What do you think?
Rate this book
Devoted Hearts #4
The Earl and His Lady
Lady Virginia Macon, the recently widowed Baroness of Heatherton, has an impossible decision to make. Her late husband’s unscrupulous brother wants to take her sons away from her, and the British courts are on his side, unless she marries a man willing to be the boys’ guardian. Locking her heart away and devoting herself to her children is the only way Virginia can countenance such a decision.
Wearied by the world, Lucas Calvert, Earl of Annesbury, is tired of being alone. His wife’s passing, years ago, has left his outlook gray and empty. His only recourse has been to make life better for those around him, using his considerable wealth and influence. When he learns of Virginia’s plight, he knows he can save her and her sons.
Time spent in each other’s company, sharing the joys and pains of a long English summer, makes them question this marriage of convenience. Neither of them expect their hearts to be touched, for how could they hope to find love a second time?
Wearied by the world, Lucas Calvert, Earl of Annesbury, is tired of being alone. His wife’s passing, years ago, has left his outlook gray and empty. His only recourse has been to make life better for those around him, using his considerable wealth and influence. When he learns of Virginia’s plight, he knows he can save her and her sons.
Time spent in each other’s company, sharing the joys and pains of a long English summer, makes them question this marriage of convenience. Neither of them expect their hearts to be touched, for how could they hope to find love a second time?
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2018
1609 people are currently reading
950 people want to read
About the author
Sally Britton
47 books1,267 followersSally Britton is sixth generation Texan, received her BA in English forever ago, and reads voraciously. She started her writing journey at the tender age of fourteen on an electric typewriter, and she’s never looked back.
Sally lives in Oklahoma with her husband, four children, and their overly energetic Australian Shepherds, cat, and snake named Nancy. She loves researching, hiking, and eating too much chocolate.
Sally lives in Oklahoma with her husband, four children, and their overly energetic Australian Shepherds, cat, and snake named Nancy. She loves researching, hiking, and eating too much chocolate.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 336 reviews
January 3, 2019
Kindle freebie romance time! This is a good one to grab if you like Regencies and marriage-of-convenience stories of the non-steamy variety. MOC tales are so contrived but there's just something about them that's appealing to me.
For a change of pace, this one has an older couple, both widowed, as the main characters. (Even though this is fourth in the series, I didn't have any trouble reading it as a stand-alone, though the author does that thing a few times where the story weaves the main couple from a prior novel into a plot with a brief reference to their past history.)
Lady Virginia Macon was just widowed three months before the story began, and her husband's younger brother - the dastardly villain of our story, boo!hiss - is taking legal action to try to get custody of her two young sons, so he can control their lives and the older son's inheritance. The court seems to be on his side since he's a man, but apparently all will be cured (at least from a legal point of view) if Virginia can find herself a new husband of the gentry.
Enter Lucas Calvert, the Earl of Annesbury, whose been widowed for several years. He still mourns his late spouse, as does Virginia, but given the problems with the brother they very quickly decide to foil his plans by marrying. Lucas finds himself with a wife he's very soon quite attracted to, along with two young stepsons who aren't at all sure they're ready for a new father figure, especially the older son.
It's leisurely paced but the main characters are well-drawn, with a few (minor) flaws and hangups to make things interesting. Virginia's two young boys are intelligent but not annoyingly precocious; they were a good addition to the story.
Jacob's review is great if you want more analysis; I totally agree with everything he says.
For a change of pace, this one has an older couple, both widowed, as the main characters. (Even though this is fourth in the series, I didn't have any trouble reading it as a stand-alone, though the author does that thing a few times where the story weaves the main couple from a prior novel into a plot with a brief reference to their past history.)
Lady Virginia Macon was just widowed three months before the story began, and her husband's younger brother - the dastardly villain of our story, boo!hiss - is taking legal action to try to get custody of her two young sons, so he can control their lives and the older son's inheritance. The court seems to be on his side since he's a man, but apparently all will be cured (at least from a legal point of view) if Virginia can find herself a new husband of the gentry.
Enter Lucas Calvert, the Earl of Annesbury, whose been widowed for several years. He still mourns his late spouse, as does Virginia, but given the problems with the brother they very quickly decide to foil his plans by marrying. Lucas finds himself with a wife he's very soon quite attracted to, along with two young stepsons who aren't at all sure they're ready for a new father figure, especially the older son.
It's leisurely paced but the main characters are well-drawn, with a few (minor) flaws and hangups to make things interesting. Virginia's two young boys are intelligent but not annoyingly precocious; they were a good addition to the story.
Jacob's review is great if you want more analysis; I totally agree with everything he says.
September 21, 2018
This is fourth in a series and in many ways a culmination of all the others. Characters and backgrounds from all three are present and important so I highly recommend reading the others first.
I was caught up in this pretty much from the start and greatly enjoyed it throughout (with two setbacks but I'll get to that). Lucas has been kind of a benevolent deus ex in the other stories so it was nice to see him get his own book. From the others, we know he's kind, reasonably thoughtful, and quick to act. I loved seeing that hold up under close scrutiny because he's exactly my type of lead—the competent, strong man who is kind and does his best for the benefit of those he cares for. He's an outstanding character and I fell for him hard.
Virginia is harder to get a read on because she has lost a husband she deeply cared for pretty recently. Her grief is a weighty and present thing. As it would be. Britton does an outstanding job depicting this aspect of her current situation and still letting us see the joyful and caring woman underneath. It happens mostly through her care for her young children but you see it in her connection to all those around her in consistent and illuminating ways. So I liked her enough not to be impatient with her for not getting over her loss sooner (like I want her to because Lucas is beyond dreamy).
One of my problems was with her, however, though it's in the last quarter of the book. It soured me a bit during those final phases because it made no sense for her to
The other problem is that the unscrupulous brother-in-law doesn't survive scrutiny at all. Sure, courts would have given him some deference in the guardianship of the kids (because male). But he's thoroughly and consistently unpleasant and keeps low company and has zero mastery over his impulses (we eventually come to understand). In other words, he's exactly the kind of villain the courts would want to keep eventual peers away from and it would be extremely easy to prove all of the above.
But as much as either of those would have disturbed my enjoyment in most stories, they had remarkably little impact on this one. I'm still in 4½ star territory and with enough juice to round up. Lucas is just so much my jam and Virginia barely less so.
A note about Historical Accuracy: Again, if there are any period inaccuracies in this one, I am unable to detect them. (I'm counting the brother-in-law thing as a characterization issue rather than a period accuracy one.)
A note about faith and religion: Faith and spiritual experience plays a more important role in this story than in the others. There's nothing supernatural or even formal or outright prayer, even. But there are a handful of things I'd categorize as spiritual experiences and they are important, well-depicted, and moving. They're deeply personal and thus non-denominational, but I found them powerful because of (or in spite of) that.
A note about Chaste: Like others by Britton, this is extremely chaste. There's an outstanding kiss near the end and a couple affectionate pecks after, but nothing else. And yes, it works so much better this time even though they are married very early in the story because they actually discuss it up front (obliquely, but clearly) and have the very good reason of respect for Virginia's obvious grief.
I was caught up in this pretty much from the start and greatly enjoyed it throughout (with two setbacks but I'll get to that). Lucas has been kind of a benevolent deus ex in the other stories so it was nice to see him get his own book. From the others, we know he's kind, reasonably thoughtful, and quick to act. I loved seeing that hold up under close scrutiny because he's exactly my type of lead—the competent, strong man who is kind and does his best for the benefit of those he cares for. He's an outstanding character and I fell for him hard.
Virginia is harder to get a read on because she has lost a husband she deeply cared for pretty recently. Her grief is a weighty and present thing. As it would be. Britton does an outstanding job depicting this aspect of her current situation and still letting us see the joyful and caring woman underneath. It happens mostly through her care for her young children but you see it in her connection to all those around her in consistent and illuminating ways. So I liked her enough not to be impatient with her for not getting over her loss sooner (like I want her to because Lucas is beyond dreamy).
One of my problems was with her, however, though it's in the last quarter of the book. It soured me a bit during those final phases because it made no sense for her to
The other problem is that the unscrupulous brother-in-law doesn't survive scrutiny at all. Sure, courts would have given him some deference in the guardianship of the kids (because male). But he's thoroughly and consistently unpleasant and keeps low company and has zero mastery over his impulses (we eventually come to understand). In other words, he's exactly the kind of villain the courts would want to keep eventual peers away from and it would be extremely easy to prove all of the above.
But as much as either of those would have disturbed my enjoyment in most stories, they had remarkably little impact on this one. I'm still in 4½ star territory and with enough juice to round up. Lucas is just so much my jam and Virginia barely less so.
A note about Historical Accuracy: Again, if there are any period inaccuracies in this one, I am unable to detect them. (I'm counting the brother-in-law thing as a characterization issue rather than a period accuracy one.)
A note about faith and religion: Faith and spiritual experience plays a more important role in this story than in the others. There's nothing supernatural or even formal or outright prayer, even. But there are a handful of things I'd categorize as spiritual experiences and they are important, well-depicted, and moving. They're deeply personal and thus non-denominational, but I found them powerful because of (or in spite of) that.
A note about Chaste: Like others by Britton, this is extremely chaste. There's an outstanding kiss near the end and a couple affectionate pecks after, but nothing else. And yes, it works so much better this time even though they are married very early in the story because they actually discuss it up front (obliquely, but clearly) and have the very good reason of respect for Virginia's obvious grief.
September 18, 2024
This is as close to the perfect marriage of convenience romance as it gets.
I adore Sally Britton's writing.
There's nothing more satisfying in a romance as MCs who find happiness with a new partner, without even looking for more than friendship, and still hold their past loves dear.
The way the author showed us how both MCs handled their grief and step by step opened themselves up to the possibility of new feelings was impressive.
Virginia's emotional journey from grieving widow to loving partner was beautifully written.
Lucas was the perfect MMC, he was the rare kind of MMC who fell for the FMC long before she developed feelings beyond gratefulness for him.
I enjoyed their slowly developing relationship and he children's slow acceptance of their stepfather a lot. Including small children in a marriage of convenience trope is not easy, but Edward and Philipp stole my heart (and Lucas's).
The epilogue was of my favourite kind, too, set 10 years in the future.
Highly recommended.
I adore Sally Britton's writing.
There's nothing more satisfying in a romance as MCs who find happiness with a new partner, without even looking for more than friendship, and still hold their past loves dear.
The way the author showed us how both MCs handled their grief and step by step opened themselves up to the possibility of new feelings was impressive.
Virginia's emotional journey from grieving widow to loving partner was beautifully written.
Lucas was the perfect MMC, he was the rare kind of MMC who fell for the FMC long before she developed feelings beyond gratefulness for him.
I enjoyed their slowly developing relationship and he children's slow acceptance of their stepfather a lot. Including small children in a marriage of convenience trope is not easy, but Edward and Philipp stole my heart (and Lucas's).
The epilogue was of my favourite kind, too, set 10 years in the future.
Highly recommended.
August 29, 2018
What a different romamce
I loved loved loved this book. Is it romantic? Yes. Is it touching? Yes. Is it steamy? No. They don't even kiss until the 90% mark but it was very touching. Both of them had been widowed and they had loved their spouses. And all my GR friends know I hate this trope. Mainly because I don't want my spouse to move on after I am dead. I want him to grieve like Christopher Reed did in that movie with Jane Seymour, 'Somewhere in Time'! He doesn't need to die but I definitely don't want him to even talk with another woman. Selfish maybe? Yes but it helps me sleep at night. I digress as usual, so back to the book. It was wonderful. They both had loved their spouses and they entered into a marriage of convenience to protect her sons. Yes she has kids from her dead husband. Another big no for me usually but it was done so well in this book. I loved the interactions of her sons with the H and he was really quite wonderful. He made the book. His heart was so filled with compassion and love, it permeated this story. He didn't push the h to move on and he let her grieve. But he loved her. There was a scene in a cemetery that tore me up and while I didn't cry, I did tear up. She was talking to her husband's head stone and it was just so touching. And the H, he talked to his wife's portrait too and it comforted him. I know these are all things I would normally hate but they worked for me in this novel. Is it for some of my GR buddies, heck no. Those are hard limits for most of them, even me. But I loved loved loved this story. Did I mention that?
I loved loved loved this book. Is it romantic? Yes. Is it touching? Yes. Is it steamy? No. They don't even kiss until the 90% mark but it was very touching. Both of them had been widowed and they had loved their spouses. And all my GR friends know I hate this trope. Mainly because I don't want my spouse to move on after I am dead. I want him to grieve like Christopher Reed did in that movie with Jane Seymour, 'Somewhere in Time'! He doesn't need to die but I definitely don't want him to even talk with another woman. Selfish maybe? Yes but it helps me sleep at night. I digress as usual, so back to the book. It was wonderful. They both had loved their spouses and they entered into a marriage of convenience to protect her sons. Yes she has kids from her dead husband. Another big no for me usually but it was done so well in this book. I loved the interactions of her sons with the H and he was really quite wonderful. He made the book. His heart was so filled with compassion and love, it permeated this story. He didn't push the h to move on and he let her grieve. But he loved her. There was a scene in a cemetery that tore me up and while I didn't cry, I did tear up. She was talking to her husband's head stone and it was just so touching. And the H, he talked to his wife's portrait too and it comforted him. I know these are all things I would normally hate but they worked for me in this novel. Is it for some of my GR buddies, heck no. Those are hard limits for most of them, even me. But I loved loved loved this story. Did I mention that?
August 15, 2021
.
I read this series through the Kindle unlimited program on Amazon, and I thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of them. Each character is built with depth, situations are unique, each plot was interesting, all combined they compel the reader to continue long past their appointed time frame, and you don't see the twists and turns coming until they hit you in the eyes. I'm looking forward to more of this author's works.
The H/H each suffers from past experiences. The heroine needs an important husband to help her keep her children out of the hands of her late husband's brother, who wants to have control of the late brother's assets and money. An unexpected Earl comes along and volunteers to take care of the lady in distress and her two adorable children (who quickly wrap him around their little fingers). Will they be able to remedy the situation in time to avoid losing the children to their horrid uncle?
The romance portion was abnormally clean (totally glossed over = so if you prefer steamy, which I don't, you will be disappointed). However, for like-minded individuals who prefer a clean adventure, this is a delight!
.
Each story is able to stand on its own, but its entertaining to intertwine with the characters in different segments. And of course, they each delivered a tremendous H.E.A.
I read this series through the Kindle unlimited program on Amazon, and I thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of them. Each character is built with depth, situations are unique, each plot was interesting, all combined they compel the reader to continue long past their appointed time frame, and you don't see the twists and turns coming until they hit you in the eyes. I'm looking forward to more of this author's works.
The H/H each suffers from past experiences. The heroine needs an important husband to help her keep her children out of the hands of her late husband's brother, who wants to have control of the late brother's assets and money. An unexpected Earl comes along and volunteers to take care of the lady in distress and her two adorable children (who quickly wrap him around their little fingers). Will they be able to remedy the situation in time to avoid losing the children to their horrid uncle?
The romance portion was abnormally clean (totally glossed over = so if you prefer steamy, which I don't, you will be disappointed). However, for like-minded individuals who prefer a clean adventure, this is a delight!
.
Each story is able to stand on its own, but its entertaining to intertwine with the characters in different segments. And of course, they each delivered a tremendous H.E.A.
January 1, 2019
Lady Virginia Macon is recently widowed and had to flee the safety of her own home in order to keep her sons, Phillip and Edward, safe from their evil uncle. Virginia finds herself in an impossible position. She either needs to find a male family member who will claim guardianship over her sons but still let her raise them or she has to marry again... preferably a peer. Neither option appeals to her but she'll do whatever she can to keep her sons safe.
Lord Lucas Calvert lost his wife 6 years ago. He has spent the years since her passing helping others whenever he can. But there's something missing in his life. He's tired of being alone and not feeling complete. When he hears of Virginia's plight, he sets out to make sure they are all cared for and protected.
Neither Virginia nor Lucas would have ever guessed that their marriage of convenience would ever turn into something more. As they take the time to get to know each other, they are plagued with what is proper since Virginia is still in her mourning period. Both try to keep their feelings hidden until after it is over.
But when Virginia puts herself in danger to save her sons, their feelings can no longer be hidden. Both she and Lucas will have to decide if they should go with what society deems appropriate or if they should follow their hearts and see if another HEA is in store for them.
I have been in the mood for something different lately and had the hardest time figuring out what I was in the mood for. I hardly ever read regency or historical novels but thought I'd give a marriage of convenience book a try. And can I just tell you, The Earl and His Lady was a perfect choice for my mood! Once I started this book, I could not put it down. I was quickly swept away to the English countryside and I did not want to leave!
I thoroughly enjoyed watching the relationship between Virginia and Lucas develop from acquaintances, to friends, to something more. They were just what the other needed. I also enjoyed watching the relationship between Lucas, Phillip and Edward develop. A lot of the time when you read books with single parents, the children tend to be put on the back burner. But that was not the case here. Lucas took the time to not only get to know the boys, but to show them that he genuinely cared for them and only wanted the best for them and their mother. I absolutely adored this book! It was perfect!
This is my very first book by Sally Britton and I can already tell you, it won't be my last. I have seen several friends read and love her books. I can't wait to add more to my TBR list!
And of course we can't forget my casting. I love these two! What do you think?
Lord Lucas Calvert lost his wife 6 years ago. He has spent the years since her passing helping others whenever he can. But there's something missing in his life. He's tired of being alone and not feeling complete. When he hears of Virginia's plight, he sets out to make sure they are all cared for and protected.
Neither Virginia nor Lucas would have ever guessed that their marriage of convenience would ever turn into something more. As they take the time to get to know each other, they are plagued with what is proper since Virginia is still in her mourning period. Both try to keep their feelings hidden until after it is over.
But when Virginia puts herself in danger to save her sons, their feelings can no longer be hidden. Both she and Lucas will have to decide if they should go with what society deems appropriate or if they should follow their hearts and see if another HEA is in store for them.
I have been in the mood for something different lately and had the hardest time figuring out what I was in the mood for. I hardly ever read regency or historical novels but thought I'd give a marriage of convenience book a try. And can I just tell you, The Earl and His Lady was a perfect choice for my mood! Once I started this book, I could not put it down. I was quickly swept away to the English countryside and I did not want to leave!
I thoroughly enjoyed watching the relationship between Virginia and Lucas develop from acquaintances, to friends, to something more. They were just what the other needed. I also enjoyed watching the relationship between Lucas, Phillip and Edward develop. A lot of the time when you read books with single parents, the children tend to be put on the back burner. But that was not the case here. Lucas took the time to not only get to know the boys, but to show them that he genuinely cared for them and only wanted the best for them and their mother. I absolutely adored this book! It was perfect!
This is my very first book by Sally Britton and I can already tell you, it won't be my last. I have seen several friends read and love her books. I can't wait to add more to my TBR list!
And of course we can't forget my casting. I love these two! What do you think?
July 11, 2018
Man! Britton is my new go to read when I want a real regency read. I love the way she writes! A good slow building romance. Great Characters and really good side characters. This one had two great leads. Very real in there interactions and feelings. So enjoyed this one! The bad guy was even believable and fit into the story well. This is a part of a series, this book picks up right where the Gentleman's Physician left off. This can also be read as a stand alone but it's so much better when read in the correct order.
April 10, 2022
Mostly took place in the English countryside 1812.
3.5 stars.
Widowed Lucas (an earl) & Virginia agreed to a MOC
to protect her 6 & 4YO sons, the older of whom was now
a baron. Virginia ruminated too much over her nearly
perfect late husband Chas. The h's baddie BIL threatened
her security & guardianship of her sons.
Refreshingly mature Lucas was the story's best aspect:
in his slowly engaging the 2 boys in projects & manly
avocations & falling for/ waiting for Va. to catch up to
his secret love of her.
3.5 stars.
Widowed Lucas (an earl) & Virginia agreed to a MOC
to protect her 6 & 4YO sons, the older of whom was now
a baron. Virginia ruminated too much over her nearly
perfect late husband Chas. The h's baddie BIL threatened
her security & guardianship of her sons.
Refreshingly mature Lucas was the story's best aspect:
in his slowly engaging the 2 boys in projects & manly
avocations & falling for/ waiting for Va. to catch up to
his secret love of her.
September 5, 2020
I liked this romance because both the hero and heroine were mature and both widowed and they loved their previous partners. Most importantly, they were not jealous that each of them still loved their 1st love. I liked their sense of duty, the whole family putting in an effort in their new relationships, especially hero.
The only thing i didn't enjoy was the the lack of romance, heat or passion. The hero and heroine barley had enough time to spend in each others company to build an attachment, get close and develop their romance. The heroine spent most of the time detached and unsure. I wish there was a time jump allowing the heroine to deal with her loss, this would've also allowed the new couple time to develop as a couple.
The only thing i didn't enjoy was the the lack of romance, heat or passion. The hero and heroine barley had enough time to spend in each others company to build an attachment, get close and develop their romance. The heroine spent most of the time detached and unsure. I wish there was a time jump allowing the heroine to deal with her loss, this would've also allowed the new couple time to develop as a couple.
May 4, 2019
This story by Sally Britton was just delightful and heartwarminb. I loved the patience that Lucas had for Virginia with all she was going through.
I loved the HEA in the end and that both of them found love and happiness. A very nice clean historical romance novel.
4-Stars🌟
I loved the HEA in the end and that both of them found love and happiness. A very nice clean historical romance novel.
4-Stars🌟
February 15, 2022
I have truly enjoyed this series so far. But this story was absolutely wonderful!
A widower and recent widow marry out of necessity but unexpectedly fall in love.
A widower and recent widow marry out of necessity but unexpectedly fall in love.
January 24, 2023
I absolutely adored this marriage of convenience story! This is only the second book that I have read (listened to) by this author. I have loved both stories and they both happened to be in the same series. However, these books also seem to stand alone very nicely, too.
These two characters and the two young boys, as well, were written in a way that felt very realistic to me. Lucas and Virginia were in two very different stages of grief. I liked the way Lucas was completely and totally devoted to taking care of Virginia and her boys. He was such a kind man and a wonderful husband. There were so many moments that made my heart swoon in this novel and also moments of heartache. It was nice to slowly see Virginia begin to awaken to the possibility of a happy life filled with love again.
The narrator did an excellent job and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this story.
These two characters and the two young boys, as well, were written in a way that felt very realistic to me. Lucas and Virginia were in two very different stages of grief. I liked the way Lucas was completely and totally devoted to taking care of Virginia and her boys. He was such a kind man and a wonderful husband. There were so many moments that made my heart swoon in this novel and also moments of heartache. It was nice to slowly see Virginia begin to awaken to the possibility of a happy life filled with love again.
The narrator did an excellent job and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this story.
July 30, 2025
I just love Sally Britton literature! She knows how to pull me right in and wrap the characters' hearts around my own. I cry with them. I sigh with them. We blush together (in an appropriate shy way, nothing untoward). And we all get the happily ever after we've been waiting for!!
I really enjoyed Lucas's selflessness that is exhibited in this story. I love Virginia's perseverance and devotion. They are truly MFEO (made for each other).
On a steaminess level I would rate this a pleasant PG.
Second reading: Audiobook. Delightful narration by Rachael Beresford.
I really enjoyed Lucas's selflessness that is exhibited in this story. I love Virginia's perseverance and devotion. They are truly MFEO (made for each other).
On a steaminess level I would rate this a pleasant PG.
Second reading: Audiobook. Delightful narration by Rachael Beresford.
September 12, 2019
This was a lovely, sweet marriage of convenience story. Widower + recent widow. Lucas was wonderful! He was kind and thoughtful, and was able to offer comfort and understanding to Virginia as she grieved. I loved how he interacted with her two sons, and the wise and tricky ways he offered his advice. I think the love story between the boys and their new Papa was better than the romance! A very feel-good story.
See Tadiana’s review for more info:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
See Tadiana’s review for more info:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
December 31, 2020
A beautiful story about loving again after loss
Virginia was a favorite of mine from A Gentleman Physician, and I was so happy to see she would be paired with the all-powerful and kind Earl.
I liked how, despite being a story full of grief, the author managed to keep the tone light and romantic. Virginia’s kids, especially Edward, was such a sweetheart.
My favorite in the series!
Virginia was a favorite of mine from A Gentleman Physician, and I was so happy to see she would be paired with the all-powerful and kind Earl.
I liked how, despite being a story full of grief, the author managed to keep the tone light and romantic. Virginia’s kids, especially Edward, was such a sweetheart.
My favorite in the series!
August 4, 2018
I cannot adequately express how much I am loving this author’s books!
Everyone I have read has reached 5 star status as far as I am concerned... not an easy thing to do for me! I’m more inclined to give 3 or 4 stars. Not so with this series. I cannot stress more how enjoyable I found these stories. I thankfully decided to read them all in order which I highly recommend you do too if you can! Each one refers back to the previous one(s). Reading them in order helped each one to flow so well into the next one.
All of these books are clean & have happy endings I’m happy to say. In amongst all of that they have suspense & delve into the rawest of human emotions. There is love & loss, fear & anger, sadness & great joy.
This particular story had a lot of build-up in that the characters are all introduced in The Gentleman Physician. I have to admit I was tempted after reading that one to skip straight to this story but I’m glad I didn’t because there are more characters in the next that we are introduced to which feature in this one.
Lord Calvert & Lady Virginia both know love & loss. They have each lost a spouse who meant the whole world to them & now must navigate life’s hurdles as best they can without their other half.
Both are strong personalities & put the care of others above their own needs. Both struggle to let themselves love again because they fear he effect it will have. Can they really risk loving & losing again? Which would be the greater loss? To love & risk losing or to never love again?
Like I said, I highly recommend this series to be read & if possible please read it in order.
I was so thankful to receive an ARC copy of this book because I so did not want to wait until release day 😂 my sincerest thanks to the Author. I look forward to the next one!
Everyone I have read has reached 5 star status as far as I am concerned... not an easy thing to do for me! I’m more inclined to give 3 or 4 stars. Not so with this series. I cannot stress more how enjoyable I found these stories. I thankfully decided to read them all in order which I highly recommend you do too if you can! Each one refers back to the previous one(s). Reading them in order helped each one to flow so well into the next one.
All of these books are clean & have happy endings I’m happy to say. In amongst all of that they have suspense & delve into the rawest of human emotions. There is love & loss, fear & anger, sadness & great joy.
This particular story had a lot of build-up in that the characters are all introduced in The Gentleman Physician. I have to admit I was tempted after reading that one to skip straight to this story but I’m glad I didn’t because there are more characters in the next that we are introduced to which feature in this one.
Lord Calvert & Lady Virginia both know love & loss. They have each lost a spouse who meant the whole world to them & now must navigate life’s hurdles as best they can without their other half.
Both are strong personalities & put the care of others above their own needs. Both struggle to let themselves love again because they fear he effect it will have. Can they really risk loving & losing again? Which would be the greater loss? To love & risk losing or to never love again?
Like I said, I highly recommend this series to be read & if possible please read it in order.
I was so thankful to receive an ARC copy of this book because I so did not want to wait until release day 😂 my sincerest thanks to the Author. I look forward to the next one!
April 15, 2019
This is #4 in the ‘Branches of Love’ series. It’s the story of recently widowed Lady Virginia Macon who is trying to hold her life together while saving her two young boys from the evil clutches of her late husband’s brother. He sees the situation as financially saving himself by forcing the sons to live with him. Lady Virginia has few options: running away with her sons; giving them up; or marrying right away to keep the boys safe with new guardianship.
That third option becomes a real possibility as widowed, lonely Lucas Calvert, Earl of Annesbury, meets the little family at his brother’s estate. Lucas is attracted to Lady Virginia and has an instant connection with the little boys.
The story is much like ‘Bluestocking Bride…’ and my review repeats that it is basically the same, just different people. It’s a plot that is rapidly losing my interest because of that very reason. The romance is pretty much non-existent, and it’s disappointing for us readers who want to see warmth and love blossoming. The couple needs some emotion. Maybe a little passion here and there to nourish the relationship along, not just an occasional “heart flutter”. I liked the characters, but the story needs more depth. I have one left to read in the series and I’ll finish with that one - if it’s not any better.
I do like author Sally Britton and I have hopes for more interesting plots from her. ‘Gentleman Physician’ and ‘Miss Devin’s Choice’ were both very good; “Bluestocking’ and ‘The Earl…’ not so enthusiastic about.
That third option becomes a real possibility as widowed, lonely Lucas Calvert, Earl of Annesbury, meets the little family at his brother’s estate. Lucas is attracted to Lady Virginia and has an instant connection with the little boys.
The story is much like ‘Bluestocking Bride…’ and my review repeats that it is basically the same, just different people. It’s a plot that is rapidly losing my interest because of that very reason. The romance is pretty much non-existent, and it’s disappointing for us readers who want to see warmth and love blossoming. The couple needs some emotion. Maybe a little passion here and there to nourish the relationship along, not just an occasional “heart flutter”. I liked the characters, but the story needs more depth. I have one left to read in the series and I’ll finish with that one - if it’s not any better.
I do like author Sally Britton and I have hopes for more interesting plots from her. ‘Gentleman Physician’ and ‘Miss Devin’s Choice’ were both very good; “Bluestocking’ and ‘The Earl…’ not so enthusiastic about.
September 18, 2018
This final book of the Branches of Love series is a fitting conclusion to the best Regency romance series I have read to date. Although each book can be interpreted as a stand-alone offering, your enjoyment will be increased if you read the books in sequence. Many characters are common to all four books. Britton’s characters are alive and vibrant, her storylines believable, and her descriptions pull you in as if you were personally part of the scene. Any peerage errors are easily overlooked unless the reader has expert knowledge. I found myself both laughing out loud and wiping away tears at times. The way Ms. Britton handled the sadness and grief of both Virginia and Lucas was superb, and the way she brought them together was both believable and fascinating. If you are one who enjoys clean, well-written Regency romance, Sally Britton should be put at the top of your reading list.
March 30, 2021
Is this book super tropey and dumb? Yes, that should be evident from the cover that might have been made in Microsoft word
Did I love it? Also yes
The characters weren’t super annoying tho which was a plus. We love a non crazy mother in law and the last name Calvert. The writing isn’t too bad, but there is of course a Hallmark movie level misunderstanding.
My fave, most trope-y part?
““I’ve missed being here,” she said, then drew in a deep breath. “I never appreciated country living until I came here.”
“It’s beautiful,” he said quietly. Virginia turned to smile at him and realized his eyes were on her, not the distant hills.”
LMAO this stuff is the best
Did I love it? Also yes
The characters weren’t super annoying tho which was a plus. We love a non crazy mother in law and the last name Calvert. The writing isn’t too bad, but there is of course a Hallmark movie level misunderstanding.
My fave, most trope-y part?
““I’ve missed being here,” she said, then drew in a deep breath. “I never appreciated country living until I came here.”
“It’s beautiful,” he said quietly. Virginia turned to smile at him and realized his eyes were on her, not the distant hills.”
LMAO this stuff is the best
August 1, 2018
This author gets consistently better with each book she writes. The story setup is believable, the growth and development is spot on, and the romantic tension is exceptional. A lovely addition to the world of regency!
March 5, 2019
I liked this one, it kept me interested, didn't have the must flip through the pages faster but enjoyable enough.
Moral Note: Some mild violence
Moral Note: Some mild violence
July 13, 2021
The majority of the book is about a grieving widow and the hero bending over backward to do everything for her.
August 25, 2023
really solid marriage of convenience story
February 7, 2019
This may or may not be my first read by Sally Britton, but it certainly won't be my last.
It was everything a historical romance should be: clean, well-written, and utterly romantic. The pacing is consistent throughout. It's a smooth read, as if you were floating down a gentle river where once in a while you'd come around a bend and be greeted with another glorious vista.
Virginia and Lucas hit all the right notes with their grief, their questioning, and their ability to fall in love all over again. The sons were adorable and the villain a proper scoundrel.
A must for historical romance readers.
It was everything a historical romance should be: clean, well-written, and utterly romantic. The pacing is consistent throughout. It's a smooth read, as if you were floating down a gentle river where once in a while you'd come around a bend and be greeted with another glorious vista.
Virginia and Lucas hit all the right notes with their grief, their questioning, and their ability to fall in love all over again. The sons were adorable and the villain a proper scoundrel.
A must for historical romance readers.
August 1, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. It is nice to read a clean romance that grabs your attention and keeps it.
January 14, 2019
Inspirational regency romance. Very well written and recommend. I will be looking for more from this author!
December 17, 2023
I couldn’t get into this. There is no chemistry whatsoever (zip, zilch, nada) and the dual perspective removes all sense of mystery around the hero. It’s leisurely and comfortable, and (speaking for myself) entirely boring.
It was also hard to understand why the earl would propose to a woman he only briefly met ONCE, just to do a good deed. I feel like there needed to be more cause, like that he is desperately lonely or no one else would marry him because XYZ, or something like that to make it make sense.
I was also super bugged at her for lecturing him when he took her two little boys out for a walk to the stream. They were gone for 30 minutes and they had a blast together, but she reams him for it. Even if he HAD done something wrong (which he didn’t), they don’t have the familiar relationship to be so rude to each other. I was pretty shocked at her behavior, and if I had been him I would have despaired, “Why the heck did I jump into this marriage?! This woman is a witch!”
But anyway, that’s not why I didn’t like the book. But since I was bored, I started to nitpick at the story. I also had been listening to it on double speed for awhile (a bad omen). I didn’t listen to it all day today and I know I won’t be returning, so I’ll call this a DNF and move on.
Content- clean.
Audiobook narration- fine
Cover- meh
Listened to it on Scribd.
It was also hard to understand why the earl would propose to a woman he only briefly met ONCE, just to do a good deed. I feel like there needed to be more cause, like that he is desperately lonely or no one else would marry him because XYZ, or something like that to make it make sense.
I was also super bugged at her for lecturing him when he took her two little boys out for a walk to the stream. They were gone for 30 minutes and they had a blast together, but she reams him for it. Even if he HAD done something wrong (which he didn’t), they don’t have the familiar relationship to be so rude to each other. I was pretty shocked at her behavior, and if I had been him I would have despaired, “Why the heck did I jump into this marriage?! This woman is a witch!”
But anyway, that’s not why I didn’t like the book. But since I was bored, I started to nitpick at the story. I also had been listening to it on double speed for awhile (a bad omen). I didn’t listen to it all day today and I know I won’t be returning, so I’ll call this a DNF and move on.
Content- clean.
Audiobook narration- fine
Cover- meh
Listened to it on Scribd.
August 1, 2018
Sally Britton masterfully guided us through a well of emotions from grief, to anger, to peace and love. Giving Virginia and Lucas a mutual ache added a sweetness to their second chance love story. The way Sally Britton chose to make Lucas' loss distance and Virginia's recent showcased her writing ability to use a range of emotions tying you to the characters. It also added a level of hope to the novel making it that much more endearing.
The story was not only a beautiful roller coaster of emotions, but it was also a sweet commentary on dealing with those feelings.
A compelling plot with a narrative on the highs and lows of parenting and a tender tapestry of the blending of families. The interactions between Virginia and Lucas, the good and the bad, were delightful and spot on. The moments she created between both Virginia and Lucas, and the boys, as a mother, were especially poignant.
This was An engaging second chance love story that gives you all the feels.
https://bookconfessionsblog.wordpress...
The story was not only a beautiful roller coaster of emotions, but it was also a sweet commentary on dealing with those feelings.
A compelling plot with a narrative on the highs and lows of parenting and a tender tapestry of the blending of families. The interactions between Virginia and Lucas, the good and the bad, were delightful and spot on. The moments she created between both Virginia and Lucas, and the boys, as a mother, were especially poignant.
This was An engaging second chance love story that gives you all the feels.
https://bookconfessionsblog.wordpress...
April 11, 2020
This was a good plot. But Virginia's near-perfection as a mother really got to me. Every time her boys misbehaved she called them 'darling' and was excruciatingly patient with them. She never lost her temper??!!
October 15, 2018
A Very Good Book
I really, really liked this book. So much was happening all the time. I knew about some stuff before it happened.
I really, really liked this book. So much was happening all the time. I knew about some stuff before it happened.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 336 reviews