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Daughters of His Kingdom #3.5
If Not For Thee
With only three days to decide her fate, Margaret Main must make a choice: concede to the demands of her parents, or keep the vow she made to her beloved sister-in-law. The answer is simple, the solution less so. For to keep her word and her freedom, she must marry the only man she’s ever loved, with the knowledge he may never love her in return.
Holdwell Estate is his home, the place of his youth—his future. To keep it, Marcus Wells must find a woman willing to marry him by morning. For years he was warned against giving away his heart, against the damage love would surely bring upon him. But this woman is far too lovely, far too spirited and kind. How can he keep himself from giving away the one thing he knows, once gone, will be lost forever...
Holdwell Estate is his home, the place of his youth—his future. To keep it, Marcus Wells must find a woman willing to marry him by morning. For years he was warned against giving away his heart, against the damage love would surely bring upon him. But this woman is far too lovely, far too spirited and kind. How can he keep himself from giving away the one thing he knows, once gone, will be lost forever...
127 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2017
54 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
January 2, 2018
What a sweet novella set in Colonial America! I liked that Margaret and Marcus already had a past friendship together so that when they are reunited they have a foundation to build on. What begins as a proposal of a marriage of convenience swiftly turns into more as attraction blooms and they realize that there is potential for romance. There is some angst as they work through their feelings and overcome their fears, and overall it was lovely watching them grow closer during a turbulent time in our nation's history.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
December 12, 2017
Have you read any of the Daughters of His Kingdom books yet? I hadn't until I read this one. I have all the novels sitting waiting for me as I keep saying I'm going to read them. They were kindle freebies several months ago and I was super excited because I've been eyeing them for quite a while and friends had been reading and loving them. So of course I snagged them and haven't had time to read them yet. Life has been insanely busy this year and I just kept hoping at some point these would be at the top of my list. Well, when I saw this novella pop up and heard it was a Christmas time one, and it was only $0.99...I bought it. I told myself if I bought it I was going to read it right away because I've been wanting to read these books and I just needed to stop everything and do it. I can tear through a novella fast, so I did! Luckily I had a little time that I could read it here and there. Believe me when I say that I didn't want to read it here and there throughout my day. I wanted to sit down, cancel everything and read it all right then!
Margaret has loved Marcus her whole life. She feels beneath him in station but can't help the attraction and draw she feels towards him. Marcus knows she exists but is a little older than her and with so many other concerns in his life, plus the fact that he usually gravitates towards women of his own station he hasn't really noticed her. Until now, when he can't help but notice her. Their meeting after him being away for years was pretty fun and cute. Can I just say that I love stories about childhood crushes and friends who grow up and fall in love. Now Marcus and Margaret's reconnection in this story was not at all what they had planned for their lives but when marriage (and a fast unplanned marriage) is needed to protect your home or your life, what other choice do you have but someone who also needs the protection of marriage. I loved Adam, Margaret's cousin and all of his matchmaking. He was great!
If you love historical fiction and sweet characters, sweet romance and a little angst thrown in, then I highly recommend this one. The walks, the horses, the peril, the meddling relatives, the love, the happily ever after moments and most especially the hero and heroine make this a read that I want to come back to again and again.
Content: Clean. Some talk (thoughts) about the marriage bed (time period of the book wording) but nothing graphic, very well written.
My own personal copy.
Happy Reading!!!
Margaret has loved Marcus her whole life. She feels beneath him in station but can't help the attraction and draw she feels towards him. Marcus knows she exists but is a little older than her and with so many other concerns in his life, plus the fact that he usually gravitates towards women of his own station he hasn't really noticed her. Until now, when he can't help but notice her. Their meeting after him being away for years was pretty fun and cute. Can I just say that I love stories about childhood crushes and friends who grow up and fall in love. Now Marcus and Margaret's reconnection in this story was not at all what they had planned for their lives but when marriage (and a fast unplanned marriage) is needed to protect your home or your life, what other choice do you have but someone who also needs the protection of marriage. I loved Adam, Margaret's cousin and all of his matchmaking. He was great!
If you love historical fiction and sweet characters, sweet romance and a little angst thrown in, then I highly recommend this one. The walks, the horses, the peril, the meddling relatives, the love, the happily ever after moments and most especially the hero and heroine make this a read that I want to come back to again and again.
Content: Clean. Some talk (thoughts) about the marriage bed (time period of the book wording) but nothing graphic, very well written.
My own personal copy.
Happy Reading!!!
February 2, 2018
A Christmas novella that is also set in Revolutionary era America and is a marriage of convenience story? THIS NOVELLA IS MY BIRTHDAY!!
First, Perry is a thorough researcher and her passion and dedication to the period she holds in the palm of her talented hand shines through on every page she gifts us with . This is not a book, this is a canvas. She paints broadly and romantically and unexpectedly.
Second, the characters are achingly real and so well developed. Margaret pricked at my heart while Marcus made it soar. Together they created the type of intertwined music I want in my historical romances. Never once did their pure love fall into the realm of saccharine. I love love stories rooted in friendship and I found lots of sigh over here.
Third, Perry's voice spins a deceptively accessible web-- while the trained writer's eye will recognize just how carefully each word fits in perfectly planned order.
A lovely historical escape that proves Perry (again) one of the reigning voices in this era's oeuvre. A story snow-swept and heart clenching, I will return to again
First, Perry is a thorough researcher and her passion and dedication to the period she holds in the palm of her talented hand shines through on every page she gifts us with . This is not a book, this is a canvas. She paints broadly and romantically and unexpectedly.
Second, the characters are achingly real and so well developed. Margaret pricked at my heart while Marcus made it soar. Together they created the type of intertwined music I want in my historical romances. Never once did their pure love fall into the realm of saccharine. I love love stories rooted in friendship and I found lots of sigh over here.
Third, Perry's voice spins a deceptively accessible web-- while the trained writer's eye will recognize just how carefully each word fits in perfectly planned order.
A lovely historical escape that proves Perry (again) one of the reigning voices in this era's oeuvre. A story snow-swept and heart clenching, I will return to again
December 14, 2017
Despite the fact that this is "just" a love story, and a short one at that (marketed as a novella), I give this one five stars. Short love story though it may be, the writing is absolutely exquisite. I like to highlight beautifully phrased eloquence when reading fiction, and I highlighted so many things in this short little book. It made my language loving romantic little heart very happy. No deep thoughts or intricate plots, just lovely main characters and lots of pretty words. A lovely way to spend a December evening.
December 4, 2017
This is a delightful Christmas Novella! A marriage of convenience between childhood friends brings unexpected outcome.
Margaret wasn’t looking to get married, but it seemed that was the only way to keep her promise to her sister-in-law. Marcus had spent his youth avoiding the entanglement of love. But forces outside their control have brought them together. Is it possible for two people from different walks of life to find their happily-ever-after, or will well-meaning, busybody relations drive a wedge between the tenuous relationship?
I thoroughly enjoyed my time spent reading this light-hearted Christmas story. It is sure to warm your heart. I give this charming story 4.5 stars and I look forward to reading more of Amber Lynn Perry's stories in the future.
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
Margaret wasn’t looking to get married, but it seemed that was the only way to keep her promise to her sister-in-law. Marcus had spent his youth avoiding the entanglement of love. But forces outside their control have brought them together. Is it possible for two people from different walks of life to find their happily-ever-after, or will well-meaning, busybody relations drive a wedge between the tenuous relationship?
I thoroughly enjoyed my time spent reading this light-hearted Christmas story. It is sure to warm your heart. I give this charming story 4.5 stars and I look forward to reading more of Amber Lynn Perry's stories in the future.
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
January 19, 2018
So Sweet!
I am such a fan of this author and this series. The characters were so endearing and I could envision everything playing out like a movie. This one was less historical than the rest I've read but I loved the simple love story and the tender emotions. The author mentions a couple more novellas to come and I can't wait!
I am such a fan of this author and this series. The characters were so endearing and I could envision everything playing out like a movie. This one was less historical than the rest I've read but I loved the simple love story and the tender emotions. The author mentions a couple more novellas to come and I can't wait!
December 4, 2017
This may very well be my favorite thing Mrs. Perry has ever written. I am so in love with Marcus right now. He said the most romantic things I have ever heard. I was glad I was reading in bed or I would have swooned to the floor. This is a marriage of convenience and I don't know. I just have a thing for these kind of stories. It is well written. Even though it is a novella, it is complete. I felt satisfied with the ending and yes it was a HEA. I highly recommend this short, sweet and oh so swoony historical novella. Oh, I almost forgot. I love the fact the author sprinkles in historical facts throughout the story. Great Read!
*I was given an advanced copy of the book. I wasn't required to leave a review.
*I was given an advanced copy of the book. I wasn't required to leave a review.
December 4, 2017
A great way to spend a few hours!
September 14, 2018
DNF about halfway through. The physical chemistry, especially kissing, was too sensual for me, even if they were already married. Also talk about "the marriage bed" that left just about everything to the imagination, but seemed geared to turn my imagination in that direction.
May 17, 2018
Ladies, get you fans ready. You're going to need one while you read this sweet novella! Marriage of convenience stories remain my favorite and this one doesn't disappoint.
December 19, 2017
Quick read and quite interesting, with nice characters. I enjoyed it and look forward to reading more by this author.
December 4, 2017
“You, my dear cousin, must find yourself a husband.”
Hardly thirty minutes later, Margaret Main has only found herself in the middle of the road, covered in mud, barely escaping the hooves of an oncoming horse, ridden by none other than the prince of her girlish fancies, Marcus Wells.
Marcus could have run over the maiden, as distracted as he was about returning to Holdwell Estate following the death of his father. As it was, he probably scared her to death; the gentlemanly thing to do would be to stop and extricate her twisted ankle from the mud. When the young woman in question inadvertently calls him by name, Marcus can scarcely believe that he is staring into the lovely eyes of his childhood friend “little Maggie Main”; for Maggie has turned out to be quite a stunning creature during the years he spent in England.
It seems that Maggie and Marcus have something important in common; the urgent need to marry; against all odds, and there are many.
Enjoy Amber Lynn Perry’s ability to pack a lot of story into a short number of chapters; and she certainly knows how to bring on the “swoon”, for Marcus is a first class “keeper”.
I received an advance copy of this novella from the author; the opinions stated are entirely my own.
Hardly thirty minutes later, Margaret Main has only found herself in the middle of the road, covered in mud, barely escaping the hooves of an oncoming horse, ridden by none other than the prince of her girlish fancies, Marcus Wells.
Marcus could have run over the maiden, as distracted as he was about returning to Holdwell Estate following the death of his father. As it was, he probably scared her to death; the gentlemanly thing to do would be to stop and extricate her twisted ankle from the mud. When the young woman in question inadvertently calls him by name, Marcus can scarcely believe that he is staring into the lovely eyes of his childhood friend “little Maggie Main”; for Maggie has turned out to be quite a stunning creature during the years he spent in England.
It seems that Maggie and Marcus have something important in common; the urgent need to marry; against all odds, and there are many.
Enjoy Amber Lynn Perry’s ability to pack a lot of story into a short number of chapters; and she certainly knows how to bring on the “swoon”, for Marcus is a first class “keeper”.
I received an advance copy of this novella from the author; the opinions stated are entirely my own.
January 16, 2018
1.5 stars.
This novella lacked character and plot development. Neither MC was very compelling and the villainess was one faceted too. I'm glad for a clean read, but the faith presented in this novella was superficial. FWIW, I read this as a standalone without having read the preceding books in this series. The rating I give this novella is purely based on its own merits, and not as an installment of a series. Hopefully the full length works by this author are much better. :)
This novella lacked character and plot development. Neither MC was very compelling and the villainess was one faceted too. I'm glad for a clean read, but the faith presented in this novella was superficial. FWIW, I read this as a standalone without having read the preceding books in this series. The rating I give this novella is purely based on its own merits, and not as an installment of a series. Hopefully the full length works by this author are much better. :)
June 22, 2018
There is so much to love about this novella!
August 9, 2020
Loved this novella! Will definitely be looking for more by this author.
June 10, 2018
When I think of Christian romance novels I don’t think of language like: desire, ache, hunger, thirst, satiate, primal masculine need. This novella was full of that and more. All those words were in reference to a woman the hero was basically forced to marry, and had no intention of falling in love with.
Nope. Not my kind of book.
The only reason I gave this more than just one star was because the plot had potential. I read it because of all the five-star ratings. Only one said it was not up to what should be considered clean.
Wish I had seen that review before picking it up.
Nope. Not my kind of book.
The only reason I gave this more than just one star was because the plot had potential. I read it because of all the five-star ratings. Only one said it was not up to what should be considered clean.
Wish I had seen that review before picking it up.
January 12, 2019
Interesting marriage of convenience novella.
This story was very well developed for a novella.
The hero and heroine were engaging and the premise was plausible.
The romance was swoony but not overdone.
I am looking forward to reading the rest of the books in this series.
This story was very well developed for a novella.
The hero and heroine were engaging and the premise was plausible.
The romance was swoony but not overdone.
I am looking forward to reading the rest of the books in this series.
July 9, 2018
This was a little too melodramatic for my taste. I can't stand when the entire conflict can be easily resolved if the characters would just sit down and actually talk to each other.
December 6, 2017
What a wonderful story!! I definitely love Ambers writings. She manages to make you a part of her stories.
I love reading stories about marriages of conveniences. I love watching God having a hand in the couple's everyday lives and yes eventually they do fall in love! "oh my"
I can relate to Margaret in a way onliest problem was I never got marry my childhood sweetheart.
I enjoyed Marcus' tale. He's a great guy!!! I loved his personality so he's definitely my favorite in the book.
Usually it's the lady but not this time!!!
Another great story by Amber lynn perry and I'll be sure to watch for more!!!
I received this novella for free.
was not required to review this book and all opinions are my own.
I love reading stories about marriages of conveniences. I love watching God having a hand in the couple's everyday lives and yes eventually they do fall in love! "oh my"
I can relate to Margaret in a way onliest problem was I never got marry my childhood sweetheart.
I enjoyed Marcus' tale. He's a great guy!!! I loved his personality so he's definitely my favorite in the book.
Usually it's the lady but not this time!!!
Another great story by Amber lynn perry and I'll be sure to watch for more!!!
I received this novella for free.
was not required to review this book and all opinions are my own.
December 14, 2017
If Not For Thee is a novella from the Daughters of His Kingdom series. What a delight! I love this short story. Amber Lynn Perry has a way of making a reader feel as though they are part of the characters lives. So beautiful to be part of it. I am honored to have spent my time with Marcus and Maggie. If a reader is looking for a fabulous and detailed historical, then If Not For Thee is a read for them.
Highly highly recommended.
5+ stars. I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my honest opinion.
Highly highly recommended.
5+ stars. I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my honest opinion.
December 8, 2017
“…God might have a simple solution for your problems—and I believe I know what that is.”
-Adam Galloway, cousin to Maggie Main
If Not for Thee is a delightful historical fiction novella set in December 1775 making it a perfect read for the season. Meet Maggie Main, an independent, spirited young woman, and Marcus Wells, a charming young man and old friend, just returned from doing his familial duty in England. Maggie grew up with a huge crush on Marcus until he left for England, and then she lived with her daydreams.
Both Maggie and Marcus find themselves forced in to a situation where only marriage will solve their problems. Necessity often creates relationships we could only imagine. That is definitely the case for Maggie. A marriage between Marcus and Maggie solves their most immediate problems, but opens up heartache for Maggie as she imagines herself needed, but unloved. Find out how independent Maggie resolves her dilemma with Marcus by reading this charming, romantic novella!
I received this book free from Liberty Publishing and the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The above thoughts and opinions I have expressed are wholly my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
December 4, 2017
If Not for Thee, by Amber Lynn Perry, is a beautifully written historical fiction novella that is as charming as it is irresistible. This Daughters of His Kingdom Novella is a definitive example that good things really do come in small packages. From the richly detailed setting, to the delightfully captivating characters, to the thoroughly entertaining plot, If Not for Thee contains all the wonderful reading enjoyment that would typically be found in a story much longer in length.
With each well-chosen word and each well-crafted sentence, Ms. Perry has skillfully created a novella that combines alluring romance, deeply-felt emotions, and captivating circumstances into a remarkably touching story that abounds with warmth and heart. It is with great joy and enthusiasm that I recommend this novella to all readers. It is certainly a story that I will be rereading and savoring often.
I received a copy of this novella from the author. A review was not required. The thoughts and opinions I have freely expressed in this review are entirely my own.
With each well-chosen word and each well-crafted sentence, Ms. Perry has skillfully created a novella that combines alluring romance, deeply-felt emotions, and captivating circumstances into a remarkably touching story that abounds with warmth and heart. It is with great joy and enthusiasm that I recommend this novella to all readers. It is certainly a story that I will be rereading and savoring often.
I received a copy of this novella from the author. A review was not required. The thoughts and opinions I have freely expressed in this review are entirely my own.
January 13, 2018
Nice read
This book was a bit of a surprise. I had had little interest in the author's previous books but this one kind of grabbed me and pulled me in. I started off reading it as a read before bed, time killer but eventually the story did pull me in and although the story line, particularly the climax, was more than predictable for a romance novel and the characters could have been fleshed out a bit more, Margaret and the villains of the story particularly, it was a nice read and I couldn't quite give it a four, so I'll settle for a four and a half. Nice read
This book was a bit of a surprise. I had had little interest in the author's previous books but this one kind of grabbed me and pulled me in. I started off reading it as a read before bed, time killer but eventually the story did pull me in and although the story line, particularly the climax, was more than predictable for a romance novel and the characters could have been fleshed out a bit more, Margaret and the villains of the story particularly, it was a nice read and I couldn't quite give it a four, so I'll settle for a four and a half. Nice read
March 28, 2018
Finally...a true love story!
Love always prevails. I truly enjoyed the anticipation of what I thought was going to happen, to discover the trail of events were even better than imagined. So often, stories lead through twists and turns of misunderstanding and betrayal, all to be (or not to be) worked out or worked through, and redemption required. This story moved along in the pure truth of each character. I so enjoyed that. My only complaint...I am forced to imagine the future of the main characters. I understand Novella’s, but would certainly love the novel version of this.
Love always prevails. I truly enjoyed the anticipation of what I thought was going to happen, to discover the trail of events were even better than imagined. So often, stories lead through twists and turns of misunderstanding and betrayal, all to be (or not to be) worked out or worked through, and redemption required. This story moved along in the pure truth of each character. I so enjoyed that. My only complaint...I am forced to imagine the future of the main characters. I understand Novella’s, but would certainly love the novel version of this.
May 7, 2018
Romance, clean; period
This was a beautiful read. More of a 3.5 for me as a reader, but still a good read. Margaret's hidden fondness for Marcus, a childhood friend who is a bit above her station, was a lovely read. Both of them have reasons for quickly marrying. Their hearts are not as open to each other, but as they learn each other's hearts, their fall sweetens. The other characters aren't as well drawn, but as this is a shorter read, still a fun read.
This was a beautiful read. More of a 3.5 for me as a reader, but still a good read. Margaret's hidden fondness for Marcus, a childhood friend who is a bit above her station, was a lovely read. Both of them have reasons for quickly marrying. Their hearts are not as open to each other, but as they learn each other's hearts, their fall sweetens. The other characters aren't as well drawn, but as this is a shorter read, still a fun read.
May 15, 2018
Love Ms. Perry's writing! Such tales of faith, overcoming and romance!!! Makes me wish at times to be in colonial times.....until I read of their hardship and then feel grateful once again to visit without having to remain. Well done, Ms. Perry! Really enjoyed the characters of Maggie and Marcus. Fun loving, mischievous, playful, honest and forthcoming. I can hardly wait for the promised next two novellas about Adam and Christian.
May 26, 2019
Amber Lynn Perry’s Daughter of His Kingdom series has fascinated me. Although just novella length, this story packed in a lot of action and history. Perry’s knowledge of Colonial times is impeccable, and her ability to create realistic, engaging characters adds to the charm and delight of this tale. This is a wonderful addition to the series. I’m looking forward to more historical stories from this author.
September 3, 2020
I enjoyed this historical novella set in Albany, New York during the Revolutionary War.
Sharing a past as friends Margaret Main and Marcus Wells see each other as a solution to their current individual situations. Marcus needs to marry in order to keep his family estate. Margaret does not want to return to her parents in New York City.
Their families are divided in their loyalty to both the Patriots and the Tories. The author does a great job of historical details as to time and place.
Marcus does seem a bit overly preoccupied with his affection for Margaret at times.
I loved the Christmas theme in the book as well. A sweet quick read for historical fiction readers.
Sharing a past as friends Margaret Main and Marcus Wells see each other as a solution to their current individual situations. Marcus needs to marry in order to keep his family estate. Margaret does not want to return to her parents in New York City.
Their families are divided in their loyalty to both the Patriots and the Tories. The author does a great job of historical details as to time and place.
Marcus does seem a bit overly preoccupied with his affection for Margaret at times.
I loved the Christmas theme in the book as well. A sweet quick read for historical fiction readers.
December 4, 2017
Amber Lynn Perry just keeps getting better and better! I absolutely LOVED Margaret and Marcus’s story. Want more of it but at the same time totally satisfied with it - I prefer novels to novellas but this one was so rich and kept me spell bound that it far exceeded my expectations!! Can’t wait to read the next story!
December 5, 2017
Swept back into a different era
Amber Lynn Perry has done it again. It was indeed a different world we could not relate to. A marriage out of necessity that brought Maggie and Marcus together. Too quickly this novella was over. Then again when you're so entrenched into the story time passes fast. Can't wait for the other books
Amber Lynn Perry has done it again. It was indeed a different world we could not relate to. A marriage out of necessity that brought Maggie and Marcus together. Too quickly this novella was over. Then again when you're so entrenched into the story time passes fast. Can't wait for the other books
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews