginning. Laura Landon has a unique talent for telling a fabulous story with beautiful people set in a small town with lots of emotion and entertainment. This was a quick and lovely read. I received a copy of this book from Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
Two hearts full of pain and wariness come together and recognize their soulmate. Emma hasn’t led an easy life, but when push comes to shove, she’s there to help her friend, Jenny, no matter what it takes. And they are on the run from what it took to save Jenny. They ended up as far from London as their money would take them, Willowbrook. My heart hurt for Spencer, the Earl of Carnhaven, and the loss he experienced. I loved seeing the spark and slow burn of a relationship built between Emma and Spencer.
I enjoyed this book immensely! There are wonderful characters and an air of suspense that had me captivated from the beginning. Laura Landon has a unique talent for telling a fabulous story with beautiful people set in a small town with lots of emotion and entertainment. This was a quick and lovely read. I received a copy of this book from Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
October 21, 2023
This is the first book I've read by this author, and I did enjoy it. The characters were well-written, maybe just a little too perfect, though. I loved the Earl's daughters. They were sweet little girls. Emma was a good strong character who tried to do what was right, and that included saving her friend Janey from their previous employer's son when he attempted to rape Janey. It was a pleasure to see Spenser's feelings change toward his younger daughter Felicity once he realized what he had subconsciously done to the little girl.
The plot moves along well, but I'm not sure one of the aspects in the story that involves the villain was actually plausible or historically accurate. Most peers were immune from prosecution so what the magistrate ordered seemed quite out of character in Regency England. Beside that one thing, it was a well-crafted story.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
The plot moves along well, but I'm not sure one of the aspects in the story that involves the villain was actually plausible or historically accurate. Most peers were immune from prosecution so what the magistrate ordered seemed quite out of character in Regency England. Beside that one thing, it was a well-crafted story.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
February 4, 2024
Excellent story by Laura Landon - loved the characters and plot! Can’t wait to read more from this author!
5 Stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this #book from Dragonblade Publishing via #Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to review. 🦄 @dragonbladepub
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🦄
5 Stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this #book from Dragonblade Publishing via #Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to review. 🦄 @dragonbladepub
⭐️When possible reviews are cross-posted on the following:
✔️Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/jaime-loves...
✔️Bookbub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/25772...
✔️IG https://www.instagram.com/alphabookclub/
✔️Twitter @alpha_book_club
#ReviewByJaime #BookReview #MustRead #TBR
🦄
October 18, 2023
Emma Sullivan and her friend have escaped London and managed to get as far Willowbrook. Luckily for them someone there is prepared to help them.
The Widowed Earl of Carnhaven has just realised he needs a governess for his two daughters. Since the death of his much loved wife, he has trouble communicating with one of them.
This historical romance is a rollercoaster of emotion and danger. Lots of the characters are in need of loving care, but not sure they deserve it.
This book is easily read on its own. The series is based around the town more than individual characters.
An exciting read.
The Widowed Earl of Carnhaven has just realised he needs a governess for his two daughters. Since the death of his much loved wife, he has trouble communicating with one of them.
This historical romance is a rollercoaster of emotion and danger. Lots of the characters are in need of loving care, but not sure they deserve it.
This book is easily read on its own. The series is based around the town more than individual characters.
An exciting read.
January 15, 2024
Spencer Washburn, the Earl of Carnhaven, suffered a terrible tragedy. Five years later he's still hasn't completely recovered. His two daughters desperately need him and the woman who suddenly appears in the village. Emma Sullivan is a governess and drawn to the Earl and his two daughters. But a scandal follows her and would destroy the reputation of the he and his daughters. Spencer is determined to have her in their lives, whatever it takes. An easy read that moves quickly with peril and finding love. Kissing only.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
October 24, 2023
Emma takes a stand to save a life but by doing so, she have seriously violated the rules of her society. On the run, she continues to help others by taking care of an Earl's children. A fast paced story by an author I have not read before. I'm impressed with her creativity, depth of historical knowledge and research and the skill to draw these characters in such a realistic fashion. Looking forward to reading more of her works and recommend others to do the same.
November 5, 2023
Emma takes a stand to save a life but by doing so, she have seriously violated the rules of her society. On the run, she continues to help others by taking care of an Earl's children. A fast paced story by an author I have not read before. I'm impressed with her creativity, depth of historical knowledge and research and the skill to draw these characters in such a realistic fashion. Looking forward to reading more of her works and recommend others to do the same.
November 12, 2023
Spencer and Emma
They fell in love with each other and their children Cassie, Felicity and Drew. He protected her from attacks from her former employer. She protected het friend Janey and they lived happily together in Willowbrook.
They fell in love with each other and their children Cassie, Felicity and Drew. He protected her from attacks from her former employer. She protected het friend Janey and they lived happily together in Willowbrook.
November 5, 2023
another masterpiece!
Laura Landon never ceases to amaze me. I think she can’t beat her last book, but somehow, she does.. This was awesome! Buy it and enjoy! 🩵
Laura Landon never ceases to amaze me. I think she can’t beat her last book, but somehow, she does.. This was awesome! Buy it and enjoy! 🩵
December 15, 2023
Such a great book! It was a great plot and I fell in love with the characters really quickly. I hope to read more from you soon!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews