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Dual Devotions
In the heart of Northumberland, the adults of the prominent Roylance and Jenkins families cherish the hope that their children will someday marry. But when the Jenkins family is exposed and Alexander’s parents are cast into debtors’ prison, the Roylances unceremoniously cut him out of their lives, forbidding their children from any association with him and abandoning the boy to a lonely life of destitution. Despite his dire circumstances, Alex is he will make it on his own.
It’s been nine years since Charlotte Roylance has seen Alex Jenkins, but she hasn’t forgotten him. When he returns to town a self-made man seeking to renew his relationship with her family and unite with them in a shared business venture, she sees it as an opportunity to put to rest old grudges. Her older brother does not share her sentiments and forbids her from seeing their old friend again. But fate—and Charlotte’s heart—has other plans. As the two serendipitously meet time and again, the secret rekindling of their friendship soon evolves into deep connections—and feelings that are decidedly romantic. But Charlotte’s brother will do anything to keep them apart.
It’s been nine years since Charlotte Roylance has seen Alex Jenkins, but she hasn’t forgotten him. When he returns to town a self-made man seeking to renew his relationship with her family and unite with them in a shared business venture, she sees it as an opportunity to put to rest old grudges. Her older brother does not share her sentiments and forbids her from seeing their old friend again. But fate—and Charlotte’s heart—has other plans. As the two serendipitously meet time and again, the secret rekindling of their friendship soon evolves into deep connections—and feelings that are decidedly romantic. But Charlotte’s brother will do anything to keep them apart.
272 pages, Paperback
First published February 13, 2024
11 people are currently reading
262 people want to read
About the author
Sarah L. McConkie
7 books54 followersSarah L. McConkie started her writing career in the second grade witha thirteen-page magnum opus about dinosaurs. Although the plotline and
penmanship lacked polish, Sarah learned she loved retiring to bed thinking of stories. On a good night, she still does the same thing. She took up the pen several years later after tucking her own little dreamer into bed and now combines modern-life experiences, a robust knowledge of historical hallmarks, and a passion for all things old-fashioned and proper to craft
her historical romances. She co-stars with her own Mr. Right in the real-life romantic comedy she calls life as they raise their five darling children. Sarah believes creating thought-provoking and moral stories promotes literacy in a world that needs more readers. Sarah is a best-selling author and her work has earned both the Swoony Award and the LDSPMA Praiseworthy Award.
Learn more about Sarah at sarahlmcconkie.com, and follow her on social
media.
Facebook: Sarah L McConkie
Instagram: @sarahlmcconkie
penmanship lacked polish, Sarah learned she loved retiring to bed thinking of stories. On a good night, she still does the same thing. She took up the pen several years later after tucking her own little dreamer into bed and now combines modern-life experiences, a robust knowledge of historical hallmarks, and a passion for all things old-fashioned and proper to craft
her historical romances. She co-stars with her own Mr. Right in the real-life romantic comedy she calls life as they raise their five darling children. Sarah believes creating thought-provoking and moral stories promotes literacy in a world that needs more readers. Sarah is a best-selling author and her work has earned both the Swoony Award and the LDSPMA Praiseworthy Award.
Learn more about Sarah at sarahlmcconkie.com, and follow her on social
media.
Facebook: Sarah L McConkie
Instagram: @sarahlmcconkie
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
March 17, 2025
3 stars ⭐️ Christian/Clean Fiction - Historical (+ some faith content)
This was very different than I was expecting! I thought there would be a ton more angst and had put off this book because of it, but it had a really slow start on that element.
Set in Northumberland, which is in England on the edge of Scotland and has some Scottish elements, which were interesting to learn about.
I was expecting her brother to be horrid just based off of the back cover, but he was absolutely terrible!
I was surprised by the faith content and discussions in this book—that there was some discussions and prayers. It was more like the Christian Fiction of 10+ years ago where one half of the couple doesn’t think highly about God, but the other does and they have a few discussions about it; Enter in a Terrible Event™️ and that questioning half has to realize that God does care about her and then turns her life over to God whole forgiving others, and then lookie there! It’s the end of the book and all is well because the main couple can be together with their “equal” faiths. 😌 I’ve read this at least a hundred or two times over the last decade. So, because of this, there was some of the “savior dating” trope in a way with the couple being unequally yoked because Alex still loves Charlotte and wants to show her God’s love. His heart was in the right place, you could say, but I think he was letting his heart lead him a bit too much because it wasn’t a concern for him that she didn’t believe due to thinking she will know/learn about God through him and his love for her. I would be remissed to not mention this in a review because it could give, quite honestly, bad advice to potential teen readers. This book was clean enough for many teen readers, I would think, but how the faith content worked into the romance makes me hesitate because that’s not quite the right idea and can put into a teen’s head about “it all working out in the wash”, so to speak. At one point one character thinks that God can’t change her brother, which felt wrong in my eyes. Because God can change someone—but the person has to be willing for it to happen. So the theology wasn’t the soundest, to say the least. 😅
I will note my major positive for this book was that it was really refreshing that it was absolutely not a romance or attraction based on their physical appearances. They think the other is handsome/beautiful and there’s a few parts of noticing the other, but it’s not wrought with sexual tension or noticing their appearances often in lusting detail like many books I’ve seen do. They actually had communication and discussions which were about their interests and problems, not just how much they like the other. This couple was very refreshing because of it.
My main complaint would be that this book felt too slow. It finally got good around 50% but then everything is dashed to pieces with the Noble Idiot trope comes in to play not even 15% later. The last 20% was the angst I was expecting the whole book to be.
It was also nice that the gentleman her brother is pushing her towards wasn’t a bad or creepy guy. I really liked him and felt bad for him at the end. I would think he will get his own story and if so, I would probably read it!
Final verdict? I liked elements of this book. I appreciate how chaste it was in the romance. I liked some of the faith content, but it’s also how some of that went that makes me hesitate about this book as well. Mixed thoughts overall, I suppose.
Main Content-
Talks about God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God.
When Alex comments on Providence allowing something to happen, Charlotte says that she made it happen, not God (which makes Alex notice that he didn’t know she had “so little faith in her Creator”); Alex feels as if God has had a hand in his life, including the time He saved him from death in a mine; Alex asks Charlotte if she likes attending church or if she finds the sermons odious; Alex asks Charlotte if she agrees that someone is watching out for them, but she isn’t sure as she’s never been one to believe in a higher power (which he then re-asks her about church and she says that she doesn’t prefer going to church as “it has always felt like the preacher was lecturing, not actually connecting with God” and ends that if God exists, He doesn’t care about her; Alex says that God doesn’t take care of every stumbling block, but provides a way they don’t see which will bring happiness if you trust Him first; Alex adds that every good thing proves to him there is a God and he only got so far with God’s help); Alex says he plans to help her realize how much God and him love her; Charlotte quickly realizes that God has a hand in her life after this conversation, but her brother says that they control their destinies and he plans to control hers now; *Spoilers* ; Alex notes that “even He (God) couldn’t change Christopher” as it was “one of life’s most perilous truths: people acted for themselves”; Someone says that see another’s struggle has been like “walking through hell anew every day”.
Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers, praying, & thanking God; Mentions of churches, church going, services, & a vicar; A few mentions of miracles; A mention of Godspeed; A mention of thanking heaven; A mention of a place feeling sacred.
Charlotte compares Alex’s nearness as a siren’s call; A couple mentions of Mother Nature; A mention of an evil smile; A mention of a man being evil; A mention of luck.
No major language but these are said:
Religious exclamations/phrases:
2 for heavens sake,
1 thank heavens,
3 heaven knows,
1 good heavens,
1 why in heaven’s name
2 by all the saints,
1 a devil of a time,
1 what the devil.
Minor words/phrases like the following are said:
1 blasted
2 drat
2 lands
2 forms of idiot
1 stupid
1 shut up.
A child almost drowns (up to a handful of sentences); Being locked in a room; Seeing someone shot, bleeding, in pain, & near death (up to a handful of sentences); Seeing someone be hit/punched (up to a couple sentences);
Harsh sarcasm & bitter words (mostly by Charlotte’s brother); In the first chapter, Charlotte’s brother is belittling to her and tries to make her seem inferior (which hurts her); Charlotte’s brother is ugly and hateful to Alex because of his father going to debtor’s prison (her brother acts tyrannical towards and bullies Charlotte as well); It’s noted that Charlotte’s father and brother have yelled at her to hold her tongue and expect silent obedience (which she compares to Alex who has never done either of these).
Charlotte tries to obey her brother, but does sneak out and be with Alex (she goes back and forth with listening and not listening to her brother); Charlotte feels a little deceptive over a plan to meet Alex, but isn’t sure how else to get out of her mother’s plans for her; Charlotte feels guilt over her deceit because of continuing to meet Alex, but meets with him anyway and tries to justify her lies as there wasn’t a good alternative; *Spoilers* *Major Spoilers* .
Many mentions of debts, debtor’s prison, & Alex’s family be ruined and shunned when his parents are forced to go there (this is a major part of the book because he has tried to make a name for himself after this on his own & how Charlotte’s brother still holds Alex’s fathers sins it against him; also including mentions of Alex laying off his father’s debts and parents wanting him to never associate with them again for his own sake); Mentions of illegal duels, shooting to kill someone, possible deaths, injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to a few sentences); Mentions of a child nearly drowning; Mentions of the dangerous conditions of mines (including women and children working in mines), injuries, explosions, & deaths (up to a couple sentences); Mentions of a woman with amnesia (*Spoiler* ); Mentions of lies, lying, & deceit; Mentions of hatred & prejudice; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drinking too much, a hangover, & a pub; A couple mentions of domestic violence (a woman received a chipped tooth from her unkind husband and ran away from him); A couple mentions of punches; A couple mentions of gossip; A couple mentions of pipes & smoking; A couple mentions of hunting; A mention of a boy being picked on at school; A mention of traumatic accidents causing effects on “one’s psyche”.
3 hand kisses,
1 cheek kiss,
1 forehead kiss,
3 kisses lasting a sentence each,
1 kiss lasting two sentences,
1 kiss lasting a few sentences (unsure if this was an actual kiss or hand kiss based on how it was written),
1 kiss lasts two sentences from one POV and four sentences from the other POV,
Remembering kisses (up to a couple sentences),
Staring at lips/mouths.
Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Hand holding, Warmth/Tingles, Flutters, Nearness, Smelling, Noticing, & Staring (up to a few sentences); Wanting to touch, embrace, & hold hands (up to a couple sentences); Blushes, Winks, & Flirting.
Alex noticed Charlotte’s figure (once, a couple of sentences); A young Charlotte noticed that Alex isn’t bad-looking.
*Major Spoilers* .
Mentions of chaperones & scandals; A few mentions of blushes & flirting; A few mentions of jealousy.
This was very different than I was expecting! I thought there would be a ton more angst and had put off this book because of it, but it had a really slow start on that element.
Set in Northumberland, which is in England on the edge of Scotland and has some Scottish elements, which were interesting to learn about.
I was expecting her brother to be horrid just based off of the back cover, but he was absolutely terrible!
I was surprised by the faith content and discussions in this book—that there was some discussions and prayers. It was more like the Christian Fiction of 10+ years ago where one half of the couple doesn’t think highly about God, but the other does and they have a few discussions about it; Enter in a Terrible Event™️ and that questioning half has to realize that God does care about her and then turns her life over to God whole forgiving others, and then lookie there! It’s the end of the book and all is well because the main couple can be together with their “equal” faiths. 😌 I’ve read this at least a hundred or two times over the last decade. So, because of this, there was some of the “savior dating” trope in a way with the couple being unequally yoked because Alex still loves Charlotte and wants to show her God’s love. His heart was in the right place, you could say, but I think he was letting his heart lead him a bit too much because it wasn’t a concern for him that she didn’t believe due to thinking she will know/learn about God through him and his love for her. I would be remissed to not mention this in a review because it could give, quite honestly, bad advice to potential teen readers. This book was clean enough for many teen readers, I would think, but how the faith content worked into the romance makes me hesitate because that’s not quite the right idea and can put into a teen’s head about “it all working out in the wash”, so to speak. At one point one character thinks that God can’t change her brother, which felt wrong in my eyes. Because God can change someone—but the person has to be willing for it to happen. So the theology wasn’t the soundest, to say the least. 😅
I will note my major positive for this book was that it was really refreshing that it was absolutely not a romance or attraction based on their physical appearances. They think the other is handsome/beautiful and there’s a few parts of noticing the other, but it’s not wrought with sexual tension or noticing their appearances often in lusting detail like many books I’ve seen do. They actually had communication and discussions which were about their interests and problems, not just how much they like the other. This couple was very refreshing because of it.
My main complaint would be that this book felt too slow. It finally got good around 50% but then everything is dashed to pieces with the Noble Idiot trope comes in to play not even 15% later. The last 20% was the angst I was expecting the whole book to be.
It was also nice that the gentleman her brother is pushing her towards wasn’t a bad or creepy guy. I really liked him and felt bad for him at the end. I would think he will get his own story and if so, I would probably read it!
Final verdict? I liked elements of this book. I appreciate how chaste it was in the romance. I liked some of the faith content, but it’s also how some of that went that makes me hesitate about this book as well. Mixed thoughts overall, I suppose.
Main Content-
Talks about God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God.
When Alex comments on Providence allowing something to happen, Charlotte says that she made it happen, not God (which makes Alex notice that he didn’t know she had “so little faith in her Creator”); Alex feels as if God has had a hand in his life, including the time He saved him from death in a mine; Alex asks Charlotte if she likes attending church or if she finds the sermons odious; Alex asks Charlotte if she agrees that someone is watching out for them, but she isn’t sure as she’s never been one to believe in a higher power (which he then re-asks her about church and she says that she doesn’t prefer going to church as “it has always felt like the preacher was lecturing, not actually connecting with God” and ends that if God exists, He doesn’t care about her; Alex says that God doesn’t take care of every stumbling block, but provides a way they don’t see which will bring happiness if you trust Him first; Alex adds that every good thing proves to him there is a God and he only got so far with God’s help); Alex says he plans to help her realize how much God and him love her; Charlotte quickly realizes that God has a hand in her life after this conversation, but her brother says that they control their destinies and he plans to control hers now; *Spoilers* ; Alex notes that “even He (God) couldn’t change Christopher” as it was “one of life’s most perilous truths: people acted for themselves”; Someone says that see another’s struggle has been like “walking through hell anew every day”.
Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers, praying, & thanking God; Mentions of churches, church going, services, & a vicar; A few mentions of miracles; A mention of Godspeed; A mention of thanking heaven; A mention of a place feeling sacred.
Charlotte compares Alex’s nearness as a siren’s call; A couple mentions of Mother Nature; A mention of an evil smile; A mention of a man being evil; A mention of luck.
No major language but these are said:
Religious exclamations/phrases:
2 for heavens sake,
1 thank heavens,
3 heaven knows,
1 good heavens,
1 why in heaven’s name
2 by all the saints,
1 a devil of a time,
1 what the devil.
Minor words/phrases like the following are said:
1 blasted
2 drat
2 lands
2 forms of idiot
1 stupid
1 shut up.
A child almost drowns (up to a handful of sentences); Being locked in a room; Seeing someone shot, bleeding, in pain, & near death (up to a handful of sentences); Seeing someone be hit/punched (up to a couple sentences);
Harsh sarcasm & bitter words (mostly by Charlotte’s brother); In the first chapter, Charlotte’s brother is belittling to her and tries to make her seem inferior (which hurts her); Charlotte’s brother is ugly and hateful to Alex because of his father going to debtor’s prison (her brother acts tyrannical towards and bullies Charlotte as well); It’s noted that Charlotte’s father and brother have yelled at her to hold her tongue and expect silent obedience (which she compares to Alex who has never done either of these).
Charlotte tries to obey her brother, but does sneak out and be with Alex (she goes back and forth with listening and not listening to her brother); Charlotte feels a little deceptive over a plan to meet Alex, but isn’t sure how else to get out of her mother’s plans for her; Charlotte feels guilt over her deceit because of continuing to meet Alex, but meets with him anyway and tries to justify her lies as there wasn’t a good alternative; *Spoilers* *Major Spoilers* .
Many mentions of debts, debtor’s prison, & Alex’s family be ruined and shunned when his parents are forced to go there (this is a major part of the book because he has tried to make a name for himself after this on his own & how Charlotte’s brother still holds Alex’s fathers sins it against him; also including mentions of Alex laying off his father’s debts and parents wanting him to never associate with them again for his own sake); Mentions of illegal duels, shooting to kill someone, possible deaths, injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to a few sentences); Mentions of a child nearly drowning; Mentions of the dangerous conditions of mines (including women and children working in mines), injuries, explosions, & deaths (up to a couple sentences); Mentions of a woman with amnesia (*Spoiler* ); Mentions of lies, lying, & deceit; Mentions of hatred & prejudice; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drinking too much, a hangover, & a pub; A couple mentions of domestic violence (a woman received a chipped tooth from her unkind husband and ran away from him); A couple mentions of punches; A couple mentions of gossip; A couple mentions of pipes & smoking; A couple mentions of hunting; A mention of a boy being picked on at school; A mention of traumatic accidents causing effects on “one’s psyche”.
3 hand kisses,
1 cheek kiss,
1 forehead kiss,
3 kisses lasting a sentence each,
1 kiss lasting two sentences,
1 kiss lasting a few sentences (unsure if this was an actual kiss or hand kiss based on how it was written),
1 kiss lasts two sentences from one POV and four sentences from the other POV,
Remembering kisses (up to a couple sentences),
Staring at lips/mouths.
Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Hand holding, Warmth/Tingles, Flutters, Nearness, Smelling, Noticing, & Staring (up to a few sentences); Wanting to touch, embrace, & hold hands (up to a couple sentences); Blushes, Winks, & Flirting.
Alex noticed Charlotte’s figure (once, a couple of sentences); A young Charlotte noticed that Alex isn’t bad-looking.
*Major Spoilers* .
Mentions of chaperones & scandals; A few mentions of blushes & flirting; A few mentions of jealousy.
May 1, 2024
This was a very lovely and soft historical romance with just the right amount of pining hero and star crossed lovers.
Beautifully and sensitively written with a romance that builds slowly but very believably.
I enjoyed this a lot!
I received an ARC for review
Beautifully and sensitively written with a romance that builds slowly but very believably.
I enjoyed this a lot!
I received an ARC for review
September 8, 2024
“I always hoped, even when I didn’t know what had become of you, that someday you would return and still act kindly toward me. That we could be the friends we once were.”
“And what if I wish we could be more?”
I thought this forbidden love was really well done. With a Romeo and Juliet vibe, this Victorian tale was interesting and entertaining, and I love a story with massive character growth, as this one showcased. These characters and their personalities and passions were everything.
Charlotte is such a solid and capable character and it was pure joy watching her follow her heart, as she rekindles a childhood friendship that sparks into more. It was beautiful to watch Alex rise from his family’s scandal and forge his own path in life. The risks and illicit romantic interactions made this story one filled with longing and hope, and I thought this author did a beautiful job of bringing it all to life.
I loved the brothers and would love to see them each have a book of their own. My favorite part? The masquerade ball!!
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
“And what if I wish we could be more?”
I thought this forbidden love was really well done. With a Romeo and Juliet vibe, this Victorian tale was interesting and entertaining, and I love a story with massive character growth, as this one showcased. These characters and their personalities and passions were everything.
Charlotte is such a solid and capable character and it was pure joy watching her follow her heart, as she rekindles a childhood friendship that sparks into more. It was beautiful to watch Alex rise from his family’s scandal and forge his own path in life. The risks and illicit romantic interactions made this story one filled with longing and hope, and I thought this author did a beautiful job of bringing it all to life.
I loved the brothers and would love to see them each have a book of their own. My favorite part? The masquerade ball!!
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
February 25, 2024
This was a lovely story! I really loved the hero! He overcame so much and still held so much compassion and understanding for the heroine! I really love a good standalone with strong characters and beautiful chemistry! Thank you!
February 4, 2024
4.5 stars!
Charlotte knew Alex when he was best friends with her brother, Christopher. After a scandal with Alex's family, Christopher was told he couldn't be friends with him anymore. Charlotte didn't feel like that was fair and feels bad for Alex but there is nothing she can do about it. Years later, they are reunited but Christopher is very controlling and wants nothing to do with Alex, and he forbids Charlotte from talking to him as well. After a few chance encounters, Charlotte and Alex, find they like being with each other, but will they get a happily ever after? Not if her brother has anything to say about it.
This was a great story! I really liked Charlotte and Alex. I felt so bad for Alex, he gets treated so terribly and he didn't do anything wrong. I was glad Charlotte was on his side. I also liked that the other siblings in Charlotte's family were kind as well. The love between Charlotte and Alex was beautiful and strong, they were determined to find a way to be together. And I really enjoyed the ending, I don't want to give away spoilers, but it was really good. Overall, a great read, and I recommend.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Charlotte knew Alex when he was best friends with her brother, Christopher. After a scandal with Alex's family, Christopher was told he couldn't be friends with him anymore. Charlotte didn't feel like that was fair and feels bad for Alex but there is nothing she can do about it. Years later, they are reunited but Christopher is very controlling and wants nothing to do with Alex, and he forbids Charlotte from talking to him as well. After a few chance encounters, Charlotte and Alex, find they like being with each other, but will they get a happily ever after? Not if her brother has anything to say about it.
This was a great story! I really liked Charlotte and Alex. I felt so bad for Alex, he gets treated so terribly and he didn't do anything wrong. I was glad Charlotte was on his side. I also liked that the other siblings in Charlotte's family were kind as well. The love between Charlotte and Alex was beautiful and strong, they were determined to find a way to be together. And I really enjoyed the ending, I don't want to give away spoilers, but it was really good. Overall, a great read, and I recommend.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
March 13, 2024
I haven't read a forbidden love story like this one in quite a while. Charlotte Roylance and Alex Jenkins once played together as children. Her older brother, Christopher, and Alex are best friends and to her brother's dismay, Charlotte often tags along on their adventures. All of this suddenly changes when Alex's family suffers a scandal and his parents are sent to debtors prison. The Roylance family immediately cuts any and all ties with the Jenkins family. Fast forward almost a decade: Alex returns as a self-made man wanting to offer a business deal to Christopher, but Christopher wants nothing to do with Alex and forbids Charlotte and their younger brothers from having anything to do with Alex. That's all well and good except Charlotte and Alex keep running into each other and restarting their friendship is heading towards love.
There was so much to love about this historical romance:
* The Victorian era
* Dual POV
* Flirting
* The masquerade ball
* Charlotte's younger brothers
I loved Charlotte and Alex together and despised how Alex ruled over her as if she were still a child. I liked how Alex truly cared about the mine workers and wanted to make working conditions safer for them. He was a man of integrity and walked away when the owner of the mine wouldn't listen to him. I loved how fate kept finding ways for Charlotte and Alex to run into each other and eagerly turned pages to see how they would find a way to be together.
4.5 stars for this historical romance. This is a fairly new to me author but I'm looking forward to reading more of her books. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
There was so much to love about this historical romance:
* The Victorian era
* Dual POV
* Flirting
* The masquerade ball
* Charlotte's younger brothers
I loved Charlotte and Alex together and despised how Alex ruled over her as if she were still a child. I liked how Alex truly cared about the mine workers and wanted to make working conditions safer for them. He was a man of integrity and walked away when the owner of the mine wouldn't listen to him. I loved how fate kept finding ways for Charlotte and Alex to run into each other and eagerly turned pages to see how they would find a way to be together.
4.5 stars for this historical romance. This is a fairly new to me author but I'm looking forward to reading more of her books. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
July 10, 2024
𝘿𝙪𝙖𝙡 𝘿𝙚𝙫𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 is a tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption that will require a box of tissues and a tub of ice cream☺️. Alex and Charlotte's story is like Romeo and Juliet. You'll be cheering for them as they navigate forbidden love and family drama. So cancel your plans, grab a blanket, and get ready for a love story that'll make you feel all the feels.
𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐄𝐗𝐏𝐄𝐂𝐓
Dual POV
Regency era
Forbidden love
Childhood friends
Tyrannical brother
Masquerade ball
Mining reform
Worm digging
Pebble throwing
Treehouse
Clandestine meetings
London Zoo
A duel
The perfect ending
𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒
When the Jenkins family is engulfed in financial turmoil and the parents are cast into debtors' prison, the Roylances turn a blind eye to young Alexander, banishing him from their lives and leaving him to face the harsh realities of life alone.
Charlotte Roylance couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia as she laid eyes on Alex Jenkins once again, the boy she had grown up with but had lost touch with over the years. His return as a self-made man seeking collaboration with her family was a welcome surprise, but her brother Christopher was determined to keep them apart. However, fate had other plans, and their secret friendship began to flourish into something more.
𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
I binge-read Dual Devotions! This is my first book by Sarah L. McConkie and it certainly won’t be my last.
It’s a romance that will tug at your heartstrings! This forbidden love story has all the feels, with a hero who's pure of heart and a heroine who’s caged and yearns for freedom. The supporting cast adds excitement to the tale, making it a page-turner!
Charlotte and Alex are my new favorite couple. Alex got dealt a bad hand, but Charlotte was his saving grace. Their love was like a force to be reckoned with, nothing could stand in their way. And that ending, oh my heart! I'm still grinning from ear to ear.
𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓
🛁 No sex, nudity, or profanity.
⚠️ Tyrannical brother. Mining incidences. A duel. Fisticuffs. Shooting. Parental abandonment.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5/5
Audiobook: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐄𝐗𝐏𝐄𝐂𝐓
Dual POV
Regency era
Forbidden love
Childhood friends
Tyrannical brother
Masquerade ball
Mining reform
Worm digging
Pebble throwing
Treehouse
Clandestine meetings
London Zoo
A duel
The perfect ending
𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒
When the Jenkins family is engulfed in financial turmoil and the parents are cast into debtors' prison, the Roylances turn a blind eye to young Alexander, banishing him from their lives and leaving him to face the harsh realities of life alone.
Charlotte Roylance couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia as she laid eyes on Alex Jenkins once again, the boy she had grown up with but had lost touch with over the years. His return as a self-made man seeking collaboration with her family was a welcome surprise, but her brother Christopher was determined to keep them apart. However, fate had other plans, and their secret friendship began to flourish into something more.
𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
I binge-read Dual Devotions! This is my first book by Sarah L. McConkie and it certainly won’t be my last.
It’s a romance that will tug at your heartstrings! This forbidden love story has all the feels, with a hero who's pure of heart and a heroine who’s caged and yearns for freedom. The supporting cast adds excitement to the tale, making it a page-turner!
Charlotte and Alex are my new favorite couple. Alex got dealt a bad hand, but Charlotte was his saving grace. Their love was like a force to be reckoned with, nothing could stand in their way. And that ending, oh my heart! I'm still grinning from ear to ear.
𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓
🛁 No sex, nudity, or profanity.
⚠️ Tyrannical brother. Mining incidences. A duel. Fisticuffs. Shooting. Parental abandonment.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5/5
Audiobook: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
February 16, 2024
I was so excited to read this book. The cover is absolutely stunning too.
There were so many things I enjoyed. I wanted to share some highlights:
The intrigue of forbidden romance
Charlotte’s younger brothers
Alex’s nickname for Charlotte
Charlotte’s journey of self
Her strength
Her adventure with Alex and Walter
Alex trying to make life better for people
Rebekah and her husband
Lord Ainscough was a good man
Margaret
Moxham
I haven’t read much from this author but I eagerly await her next book!
I received an eARC from the publisher. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
There were so many things I enjoyed. I wanted to share some highlights:
The intrigue of forbidden romance
Charlotte’s younger brothers
Alex’s nickname for Charlotte
Charlotte’s journey of self
Her strength
Her adventure with Alex and Walter
Alex trying to make life better for people
Rebekah and her husband
Lord Ainscough was a good man
Margaret
Moxham
I haven’t read much from this author but I eagerly await her next book!
I received an eARC from the publisher. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
February 13, 2024
I give this dear book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨5+ stars!!!!!
“An exceptional dress worked wonders on a distressed soul.”
In the heart of Northumberland, the adults of the prominent Roylance and Jenkins families cherish the hope that their children will someday marry. But when the Jenkins family is exposed and Alexander’s parents are cast into debtors’ prison, the Roylances unceremoniously cut him out of their lives, forbidding their children from any association with him and abandoning the boy to a lonely life of destitution. Despite his dire circumstances, Alex is determined: he will make it on his own…
9 years have passed by since that unforgettable day since Charlotte Roylance has seen Alex Jenkins, but she hasn’t forgotten him. When he does return to town a self-made man seeking to renew his relationship with her family and unite with them in a shared business venture, she sees this as an opportunity to put away old grudges. Her older brother strongly does not share her sentiments and forbids her from seeing their old friend again. But fate―and Charlotte’s heart―has other plans…
“I never, ever stopped loving you. I have always wanted to be with you. You are what I choose.”
@sarahlmcconkie this is such a captivating Victorian romance. It is both delightful and tender as two families navigate betrayal and loss! This dear book will take you on quite a journey with all of the surprising twists, budding romance, complicated relationships, and such powerful endearing forgiveness! It’s a book that will tug on your heartstrings in more way than one.
It is a book well-worth the read!
“God had prevailed in their lives.
Forgiveness did work miracles.“
“An exceptional dress worked wonders on a distressed soul.”
In the heart of Northumberland, the adults of the prominent Roylance and Jenkins families cherish the hope that their children will someday marry. But when the Jenkins family is exposed and Alexander’s parents are cast into debtors’ prison, the Roylances unceremoniously cut him out of their lives, forbidding their children from any association with him and abandoning the boy to a lonely life of destitution. Despite his dire circumstances, Alex is determined: he will make it on his own…
9 years have passed by since that unforgettable day since Charlotte Roylance has seen Alex Jenkins, but she hasn’t forgotten him. When he does return to town a self-made man seeking to renew his relationship with her family and unite with them in a shared business venture, she sees this as an opportunity to put away old grudges. Her older brother strongly does not share her sentiments and forbids her from seeing their old friend again. But fate―and Charlotte’s heart―has other plans…
“I never, ever stopped loving you. I have always wanted to be with you. You are what I choose.”
@sarahlmcconkie this is such a captivating Victorian romance. It is both delightful and tender as two families navigate betrayal and loss! This dear book will take you on quite a journey with all of the surprising twists, budding romance, complicated relationships, and such powerful endearing forgiveness! It’s a book that will tug on your heartstrings in more way than one.
It is a book well-worth the read!
“God had prevailed in their lives.
Forgiveness did work miracles.“
March 27, 2024
Lovely book! With Romeo and Juliet-esk vibes without the tragedy at the end.
March 3, 2024
Book Review for Dual Devotions by Sarah L McConkie
Genre: Historical Romance-Regency
A ruined family. Severed Ties. Forbidden Love.
Charlotte Roylance is ruled by her cruel older brother while their parents are away in India. Alex Jenkins, whose parents were put in debtor’s prison, has struggled since he was a boy, living a lonely life of destitution and cut off from the life and people he knew. But through sheer grit and determination, he has made his way, despite the fact that society, especially the Roylances have forbidden their children from any association with the Jenkins family.
When he returns to town a self-made man, he seeks to repair his bonds with the family and begin a new shared business venture.
Her brother forbids them from seeing each other. However, fate and Charlotte’s heart have other plans.
This is a story of redemption, determination, and love across boundaries.
What I loved:
-Dual Pov
-Childhood friends
-Secret Rendevous with tender sweet kisses
-”Support local”
-Forbidden Love
-Duel
-Brother’s Best friend
CW: mild violence, kissing only, mild peril
TW: harsh work conditions discussed
Genre: Historical Romance-Regency
A ruined family. Severed Ties. Forbidden Love.
Charlotte Roylance is ruled by her cruel older brother while their parents are away in India. Alex Jenkins, whose parents were put in debtor’s prison, has struggled since he was a boy, living a lonely life of destitution and cut off from the life and people he knew. But through sheer grit and determination, he has made his way, despite the fact that society, especially the Roylances have forbidden their children from any association with the Jenkins family.
When he returns to town a self-made man, he seeks to repair his bonds with the family and begin a new shared business venture.
Her brother forbids them from seeing each other. However, fate and Charlotte’s heart have other plans.
This is a story of redemption, determination, and love across boundaries.
What I loved:
-Dual Pov
-Childhood friends
-Secret Rendevous with tender sweet kisses
-”Support local”
-Forbidden Love
-Duel
-Brother’s Best friend
CW: mild violence, kissing only, mild peril
TW: harsh work conditions discussed
March 18, 2024
Such a cute forbidden love story! I love a good recency era book especially the fashion! I loved the historical facts the author added like the zoo and coal mine regulations. Overall a great read!
May 9, 2024
What a great romance! Alex was so dreamy and continued to persevere even after all he's gone through. Watching Charlotte's journey as she struggled with following her heart despite being ordered by her brother to do the opposite was fabulous. I loved when she found the courage to finally stand up for herself.
February 13, 2024
This is such a beautiful and moving love story! I loved the rich historical aspect and the various settings throughout the book.
I have a special place in my heart for coal mining, as my family has long worked in the coal mines. Alex’s determination to improve conditions and make it a safer work environment was so well done, and it really made love his character.
Alex is such a great and unique hero, he once was wealthy but now lives as a well off business man. The society that raised him now shuns him, and he finds it difficult to make progress when so many oppose based off his family history. But the most painful is that the Christopher Roylance, who was once a best friend and as close as a brother to Alex, will stop at nothing to see that Alex is not welcomed back in to society. And that Alex will never come near his sister. For gone is the small red headed girl who chased after them as boys, and now Charlotte Roylance is an auburn beauty trapped under her brother’s control.
Charlotte is a kind, loyal and devoted heroine. She disagrees strongly with the man her brother has become, and when Alex reenters her life she finds the courage to chase her own path in life.
But there are many obstacles in the path of their love, from overbearing and misguided family to miscommunication and rival beaus.
The way that both Alex and Charlotte made each other stronger was beautifully done, and i especially loved that both of them had to find the courage to choose each other on their own.
There was an event that I was surprised by and the layer and depth that added to the story was simply wonderful.
I’m not gonna lie, it even hope that maybe one day we will have a story about a redeemed and reformed Christopher!
I have a special place in my heart for coal mining, as my family has long worked in the coal mines. Alex’s determination to improve conditions and make it a safer work environment was so well done, and it really made love his character.
Alex is such a great and unique hero, he once was wealthy but now lives as a well off business man. The society that raised him now shuns him, and he finds it difficult to make progress when so many oppose based off his family history. But the most painful is that the Christopher Roylance, who was once a best friend and as close as a brother to Alex, will stop at nothing to see that Alex is not welcomed back in to society. And that Alex will never come near his sister. For gone is the small red headed girl who chased after them as boys, and now Charlotte Roylance is an auburn beauty trapped under her brother’s control.
Charlotte is a kind, loyal and devoted heroine. She disagrees strongly with the man her brother has become, and when Alex reenters her life she finds the courage to chase her own path in life.
But there are many obstacles in the path of their love, from overbearing and misguided family to miscommunication and rival beaus.
The way that both Alex and Charlotte made each other stronger was beautifully done, and i especially loved that both of them had to find the courage to choose each other on their own.
There was an event that I was surprised by and the layer and depth that added to the story was simply wonderful.
I’m not gonna lie, it even hope that maybe one day we will have a story about a redeemed and reformed Christopher!
April 17, 2024
This was a sweet story! It took me a minute to get into it but once I did it started flying by! This was more Victorian era so a little different but still enjoyable. I loved the part about the London Zoo because I can only imagine what it was like seeing animals like that in real life!
Charlotte and Alex were such compliments of each other. Their love was sweet and not without challenges but their characters grew with their love.
Charlotte and Alex were such compliments of each other. Their love was sweet and not without challenges but their characters grew with their love.
February 16, 2024
This was a captivating Victorian Romance with an Enemies to Lovers/Romeo & Juliet twist!
Charlotte Roylance followed her older brother Chistopher and his best friend Alexander Jenkins everywhere as a young girl. But when Alexander’s parents are thrown into debtors’ prison, the Roylances cut him out and forbid their children to associate with him, abandoning him to a life of destitution. Nine years later, Alex returns an independent man wishing to reestablish his relationship to the Roylances. Charlotte has never forgotten Alex, but Christopher holds irrational deep grudges against him, and his parents being away in India, he holds the power to throw him out of the house and threatens Charlotte to never see him again. Yet, fate has other plans, and Charlotte and Alex rekindle their friendship in secret, and soon their relationship grows into so much more. But Christopher is determined to end their connection and is not afraid to go to extreme measures to accomplish it.
This story was intriguing and captivating from the first page. The impossible forbidden love theme made it even more engaging for me, always full of angst and tension. I have to be honest and say that, at first, I didn’t relate as much with the main characters as I wished to. But this totally changed throughout the story. The character growth for both Charlotte and Alex was beautifully and credibly done, and the message behind it was a treasure of true love, sacrifice and forgiveness. The romance was sweet and swooning. The plot has twists that keep me glued to the story. Charlotte has been manipulated by her brother for many years, but I admired her strength in challenging him and fighting to not let him dictate anymore her actions and future. Her love for Alex also matures throughout the story. And Alex matures too, his love for Charlotte will becomes purer as it is challenged and threatened by her brother. Christopher turned to be a terrible villain that I wanted to shake and more, but I liked how things developed for him at the end. The final part is touching and inspiring, and very redeeming. Beautiful faith inspired message. I definitely recommend this novel to Historical Romance lovers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Charlotte Roylance followed her older brother Chistopher and his best friend Alexander Jenkins everywhere as a young girl. But when Alexander’s parents are thrown into debtors’ prison, the Roylances cut him out and forbid their children to associate with him, abandoning him to a life of destitution. Nine years later, Alex returns an independent man wishing to reestablish his relationship to the Roylances. Charlotte has never forgotten Alex, but Christopher holds irrational deep grudges against him, and his parents being away in India, he holds the power to throw him out of the house and threatens Charlotte to never see him again. Yet, fate has other plans, and Charlotte and Alex rekindle their friendship in secret, and soon their relationship grows into so much more. But Christopher is determined to end their connection and is not afraid to go to extreme measures to accomplish it.
This story was intriguing and captivating from the first page. The impossible forbidden love theme made it even more engaging for me, always full of angst and tension. I have to be honest and say that, at first, I didn’t relate as much with the main characters as I wished to. But this totally changed throughout the story. The character growth for both Charlotte and Alex was beautifully and credibly done, and the message behind it was a treasure of true love, sacrifice and forgiveness. The romance was sweet and swooning. The plot has twists that keep me glued to the story. Charlotte has been manipulated by her brother for many years, but I admired her strength in challenging him and fighting to not let him dictate anymore her actions and future. Her love for Alex also matures throughout the story. And Alex matures too, his love for Charlotte will becomes purer as it is challenged and threatened by her brother. Christopher turned to be a terrible villain that I wanted to shake and more, but I liked how things developed for him at the end. The final part is touching and inspiring, and very redeeming. Beautiful faith inspired message. I definitely recommend this novel to Historical Romance lovers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
February 8, 2024
I loved this book by Sarah L McConkie. Her characters were so well written. And I loved the plot as well!
Charlotte is such a great character. She's a young girl at the beginning. She, her brother, Christopher, and their friend Alex enjoy spending time together when they can. But one day that changes, when Alex's family faces a disgrace. And he is forced out on his own as a teen.
Alex and Charlotte meet again, years later. And circumstances for both of them threaten to keep them apart forever, especially Christopher. But Charlotte is done being her brother's puppet. And she's ready to reach for what she wants.
Charlotte in this one is so determined. I loved that about her, especially as she finds herself. I loved watching her journey from one willing to do what others want to one wanting her own future.
And I really liked Alex, too. I loved the way he worked hard for himself, for his family, and for his name. He was the kind of man that Charlotte deserved.
I didn't like Christopher for most of the book. But I did like him as he learned his own lessons. I really hope we get to see more books from this author, focusing on Charlotte's brothers!
This book is so good! Make sure to read it for yourself!
I was sent an e-copy of Dual Devotions from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Charlotte is such a great character. She's a young girl at the beginning. She, her brother, Christopher, and their friend Alex enjoy spending time together when they can. But one day that changes, when Alex's family faces a disgrace. And he is forced out on his own as a teen.
Alex and Charlotte meet again, years later. And circumstances for both of them threaten to keep them apart forever, especially Christopher. But Charlotte is done being her brother's puppet. And she's ready to reach for what she wants.
Charlotte in this one is so determined. I loved that about her, especially as she finds herself. I loved watching her journey from one willing to do what others want to one wanting her own future.
And I really liked Alex, too. I loved the way he worked hard for himself, for his family, and for his name. He was the kind of man that Charlotte deserved.
I didn't like Christopher for most of the book. But I did like him as he learned his own lessons. I really hope we get to see more books from this author, focusing on Charlotte's brothers!
This book is so good! Make sure to read it for yourself!
I was sent an e-copy of Dual Devotions from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
February 16, 2024
4.5 stars
This book! This book is emotional and gripping.
Beautifully descriptive details.
A tale of love, forgiveness, heartbreak, and sacrifice.
Alex and Charlotte grew up together, along with Charlotte’s older brother Christopher, until Alex’s father was found to be in serious debt and was being sent off to debtors’ prison.
Cast off and shunned from his close friends and society, Alex was left all alone, with a burden no child should carry.
Charlotte never thought she’d see Alex again, but nine years later, their paths cross and that sets in motion a beautiful and forbidden love story.
Upon their reacquaintance, Alex notices that Charlotte has lost her spark. She has shrunk herself to do and be what her brother demands. With their renewed friendship, Alex longs to see the fire return to Charlotte’s eyes. Can Charlotte stand up for herself against her controlling brother and go after what she wants?
Alex has been given every reason to be a bitter and hardened man, but through everything he remains loving, caring, and selfless.
I loved the sweet relationship Charlotte has with her younger brothers.
I’ve never wanted to punch someone as badly as I did Christopher 🤣
I hope to see more from Charlotte’s brothers in the future.
I received an advance free copy and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This book! This book is emotional and gripping.
Beautifully descriptive details.
A tale of love, forgiveness, heartbreak, and sacrifice.
Alex and Charlotte grew up together, along with Charlotte’s older brother Christopher, until Alex’s father was found to be in serious debt and was being sent off to debtors’ prison.
Cast off and shunned from his close friends and society, Alex was left all alone, with a burden no child should carry.
Charlotte never thought she’d see Alex again, but nine years later, their paths cross and that sets in motion a beautiful and forbidden love story.
Upon their reacquaintance, Alex notices that Charlotte has lost her spark. She has shrunk herself to do and be what her brother demands. With their renewed friendship, Alex longs to see the fire return to Charlotte’s eyes. Can Charlotte stand up for herself against her controlling brother and go after what she wants?
Alex has been given every reason to be a bitter and hardened man, but through everything he remains loving, caring, and selfless.
I loved the sweet relationship Charlotte has with her younger brothers.
I’ve never wanted to punch someone as badly as I did Christopher 🤣
I hope to see more from Charlotte’s brothers in the future.
I received an advance free copy and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
March 15, 2024
Sometimes you pick up a book thinking you’ll enjoy it, and then you are blown away by the author’s ability to weave a beautiful story. This is how I felt reading Dual Devotions from Sarah L. McConkie. I was intrigued when it was announced and happily added it to my TBR. When I finished the book, I was left wishing I could reread it for the first time. I loved it!
Charlotte and Alex are the perfect leading characters. Both of them are so good and so kind. They’re the kind of people you want to be friends with. The way they are drawn to each other and how their relationship develops makes you love them more. There are so many moments that I was a puddle over how sweet these two are.
I loved the forbidden romance trope in this book. It was so well done and I felt for Charlotte and Alex. The way they fought for their love was so good. I wanted to fight for them. That might be my favorite part of reading this book. I was so invested in Charlotte and Alex. I want to be their friend. I love when authors bring their characters to life in that way.
Dual Devotions is the perfect book for anyone who loves forbidden romances, great characters, and a love worth fighting for.
Thank you to the author and Covenant Communications for the advanced copy. These thoughts are my own.
Charlotte and Alex are the perfect leading characters. Both of them are so good and so kind. They’re the kind of people you want to be friends with. The way they are drawn to each other and how their relationship develops makes you love them more. There are so many moments that I was a puddle over how sweet these two are.
I loved the forbidden romance trope in this book. It was so well done and I felt for Charlotte and Alex. The way they fought for their love was so good. I wanted to fight for them. That might be my favorite part of reading this book. I was so invested in Charlotte and Alex. I want to be their friend. I love when authors bring their characters to life in that way.
Dual Devotions is the perfect book for anyone who loves forbidden romances, great characters, and a love worth fighting for.
Thank you to the author and Covenant Communications for the advanced copy. These thoughts are my own.
February 17, 2024
This book first caught my eye with the absolutely gorgeous cover then had me hooked from the very first chapter!
It has depth. It has drama. Real characters, fairytale settings, and a love story for the ages!
Alex Jenkins grew up a in the world of gentry, spending free time with his best friend (essentially brother) Christopher and being told that he would one day marry Chris’s little sister, Charlotte.
When the Jenkins family is disgraced, Alex is shunned- especially by Christopher. Given the choice between potential imprisonment and running away, Alex makes the only choice there is: to leave and never return.
When the former friends interact again 9 years later, it does not go well. Excluding the fact that Charlotte has always had a soft spot for Alex and wants to make amends.
Will they be able to foster their friendship when the boys have become irrevocably fractured?
Read this book if you like:
🪱 Stars
🪱 Throwing Pebbles
🪱 Tree Houses
🪱 Clandestine Meetings
🪱 Finding Your Voice
🪱 Feuding Families
🪱 Light hearted Conversations
🪱 Following Your Heart
🪱 Changing Your Destiny
I received a complimentary copy; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
It has depth. It has drama. Real characters, fairytale settings, and a love story for the ages!
Alex Jenkins grew up a in the world of gentry, spending free time with his best friend (essentially brother) Christopher and being told that he would one day marry Chris’s little sister, Charlotte.
When the Jenkins family is disgraced, Alex is shunned- especially by Christopher. Given the choice between potential imprisonment and running away, Alex makes the only choice there is: to leave and never return.
When the former friends interact again 9 years later, it does not go well. Excluding the fact that Charlotte has always had a soft spot for Alex and wants to make amends.
Will they be able to foster their friendship when the boys have become irrevocably fractured?
Read this book if you like:
🪱 Stars
🪱 Throwing Pebbles
🪱 Tree Houses
🪱 Clandestine Meetings
🪱 Finding Your Voice
🪱 Feuding Families
🪱 Light hearted Conversations
🪱 Following Your Heart
🪱 Changing Your Destiny
I received a complimentary copy; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 14, 2024
This story completely sucked me in from the first chapter. I found myself trying to read each chapter as quickly as possible and ended up binging quite a bit of it! This was my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it.
I really loved Charlotte and Alex’s story! A bit of Romeo and Juliet vibe but with a MUCH happier ending. There were a lot of tense and dark moments throughout the book but the sweet, happy times kept shining through despite it all. And I suppose that was the overall theme for the book as well. Along with forgiveness and redemption. And while I wasn’t a huge fan of how strong some of those themes especially got toward the end, it wasn’t too overpowering and I still really loved how everything turned out. There were a lot of wonderful characters in this book and I’m sure you’ll fall in love with them as much as I did! I look forward to reading more by this author.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author and publisher. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I really loved Charlotte and Alex’s story! A bit of Romeo and Juliet vibe but with a MUCH happier ending. There were a lot of tense and dark moments throughout the book but the sweet, happy times kept shining through despite it all. And I suppose that was the overall theme for the book as well. Along with forgiveness and redemption. And while I wasn’t a huge fan of how strong some of those themes especially got toward the end, it wasn’t too overpowering and I still really loved how everything turned out. There were a lot of wonderful characters in this book and I’m sure you’ll fall in love with them as much as I did! I look forward to reading more by this author.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author and publisher. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 15, 2025
I loved this book, the story and the characters. However, there were a few things that bothered me; (1) It drove me crazy that Charlotte didn't stand up for herself to her brother, Christopher and she just let him treat her like a child and boss her around. (2) Why would the parents go off to India and leave their children alone! Even though some of the children were well into their twenties? That just seemed very strange to me. Poor little 5-year-old Walter seemed to be an orphan. And then when the mother comes home, she doesn't seem to have any interaction with her children other than with Charlotte in planning an elaborate ball. And why does Charlotte feel the responsibility of taking care of her brothers, even after she's married? What kind of a mother is their mother? (3) I didn't like how Charlotte and Alex were taking the blame for someone getting hurt. FINALLY, toward the end, the only person who acknowledged that if someone got hurt, it would not be Alex's fault or Charlotte's fault but it would be Christopher's fault was Alex's friend, Moxsum.
January 19, 2024
Dual Devotions (Book)
This book by Sarah L. McConkie is an exciting story about a young woman whose life is being pulled in two directions after she runs into an old family friend who became estranged after his family fell into ruin. Will Charlotte take the easier path and let her brother dictate her future, or will she break free and make her own decisions? Alex on the other hand has done everything in his power to erase the stigma his parents unwilling put upon him and make a name for himself. If only his childhood best friend Chris, Charlotte’s older controlling brother, could except him as he once did.
Parents Guide: A young man gets shot as a result of a duel. No graphic description.
My rating scale:
1 star (awful, don’t waste your time)
2 star (not that great, but not the worst)
3 star (decent, had potential)
4 star (good, enjoyable)
5 star (amazing, highly recommended)
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book by Sarah L. McConkie is an exciting story about a young woman whose life is being pulled in two directions after she runs into an old family friend who became estranged after his family fell into ruin. Will Charlotte take the easier path and let her brother dictate her future, or will she break free and make her own decisions? Alex on the other hand has done everything in his power to erase the stigma his parents unwilling put upon him and make a name for himself. If only his childhood best friend Chris, Charlotte’s older controlling brother, could except him as he once did.
Parents Guide: A young man gets shot as a result of a duel. No graphic description.
My rating scale:
1 star (awful, don’t waste your time)
2 star (not that great, but not the worst)
3 star (decent, had potential)
4 star (good, enjoyable)
5 star (amazing, highly recommended)
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 14, 2024
Genre: historical romance with Christian themes
Content: kisses
Historical romance is not my usual jam but this book looked interesting so I signed up for the ARC team! It was a good story.
The Roylance and Jenkins families were close when Charlotte and Alexander were children. Christopher, Charlotte’s brother, was Alex’s best friend. After Alex’s family falls to ruin (when Alex is 14), the Roylances distance themselves from him. Alex goes into the mines and works his way up enough until he is able to pay his father debts.
He attempts reconciliation with the Roylances which Christopher staunchly refuses. But Alex and Charlotte have a spark and things get tricky from there…
This is a forbidden love, brother’s ex-best friend love story with strong themes of redemption, forgiveness, and healing of familial relationships.
It took me a little while to get into but once I did, I needed to know the outcome!
This one releases February 13th.
Quotes That Stood Out:
😂 As a boy, he had found her much less annoying than most girls, but now he found her to be the most annoying of any female he’d ever encountered. That was, of course, if annoyance was measured by how much someone could plague one’s thoughts.
🙄 “First of all, can we please dispense with all the ‘Miss Roylance-ing’? I detest it.”
😊 Charlotte found herself too often studying Alex’s handsome face, the lines around his smile more worn than the faint lines that crossed his brow. That alone indicated the strength of his person-he’d chosen to smile more than grimace despite the hardships he’d been thrown in life.
❤️ The sensible part of her told her to stop meeting with him entirely. Her heart told her he was worth the risk.
🙏🏻 I know how it feels to seem forgotten or alone, but I can tell you that while God doesn’t take every stumbling block out of our paths, He often provides a way we don’t see that will bring happiness. But we must first trust Him.”
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own. No positive review was required.
Content: kisses
Historical romance is not my usual jam but this book looked interesting so I signed up for the ARC team! It was a good story.
The Roylance and Jenkins families were close when Charlotte and Alexander were children. Christopher, Charlotte’s brother, was Alex’s best friend. After Alex’s family falls to ruin (when Alex is 14), the Roylances distance themselves from him. Alex goes into the mines and works his way up enough until he is able to pay his father debts.
He attempts reconciliation with the Roylances which Christopher staunchly refuses. But Alex and Charlotte have a spark and things get tricky from there…
This is a forbidden love, brother’s ex-best friend love story with strong themes of redemption, forgiveness, and healing of familial relationships.
It took me a little while to get into but once I did, I needed to know the outcome!
This one releases February 13th.
Quotes That Stood Out:
😂 As a boy, he had found her much less annoying than most girls, but now he found her to be the most annoying of any female he’d ever encountered. That was, of course, if annoyance was measured by how much someone could plague one’s thoughts.
🙄 “First of all, can we please dispense with all the ‘Miss Roylance-ing’? I detest it.”
😊 Charlotte found herself too often studying Alex’s handsome face, the lines around his smile more worn than the faint lines that crossed his brow. That alone indicated the strength of his person-he’d chosen to smile more than grimace despite the hardships he’d been thrown in life.
❤️ The sensible part of her told her to stop meeting with him entirely. Her heart told her he was worth the risk.
🙏🏻 I know how it feels to seem forgotten or alone, but I can tell you that while God doesn’t take every stumbling block out of our paths, He often provides a way we don’t see that will bring happiness. But we must first trust Him.”
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own. No positive review was required.
February 16, 2024
This regency romance has Romeo and Juliet vibes and my favorite line says, "An exceptional dress worked wonders on a distressed soul." Romeo and Juliet plus exceptional dresses - that should prove to you that this story is one full of drama! From bullying brothers to clandestine meetings to memory loss to balls to secrets, this novel has it all!
Charlotte's family dramatically rejected Alex's family when they were young and the two reconnect a decade later. But Charlotte's brother, Christopher, the current head of the household, forbids them from having any sort of relationship. They run into each other multiple times by chance (including at the zoo!) and both realize that they don't want to snuff out their feelings. So many things happen to throw them together and so many things happen to keep them apart; this story is a page turner!
(Be aware of bullying/abuse, an episode of drowning, and a gun wound)
Charlotte's family dramatically rejected Alex's family when they were young and the two reconnect a decade later. But Charlotte's brother, Christopher, the current head of the household, forbids them from having any sort of relationship. They run into each other multiple times by chance (including at the zoo!) and both realize that they don't want to snuff out their feelings. So many things happen to throw them together and so many things happen to keep them apart; this story is a page turner!
(Be aware of bullying/abuse, an episode of drowning, and a gun wound)
February 6, 2024
I really enjoyed this fresh Victorian romance. The story felt original and I liked the diversity of the characters with their different class statuses; Alex's family's fall from the gentry and way both families handled that. This is a love story of star-crossed lovers where Alex is forbidden as Charlotte's brother holds on to past grudges and refuses to see what Alex has made of himself. There were so many good themes and inspirational thoughts woven throughout the story all of which felt very natural and fitting for the characters. I enjoyed being surprised by the turns of the story. It was a good read and I'm hopeful some of these side characters will appear in future books. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 4.5 stars.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 4.5 stars.
February 18, 2024
I loved the pace of this story! We get sufficient background and how Alex got to where he is. How Charlottes family shunned him and turned their back on them. I adored their timid and budding relationship. It was such a heartwarming story. Alex was so hard working and climbed his way to success. But Charlotte loved him where he was at, whether it was dirt poor or successful.
A story about finding love, finding a place in the world, forgiveness and redemption! Charlotte and Alex were everything! I loved their story. It wasn’t all roses and sunshine. They went through their trials and issues. They deal with the hard things in life. But they face these things together. Sarah L. McConkie did such a phenomenal job weaving this tale that will leave you wanting to be a better person. She breaks your heart and heals it all in one story. And George. We all need a George in our life!!
A story about finding love, finding a place in the world, forgiveness and redemption! Charlotte and Alex were everything! I loved their story. It wasn’t all roses and sunshine. They went through their trials and issues. They deal with the hard things in life. But they face these things together. Sarah L. McConkie did such a phenomenal job weaving this tale that will leave you wanting to be a better person. She breaks your heart and heals it all in one story. And George. We all need a George in our life!!
February 20, 2024
The best part about this book was the reversal of fortunes aspect. The heroine is wealthy, surrounded by suitors, and supported by family despite an ongoing argument with her brother about what’s best for her life. The hero, however, has everything against him. He is struggling to regain any footing in society after his father’s scandal. He is poor, alone, and ignored. Yet the two are drawn together over and over again. The book burns with forbidden love, although it is occasionally too dependent on romantic tropes. What it might lack in originality, it makes up for in likability. The author takes a kindly look at all her characters. Their struggles are relevant to their situations. The drama makes sense in the situation. Everyone earns their happy endings or their consequences. It’s a lovely, charming novel that will certainly please the abundant fans of the genre.
February 27, 2024
I thought this was a good story about choosing what voices to listen to and making your own decisions. I liked how as Charlotte grew up and got to know Alex again she realized that he was still the good person that she knew as a child. I liked seeing her grow a backbone and be willing to stand up to her older brother and tell him he was wrong. I liked seeing each of these characters grow as they struggled with what their families and others told them about the other and how they learned to make their own decisions and learned to forgive. I also liked seeing Alex and Charlotte fall in love and how they would risk everything to be together.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
February 17, 2024
I really enjoyed Alex and Charlotte's love story. They had the sweetest connection from their childhood, and then immediately built on that connection when they meet again as young adults. I loved that each one had to learn to love themselves first, and then they were able to love each other. There's also a hint of Romeo and Juliet with a long-standing family fight. I also really found the history of mines fascinating, and admired the work Alex did to make the mines a safer place to work.
It was a great story of forgiveness, family, and of course - love.
Thank you to Sarah L. McConkie and Covenant Communications for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
It was a great story of forgiveness, family, and of course - love.
Thank you to Sarah L. McConkie and Covenant Communications for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
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