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Means of Mercy #1
Love's Sorrow
Hired as a nanny for her cousin’s children, Anne Tearle finds security and a loving family. The children are a dream, but London society is a world of its own, one where a displaced farm girl has no business being. But, wealthy rake, Gavin MacKay, helps her to see associating with the upper class might not be as horrid as she first assumed.
Like all things worthwhile, love comes at a price, and the cost soon bestows more anguish than joy. Lost, but not undone, Anne must find the courage to begin life anew, or succumb to sorrow's unrelenting waves of grief.
Like all things worthwhile, love comes at a price, and the cost soon bestows more anguish than joy. Lost, but not undone, Anne must find the courage to begin life anew, or succumb to sorrow's unrelenting waves of grief.
Paperback
First published April 19, 2014
14 people are currently reading
294 people want to read
About the author
Terri Rochenski
13 books171 followersTerri started writing stories in the 8th grade, when a little gnome whispered in her brain. Gundi’s Great Adventure never hit the best seller list, but it started a long love affair with storytelling.
Today she enjoys an escape to Middle Earth during the rare ‘me’ moments her three young children allow. When not playing toys, picking them back up, or kissing boo-boos, she can be found sprawled on the couch with a book or pencil in hand, and toothpicks propping her eyelids open.
Today she enjoys an escape to Middle Earth during the rare ‘me’ moments her three young children allow. When not playing toys, picking them back up, or kissing boo-boos, she can be found sprawled on the couch with a book or pencil in hand, and toothpicks propping her eyelids open.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 15, 2014
Love’s Sorrow is the first book of the Means of Mercy series. I had a confusing time with this review, at first, until Sandy found out this was to be continued in the next book.
The story is well written and intriguing. A historical romance with all the finery and dresses we love to hear about. Anne Tearle is a young orphaned farm girl, raised in her uncle’s house by a wicked evil aunt. Cinderella type story has her uncle (not evil like his wife) going to live with an estranged cousin in the guise of being a tutor for her cousins two boys. Upon arriving, she was treated as family instead and introduced into London society.
Our young heroine falls in love and gets married to a handsome wealthy young Scottish man, Gavin MacKay. All seemed perfect as he seemed to be in love and attentive to his new bride, lavishing her with clothes, gifts and an enormous house.
I’m purposefully leaving out the wonderful details, so you can enjoy them for yourself! As I said before, this is well written and interesting.
After a few years of trying to have children, Gavin’s big dream, there are miscarriages and one infant death after only 3 days. This takes its toll incredibly, as would be expected, at this point Gavin has reverted to his mistresses and is a drunken despot (I’m greatly distressed, because I thought him wonderful and reformed by Anne’s love). Anne finds him in bed with another woman and leaves him, really unusual for the times. She proceeds to file for divorce, completely unheard of in the times. She is thwarted by gossip started by him calling her a liar, witch, and so much more. Whereupon, she escapes London to her friends in America, where her maid and friend marries and leaves her alone but with friends. She finds herself pregnant from a bruising rape her husband performed before she found him abed with the other woman.
The book ends on a cliffhanger with her vowing to keep the child from Gavin, if it, indeed, lives.
I’m so glad to know it will continue and Anne will find love again. I spent a couple of days in a horrible humor wondering how to write this, not knowing about book two! I’m a HEA or at least a HFN kind of gal and really looking forward to a better solution for dear Anne!
This is an excellent and complicated story, and I for one will be waiting for the next installment with baited breath! The characters in this are well done, the situations realistic…I’m just so glad it didn’t end here!
Copy was gifted
The story is well written and intriguing. A historical romance with all the finery and dresses we love to hear about. Anne Tearle is a young orphaned farm girl, raised in her uncle’s house by a wicked evil aunt. Cinderella type story has her uncle (not evil like his wife) going to live with an estranged cousin in the guise of being a tutor for her cousins two boys. Upon arriving, she was treated as family instead and introduced into London society.
Our young heroine falls in love and gets married to a handsome wealthy young Scottish man, Gavin MacKay. All seemed perfect as he seemed to be in love and attentive to his new bride, lavishing her with clothes, gifts and an enormous house.
I’m purposefully leaving out the wonderful details, so you can enjoy them for yourself! As I said before, this is well written and interesting.
After a few years of trying to have children, Gavin’s big dream, there are miscarriages and one infant death after only 3 days. This takes its toll incredibly, as would be expected, at this point Gavin has reverted to his mistresses and is a drunken despot (I’m greatly distressed, because I thought him wonderful and reformed by Anne’s love). Anne finds him in bed with another woman and leaves him, really unusual for the times. She proceeds to file for divorce, completely unheard of in the times. She is thwarted by gossip started by him calling her a liar, witch, and so much more. Whereupon, she escapes London to her friends in America, where her maid and friend marries and leaves her alone but with friends. She finds herself pregnant from a bruising rape her husband performed before she found him abed with the other woman.
The book ends on a cliffhanger with her vowing to keep the child from Gavin, if it, indeed, lives.
I’m so glad to know it will continue and Anne will find love again. I spent a couple of days in a horrible humor wondering how to write this, not knowing about book two! I’m a HEA or at least a HFN kind of gal and really looking forward to a better solution for dear Anne!
This is an excellent and complicated story, and I for one will be waiting for the next installment with baited breath! The characters in this are well done, the situations realistic…I’m just so glad it didn’t end here!
Copy was gifted
May 28, 2014
Four and a half stars
A review copy was provided by the author in return for an honest review.
May I begin by apologizing to the author for the extended delay in finalizing this review. I wasn’t very well lately, and this is likely to impact my reading speed over the next few weeks as well, but please bear with me, I’m getting there.
I must say I am rarely so impressed with a novel. Terry, thumbs up! This is a great book, and I am giving it four and a half stars. There were a couple of reasons I didn’t go up to five. Perhaps I should start with them, and get the cons out of the way.
What bothered me was the certainty that I had all along that there was something wrong with Gavin MacKay. The author showed her presence, albeit unwittingly, by presenting a main character who was suspicious from the beginning.
The author’s presence was noticeable throughout the book as she kept telling the reader things that she should have inconspicuously showed (as per the famous writing rule I keep quoting in my reviews.) I agree that sometimes this is not possible when writing a book from a first person point of view, but I feel that there were many instances in the novel where Terri could have better used her writing skills.
Other than that, I can only praise ‘Love’s sorrow’ at every level. Beautifully written, authentic, it drew me in like a magnet and I just couldn’t put it down. One of those rare page-turners with well-developed characters, great attention to detail that provides an amazing sense of time and place, but most importantly an amazing, heartrending story for which I can only commend the author. I am glad that this is the beginning of a series, and I beg Terri to come back to me with the next instalment.
I apologize that this review is not more elaborate, but since I have no criticism to add, I see no reason to extend it.
Congratulations, Terri!
Sophie Dufort
http://sophiedufort.blogspot.com/
A review copy was provided by the author in return for an honest review.
May I begin by apologizing to the author for the extended delay in finalizing this review. I wasn’t very well lately, and this is likely to impact my reading speed over the next few weeks as well, but please bear with me, I’m getting there.
I must say I am rarely so impressed with a novel. Terry, thumbs up! This is a great book, and I am giving it four and a half stars. There were a couple of reasons I didn’t go up to five. Perhaps I should start with them, and get the cons out of the way.
What bothered me was the certainty that I had all along that there was something wrong with Gavin MacKay. The author showed her presence, albeit unwittingly, by presenting a main character who was suspicious from the beginning.
The author’s presence was noticeable throughout the book as she kept telling the reader things that she should have inconspicuously showed (as per the famous writing rule I keep quoting in my reviews.) I agree that sometimes this is not possible when writing a book from a first person point of view, but I feel that there were many instances in the novel where Terri could have better used her writing skills.
Other than that, I can only praise ‘Love’s sorrow’ at every level. Beautifully written, authentic, it drew me in like a magnet and I just couldn’t put it down. One of those rare page-turners with well-developed characters, great attention to detail that provides an amazing sense of time and place, but most importantly an amazing, heartrending story for which I can only commend the author. I am glad that this is the beginning of a series, and I beg Terri to come back to me with the next instalment.
I apologize that this review is not more elaborate, but since I have no criticism to add, I see no reason to extend it.
Congratulations, Terri!
Sophie Dufort
http://sophiedufort.blogspot.com/
April 21, 2014
Love’s Sorrow started wonderfully. I was immediately drawn into Anne’s world by the wonderful descriptions of London through the eyes of a servant girl. The sights and sounds were details that brought this story to life. I went on the ride with Anne as she saw the difference between the upper class and lower class citizens and she made a transition to the upper class when she married Gavin MacKay.
I admit, even though I read the blurb, I kept waiting on the happily ever after between Gavin and Anne. Instead, I felt the heartbreak as Anne learned the truth about the man she loved.
This is not a cookie cutter romance that can be found in every bookstore. I applaud Terri Rochenski for writing the truth about Love. It can be faked, and people learn everyday in all walks of life that they have been used by people that they thought loved them.
I’m excited to see Anne’s journey continues with Love’s Revenge. It is a definite read.
I admit, even though I read the blurb, I kept waiting on the happily ever after between Gavin and Anne. Instead, I felt the heartbreak as Anne learned the truth about the man she loved.
This is not a cookie cutter romance that can be found in every bookstore. I applaud Terri Rochenski for writing the truth about Love. It can be faked, and people learn everyday in all walks of life that they have been used by people that they thought loved them.
I’m excited to see Anne’s journey continues with Love’s Revenge. It is a definite read.
May 21, 2014
Title: Love’s Sorrow (Means of Mercy 1)
Author: Terri Rochenski
Publisher: Roane Publishing
Genre: Historical Romance
Novel Length
Reviewed by Maven
5 Stars – Highly Recommended Read!
Love’s Sorrow is a bittersweet story that drew me in from the start. As I read Anne’s and Gavin’s story I was struck with the knowledge I love stories with a historical feel, and this story will give you the sense of reading history. The life of a servant girl back in the day was a tough life to live, but then add in the snobbery of the social elite of London and the story deepens.
For more go to: http://thetalentcavereviews.weebly.co...
Author: Terri Rochenski
Publisher: Roane Publishing
Genre: Historical Romance
Novel Length
Reviewed by Maven
5 Stars – Highly Recommended Read!
Love’s Sorrow is a bittersweet story that drew me in from the start. As I read Anne’s and Gavin’s story I was struck with the knowledge I love stories with a historical feel, and this story will give you the sense of reading history. The life of a servant girl back in the day was a tough life to live, but then add in the snobbery of the social elite of London and the story deepens.
For more go to: http://thetalentcavereviews.weebly.co...
May 14, 2014
Love’s Sorrow was an unusual read for me, in a good way. I expected a typical historical romance but got something truly different.
Anne, the heroine, has been invited by her well-meaning cousin to London, who wishes to introduce her to society and improve her circumstances. In the beginning of the book, Anne comes off as a naïve, eager-to-please, yet endearing heroine. She has been physically and emotionally abused by her guardians, and every time she was surprised by the smallest kind gesture on the part of her new hosts, my heart went out to her.
Gavin, the hero, first comes off as a hot, mischievous Scot. Gavin’s not one of those perfect heroes you encounter in romance, he has real, believable flaws that hurt Anne. He’s obsessed with wanting a child, which leads to the main conflict of the book.
At first, I was disappointed because the love between the hero and the heroine seemed a bit too fast to be believable. I thought it was the typical reformed rake trope, but played out a little too easily. Behold my surprise when I realized that this book was not that typical romance. It was so much more. What happens after the whirlwind romance. That love is not everything you need for a happy marriage. That what you believe may not quite be the truth. And that rakes do not reform as easily, after all.
Both the protagonists’ character development is exceedingly well done. Anna evolves from a naïve, starry-eyed girl to a woman who realizes life is not always a bed of roses. And her husband may not be the man she thought she was. The transformation is extremely realistic, which made me feel even more absorbed into the story.
There are so many other themes integrated seamlessly into the book, that few writers of historical romance delve into. The ennui of a life as the mere wife of a businessman, with no work of your own. How the desire for a child can overwhelm everything else. The prejudices hidden deep in people’s hearts, even though they outwardly claim to be different. This book shows the true difficulties for a woman in London in the 1800s, and doesn’t attempt to skim over them like so many other romances do by having the heroine fall in love with a reformed rake who's also a duke, and live happily ever after.
The supporting characters, including the best friend character, the cousin seemed very real. They weren’t caricatures with no faults, but they had faults which made me like them even more. The description of London society was very detailed, and it was apparent that the author had done her research well. Although, for me personally, the description of the clothes grew tiring after a bit. Also, the loads of different character names confused me a little. The ending of the book is stunning. Now I want to read the next book to see what happens!
If you want a feel-good, not-too-realistic romance, don’t read this book. If you want a realistic depiction of London in the 1800s, society’s prejudices, people’s selfishness and love and all its agony, this is the book for you.
3.5 stars, because my personal preference veers towards the feel-good kind of romance, but for its tone and theme, this book is one of the best I’ve read.
Warning: This book contains cheating and does not have a HEA/HFN.
*I received an ARC of this book for a honest review.
Anne, the heroine, has been invited by her well-meaning cousin to London, who wishes to introduce her to society and improve her circumstances. In the beginning of the book, Anne comes off as a naïve, eager-to-please, yet endearing heroine. She has been physically and emotionally abused by her guardians, and every time she was surprised by the smallest kind gesture on the part of her new hosts, my heart went out to her.
Gavin, the hero, first comes off as a hot, mischievous Scot. Gavin’s not one of those perfect heroes you encounter in romance, he has real, believable flaws that hurt Anne. He’s obsessed with wanting a child, which leads to the main conflict of the book.
At first, I was disappointed because the love between the hero and the heroine seemed a bit too fast to be believable. I thought it was the typical reformed rake trope, but played out a little too easily. Behold my surprise when I realized that this book was not that typical romance. It was so much more. What happens after the whirlwind romance. That love is not everything you need for a happy marriage. That what you believe may not quite be the truth. And that rakes do not reform as easily, after all.
Both the protagonists’ character development is exceedingly well done. Anna evolves from a naïve, starry-eyed girl to a woman who realizes life is not always a bed of roses. And her husband may not be the man she thought she was. The transformation is extremely realistic, which made me feel even more absorbed into the story.
There are so many other themes integrated seamlessly into the book, that few writers of historical romance delve into. The ennui of a life as the mere wife of a businessman, with no work of your own. How the desire for a child can overwhelm everything else. The prejudices hidden deep in people’s hearts, even though they outwardly claim to be different. This book shows the true difficulties for a woman in London in the 1800s, and doesn’t attempt to skim over them like so many other romances do by having the heroine fall in love with a reformed rake who's also a duke, and live happily ever after.
The supporting characters, including the best friend character, the cousin seemed very real. They weren’t caricatures with no faults, but they had faults which made me like them even more. The description of London society was very detailed, and it was apparent that the author had done her research well. Although, for me personally, the description of the clothes grew tiring after a bit. Also, the loads of different character names confused me a little. The ending of the book is stunning. Now I want to read the next book to see what happens!
If you want a feel-good, not-too-realistic romance, don’t read this book. If you want a realistic depiction of London in the 1800s, society’s prejudices, people’s selfishness and love and all its agony, this is the book for you.
3.5 stars, because my personal preference veers towards the feel-good kind of romance, but for its tone and theme, this book is one of the best I’ve read.
Warning: This book contains cheating and does not have a HEA/HFN.
*I received an ARC of this book for a honest review.
April 29, 2014
As most know my reviews can be long-winded, gushing, thought-provoking and sometimes even funny. Well, this one is going to be different. I have to admit that this book is my first ever book hangover. Yes, I’m THAT type of reader that doesn’t get the hangover nor do I understand the whole “OMG, the new ____ book is out and I’m taking the day off from life to read it” and then talk about it for a week on Facebook. Again, I’m not one of the cool girls but that’s okay.
Unfortunately, my review of Love’s Sorrows will be short and sweet. Why? Because if I say too much about the book, plot, characters, etc., I will break Harlie’s Books cardinal rule…NO SPOILERS! I stalked Terri the day I finished reading it because I was such a mess that I had to know when the next book will be out. Yes, I stalked an author. And get this…she laughed. Evil woman! She did take me off the ledge, petted my head and told me that in NOVEMBER all will be revealed. Yes, November. *head keyboard from fainting* But at least I know what I’m up against. So without further ado here is my “list”:
1. This is a sweet historical. Everything is behind closed-door for the most part. Ms. Rochenski can write sexual tension and make you feel the moment better than anyone.
2. Keep in mind that this book is set in England so woman don’t have as many rights has American women did. Some of the book happens in America and Anne is somewhat taken back by the “rights” that women had over there. It was refreshing to see her grow when she was in
America.
3. Please note that Ms. Rochenski does talk about social issues that women faced back then: abuse, social standings, mistresses, miscarriages and alcoholism. There is also one scene of abuse/forced sexual content. I’m sorry but I had to say that one. The rest of the book is sweet so don’t worry.
4. I was immersed in Anne and Gavin’s story that when I hit the 3/4 mark, the author did an almost 180 degree turn that left me gutted, crying, screaming and hurt for the rest of the book. (She did take me off the ledge when I talked to her) But what I came away with in the end is that Anne reminded me of another literary heroine, Scarlett O’Hara and I will leave it at that.
5. When reading Regacy/Victorian historical romance, most authors get bogged down in the details and leave me bored. Ms. Rachel Brimble is one of those authors that DOESN’T get bogged down and I love her for it and she knows it. Ms. Rochenski’s characters Anne and Gavin, turned into one of the best character driven books that I’ve read in this genre for a long time.
6. Do yourself a favor and buy this book. Put it on the top of your TBR pile and spend a day with Anne and Gavin. You will feel gutted, stunned and just plain open-mouthed in the end. Don’t say I didn’t warn you but this book is not to be ignored. Ms. Rochenski has written a brilliantly, in some ways brutal, book that everyone must read and then come back and cry with me. Only 7 months until the next book.
WARNING: This is an open-ended book. There is no HEA or HFN for Anne and Gavin. Again, 7 months. *SIGH*
Unfortunately, my review of Love’s Sorrows will be short and sweet. Why? Because if I say too much about the book, plot, characters, etc., I will break Harlie’s Books cardinal rule…NO SPOILERS! I stalked Terri the day I finished reading it because I was such a mess that I had to know when the next book will be out. Yes, I stalked an author. And get this…she laughed. Evil woman! She did take me off the ledge, petted my head and told me that in NOVEMBER all will be revealed. Yes, November. *head keyboard from fainting* But at least I know what I’m up against. So without further ado here is my “list”:
1. This is a sweet historical. Everything is behind closed-door for the most part. Ms. Rochenski can write sexual tension and make you feel the moment better than anyone.
2. Keep in mind that this book is set in England so woman don’t have as many rights has American women did. Some of the book happens in America and Anne is somewhat taken back by the “rights” that women had over there. It was refreshing to see her grow when she was in
America.
3. Please note that Ms. Rochenski does talk about social issues that women faced back then: abuse, social standings, mistresses, miscarriages and alcoholism. There is also one scene of abuse/forced sexual content. I’m sorry but I had to say that one. The rest of the book is sweet so don’t worry.
4. I was immersed in Anne and Gavin’s story that when I hit the 3/4 mark, the author did an almost 180 degree turn that left me gutted, crying, screaming and hurt for the rest of the book. (She did take me off the ledge when I talked to her) But what I came away with in the end is that Anne reminded me of another literary heroine, Scarlett O’Hara and I will leave it at that.
5. When reading Regacy/Victorian historical romance, most authors get bogged down in the details and leave me bored. Ms. Rachel Brimble is one of those authors that DOESN’T get bogged down and I love her for it and she knows it. Ms. Rochenski’s characters Anne and Gavin, turned into one of the best character driven books that I’ve read in this genre for a long time.
6. Do yourself a favor and buy this book. Put it on the top of your TBR pile and spend a day with Anne and Gavin. You will feel gutted, stunned and just plain open-mouthed in the end. Don’t say I didn’t warn you but this book is not to be ignored. Ms. Rochenski has written a brilliantly, in some ways brutal, book that everyone must read and then come back and cry with me. Only 7 months until the next book.
WARNING: This is an open-ended book. There is no HEA or HFN for Anne and Gavin. Again, 7 months. *SIGH*
May 20, 2014
This book went in a direction I never expected, though in hindsight the clues were there. I loved the “Flavor” of the story as it started out. Anne is a poor orphan taken into the home of her wealthy cousin. Anne’s expectations are low; she is grateful to escape the brutish clutches of a hateful aunt, and expects to earn her keep as a servant in her new home. Her cousin has other plans for her; however, and introduces her to the snobbish elite of London.
For wealthy, handsome Gavin MacKay, Anne seems to be just what he is searching for in a wife and he quickly woos her; sweeping her off her feet. For several years Anne is blissfully happy and her Cinderella –like happiness is all she ever dreamed, and more. Then the story takes a dark turn. Gavin’s motives in marrying Anne are revealed and his true nature comes to the forefront.
It dismayed me that this story became almost unbearably sad. I held out hope almost to the end for Anne and Gavin. However, the new beginning that Anne embraces finally did leave me content that perhaps her future could finally bring Anne some well-deserved happiness. This novel was well-worth the time I spent reading, made me appreciate things today that I often take for granted, and provided a perspective on how unfulfilled hopes and dreams can cause a relationship to sour so profoundly. There is a surprise twist at the end that gives credence to the idea that fate will always have the last laugh. Best of all, this is the start of a series. I am looking forward to the continuation of Anne's story.
This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
For wealthy, handsome Gavin MacKay, Anne seems to be just what he is searching for in a wife and he quickly woos her; sweeping her off her feet. For several years Anne is blissfully happy and her Cinderella –like happiness is all she ever dreamed, and more. Then the story takes a dark turn. Gavin’s motives in marrying Anne are revealed and his true nature comes to the forefront.
It dismayed me that this story became almost unbearably sad. I held out hope almost to the end for Anne and Gavin. However, the new beginning that Anne embraces finally did leave me content that perhaps her future could finally bring Anne some well-deserved happiness. This novel was well-worth the time I spent reading, made me appreciate things today that I often take for granted, and provided a perspective on how unfulfilled hopes and dreams can cause a relationship to sour so profoundly. There is a surprise twist at the end that gives credence to the idea that fate will always have the last laugh. Best of all, this is the start of a series. I am looking forward to the continuation of Anne's story.
This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
May 27, 2014
Wow! Wonderful book Terri. You did a great job on this historical romance and I am looking ahead to the next book in the series to see how things go for Anne.
June 16, 2015
Gosh I'm tired. I made the mistake of starting Love's Sorrow in the morning while just trying to lay-back for a few minutes until my coffee kicked in...well, there went the rest of my day! Then I had to download Love's Revenge so I could move into it instantly...well, so much for my evening. Then I still needed more and downloaded Alone No More (not part of the series, but a stand-alone novelette)...kiss my sleep-time goodbye. Yes, they were that good!
July 1, 2014
Hung over...
Read
August 10, 2016Four and a half stars
A review copy was provided by the author in return for an honest review.
May I begin by apologizing to the author for the extended delay in finalizing this review. I wasn’t very well lately, and this is likely to impact my reading speed over the next few weeks as well, but please bear with me, I’m getting there.
I must say I am rarely so impressed with a novel. Terry, thumbs up! This is a great book, and I am giving it four and a half stars. There were a couple of reasons I didn’t go up to five. Perhaps I should start with them, and get the cons out of the way.
What bothered me was the certainty that I had all along that there was something wrong with Gavin MacKay. The author showed her presence, albeit unwittingly, by presenting a main character who was suspicious from the beginning.
The author’s presence was noticeable throughout the book as she kept telling the reader things that she should have inconspicuously showed (as per the famous writing rule I keep quoting in my reviews.) I agree that sometimes this is not possible when writing a book from a first person point of view, but I feel that there were many instances in the novel where Terri could have better used her writing skills.
Other than that, I can only praise ‘Love’s sorrow’ at every level. Beautifully written, authentic, it drew me in like a magnet and I just couldn’t put it down. One of those rare page-turners with well-developed characters, great attention to detail that provides an amazing sense of time and place, but most importantly an amazing, heartrending story for which I can only commend the author. I am glad that this is the beginning of a series, and I beg Terri to come back to me with the next instalment.
I apologize that this review is not more elaborate, but since I have no criticism to add, I see no reason to extend it.
Congratulations, Terri!
Sophie's Book Reviews
http://sophiedufort.blogspot.com/
A review copy was provided by the author in return for an honest review.
May I begin by apologizing to the author for the extended delay in finalizing this review. I wasn’t very well lately, and this is likely to impact my reading speed over the next few weeks as well, but please bear with me, I’m getting there.
I must say I am rarely so impressed with a novel. Terry, thumbs up! This is a great book, and I am giving it four and a half stars. There were a couple of reasons I didn’t go up to five. Perhaps I should start with them, and get the cons out of the way.
What bothered me was the certainty that I had all along that there was something wrong with Gavin MacKay. The author showed her presence, albeit unwittingly, by presenting a main character who was suspicious from the beginning.
The author’s presence was noticeable throughout the book as she kept telling the reader things that she should have inconspicuously showed (as per the famous writing rule I keep quoting in my reviews.) I agree that sometimes this is not possible when writing a book from a first person point of view, but I feel that there were many instances in the novel where Terri could have better used her writing skills.
Other than that, I can only praise ‘Love’s sorrow’ at every level. Beautifully written, authentic, it drew me in like a magnet and I just couldn’t put it down. One of those rare page-turners with well-developed characters, great attention to detail that provides an amazing sense of time and place, but most importantly an amazing, heartrending story for which I can only commend the author. I am glad that this is the beginning of a series, and I beg Terri to come back to me with the next instalment.
I apologize that this review is not more elaborate, but since I have no criticism to add, I see no reason to extend it.
Congratulations, Terri!
Sophie's Book Reviews
http://sophiedufort.blogspot.com/
May 9, 2014
This book kept me up late into night. I can't wait for book two. This is a series, therefore book one doesn't have a typical romance ending.
A great read if you are looking for something with a deep plot that combines historical England and American culture and romance.
A rich relative saves the girl from an unfortunate life. Girl falls for Rich man. The fairy tale life is broken. You will need to read it for more details.
The author does a great job of pulling you into the story and the pain that the main characters encounters.
A great read if you are looking for something with a deep plot that combines historical England and American culture and romance.
A rich relative saves the girl from an unfortunate life. Girl falls for Rich man. The fairy tale life is broken. You will need to read it for more details.
The author does a great job of pulling you into the story and the pain that the main characters encounters.
June 15, 2014
Can't wait for the next in the series. Come on November!
April 24, 2014
This book drew me in right away. Orphan gets a chance to move up in the world thanks to relatives she didn't know existed. She escapes an abusive aunt. Anne is a hard-working, principled girl who sets her mind on doing everything in her power to show gratitude for this opportunity.
Usually, I'm not a huge fan of historical fiction. Colonial America, Victorian England and the Roman Empire are the exceptions. This lands in the mid-19th century and is set in UK and the Americas, so that didn't factor into my fading interest.
The meeting with Anne's love interest was too contrived since she happened to see him on the street on the first day she was in London. He was with another (beautiful) woman, of course. The pacing of the novel felt off, as if the author had too much information and she needed to move us forward without letting the story unfold.
Anne's reactions to the bad things that happened seemed unrealistic. She was naïve about some things but not abusive situations, not being unloved. For another society girl, the reactions might have been more believable.
Anne didn't learn from her mistakes. She continued to think the gossiping society girl was her friend even after the girl spread her secrets all over town. Her cousins didn't react in a compassionate way to her troubles. For starters, they pushed her toward this man when they knew he was a philanderer.
What threw me out of the story the most often was the feeling that events were being relayed to me instead of shown so I could experience them with the characters.
I will say I don't read very much straight romance because I find the plots predictable and the conflicts cliché. Those things were true of this book, as well.
I received an advanced reader's copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Usually, I'm not a huge fan of historical fiction. Colonial America, Victorian England and the Roman Empire are the exceptions. This lands in the mid-19th century and is set in UK and the Americas, so that didn't factor into my fading interest.
The meeting with Anne's love interest was too contrived since she happened to see him on the street on the first day she was in London. He was with another (beautiful) woman, of course. The pacing of the novel felt off, as if the author had too much information and she needed to move us forward without letting the story unfold.
Anne's reactions to the bad things that happened seemed unrealistic. She was naïve about some things but not abusive situations, not being unloved. For another society girl, the reactions might have been more believable.
Anne didn't learn from her mistakes. She continued to think the gossiping society girl was her friend even after the girl spread her secrets all over town. Her cousins didn't react in a compassionate way to her troubles. For starters, they pushed her toward this man when they knew he was a philanderer.
What threw me out of the story the most often was the feeling that events were being relayed to me instead of shown so I could experience them with the characters.
I will say I don't read very much straight romance because I find the plots predictable and the conflicts cliché. Those things were true of this book, as well.
I received an advanced reader's copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2015
Poor orphan Anne Tearle's life seems to be heading toward a happy ending when her distant cousin invites her to London from her mean-spirited aunt's farm. Ostensibly hired as her cousin's nanny, Anne is pampered and introduced to Society. A handsome Scottish rake sweeps Anne off her feet, but over time, their relationship falls apart.
I really liked the growth that Anne undergoes. I also liked the fact the the Scot is not as reformed as he would like Anne to believe. The struggles their relationship goes through seem very realistic and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
I really liked the growth that Anne undergoes. I also liked the fact the the Scot is not as reformed as he would like Anne to believe. The struggles their relationship goes through seem very realistic and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
August 13, 2015
I saw this book has at least a sequel and I'm glad. Because what started off as a fairytale, dream come true story quickly turned into a heartbreaking nightmare. Then again, I was forewarned. The title is called Love's Sorrow. Sorrow is an apt word... I'm hoping things get better for this girl in the next book...
October 11, 2016
Love’s Sorrow is an intriguing historical romance which I enjoyed immensely. The young and naïve Anne is introduced to London’s society, servants, long dresses with crinolines, and she falls in love. Soon after she weds she faces challenges that are common even in todays’ day and age, and deals with them. Well done, Terri.
December 8, 2020
Not What I Like in Historical Romance
My favorite subgenre of romance is historical, with Regency and medieval being particular favorites along with Victorian. But I read for escape, and I did not find this book to be one. It is overburdened by the second word of its title, sorrow, not the first. The heroine suffered much abuse, particularly from her aunt with whom she lived, in the time before the book proper starts. Life's woes still beset her during this first half of a duet. We even see some abuse and non-consensual sexual happenings. That's not what I read these kinds of books for. Give me tales of lovely ladies and proper gentlemen, not of life's harshness and seamier side. That's not to say that the author does not do some deep characterization, especially for the hero and heroine. If I had been in a mood for a darker romantic tale, I might have liked this, but I doubt it… as I rarely am. After all the angst and difficulties, it doesn't even end with anything to satisfy the reader. We are left, instead, with a cliffhanger. But, if that book is as much of a downer as this one is, I doubt I will be checking it out. If you prefer your historicals to be angsty and dark, you might enjoy this book better than I did.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
My favorite subgenre of romance is historical, with Regency and medieval being particular favorites along with Victorian. But I read for escape, and I did not find this book to be one. It is overburdened by the second word of its title, sorrow, not the first. The heroine suffered much abuse, particularly from her aunt with whom she lived, in the time before the book proper starts. Life's woes still beset her during this first half of a duet. We even see some abuse and non-consensual sexual happenings. That's not what I read these kinds of books for. Give me tales of lovely ladies and proper gentlemen, not of life's harshness and seamier side. That's not to say that the author does not do some deep characterization, especially for the hero and heroine. If I had been in a mood for a darker romantic tale, I might have liked this, but I doubt it… as I rarely am. After all the angst and difficulties, it doesn't even end with anything to satisfy the reader. We are left, instead, with a cliffhanger. But, if that book is as much of a downer as this one is, I doubt I will be checking it out. If you prefer your historicals to be angsty and dark, you might enjoy this book better than I did.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
November 4, 2020
A sad story but very good.
This well written and interesting story has some beautiful parts to it. Yet as the story progresses wonderfully is overtaken by horrible. Event and event start to take the joy out of life for Anne. Gossip and betrayal along with some very unusual twits has Anne leaving London for America. This story is a cliffhanger so your questions will not be answered in this one. This is a complex story with characters that have been written with such depth and are well developed. I like how the author wrote in such wonderful detail really an excellent job by the author. Love’s Sorrow is not a happy book but it is a very good one. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
This well written and interesting story has some beautiful parts to it. Yet as the story progresses wonderfully is overtaken by horrible. Event and event start to take the joy out of life for Anne. Gossip and betrayal along with some very unusual twits has Anne leaving London for America. This story is a cliffhanger so your questions will not be answered in this one. This is a complex story with characters that have been written with such depth and are well developed. I like how the author wrote in such wonderful detail really an excellent job by the author. Love’s Sorrow is not a happy book but it is a very good one. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
February 25, 2018
Great read
Wonderful plot and characters. Hard to put down. The problem I have is the end. it is almost a must to go to the sequel. Unfortunately I am going to imagine my own sequel. My problem is with the price of the sequel. I understand that free books using Kindle Unlimited is to introduce readers to an author in the hopes of getting readers to follow that author in the future buying books. The problem I have with this sequel is that it is $4.99 and only like 289 (less than 300) pages short. Considering we know the outcome, we are reading it to follow how we get to that end. For that price I expect a longer trip to the end or less expensive book.
Wonderful plot and characters. Hard to put down. The problem I have is the end. it is almost a must to go to the sequel. Unfortunately I am going to imagine my own sequel. My problem is with the price of the sequel. I understand that free books using Kindle Unlimited is to introduce readers to an author in the hopes of getting readers to follow that author in the future buying books. The problem I have with this sequel is that it is $4.99 and only like 289 (less than 300) pages short. Considering we know the outcome, we are reading it to follow how we get to that end. For that price I expect a longer trip to the end or less expensive book.
September 9, 2020
Emotional Journey in early London!!
Our heroine Anne lives under her Aunt’s wicked thumb and labors hard on a farm after her parents died. Given an opportunity to become governess for another relative her lot in life improves greatly. Having been convinced she is “worthless” this is a tough adjustment. When she is invited to attend the Season also gaining the attention of the gentlemen, she is very uncomfortable.
A fascinating journey of family, growth and relationships. There is a follow-up story which I can’t wait to read!!
**I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book**
Our heroine Anne lives under her Aunt’s wicked thumb and labors hard on a farm after her parents died. Given an opportunity to become governess for another relative her lot in life improves greatly. Having been convinced she is “worthless” this is a tough adjustment. When she is invited to attend the Season also gaining the attention of the gentlemen, she is very uncomfortable.
A fascinating journey of family, growth and relationships. There is a follow-up story which I can’t wait to read!!
**I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book**
November 3, 2020
Well, this book is appropriately named. It is well written, will evoke strong emotions from the reader and does not have a happy ending. This is the kind of story that draws you in, has you emotionally invest in the characters, and sticks with you long after you have finished reading. I’m still reeling from it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 11, 2018
I'm sorry, but this was a horrible, depressing story. Just when I thought there was going to be a redeeming ending, it simply stops abruptly. Seriously, yuk.
There were occasional ridiculous word choices, as well. "Well-bread young ladies?" There was a rare scone, but bakeries were not a big feature here. 😄
There were occasional ridiculous word choices, as well. "Well-bread young ladies?" There was a rare scone, but bakeries were not a big feature here. 😄
August 29, 2020
Wow, it's been so long since I've read a historical romance, this one definitely take me back since this genre was my first love. This book was a little bit emotional, sad, witty, but really great, well done Author Lynn Burke.
August 14, 2018
Good read. Really liked it
Read
June 1, 2014What a depressing story!
Read
July 20, 2018Did not finish.
Not my cup of tea. Was a depressing tale. I like to have at least a Happy For Now ending.
Not my cup of tea. Was a depressing tale. I like to have at least a Happy For Now ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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