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Starlight Chronicles #1
A Courtship for Cecilia
Cecilia Fletcher yearns for true love with the man of her heart. A life of her own away from her demanding mother would be an added benefit. But in order to do that, Cecilia must live a lie, making it necessary to use a false name in order to hide a family secret.
Barrington Radcliff was betrayed by a woman who he thought loved him. Because of that, trust is hard to willingly give. When he meets pretty Cecilia Fleming, his heart wants to give her a chance. Something about her doesn’t ring true, but Barrington allows love to overrule his good judgment.
Can Cecilia and Barrington get past their hurt and secrets long enough to find true love?
Barrington Radcliff was betrayed by a woman who he thought loved him. Because of that, trust is hard to willingly give. When he meets pretty Cecilia Fleming, his heart wants to give her a chance. Something about her doesn’t ring true, but Barrington allows love to overrule his good judgment.
Can Cecilia and Barrington get past their hurt and secrets long enough to find true love?
131 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 19, 2014
6 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
July 25, 2015
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author Lisa Orchard.)
I think I actually liked this book even more the second time. It’s such a short, quick read, and now that I know where everything is heading, I like that I can see all the little clues as to what is going on!
8 out of 10
I think I actually liked this book even more the second time. It’s such a short, quick read, and now that I know where everything is heading, I like that I can see all the little clues as to what is going on!
8 out of 10
October 28, 2014
3.5 stars
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author Lisa Orchard.)
17-year-old Lark wants to be a singer, and she also wants to know who her absent father is, unfortunately neither of those things seem to be coming true anytime soon.
Who is Lark’s father? And will Lark ever find out?
This was a YA contemporary story, with a little music sprinkled in.
Lark was a headstrong girl, who wanted what she wanted, and wasn’t afraid to step on toes to get it. She did fail to think of her mother at times though, and really could have been much more respectful to her mother had she only considered what her mother had had to give up for her.
The storyline in this mainly revolved around Lark’s dreams of becoming a singer, and her thirst to find out the identity of her father. She was maybe a little too focused on these issues at times, and I was pleased when she actually caught on to her friend’s strange behaviour.
There was just a hint of a potential romance at the end of this story, but it was just a hint. Don’t go into the story expecting romance.
The ending to this was very open, and we were left with lots of burning questions. I’m now going to patiently wait for December to come so I can read the next instalment of Lark’s story!
7 out of 10.
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author Lisa Orchard.)
17-year-old Lark wants to be a singer, and she also wants to know who her absent father is, unfortunately neither of those things seem to be coming true anytime soon.
Who is Lark’s father? And will Lark ever find out?
This was a YA contemporary story, with a little music sprinkled in.
Lark was a headstrong girl, who wanted what she wanted, and wasn’t afraid to step on toes to get it. She did fail to think of her mother at times though, and really could have been much more respectful to her mother had she only considered what her mother had had to give up for her.
The storyline in this mainly revolved around Lark’s dreams of becoming a singer, and her thirst to find out the identity of her father. She was maybe a little too focused on these issues at times, and I was pleased when she actually caught on to her friend’s strange behaviour.
There was just a hint of a potential romance at the end of this story, but it was just a hint. Don’t go into the story expecting romance.
The ending to this was very open, and we were left with lots of burning questions. I’m now going to patiently wait for December to come so I can read the next instalment of Lark’s story!
7 out of 10.
October 21, 2014
The Wait is finally OVER!
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Not quite fitting in, not understood by her mother, seventeen-year-old Lark is struggling with a lack of identity, of feeling inadequate and only her love of music keeps her sane. Her only friends are her bandmates, Steve and Bean, who is her best friend. Never having met her father, having a mother who is only sixteen years older than her, yet acts like an octogenarian, is driving Lark crazy. Why won’t her mother tell her who her father is? Maybe she would feel complete, feel more human! The seeds of rebellion are growing and with an opportunity for her band to make a name for themselves at an upcoming competition, she pushes her mother too far. Will this be the end of her music career before it even gets started? Bean has become distant, is acting strange, but when confronted by Lark, the answers he gives almost bring the rest of her world crumbling down.
If not for the new friendship and support of the school’s most popular girl, maybe Lark’s eyes wouldn’t have been opened to the truth of the world around her. Maybe she wouldn’t have realized all that had been given up for her and the pain others are feeling. Maybe she wouldn’t’ have figured out that everything is not always about her. But how can she help Bean? He needs her and she is clueless as to what to do.
Lisa Orchard’s Gideon Lee is a tale of the coming of age of one young girl who is forced to stare life in the eyes and learn that her life is what she makes it. The inner monologue from Lark is priceless, painful and filled with every emotion, creating a chaotic storm that is threatening to overwhelm her. How sad that this angst-filled teen is so common in today’s society, too old to need constant supervision, too young to understand how to take care of herself in a world that will never be perfect. Well written, with a true feeling of coming from the heart and mind of a teen, Ms. Orchard has created a world that is easily identifiable for all ages.
I received an ARC edition from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Expected Publication Date: October 21, 2014.
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Click on Banner to Enter to win a $10 Gift Card!
On Sale at Amazon - ONLY .99
Not quite fitting in, not understood by her mother, seventeen-year-old Lark is struggling with a lack of identity, of feeling inadequate and only her love of music keeps her sane. Her only friends are her bandmates, Steve and Bean, who is her best friend. Never having met her father, having a mother who is only sixteen years older than her, yet acts like an octogenarian, is driving Lark crazy. Why won’t her mother tell her who her father is? Maybe she would feel complete, feel more human! The seeds of rebellion are growing and with an opportunity for her band to make a name for themselves at an upcoming competition, she pushes her mother too far. Will this be the end of her music career before it even gets started? Bean has become distant, is acting strange, but when confronted by Lark, the answers he gives almost bring the rest of her world crumbling down.
If not for the new friendship and support of the school’s most popular girl, maybe Lark’s eyes wouldn’t have been opened to the truth of the world around her. Maybe she wouldn’t have realized all that had been given up for her and the pain others are feeling. Maybe she wouldn’t’ have figured out that everything is not always about her. But how can she help Bean? He needs her and she is clueless as to what to do.
Lisa Orchard’s Gideon Lee is a tale of the coming of age of one young girl who is forced to stare life in the eyes and learn that her life is what she makes it. The inner monologue from Lark is priceless, painful and filled with every emotion, creating a chaotic storm that is threatening to overwhelm her. How sad that this angst-filled teen is so common in today’s society, too old to need constant supervision, too young to understand how to take care of herself in a world that will never be perfect. Well written, with a true feeling of coming from the heart and mind of a teen, Ms. Orchard has created a world that is easily identifiable for all ages.
I received an ARC edition from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Expected Publication Date: October 21, 2014.
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
October 28, 2014
(I received a copy from the author, in exchange for an honest review.)
Gideon Lee was an okay read, but it dragged in areas.
Lark wasn't an awful character, but she had annoying moments and could be quite strange, so i couldn't warm to her enough to like her. The other character were alright, but again, i didn't warm to them enough to like them.
The pacing in this was quite slow, so i felt bored at times. If a few things had moved along a bit faster then i probably would have enjoyed this book more.
Overall, Not a bad read, but i didn't love it.
Gideon Lee was an okay read, but it dragged in areas.
Lark wasn't an awful character, but she had annoying moments and could be quite strange, so i couldn't warm to her enough to like her. The other character were alright, but again, i didn't warm to them enough to like them.
The pacing in this was quite slow, so i felt bored at times. If a few things had moved along a bit faster then i probably would have enjoyed this book more.
Overall, Not a bad read, but i didn't love it.
October 29, 2014
2.5 stars
ARC was provided by the author in exchange for honest review.
I think Gideon Lee is one light-easy reading that I can devour in one sitting. Unfortunately it wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought. I don’t know whether I read it in a wrong time or if it just wasn’t for me, but it was quite hard for me to connect to the story. I mostly bored and couldn’t feel the feeling that Lark feel along the story through her POV. She’s sarcastic and full of anger. She often angry to her mother; has dislike to her neighbor; and has prejudice to her friends. I usually don’t mind with sarcastic characters, most of the time I like them, actually. It is Lark anger and dislike that I just couldn’t get. She has bad thought of Cassie, the most popular girl in her school, just because she’s gorgeous and the captain of cheerleader. When she describes how she dislikes Cassie, I was wondering what she did to her which caused her dislike. I kept waiting and waiting and waiting her reason, but I didn’t get it, unless I missed something in the story.
At the same time, in a way, I got to know her better along the story. And apparently she’s just being stereotype, I think. Now I’m not sure whether it’s a good or bad thing to her as a character. Scratch that, I think it’s a good thing because it shows her development as a character in the story. She also has a not-so-good relationship with her mom. And again I didn’t get what caused her anger all the time to her mom.
Before I read this book, I didn’t have any idea who Gideon Lee is but one thing clear in my mind that he must have a big part in the story as it is this book’s title. Apparently he is Lark’s idol. She admires him more than anything. She even writes a story about him for her history class essay which left her wondering whether her teacher will accept it or not. That how big her love for him. But I didn’t get more description why she loves him so very much, rather than just he’s a good musician. I mean, I want to know what it is that makes him so special, different from other member in his band that deserves her love. I guess I want her reasons which she didn’t provide me. And I didn’t get to know more about Gideon Lee either, aside that he’s a guitarist of North Star, her and her mom’s favorite band.
However, I also have thing that I liked from Lark. I really liked how determine she is to achieve her dream, to the point that she faithfully brushes her teeth three times a day because every musician knows her pearly whites are important to her image. It’s her band and her songs that are mostly in her mind, though for me it seems too easy for her to compose the lyrics. It always comes to her easily and every lyric sounds great. She also knows how to achieve her dream and willing to do anything to make it come true. Basically she’s a girl who knows what she wants and sticks for it, doesn’t matter what people say to her.
All in all, I think this is an okay book I’ll read the sequels for sure since there are things that still left unclear.
ARC was provided by the author in exchange for honest review.
I think Gideon Lee is one light-easy reading that I can devour in one sitting. Unfortunately it wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought. I don’t know whether I read it in a wrong time or if it just wasn’t for me, but it was quite hard for me to connect to the story. I mostly bored and couldn’t feel the feeling that Lark feel along the story through her POV. She’s sarcastic and full of anger. She often angry to her mother; has dislike to her neighbor; and has prejudice to her friends. I usually don’t mind with sarcastic characters, most of the time I like them, actually. It is Lark anger and dislike that I just couldn’t get. She has bad thought of Cassie, the most popular girl in her school, just because she’s gorgeous and the captain of cheerleader. When she describes how she dislikes Cassie, I was wondering what she did to her which caused her dislike. I kept waiting and waiting and waiting her reason, but I didn’t get it, unless I missed something in the story.
At the same time, in a way, I got to know her better along the story. And apparently she’s just being stereotype, I think. Now I’m not sure whether it’s a good or bad thing to her as a character. Scratch that, I think it’s a good thing because it shows her development as a character in the story. She also has a not-so-good relationship with her mom. And again I didn’t get what caused her anger all the time to her mom.
Before I read this book, I didn’t have any idea who Gideon Lee is but one thing clear in my mind that he must have a big part in the story as it is this book’s title. Apparently he is Lark’s idol. She admires him more than anything. She even writes a story about him for her history class essay which left her wondering whether her teacher will accept it or not. That how big her love for him. But I didn’t get more description why she loves him so very much, rather than just he’s a good musician. I mean, I want to know what it is that makes him so special, different from other member in his band that deserves her love. I guess I want her reasons which she didn’t provide me. And I didn’t get to know more about Gideon Lee either, aside that he’s a guitarist of North Star, her and her mom’s favorite band.
However, I also have thing that I liked from Lark. I really liked how determine she is to achieve her dream, to the point that she faithfully brushes her teeth three times a day because every musician knows her pearly whites are important to her image. It’s her band and her songs that are mostly in her mind, though for me it seems too easy for her to compose the lyrics. It always comes to her easily and every lyric sounds great. She also knows how to achieve her dream and willing to do anything to make it come true. Basically she’s a girl who knows what she wants and sticks for it, doesn’t matter what people say to her.
All in all, I think this is an okay book I’ll read the sequels for sure since there are things that still left unclear.
October 11, 2014
I had the pleasure and honor of receiving an early review copy of Ms Hartman's newest novel, A COURTSHIP FOR CECILIA. Like all books by Ms Hartman, a character (or two) are cat lovers and I love that! I'm instantly more inclined to like a person (or character!) who likes animals and just as disinclined to like them if they demonstrate cruelty or indifference to animal suffering. What can I say? I'm an animal adorer!
A COURTSHIP FOR CECILIA had a lovely plot that kept snapping along with a background story that I want to know more about! I loathed Horace and I loathed Cecilia's mother. What a horrid woman and no kind of mother in my opinion. Because Cecilia's mother is miserable in her marriage and life, she seems determined to suck every ounce of happiness out of Cecilia's by forcing Horace, the disgusting slug, upon her as a betrothed, forbid her to visit with her brother the earl and his wife, Amelia, and generally be a pain in the butt.
Luckily, Cecilia, while respectful of her mother's wishes and cognizant of trying not to betray her, has a backbone and dreams of something more. She dreams of something more with support of her brother Conrad, sister in law Amelia, and father and therefore finds the backbone to follow her dreams and enjoy the company of a Mr Radcliff.
I thought Mr Radcliff's outbursts of rage against those who demonstrated the least bit of impropriety was adorable and I am so glad he had that crazy, endearing, smart uncle Percy.
If you haven't read a Ruth Hartman novel yet, and adore sweet romances, regency romances, etc., then I suggest you pick one up pronto! From her contemporary romances to her regency romances, they're always a good read with a sweet romance and a wonderful escape for a few hours!
A COURTSHIP FOR CECILIA had a lovely plot that kept snapping along with a background story that I want to know more about! I loathed Horace and I loathed Cecilia's mother. What a horrid woman and no kind of mother in my opinion. Because Cecilia's mother is miserable in her marriage and life, she seems determined to suck every ounce of happiness out of Cecilia's by forcing Horace, the disgusting slug, upon her as a betrothed, forbid her to visit with her brother the earl and his wife, Amelia, and generally be a pain in the butt.
Luckily, Cecilia, while respectful of her mother's wishes and cognizant of trying not to betray her, has a backbone and dreams of something more. She dreams of something more with support of her brother Conrad, sister in law Amelia, and father and therefore finds the backbone to follow her dreams and enjoy the company of a Mr Radcliff.
I thought Mr Radcliff's outbursts of rage against those who demonstrated the least bit of impropriety was adorable and I am so glad he had that crazy, endearing, smart uncle Percy.
If you haven't read a Ruth Hartman novel yet, and adore sweet romances, regency romances, etc., then I suggest you pick one up pronto! From her contemporary romances to her regency romances, they're always a good read with a sweet romance and a wonderful escape for a few hours!
July 31, 2015
I received this book in an exchange for an honest review
The cover is very mesmerizing, I love how Lark first seems here!
A very interesting start to the series, I liked how close Bean and Lark were and how easy going their relationship was. Unfortunately, the same thing cannot be said about Lark's relationship with her mother, it seemed more like a battle zone to me than anything else.
What most stuck out to me in this book was Lark's connection to music, it was like a soothing balm to the soul. A lot like reality when things seem to get a too much for us and we turn to music to find peace. I loved how Lark would take control over her band and how organised and dedicated she was when she came to that!
The cover is very mesmerizing, I love how Lark first seems here!
A very interesting start to the series, I liked how close Bean and Lark were and how easy going their relationship was. Unfortunately, the same thing cannot be said about Lark's relationship with her mother, it seemed more like a battle zone to me than anything else.
What most stuck out to me in this book was Lark's connection to music, it was like a soothing balm to the soul. A lot like reality when things seem to get a too much for us and we turn to music to find peace. I loved how Lark would take control over her band and how organised and dedicated she was when she came to that!
December 5, 2015
Ms. Orchard has created a character that pulls you in to the life of Lark. Wanting to know if she makes it in life. Does life get better? Does music change her forever? This is a new series that surely will be one to hold on to until the very end.
To read the rest of the review, simply follow the link: http://www.aleisuremoment.com/2014/12...
October 1, 2015
Gideon Lee was a quick read. I liked the characters in the book. Lark's love of music was fun to read, though it was almost an obsession to her as though she needed to be playing/composing to feel alive. I felt bad that Lark has grown up not knowing the identity of her father. If the description of this book interests you, I say give it a read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.
I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.
October 5, 2015
I received a copy from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Actual Rating: 3.85
This is a great read. It is a YA contemporary story with music infused to it. I love the MC. Lark Singer is a strong willed girl with the hopes of one day becoming a rock star and finding her biological father. I feel like she should be more herself even if she has scars. I thought the story was great. The secondary characters were great as well. Also, I thought the ending was open and I thought that the ending lacked a bit for me. Overall, a quick read. Thank you Lisa Orchard for the opportunity to read this book.
Actual Rating: 3.85
This is a great read. It is a YA contemporary story with music infused to it. I love the MC. Lark Singer is a strong willed girl with the hopes of one day becoming a rock star and finding her biological father. I feel like she should be more herself even if she has scars. I thought the story was great. The secondary characters were great as well. Also, I thought the ending was open and I thought that the ending lacked a bit for me. Overall, a quick read. Thank you Lisa Orchard for the opportunity to read this book.
December 14, 2014
This was a very easy read that kept me interested in the characters and asking questions that I wanted to know the answers to. Lark is a musically gifted teenager who deals with the typical social, emotional, and physical challenges and shares her journey into her future. Her friendship with Bean hooked me emotionally and I continued to root for them until the end. It ended in such a manner that left me wanting more and I look forward to hearing more from these characters in the future.
December 24, 2014
I see from some of the reviews that RH's signature move in her books is to have a cat within the story. They were present in accounted for. LOL! I have never read a book by Ms. Hartman and received this copy from the author for an honest opinion. This book is written in a traditional 80's style. What I mean by that is as a kid I grew up watching Little House On The Prairie, Anne Of Green Gables. Her style was little reminiscent of that. It is a clean read and fit for young teens.
The H is a very gentle, kind gentleman who does not carry the reputation of rogue but a man that has just had his heart broken. He is mislead by woman he has had a long past with, which made her betrayal hard to take. I did find it refreshing that he didn't hold it against all other woman. That made him so much more likeable because he let himself fall in love with the h and followed the advice of a beloved uncle.
Cecilia is the daughter of a mother who resents her and a father that wants the best for her. The mother has a bad taste in her mouth when she learned her marriage wasn't what she thought it was and because of that she tries to crush her daughters illusions of ever marrying for love. Cecilia however gets her chance when her brother the Earl of Loften offers her the chance to get a season. This being the first book I've read in the series kind of left me cold not knowing the past history between them there. You can definitely read this book on it's own but I think reading The Unwanted Earl would have enriched my experience a bit.
So in this story you have a hateful mother who tries to force her to wed a vile man but a h who fought for love. The problem I had with the book was the sham they were trying to pull off. The secret that Cecilia kept from Radcliff bothered me. It bothered me because I kept waiting for him to find out the truth and the break to happen. I mean one woman already hurt him with her lies. I don't like when the story has one or both H/h being dishonest. I felt once she made out his character she could have been honest. It would have showed the love they felt and how she trusted in him.
Make no mistake though ladies there is a beautiful ending. I sighed. Like I said he is a gentle heart stopper IMO. If you like Jane Austin, or Carla Kelly then you will enjoy this read. It has a few parts that made me crack up. The h is clumsy and in an attempt to play a game manages to knock herself out. I could definitely relate to that. I gave the story 3 & 1/2 swinging towards 4 stars for an awesome H but not a complete 4 because we never saw the mothers reaction to Cecilia and Barrinton's fate. The man fighting for Cecilia's hand was never brought to heel. There was also another man who was Lofton's business partner who deserved worse than what he got. It felt unfinished with these loose ends.
It was a good enough read I will go back at a later date and check out the Loften's story. While I enjoyed this read I do crave a sexier story but when I want a sweet story I have a new author to check out. Enjoy!
The H is a very gentle, kind gentleman who does not carry the reputation of rogue but a man that has just had his heart broken. He is mislead by woman he has had a long past with, which made her betrayal hard to take. I did find it refreshing that he didn't hold it against all other woman. That made him so much more likeable because he let himself fall in love with the h and followed the advice of a beloved uncle.
Cecilia is the daughter of a mother who resents her and a father that wants the best for her. The mother has a bad taste in her mouth when she learned her marriage wasn't what she thought it was and because of that she tries to crush her daughters illusions of ever marrying for love. Cecilia however gets her chance when her brother the Earl of Loften offers her the chance to get a season. This being the first book I've read in the series kind of left me cold not knowing the past history between them there. You can definitely read this book on it's own but I think reading The Unwanted Earl would have enriched my experience a bit.
So in this story you have a hateful mother who tries to force her to wed a vile man but a h who fought for love. The problem I had with the book was the sham they were trying to pull off. The secret that Cecilia kept from Radcliff bothered me. It bothered me because I kept waiting for him to find out the truth and the break to happen. I mean one woman already hurt him with her lies. I don't like when the story has one or both H/h being dishonest. I felt once she made out his character she could have been honest. It would have showed the love they felt and how she trusted in him.
Make no mistake though ladies there is a beautiful ending. I sighed. Like I said he is a gentle heart stopper IMO. If you like Jane Austin, or Carla Kelly then you will enjoy this read. It has a few parts that made me crack up. The h is clumsy and in an attempt to play a game manages to knock herself out. I could definitely relate to that. I gave the story 3 & 1/2 swinging towards 4 stars for an awesome H but not a complete 4 because we never saw the mothers reaction to Cecilia and Barrinton's fate. The man fighting for Cecilia's hand was never brought to heel. There was also another man who was Lofton's business partner who deserved worse than what he got. It felt unfinished with these loose ends.
It was a good enough read I will go back at a later date and check out the Loften's story. While I enjoyed this read I do crave a sexier story but when I want a sweet story I have a new author to check out. Enjoy!
November 18, 2014
Now that he’s discovered his true father, Conrad Croome, 5th Earl of Lofton, wants to show his happiness by sharing his wealth with Andrew Fletcher and his half-sister, Cecilia. Though they have to keep their relationship secret for the title’s sake, he gives Andrew a job as his estate steward after he’s injured and can’t continue in his chosen occupation as a surgeon-dentist. At his new bride’s suggestion, he also decides to give Cecilia a debut in hopes of finding her a well-to-do husband.
Under Amelia Croome’s care, Cecilia blossoms and when she meets Barrington Radcliff, so does romance. Conrad is pleased enough to actually accompany the couple to the theater, the Tower Zoo, and the Bird Sanctuary, none of which are favored spots for the less-than nature-loving lord.
The course of Cecilia and Barrington’s true love won’t flow easily, however. Cecilia’s mother resents Conrad. No matter that Andrew’s liaison with Conrad’s mother happened over two decades years before and they’ve not seen each other since. She’s determined Cecilia’s going to marry the man who took over Andrew’s practice, an odious chap indeed. Barrington also has some excess baggage in the person of the woman he’d thought he was going to marry…until she threw him over for someone else. Needless to say, he’s on the defensive against women who lie as a result.
What’ll he do when he discovers the woman he’s beginning to love is living a total lie?
The sequel to The Unwanted Earl, this is a sweet story and an enjoyable one. Conrad, the titular villain of Love Birds of Regents Park, was horrible in that novel, became a more sympathetic character in The Unwanted Earl and is now thoroughly likeable in his own novel, discovered to be a very nice person indeed. Though it’s a wonder he hasn’t lost his title due to all the people who’ve learned he isn’t the late Lord Lofton’s son, that little detail is blithely ignored. The villain, while not particularly villainous, is nevertheless unpleasant enough. Barrington’s jilting former love barely makes an appearance but when she does, it’s definitely awkward. There could possibly have been a little more made of the confrontation between her and Barrington, as well as with Cecilia.
There’s a very abrupt ending but all in all, it’s a lovely story and though we’re assured of a Happily Ever After, it’s interesting to see how it’s brought about.
This novel was supplied by the author and no remuneration was involve din the writing of this review.
Under Amelia Croome’s care, Cecilia blossoms and when she meets Barrington Radcliff, so does romance. Conrad is pleased enough to actually accompany the couple to the theater, the Tower Zoo, and the Bird Sanctuary, none of which are favored spots for the less-than nature-loving lord.
The course of Cecilia and Barrington’s true love won’t flow easily, however. Cecilia’s mother resents Conrad. No matter that Andrew’s liaison with Conrad’s mother happened over two decades years before and they’ve not seen each other since. She’s determined Cecilia’s going to marry the man who took over Andrew’s practice, an odious chap indeed. Barrington also has some excess baggage in the person of the woman he’d thought he was going to marry…until she threw him over for someone else. Needless to say, he’s on the defensive against women who lie as a result.
What’ll he do when he discovers the woman he’s beginning to love is living a total lie?
The sequel to The Unwanted Earl, this is a sweet story and an enjoyable one. Conrad, the titular villain of Love Birds of Regents Park, was horrible in that novel, became a more sympathetic character in The Unwanted Earl and is now thoroughly likeable in his own novel, discovered to be a very nice person indeed. Though it’s a wonder he hasn’t lost his title due to all the people who’ve learned he isn’t the late Lord Lofton’s son, that little detail is blithely ignored. The villain, while not particularly villainous, is nevertheless unpleasant enough. Barrington’s jilting former love barely makes an appearance but when she does, it’s definitely awkward. There could possibly have been a little more made of the confrontation between her and Barrington, as well as with Cecilia.
There’s a very abrupt ending but all in all, it’s a lovely story and though we’re assured of a Happily Ever After, it’s interesting to see how it’s brought about.
This novel was supplied by the author and no remuneration was involve din the writing of this review.
November 11, 2014
3.5 stars
Gideon Lee was a quick and heartbreaking, but hopeful read. I know those are two kind of conflicting sentiments. The story had grit, friendship, family, difficult circumstances, the hierarchy of high school... This is the first book in this series and there definitely was that feeling of getting to know these characters and the plot being developed, but it felt fairly flawless and smooth as a reader being invited into Lark's world.
The main character, Lark, was definitely an angsty (I know that's not an official word, but it should be in ya literature) teen. She really didn't get along with her mother who she calls by her first name, Francine. It was such a tough relationship to read about, especially as a mother myself. Both of them were so blind in so many ways and it was a little frustrating and sad. At the same time, I could see where they were each coming from and how the tension and animosity had built up over all these years.
It was also difficult to see the signs with Lark's best friend, Bean. That really, really broke my heart. The denial. The lying. The fact that Lark doesn't want to see it and so she won't be honest about it with Bean. So tough! I'm sure this will really come to a head as the series develops. Thank goodness Lark had Cassie. I would have liked to have seen more develop with Cassie and with the story overall. I'm hoping we'll get more of that and Cassie in the future. I would say that I would also have liked more explanation behind Gideon Lee, which Lark writes a school paper on in the beginning of the book, especially with him also being the title of the book. It would have been cool if his persona would have been worked into the story more or maybe some lyrics or something from him.
I ended up really enjoying Gideon Lee. There were choices that Lark had to make and work through, or I should say, begin to work through. The ending left a lot to be resolved and I can already tell that the rest of the series is going to be a difficult and painful journey for Lark. I'm hoping it will also be a journey of discovery and love for her, her mom, and Bean. Hopefully they will come to terms with things, find themselves, and it will all end in a good place. I'm definitely planning on seeing where this series will be going.
Content: Some swearing and drug references.
Source: From tour host/NetGalley, which did not affect my review in any way.
Gideon Lee was a quick and heartbreaking, but hopeful read. I know those are two kind of conflicting sentiments. The story had grit, friendship, family, difficult circumstances, the hierarchy of high school... This is the first book in this series and there definitely was that feeling of getting to know these characters and the plot being developed, but it felt fairly flawless and smooth as a reader being invited into Lark's world.
The main character, Lark, was definitely an angsty (I know that's not an official word, but it should be in ya literature) teen. She really didn't get along with her mother who she calls by her first name, Francine. It was such a tough relationship to read about, especially as a mother myself. Both of them were so blind in so many ways and it was a little frustrating and sad. At the same time, I could see where they were each coming from and how the tension and animosity had built up over all these years.
It was also difficult to see the signs with Lark's best friend, Bean. That really, really broke my heart. The denial. The lying. The fact that Lark doesn't want to see it and so she won't be honest about it with Bean. So tough! I'm sure this will really come to a head as the series develops. Thank goodness Lark had Cassie. I would have liked to have seen more develop with Cassie and with the story overall. I'm hoping we'll get more of that and Cassie in the future. I would say that I would also have liked more explanation behind Gideon Lee, which Lark writes a school paper on in the beginning of the book, especially with him also being the title of the book. It would have been cool if his persona would have been worked into the story more or maybe some lyrics or something from him.
I ended up really enjoying Gideon Lee. There were choices that Lark had to make and work through, or I should say, begin to work through. The ending left a lot to be resolved and I can already tell that the rest of the series is going to be a difficult and painful journey for Lark. I'm hoping it will also be a journey of discovery and love for her, her mom, and Bean. Hopefully they will come to terms with things, find themselves, and it will all end in a good place. I'm definitely planning on seeing where this series will be going.
Content: Some swearing and drug references.
Source: From tour host/NetGalley, which did not affect my review in any way.
October 30, 2014
For me , this book left me in two mindsets as I loved the cover and the blurb and I got hooked into the story as we wonder who Gideon Lee is to the main character Lark. We are first introduced to the name "Gideon Lee" when Lark is asked in school to write an essay in History about someone who has made an impact and influenced during History. Later we discover that Lark is a musician herself which made me smile as I loved how the author called her Lark and connected the idea of musician and singing bird together. As the story goes on we are introduced to Lark's friend and bandmate Brian and learn that Brian's older brother has been done for drugs and soon Brian starts exhibiting the same symptoms and we wonder if he's doing drugs too , though it isn't really talked about and only touched briefly as a suspicion. While grounded , Lark's mother takes away her guitar and Lark searches the house to find it only to discover a box filled with old memories of Lark's mother. Is there clues to who her father is , inside the box ? This made me question whether Gideon Lee could be more to Lark than just an idol and someone she adores and looks up to.
Now get's to the part which hinders this book from getting a 5P review . I was so hooked into the book and then one minute I was reading a page and the next it was OVER. I even had to flick back a few pages to make sure what I had read was correct as to me it finished almost half sentence and I was left with so many unanswered questions. So readers, if you are wanting a book that doesn't end in a major cliffie then this isn't the time for you to read this series, I would wait till the rest of the books are out. I felt a little let down by the ending , as the book had huge potential to go places but then again, I am such an ending person - so to me the ending is probably the most important part of a book to me.
However , back to a positive in saying that this was an awesome Teen novel and I am looking forward to seeing what directions Lisa takes with the rest of the series and I will be there to read them all as they are released.
Now get's to the part which hinders this book from getting a 5P review . I was so hooked into the book and then one minute I was reading a page and the next it was OVER. I even had to flick back a few pages to make sure what I had read was correct as to me it finished almost half sentence and I was left with so many unanswered questions. So readers, if you are wanting a book that doesn't end in a major cliffie then this isn't the time for you to read this series, I would wait till the rest of the books are out. I felt a little let down by the ending , as the book had huge potential to go places but then again, I am such an ending person - so to me the ending is probably the most important part of a book to me.
However , back to a positive in saying that this was an awesome Teen novel and I am looking forward to seeing what directions Lisa takes with the rest of the series and I will be there to read them all as they are released.
November 21, 2014
This is a story that will leave you wondering many things. first I feel for bean more than I do Lark. Bean is struggling with many things and his fear of disappointing and losing Lark is big on that list. He really really likes her but is on a spiral. Lark is ignoring the signs not because she is selfish but out of fear. Fear of losing Bean. the question is will this secret of bean's destroy everything going for them or will Lark face it and confront Bean. will she help Bean through it all? I hope so and that has you want to read the next book.
As for Lark and her mom that is complex. there is a reason for the tension and we aren't given the whole picture. We do see that both are selfish in their own way. Lark is selfish because she isn't thinking of others at least this is the case until she has a new friend come into the picture that has her reevaluate herself. Her mom because she is trying to keep herself from feeling things and not seeing the effect it has on her daughter.
the look at Gideon Lee at the beginning is intriguing but we don't go any farther. Hopefully this will be answered in the next book because we only get glimpses and are left to wonder.
The book is good but I think would be great if Lisa Orchard delved more into a few things. Such as Bean and his issues. The drug angle with Bean needed to be explored more. Also the feelings between Bean and Lark needed more development. It is a sweet romance that has begun but more is needed. Lark and her mom's tension could be delved into more as well.
this is the story of Lark and her love of music. The story of her and her mom and her desire to know more about her father. The story of Lark and her band and their desire to succeed. It is the story of Bean and Lark, his struggle and their feelings and friendship are explored as well in a peripheral view. A interesting tale is told of all this that leaves you with questions and wondering the outcome. Hope the next in the series develops more of the relationships and gives us some answers to things that we are left wondering about such as Lark's dad, Bean's secret and their relationship.
As for Lark and her mom that is complex. there is a reason for the tension and we aren't given the whole picture. We do see that both are selfish in their own way. Lark is selfish because she isn't thinking of others at least this is the case until she has a new friend come into the picture that has her reevaluate herself. Her mom because she is trying to keep herself from feeling things and not seeing the effect it has on her daughter.
the look at Gideon Lee at the beginning is intriguing but we don't go any farther. Hopefully this will be answered in the next book because we only get glimpses and are left to wonder.
The book is good but I think would be great if Lisa Orchard delved more into a few things. Such as Bean and his issues. The drug angle with Bean needed to be explored more. Also the feelings between Bean and Lark needed more development. It is a sweet romance that has begun but more is needed. Lark and her mom's tension could be delved into more as well.
this is the story of Lark and her love of music. The story of her and her mom and her desire to know more about her father. The story of Lark and her band and their desire to succeed. It is the story of Bean and Lark, his struggle and their feelings and friendship are explored as well in a peripheral view. A interesting tale is told of all this that leaves you with questions and wondering the outcome. Hope the next in the series develops more of the relationships and gives us some answers to things that we are left wondering about such as Lark's dad, Bean's secret and their relationship.
October 22, 2014
Oh my! This was another wonderful story from the mind of Ms.Hartman! There were so many times that I found myself aggravated (in a good way.. trust me it was in the characters best interest for the reader to side with them), sighing happily, biting my nails and (maybe best of all) laughing out loud.
While I loved Cecilia and Barrington (secrets, flaws and all), I have to admit that my favorite character of all was Barrington's Uncle Percy. He seemed to have a knack for getting to the "heart of the matter", even if his methods were a bit... unconventional. He added just the right amount of "spice" to the novel to keep the reader not only laughing, but glued to the pages just to see what happened next.
While speaking of the characters, I have to say that I thoroughly detested Cecilia's mother, as well as her would be suitor Horace (both for different reasons, although I have to admit that my hatred of them only added to the overall story). I cannot fathom the reasons behind their actions; even though her Mother tries to explain her reasoning, it still makes little sense that she wouldn't want something better for her own child.
I also thoroughly enjoyed the way that Cecilia and Barrington interacted, not only with each other, but with their peers as well. Cecilia had a backbone that couldn't be ignored, and while still recovering from the betrayal of another, Barrington possessed a certain jealousy and possessiveness when it came to Cecilia that was not over-bearing, but rather endearingly sweet.
This book appeals to those who enjoy a good, clean (and cute) regency romance.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
While I loved Cecilia and Barrington (secrets, flaws and all), I have to admit that my favorite character of all was Barrington's Uncle Percy. He seemed to have a knack for getting to the "heart of the matter", even if his methods were a bit... unconventional. He added just the right amount of "spice" to the novel to keep the reader not only laughing, but glued to the pages just to see what happened next.
While speaking of the characters, I have to say that I thoroughly detested Cecilia's mother, as well as her would be suitor Horace (both for different reasons, although I have to admit that my hatred of them only added to the overall story). I cannot fathom the reasons behind their actions; even though her Mother tries to explain her reasoning, it still makes little sense that she wouldn't want something better for her own child.
I also thoroughly enjoyed the way that Cecilia and Barrington interacted, not only with each other, but with their peers as well. Cecilia had a backbone that couldn't be ignored, and while still recovering from the betrayal of another, Barrington possessed a certain jealousy and possessiveness when it came to Cecilia that was not over-bearing, but rather endearingly sweet.
This book appeals to those who enjoy a good, clean (and cute) regency romance.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
November 24, 2014
What a wonderful breath of fresh air from the author of the Super Spies! I’ve read other books of Lisa Orchard’s, so I feel confident in saying this is by far the best piece of writing I’ve read from her. The quality and strength of this new voice is such a great leap forward, I forgot all about the author and concentrated solely on the story. This is talent. This is an author who has fallen into the right groove.
Gideon Lee is a mystery, just like other stories by this author, and in this this first book of the series we don’t figure out the puzzle, not entirely. Lark, the protagonist, is a character with whom I could identify easily, someone who felt every knock of her hard life, someone whose existence could be real. She has been beautifully portrayed. Lark’s struggle to understand the world around her, her anger at the realities of life, and general treatment of teenage angst are done with a light hand, intuitive appreciation, and high mastery of the writing craft. To me, Lisa Orchard has arrived.
Just like other commenters, I did find the ending of this installment a little abrupt, but I don’t mind it, somehow. I do feel the hope that’s filling Lark’s heart fill mine too. I can wait – just about – for the next one in the series.
So difficult to find, these days, a no-nonsense book for teens, about teens, written in their language, and one that doesn’t sugar-coat the more offensive aspects of life. There’s no profanity in these pages, and yet the message is clear-cut and positive. I wholeheartedly recommend this book for teens and those who love them. Unquestionably, a five-star performance.
Gideon Lee is a mystery, just like other stories by this author, and in this this first book of the series we don’t figure out the puzzle, not entirely. Lark, the protagonist, is a character with whom I could identify easily, someone who felt every knock of her hard life, someone whose existence could be real. She has been beautifully portrayed. Lark’s struggle to understand the world around her, her anger at the realities of life, and general treatment of teenage angst are done with a light hand, intuitive appreciation, and high mastery of the writing craft. To me, Lisa Orchard has arrived.
Just like other commenters, I did find the ending of this installment a little abrupt, but I don’t mind it, somehow. I do feel the hope that’s filling Lark’s heart fill mine too. I can wait – just about – for the next one in the series.
So difficult to find, these days, a no-nonsense book for teens, about teens, written in their language, and one that doesn’t sugar-coat the more offensive aspects of life. There’s no profanity in these pages, and yet the message is clear-cut and positive. I wholeheartedly recommend this book for teens and those who love them. Unquestionably, a five-star performance.
December 22, 2014
Troubled teen. Mother by first name only. Fatherless. Very few friends. Talented. Committed to her passion. Committed to her love of music. This is Lark’s world. This is Lark’s story. She lives a life of stressful situations. School cliques that she is not a member of. But what is close to her heart is her Gibson guitar, Stevie and especially Bean. Her partners in the realm of music. Music is what they make when life appears rough. Music makes the troubles disappear, even if only for a few moments. With each page there are secrets. Secrets being held strongly by characters that are bound to never let them go. Lark is determined to find out about the identity of her father and find out what is truly troubling her close friend Bean. With all that is going on, the tight group sticks together, preparing to play their music for all to hear.
Gideon Lee is a story about identity and discovery. Author Lisa Orchard creates a story that is filled with mystery, along with hints of pure emotion. The writing is descriptive throughout. Although I understand why Gideon Lee is important to the main character Lark, I must admit, that his role as the overall title was a bit misleading. I hoped that there would be more storyline regarding him. Maybe there will be more of a connection in the next novel of the series.
Nevertheless, Ms. Orchard has created a character that pulls you in to the life of Lark. Wanting to know if she makes it in life. Does life get better? Does music change her forever? This is a new series that surely will be one to hold on to until the very end.
Gideon Lee is a story about identity and discovery. Author Lisa Orchard creates a story that is filled with mystery, along with hints of pure emotion. The writing is descriptive throughout. Although I understand why Gideon Lee is important to the main character Lark, I must admit, that his role as the overall title was a bit misleading. I hoped that there would be more storyline regarding him. Maybe there will be more of a connection in the next novel of the series.
Nevertheless, Ms. Orchard has created a character that pulls you in to the life of Lark. Wanting to know if she makes it in life. Does life get better? Does music change her forever? This is a new series that surely will be one to hold on to until the very end.
March 7, 2015
Troubled teen. Mother by first name only. Fatherless. Very few friends. Talented. Committed to her passion. Committed to her love of music. This is Lark’s world. This is Lark’s story. She lives a life of stressful situations. School cliques that she is not a member of. But what is close to her heart is her Gibson guitar, Stevie and especially Bean. Her partners in the realm of music. Music is what they make when life appears rough. Music makes the troubles disappear, even if only for a few moments. With each page there are secrets. Secrets being held strongly by characters that are bound to never let them go. Lark is determined to find out about the identity of her father and find out what is truly troubling her close friend Bean. With all that is going on, the tight group sticks together, preparing to play their music for all to hear.
Gideon Lee is a story about identity and discovery. Author Lisa Orchard creates a story that is filled with mystery, along with hints of pure emotion. The writing is descriptive throughout. Although I understand why Gideon Lee is important to the main character Lark, I must admit, that his role as the overall title was a bit misleading. I hoped that there would be more storyline regarding him. Maybe there will be more of a connection in the next novel of the series.
Nevertheless, Ms. Orchard has created a character that pulls you in to the life of Lark. Wanting to know if she makes it in life. Does life get better? Does music change her forever? This is a new series that surely will be one to hold on to until the very end.
Gideon Lee is a story about identity and discovery. Author Lisa Orchard creates a story that is filled with mystery, along with hints of pure emotion. The writing is descriptive throughout. Although I understand why Gideon Lee is important to the main character Lark, I must admit, that his role as the overall title was a bit misleading. I hoped that there would be more storyline regarding him. Maybe there will be more of a connection in the next novel of the series.
Nevertheless, Ms. Orchard has created a character that pulls you in to the life of Lark. Wanting to know if she makes it in life. Does life get better? Does music change her forever? This is a new series that surely will be one to hold on to until the very end.
October 23, 2014
RUTH J HARTMAN WRITES REAL ROMANCE!!
(Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book in return for a fair and honest review.)
AND I LOVE THIS BOOK! This book follows The Lovebirds of Regent's Park, and The Unwanted Earl. In fact, the older brother in this one is the formerly unwanted earl, now happily married.
Like all of Ms Hartman's books that I have had the pleasure of reading, this one has a huge helping of humor. Cecilia's mother is so much a pain she's funny. Barrington's Uncle Percy is hilarious. Even the earl and his wife get into some relatively humorous situations. There is also, as always, personal pain, a lack of self - confidence by the main characters, and ultimately, happily ever after.
As usual, the main characters are filled in quite thoroughly - completely colored in as it were. Other supporting characters are less completely drawn, with the level of detail being very directly correlated to their involvement in this story. That being said, having read the previous stories makes this one even more entertaining, because some parts take on the feel of a disjoint epilogue to the others.
The story primarily proceeds through a viewpoint at least near Cecilia, but drifts to closer to Barrington often enough to explain his actions. There are a few times when things get explained in retrospect, but mostly, the story proceeds in the present time.
This is a finely crafted piece of work. If you like a very clean, very sweet story with a walloping dose of humor, this is a book to pick up and let yourself enjoy.
(Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book in return for a fair and honest review.)
AND I LOVE THIS BOOK! This book follows The Lovebirds of Regent's Park, and The Unwanted Earl. In fact, the older brother in this one is the formerly unwanted earl, now happily married.
Like all of Ms Hartman's books that I have had the pleasure of reading, this one has a huge helping of humor. Cecilia's mother is so much a pain she's funny. Barrington's Uncle Percy is hilarious. Even the earl and his wife get into some relatively humorous situations. There is also, as always, personal pain, a lack of self - confidence by the main characters, and ultimately, happily ever after.
As usual, the main characters are filled in quite thoroughly - completely colored in as it were. Other supporting characters are less completely drawn, with the level of detail being very directly correlated to their involvement in this story. That being said, having read the previous stories makes this one even more entertaining, because some parts take on the feel of a disjoint epilogue to the others.
The story primarily proceeds through a viewpoint at least near Cecilia, but drifts to closer to Barrington often enough to explain his actions. There are a few times when things get explained in retrospect, but mostly, the story proceeds in the present time.
This is a finely crafted piece of work. If you like a very clean, very sweet story with a walloping dose of humor, this is a book to pick up and let yourself enjoy.
November 7, 2014
DELICIOUS CAPTIVATING ENGAGING STORY!!
Another winner, pick me up, captivating story from Ruth J. Hartman!! This latest addition to the Love Bird Series continues the talent and gift of story-telling from this talented author. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well written, attention getting, captivating story.
The heroine, Cecilia Fletcher, believes in and true love and desperately wants to find it. However, to live on her own and pursue this dream she must live a lie using a false name to keep family secrets hidden. The hero, Barrington Radcliff, previously betrayed, finds it hard to trust others. Both parties must do whatever is necessary to move past secrets and hurts to allow true love to blossom.
This recipe of a strong heroine, somewhat strange relative, and strong protective and endearing hero makes this is a page turner from beginning to end, holding the reader’s attention through laughter, anxiousness, frustrations, and romance. The couple must struggle through controlling relatives and want to be betroths toward each other. It actually touches on real life situations through some characters who are only happy when controlling and making other people unhappy.
Providing a mini-vacation this story, along with the previous releases within this series includes birds, animals, and cats, laugh out loud moments, and never boring sweet romance. I highly recommend this book to any reader who appreciates humor mixed with delightful romance.
Another winner, pick me up, captivating story from Ruth J. Hartman!! This latest addition to the Love Bird Series continues the talent and gift of story-telling from this talented author. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well written, attention getting, captivating story.
The heroine, Cecilia Fletcher, believes in and true love and desperately wants to find it. However, to live on her own and pursue this dream she must live a lie using a false name to keep family secrets hidden. The hero, Barrington Radcliff, previously betrayed, finds it hard to trust others. Both parties must do whatever is necessary to move past secrets and hurts to allow true love to blossom.
This recipe of a strong heroine, somewhat strange relative, and strong protective and endearing hero makes this is a page turner from beginning to end, holding the reader’s attention through laughter, anxiousness, frustrations, and romance. The couple must struggle through controlling relatives and want to be betroths toward each other. It actually touches on real life situations through some characters who are only happy when controlling and making other people unhappy.
Providing a mini-vacation this story, along with the previous releases within this series includes birds, animals, and cats, laugh out loud moments, and never boring sweet romance. I highly recommend this book to any reader who appreciates humor mixed with delightful romance.
March 14, 2016
Lark Singer is content living in her world of music and always is working on new lyrics to sing with her little band of three. Living with her single mom in a rundown part of town, jamming out with her friends in her garage every chance she can get, and surviving the politics of high school she is counting down the days to graduation and the day she can get out of there. The only thing that is more important than graduating is the musical competition that could help her start her career.
Unfortunately, life isn’t going how Lark wants and she’s starting to see that things aren’t always as they seem. Her best friend, Bean is starting to act strangely and she’s no longer content not know who her father is, but is right now the best time to start questioning everything?
This is the first book in the series and you really should continue on to the second and third book. The book doesn’t have a real ending and just continues on into the second. Gideon Lee is a little bit slower that the other two books, but it’s more of an introductory into Lark’s character and her life. It was a little harder for me to get into, but by the time I got to the end and went straight into the second book I was enjoying the story immensely. It could very well have been the diary of a young woman trying to figure out life and realize that there are other people around you, if you only take the time to open your eyes and open up.
*I received a free ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Unfortunately, life isn’t going how Lark wants and she’s starting to see that things aren’t always as they seem. Her best friend, Bean is starting to act strangely and she’s no longer content not know who her father is, but is right now the best time to start questioning everything?
This is the first book in the series and you really should continue on to the second and third book. The book doesn’t have a real ending and just continues on into the second. Gideon Lee is a little bit slower that the other two books, but it’s more of an introductory into Lark’s character and her life. It was a little harder for me to get into, but by the time I got to the end and went straight into the second book I was enjoying the story immensely. It could very well have been the diary of a young woman trying to figure out life and realize that there are other people around you, if you only take the time to open your eyes and open up.
*I received a free ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
April 26, 2015
A Courtship for Cecilia, third in The Love Bird Series by Ruth J. Hartman, is a clean Regency novella. I read the first two books in this series, and enjoyed this one as well. I like Hartman for two reasons: she includes humor and her stories I've read to date are all clean. I'm a fan of Regency romance anyway.
What I liked:
The hero was very sweet and considerate.
The author continues the love bird theme, and includes a trip to the bird sanctuary again in this novella, and she has bird-related humor through the story.
This is a CLEAN REGENCY!
I like the secondary characters.
As another reviewer noted, I think the author did a very nice job of letting you see the hero and heroine from the previous book without it overwhelming the story's focus on the hero/heroine.
I always prefer to have the point of view alternating between the hero and heroine, and Ruth does this.
What I disliked:
The heroine was lying about who she was. She rationalizes lying, and yes she does eventually feel badly about it. But she still lied and still got to know the hero under false premises. She also lies to her mother, who admittedly, wasn't very likable. I don't know whether I would ever give 5 stars to a book in which the entire plot is centered on one or more lies. However, she was very definitely likable otherwise.
I do plan to continue reading Ruth's books and am curious about the next one! Thanks, Ruth!
What I liked:
The hero was very sweet and considerate.
The author continues the love bird theme, and includes a trip to the bird sanctuary again in this novella, and she has bird-related humor through the story.
This is a CLEAN REGENCY!
I like the secondary characters.
As another reviewer noted, I think the author did a very nice job of letting you see the hero and heroine from the previous book without it overwhelming the story's focus on the hero/heroine.
I always prefer to have the point of view alternating between the hero and heroine, and Ruth does this.
What I disliked:
The heroine was lying about who she was. She rationalizes lying, and yes she does eventually feel badly about it. But she still lied and still got to know the hero under false premises. She also lies to her mother, who admittedly, wasn't very likable. I don't know whether I would ever give 5 stars to a book in which the entire plot is centered on one or more lies. However, she was very definitely likable otherwise.
I do plan to continue reading Ruth's books and am curious about the next one! Thanks, Ruth!
November 22, 2014
A Beautiful and Heart Warming Romance!
5++ stars
Ruth J Hartman delivers another amazing romance that will having you laughing out loud and cheering on her main characters. From page one, I was in love with A Courtship for Cecilia and did not put this book down until I was finished. Cecilia is the daughter of commoners but is destined for bigger things. She is a rare beauty who has a heart of gold. You will fall in love with her character and only want the best for her. When her brother and his wife create a plan for Cecilia's debut, she is completely excited and nervous. She thought being courted and married to a handsome gentleman was only a far-fetched dream but Ms Hartman proves that dreams do come true. Barrington is a handsome man who has been hurt by a woman and no longer trusts very easily. He is sure he could never fall in love, until a blue-eyed, golden hair beauty catches his eye. He is instantly jealous of other men who try to come in contact with her and cannot imagine why. I loved the conversation, banter and connection between Cecilia and Barrington. I was laughing throughout the book and heartbroken when things took a turn for the worse. If you love a humorous romance novel, you will love Ruth's book. Thank you Ruth for another amazing book.
5++ stars
Ruth J Hartman delivers another amazing romance that will having you laughing out loud and cheering on her main characters. From page one, I was in love with A Courtship for Cecilia and did not put this book down until I was finished. Cecilia is the daughter of commoners but is destined for bigger things. She is a rare beauty who has a heart of gold. You will fall in love with her character and only want the best for her. When her brother and his wife create a plan for Cecilia's debut, she is completely excited and nervous. She thought being courted and married to a handsome gentleman was only a far-fetched dream but Ms Hartman proves that dreams do come true. Barrington is a handsome man who has been hurt by a woman and no longer trusts very easily. He is sure he could never fall in love, until a blue-eyed, golden hair beauty catches his eye. He is instantly jealous of other men who try to come in contact with her and cannot imagine why. I loved the conversation, banter and connection between Cecilia and Barrington. I was laughing throughout the book and heartbroken when things took a turn for the worse. If you love a humorous romance novel, you will love Ruth's book. Thank you Ruth for another amazing book.
December 14, 2014
Cecilia now getting to know her brother Conrad and his wife to try to make a good match and she is interested in Barrington but he's been hurt my a woman before. Can they get over their pass and learn to care and love each other.
You also get to know and care for Conrad and his wife...for the caring people they are. They want to help his sister. They are helping each other , loving each other and trying to do the best for each other that they can. But as we all know something has to be wrong somewhere to make a good story. And a way to work things out so you get your HEA. They have plenty of secrets, and some out and out lies that could come out to mix it up a little. So can they forgive each other as each comes out and let love win?
I have been sad, happy, worried, even laughing till I had to explain to people around me. Add it all together and you have a good story.
This could be a stand a lone book, but who would not want to read the others. As usual she make you laugh, and happy, sad a little but not for long. I love a HEA. And a family that really cares for one another, wants to do the best they can for each other, and that is certainly true in this book.
You also get to know and care for Conrad and his wife...for the caring people they are. They want to help his sister. They are helping each other , loving each other and trying to do the best for each other that they can. But as we all know something has to be wrong somewhere to make a good story. And a way to work things out so you get your HEA. They have plenty of secrets, and some out and out lies that could come out to mix it up a little. So can they forgive each other as each comes out and let love win?
I have been sad, happy, worried, even laughing till I had to explain to people around me. Add it all together and you have a good story.
This could be a stand a lone book, but who would not want to read the others. As usual she make you laugh, and happy, sad a little but not for long. I love a HEA. And a family that really cares for one another, wants to do the best they can for each other, and that is certainly true in this book.
November 12, 2014
Lark comes from a single parent home. She's never known her father because her mother won't talk about him. Mostly, Lark shrugs her shoulder at it all and depends on her music to carry her away. Lark is a good student and fantastic at the guitar. Her guitar is her life. Of course she has friends, but very few. Now that she's a senior in high school, she wants to know about her father. If only she can get her mother to open up about him. Lark's life is changing and she's decided her father should be part of it all.
I felt I knew Lark when I began reading this book. She reminded me of a couple of kids I went to school with. The writing is outstanding and all the characters fit right in. I felt each of Lark's emotions. It was so easy to get wrapped up in this book. This one is an easy read and those who enjoy the YA genre, this is perfect for you. I highly recommend Ms Orchard's book.
I only found on thing that bothered me just a tad. I didn't like the cliffhanger ending. *grin*
I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because this one tugs the heart strings. ~Copy of book provided by author in exchange for a fair review~
I felt I knew Lark when I began reading this book. She reminded me of a couple of kids I went to school with. The writing is outstanding and all the characters fit right in. I felt each of Lark's emotions. It was so easy to get wrapped up in this book. This one is an easy read and those who enjoy the YA genre, this is perfect for you. I highly recommend Ms Orchard's book.
I only found on thing that bothered me just a tad. I didn't like the cliffhanger ending. *grin*
I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because this one tugs the heart strings. ~Copy of book provided by author in exchange for a fair review~
March 19, 2016
Ruth Hartman does it again with this wonderful addition to the Love Bird Series.
This can be read as a stand alone, but I do not recommend it. The whole series is great and I wouldn't want you to miss out on a moment of it!
I couldn't help but fall in love with Cecilia and Barrington. Watching their love grow along the way was something to behold and was so well written.
I loved how we were able to continue the story of Conrad and Amelia without overtaking the story of Cecilia and Barrington. I love when I series includes the characters from the previous books but does not over shawdow the new hero/heroine of the current story.
This was a multi pov (my favorite!) and was written beautifully. The descriptions to details were well thought out and not overly done, the dialogue between characters was engaging and the storyline was easy to follow and sucks you in quickly. It flowed really well and was never bogged down with needless facts or useless storyline.
All in all...a great read!
Would I recommend this book? Oh Yes!! If you love Regency, you will love this series.
Would I read more from this author? Absolutely!
This can be read as a stand alone, but I do not recommend it. The whole series is great and I wouldn't want you to miss out on a moment of it!
I couldn't help but fall in love with Cecilia and Barrington. Watching their love grow along the way was something to behold and was so well written.
I loved how we were able to continue the story of Conrad and Amelia without overtaking the story of Cecilia and Barrington. I love when I series includes the characters from the previous books but does not over shawdow the new hero/heroine of the current story.
This was a multi pov (my favorite!) and was written beautifully. The descriptions to details were well thought out and not overly done, the dialogue between characters was engaging and the storyline was easy to follow and sucks you in quickly. It flowed really well and was never bogged down with needless facts or useless storyline.
All in all...a great read!
Would I recommend this book? Oh Yes!! If you love Regency, you will love this series.
Would I read more from this author? Absolutely!
June 9, 2015
This was an okay read about a heroine who has issues but who wants to pursue her career in music.
The story line was almost dragging throughout the whole book. I couldn't get into th story that much especially concerning Lark's attitude. Her character is just something I couldn't like. She was very difficult but it's expected with her age but like I said I couldn't get into her character. There's also how she has a difficult relationship mostly with everyone especially her mother except her bandmates.
I wonder if she ever understood why her mother kept her father's identity a secret. It wasn't elaborated at the same time I do understand where she's coming from. I actually felt bad for her mother and like her I wondered why she kept it a secret. There's most likely a reason for it but I wonder when her mother will ever tell her.
Lark doesn't change much which was very annoying for me but somewhere really near the end she has an idea about herself.
Sadly, I was hoping for a romance but it's practically non existent although there's an inkling about it.
But I'm curious enough to read the next books in this series.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story line was almost dragging throughout the whole book. I couldn't get into th story that much especially concerning Lark's attitude. Her character is just something I couldn't like. She was very difficult but it's expected with her age but like I said I couldn't get into her character. There's also how she has a difficult relationship mostly with everyone especially her mother except her bandmates.
I wonder if she ever understood why her mother kept her father's identity a secret. It wasn't elaborated at the same time I do understand where she's coming from. I actually felt bad for her mother and like her I wondered why she kept it a secret. There's most likely a reason for it but I wonder when her mother will ever tell her.
Lark doesn't change much which was very annoying for me but somewhere really near the end she has an idea about herself.
Sadly, I was hoping for a romance but it's practically non existent although there's an inkling about it.
But I'm curious enough to read the next books in this series.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 19, 2014
I didn't love it, I didn't hate it. It was an okay read. The pace of the story was slow and I hated the fact that some of the things remained unclear. The whole book was boring and at the end when I found it interesting and really looked forward to it, it finished. It was really slow. I mean I was not interested in the first 300-400 pages but then it got interesting and I was looking forward to their performance and what would happen, who was her father, her relationship with her mother, Bean and his brother etc but it ended :-( Felt like it lacked everything that should have been answered! So many questions left as quoted
Overall, a nice change from Fantasy books :D I liked the idea and their aim and how they played together but otherwise, it didn't capture the reader's interest.
Overall, a nice change from Fantasy books :D I liked the idea and their aim and how they played together but otherwise, it didn't capture the reader's interest.
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