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His Runaway Lady
From one convenient marriage…
To another?
Shunned by society because of his parentage, half Roma blacksmith Fell Barden lives a simple life alone in the forest, until his peace is disturbed by an injured runaway lady. Fleeing a forced marriage, Sophia Somerlock needs his help. Caring for the intriguing miss, Fell feels an intense connection to her. The obvious solution is to save her by marrying her himself…but that would mean returning to the ton that rejected him…
369 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 2, 2020
8 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Johnson
121 books13 followersJoanna Johnson lives in a little village with her husband and too many books. After completing an English degree at university she went on to work in publishing, although she'd always rather she was working on her own books rather than other people's. This dream came true in 2018 when she signed her first contract with Harlequin and she hasn't looked back, spending her time getting lost in mainly Regency history and wishing it was still acceptable to write a manuscript with a quill.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
May 2, 2020
Flight or fight? Darkness and light!
I kept feeling I'd wandered into some sort of Grimm's Fractured Fairytale--possibly a version of Snow White with a dash of Hansel and Gretel.
Sophia Somerlock's abusive mother is the archetype of the wicked stepmother.(Although apparently in earlier versions of some of these tales it was the jealous mother who is the villain. It would seem aspects of this tale harken back to the original versions.)
Sophia's mother appears to have been jealous of her daughter's relationship with her husband, and since she was six years old Sophia has not only carried a huge burden around the death of her father, but been reviled for it. She's been told continually, and believes it, that she is a wicked child responsible for what happened to her father and that all are disgusted by her perfidy.
Sophia runs away because her mother is forcing her into a distasteful marriage of convenience. There are hints that the chosen groom is an abusive man, and questions around what happened to his previous wife. Sophia's fear of her future husband exceeds her fear of her mother, although not by much. She's "between the devil and the deep blue sea."
Sophia's journey is interrupted when she's recognized by a fellow coach traveller. She flees into night through the forest. Of course all that stumbling around in fear means she injures herself and is found by the blacksmith Fell Barden. Our quiet, stalwart hero is a man disappointed in love and shunned by his village because he's half-Roma and doesn't know who his father is.
As Sophia recovers, Fell's strength and acceptance helps her to rethink her worth. Similarly Fell, the community outcast is given hope by Sophia's acceptance of him.
When her mother's ghastly loyal servant nearly discovers her, Sophia after a lot of contemplation and awkwardness, suggests to Fell that they might marry, both gaining something they want. Sophia protection, Fell a family and children. This is the beginning to recovery and happiness for both of them although there are quite a few pitfalls along the way.
Although I enjoyed the subtext of this rather unusual story, strangely I found both characters somewhat one dimensional, possibly because we rarely went beyond the blacksmith's forge on the edge of the forest living somewhat in their own bubble. This separation from the community I think might be what perpetuates the fairytale quality of the story, as it is mostly divorced from the real world.
An enjoyable historical romance with very restrained intimacy scenes.
A Harlequin - Romance ARC via NetGalley
I kept feeling I'd wandered into some sort of Grimm's Fractured Fairytale--possibly a version of Snow White with a dash of Hansel and Gretel.
Sophia Somerlock's abusive mother is the archetype of the wicked stepmother.(Although apparently in earlier versions of some of these tales it was the jealous mother who is the villain. It would seem aspects of this tale harken back to the original versions.)
Sophia's mother appears to have been jealous of her daughter's relationship with her husband, and since she was six years old Sophia has not only carried a huge burden around the death of her father, but been reviled for it. She's been told continually, and believes it, that she is a wicked child responsible for what happened to her father and that all are disgusted by her perfidy.
Sophia runs away because her mother is forcing her into a distasteful marriage of convenience. There are hints that the chosen groom is an abusive man, and questions around what happened to his previous wife. Sophia's fear of her future husband exceeds her fear of her mother, although not by much. She's "between the devil and the deep blue sea."
Sophia's journey is interrupted when she's recognized by a fellow coach traveller. She flees into night through the forest. Of course all that stumbling around in fear means she injures herself and is found by the blacksmith Fell Barden. Our quiet, stalwart hero is a man disappointed in love and shunned by his village because he's half-Roma and doesn't know who his father is.
As Sophia recovers, Fell's strength and acceptance helps her to rethink her worth. Similarly Fell, the community outcast is given hope by Sophia's acceptance of him.
When her mother's ghastly loyal servant nearly discovers her, Sophia after a lot of contemplation and awkwardness, suggests to Fell that they might marry, both gaining something they want. Sophia protection, Fell a family and children. This is the beginning to recovery and happiness for both of them although there are quite a few pitfalls along the way.
Although I enjoyed the subtext of this rather unusual story, strangely I found both characters somewhat one dimensional, possibly because we rarely went beyond the blacksmith's forge on the edge of the forest living somewhat in their own bubble. This separation from the community I think might be what perpetuates the fairytale quality of the story, as it is mostly divorced from the real world.
An enjoyable historical romance with very restrained intimacy scenes.
A Harlequin - Romance ARC via NetGalley
April 25, 2020
His Runaway Lady
Joanna Johnson
https://www.facebook.com/JoannaJoJohn...
Release date 05/01/2020 (ebook)
Publisher Harlequin Historical / Mills&Boon Historical
Blurb :
From one convenient marriage…
To another?
Shunned by society because of his parentage, half-Roma blacksmith Fell Barden lives a simple life alone in the forest until his peace is disturbed by an injured runaway lady. Fleeing a forced marriage, Sophia Somerlock needs his help. Caring for the intriguing miss, Fell feels an intense connection to her. The obvious solution is to save her by marrying her himself…but that would mean returning to the ton that rejected him…
My review :
Will years of abuse weight between them ...
Not an easy read when both main characters are like two abused puppies, so many time kicked, beaten down by repeated insults at been unworthy thus unable to believe in their own good.
At time I was upset by Sophia and her many weaknesses but also Fell and his every doubts. Both reread each of their talks and gestures, unable to see what is straight in front of them.
Yet, they are like people bullied all their life, believing the lies they were told and blind to their own worth.
Why I felt the story dragged for too long, each time one gains confidence, something comes destroying it. Why they spend most of the story hurting, ready to expose their feelings until one move, one word or one glance froze everything and they step backward.
I liked Sophia and Fell, Sophia having a long way before him as whatever abuse she suffered from her mother, she is still a gently breed woman, so completely unaware of the life style of an average person. So she has to start afresh.
Fell has known no other life, and even if he is shunned by the townsfolk, it is the only place he even knew. When Sophia crashes in his life, he fears a repeat of his past. And while every moment shows Sophia is very different, his own worthlessness comes back rushing to erase all the good done by her mere presence in his life.
The fact they both suffered from meanness and were branded by these evil’s tongues is what pulled the strings of this tale far too long and why the ending felt rushed.
I would have preferred to witness them declare their feelings earlier in the story to then work together to heal one another. Their own guilt and helplessness made them the perfect prey to anyone looking for easily crushed souls. They might stand but each new barb is a blow to their trustworthiness.
3.5 rounded to 4 as while I cringed at some of their reeling moments, I liked the few scenes they hold their head held high.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Joanna Johnson
https://www.facebook.com/JoannaJoJohn...
Release date 05/01/2020 (ebook)
Publisher Harlequin Historical / Mills&Boon Historical
Blurb :
From one convenient marriage…
To another?
Shunned by society because of his parentage, half-Roma blacksmith Fell Barden lives a simple life alone in the forest until his peace is disturbed by an injured runaway lady. Fleeing a forced marriage, Sophia Somerlock needs his help. Caring for the intriguing miss, Fell feels an intense connection to her. The obvious solution is to save her by marrying her himself…but that would mean returning to the ton that rejected him…
My review :
Will years of abuse weight between them ...
Not an easy read when both main characters are like two abused puppies, so many time kicked, beaten down by repeated insults at been unworthy thus unable to believe in their own good.
At time I was upset by Sophia and her many weaknesses but also Fell and his every doubts. Both reread each of their talks and gestures, unable to see what is straight in front of them.
Yet, they are like people bullied all their life, believing the lies they were told and blind to their own worth.
Why I felt the story dragged for too long, each time one gains confidence, something comes destroying it. Why they spend most of the story hurting, ready to expose their feelings until one move, one word or one glance froze everything and they step backward.
I liked Sophia and Fell, Sophia having a long way before him as whatever abuse she suffered from her mother, she is still a gently breed woman, so completely unaware of the life style of an average person. So she has to start afresh.
Fell has known no other life, and even if he is shunned by the townsfolk, it is the only place he even knew. When Sophia crashes in his life, he fears a repeat of his past. And while every moment shows Sophia is very different, his own worthlessness comes back rushing to erase all the good done by her mere presence in his life.
The fact they both suffered from meanness and were branded by these evil’s tongues is what pulled the strings of this tale far too long and why the ending felt rushed.
I would have preferred to witness them declare their feelings earlier in the story to then work together to heal one another. Their own guilt and helplessness made them the perfect prey to anyone looking for easily crushed souls. They might stand but each new barb is a blow to their trustworthiness.
3.5 rounded to 4 as while I cringed at some of their reeling moments, I liked the few scenes they hold their head held high.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
April 25, 2020
His Runaway Lady
Joanna Johnson
https://www.facebook.com/JoannaJoJohn...
Release date 05/01/2020 (ebook)
Publisher Harlequin Historical / Mills&Boon Historical
Blurb :
From one convenient marriage…
To another?
Shunned by society because of his parentage, half-Roma blacksmith Fell Barden lives a simple life alone in the forest until his peace is disturbed by an injured runaway lady. Fleeing a forced marriage, Sophia Somerlock needs his help. Caring for the intriguing miss, Fell feels an intense connection to her. The obvious solution is to save her by marrying her himself…but that would mean returning to the ton that rejected him…
My review :
Will years of abuse weight between them ...
Not an easy read when both main characters are like two abused puppies, so many time kicked, beaten down by repeated insults at been unworthy thus unable to believe in their own good.
At time I was upset by Sophia and her many weaknesses but also Fell and his every doubts. Both reread each of their talks and gestures, unable to see what is straight in front of them.
Yet, they are like people bullied all their life, believing the lies they were told and blind to their own worth.
Why I felt the story dragged for too long, each time one gains confidence, something comes destroying it. Why they spend most of the story hurting, ready to expose their feelings until one move, one word or one glance froze everything and they step backward.
I liked Sophia and Fell, Sophia having a long way before him as whatever abuse she suffered from her mother, she is still a gently breed woman, so completely unaware of the life style of an average person. So she has to start afresh.
Fell has known no other life, and even if he is shunned by the townsfolk, it is the only place he even knew. When Sophia crashes in his life, he fears a repeat of his past. And while every moment shows Sophia is very different, his own worthlessness comes back rushing to erase all the good done by her mere presence in his life.
The fact they both suffered from meanness and were branded by these evil’s tongues is what pulled the strings of this tale far too long and why the ending felt rushed.
I would have preferred to witness them declare their feelings earlier in the story to then work together to heal one another. Their own guilt and helplessness made them the perfect prey to anyone looking for easily crushed souls. They might stand but each new barb is a blow to their trustworthiness.
3.5 rounded to 4 as while I cringed at some of their reeling moments, I liked the few scenes they hold their head held high.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Joanna Johnson
https://www.facebook.com/JoannaJoJohn...
Release date 05/01/2020 (ebook)
Publisher Harlequin Historical / Mills&Boon Historical
Blurb :
From one convenient marriage…
To another?
Shunned by society because of his parentage, half-Roma blacksmith Fell Barden lives a simple life alone in the forest until his peace is disturbed by an injured runaway lady. Fleeing a forced marriage, Sophia Somerlock needs his help. Caring for the intriguing miss, Fell feels an intense connection to her. The obvious solution is to save her by marrying her himself…but that would mean returning to the ton that rejected him…
My review :
Will years of abuse weight between them ...
Not an easy read when both main characters are like two abused puppies, so many time kicked, beaten down by repeated insults at been unworthy thus unable to believe in their own good.
At time I was upset by Sophia and her many weaknesses but also Fell and his every doubts. Both reread each of their talks and gestures, unable to see what is straight in front of them.
Yet, they are like people bullied all their life, believing the lies they were told and blind to their own worth.
Why I felt the story dragged for too long, each time one gains confidence, something comes destroying it. Why they spend most of the story hurting, ready to expose their feelings until one move, one word or one glance froze everything and they step backward.
I liked Sophia and Fell, Sophia having a long way before him as whatever abuse she suffered from her mother, she is still a gently breed woman, so completely unaware of the life style of an average person. So she has to start afresh.
Fell has known no other life, and even if he is shunned by the townsfolk, it is the only place he even knew. When Sophia crashes in his life, he fears a repeat of his past. And while every moment shows Sophia is very different, his own worthlessness comes back rushing to erase all the good done by her mere presence in his life.
The fact they both suffered from meanness and were branded by these evil’s tongues is what pulled the strings of this tale far too long and why the ending felt rushed.
I would have preferred to witness them declare their feelings earlier in the story to then work together to heal one another. Their own guilt and helplessness made them the perfect prey to anyone looking for easily crushed souls. They might stand but each new barb is a blow to their trustworthiness.
3.5 rounded to 4 as while I cringed at some of their reeling moments, I liked the few scenes they hold their head held high.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
April 16, 2020
5 Stars
I am not sure if this is a new imprint by Harlequin or I somehow missed these wonderful historical titles for goodness knows how long. This was just a great representation of what a historical romance should be. Both Fell and Sophia had their faults and insecurities. To me, I could see this as a new type of fairy tale, one that shows how when you believe in yourself and trust others to have your back, you can have the world!
You could almost tell from the beginning that Fell’s true lineage would come to light at some point since it was mentioned so many times and was a great burden to him over the years.
I do wish there was, as Paul Harvey used to say… “more to the story.” I did end in the perfect place but I wanted to know what happened next? How was their life after that? What struggles and successes did they face? I mean, curious minds want to know, ya know?
Couldn’t get enough of this. I will definitely try and pick up more Historical Romances if I find them at my local shop.
If you love a good historical cozy romance, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
I am not sure if this is a new imprint by Harlequin or I somehow missed these wonderful historical titles for goodness knows how long. This was just a great representation of what a historical romance should be. Both Fell and Sophia had their faults and insecurities. To me, I could see this as a new type of fairy tale, one that shows how when you believe in yourself and trust others to have your back, you can have the world!
You could almost tell from the beginning that Fell’s true lineage would come to light at some point since it was mentioned so many times and was a great burden to him over the years.
I do wish there was, as Paul Harvey used to say… “more to the story.” I did end in the perfect place but I wanted to know what happened next? How was their life after that? What struggles and successes did they face? I mean, curious minds want to know, ya know?
Couldn’t get enough of this. I will definitely try and pick up more Historical Romances if I find them at my local shop.
If you love a good historical cozy romance, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
May 14, 2020
Joanna Johnson’s third historical book once again demonstrates her talent as a writer and storyteller as she weaves a simple but intricate story of two lost souls from different ends of the social spectrum, who, thrown together by chance, discover that overcoming the scars of the past is no barrier to future happiness with the right person by your side.
Blacksmith Fell Barden has always lived on the fringes of his village, barely accepted by the locals largely due to his backstory involving his young, unmarried Roma mother and unknown father. In contrast, Sophia Somerlock has been brought up in higher social circles, but is far from happy with her lot; wrongly blamed by her mother for the death of her father, and forced into a betrothal with a wholly unsuitable man. Fleeing Fenwick Manor disguised as a maid, Sophia hopes to escape her circumstances and build a new life for herself, but finds herself recognised by a fellow passenger, and, escaping on foot through the woods, falls and injures her ankle where she is rescued by Fell. Recovering at Fell’s cottage, Sophia strikes a bargain with the blacksmith; she will marry him and provide him with the secure family unit he has always wanted in exchange for protecting her from returning home and having to marry the odious sounding Septimus.
For the reader, Fell and Sophia vividly spring to life from the pages as the story gathers pace and we find the couple falling for each other, but, fearful of their past history, keeping quiet about their feelings. One of the biggest compliments I can give the author is her ability to create characters who you can become invested in right from the outset, and the emotional stories of just how much Fell and Sophia have endured before the point at which we meet them only enhances the reader’s connection to the story as you root for them to trust that they have found their other half, and that they are allowed to be happy. Indeed as we watch Sophia adapt to a whole new lifestyle, the barriers she has put up, not to mention the emotional damage that her mother has caused, come crashing down as she accepts that Fell is someone she can confide in, and, despite her belief to the contrary, he allows her to see that what she has always believed isn’t necessarily something she should accept as true.
Of course, the road to a happy ending is never smooth, and the threat that Sophia will be discovered lurks unseen in the background as she embraces her new life as Mrs. Barden. Indeed, Lady Thruxton may be a strong candidate for villain of the year even though her appearances in the story are limited, and the other secondary characters who seem to do her bidding add to the enjoyment of the story.
Ultimately, this is a story largely made by the two main characters, and the investment of the reader in what becomes of Fell and Sophia is made from their first meeting; you want them to be happy because of their differences, and not have to change to fit some social ideal. As seen in the writer’s previous works, this is a talent of hers whereby she takes people out of their normality and allows them to find the ‘real’ person beneath the presentation they give to society, and the Sophia we see as Mrs. Barden is the Sophia you fall in love with, not the damaged lady that her mother has helped created.
As the story runs towards it’s conclusion, Sophia and Fell’s every happiness is threatened by the reappearance of her past, and you cannot help but root for Fell as he fights to reclaim his future happiness in the face of Lady Thruxton’s ire (and you really will cheer as Sophia decides enough is enough when faced with her mother again), taking on the very people who will never seemingly accept someone of his background.
All in all, this is an excellent, emotional and beautifully written love story of two people who need each other to find their place in the world, and who, together can move mountains in their quest to find their deserved happy ending. I look forward to Joanna Johnson’s next book.
Blacksmith Fell Barden has always lived on the fringes of his village, barely accepted by the locals largely due to his backstory involving his young, unmarried Roma mother and unknown father. In contrast, Sophia Somerlock has been brought up in higher social circles, but is far from happy with her lot; wrongly blamed by her mother for the death of her father, and forced into a betrothal with a wholly unsuitable man. Fleeing Fenwick Manor disguised as a maid, Sophia hopes to escape her circumstances and build a new life for herself, but finds herself recognised by a fellow passenger, and, escaping on foot through the woods, falls and injures her ankle where she is rescued by Fell. Recovering at Fell’s cottage, Sophia strikes a bargain with the blacksmith; she will marry him and provide him with the secure family unit he has always wanted in exchange for protecting her from returning home and having to marry the odious sounding Septimus.
For the reader, Fell and Sophia vividly spring to life from the pages as the story gathers pace and we find the couple falling for each other, but, fearful of their past history, keeping quiet about their feelings. One of the biggest compliments I can give the author is her ability to create characters who you can become invested in right from the outset, and the emotional stories of just how much Fell and Sophia have endured before the point at which we meet them only enhances the reader’s connection to the story as you root for them to trust that they have found their other half, and that they are allowed to be happy. Indeed as we watch Sophia adapt to a whole new lifestyle, the barriers she has put up, not to mention the emotional damage that her mother has caused, come crashing down as she accepts that Fell is someone she can confide in, and, despite her belief to the contrary, he allows her to see that what she has always believed isn’t necessarily something she should accept as true.
Of course, the road to a happy ending is never smooth, and the threat that Sophia will be discovered lurks unseen in the background as she embraces her new life as Mrs. Barden. Indeed, Lady Thruxton may be a strong candidate for villain of the year even though her appearances in the story are limited, and the other secondary characters who seem to do her bidding add to the enjoyment of the story.
Ultimately, this is a story largely made by the two main characters, and the investment of the reader in what becomes of Fell and Sophia is made from their first meeting; you want them to be happy because of their differences, and not have to change to fit some social ideal. As seen in the writer’s previous works, this is a talent of hers whereby she takes people out of their normality and allows them to find the ‘real’ person beneath the presentation they give to society, and the Sophia we see as Mrs. Barden is the Sophia you fall in love with, not the damaged lady that her mother has helped created.
As the story runs towards it’s conclusion, Sophia and Fell’s every happiness is threatened by the reappearance of her past, and you cannot help but root for Fell as he fights to reclaim his future happiness in the face of Lady Thruxton’s ire (and you really will cheer as Sophia decides enough is enough when faced with her mother again), taking on the very people who will never seemingly accept someone of his background.
All in all, this is an excellent, emotional and beautifully written love story of two people who need each other to find their place in the world, and who, together can move mountains in their quest to find their deserved happy ending. I look forward to Joanna Johnson’s next book.
May 10, 2020
This is the first book I have read of joanna Johnson and I wasn't disappointed.
This book we read about Sophia somelock and fell bardens story, who have both had a very hard life, which means they see themselfs as unworthy. However together they both start to believe that this is not the case as they both bring out the better in each other.
Sophia is due to marry an abusive man who put his previous wife into an insane asylum. She refuses to marry him and sees her only option is to Runaway. Unfortunately for her during her escape she ends up getting injured, which then lead fell to come to her rescue.
Fell lives in the forest alone, he prefers a simple life. When he sees the injured Sophia passed out he comes to her rescue and when she awakes offers to take her in and give her shelter.
Can he save her from her upcoming arranged marriage though by marrying her instead. All he has ever wanted is someone to love him, a family of his own.
Just a beautiful heart warming story that is so well writting. I loved it and will definitely be reading more of joanna Johnson books and recommending her.
This book we read about Sophia somelock and fell bardens story, who have both had a very hard life, which means they see themselfs as unworthy. However together they both start to believe that this is not the case as they both bring out the better in each other.
Sophia is due to marry an abusive man who put his previous wife into an insane asylum. She refuses to marry him and sees her only option is to Runaway. Unfortunately for her during her escape she ends up getting injured, which then lead fell to come to her rescue.
Fell lives in the forest alone, he prefers a simple life. When he sees the injured Sophia passed out he comes to her rescue and when she awakes offers to take her in and give her shelter.
Can he save her from her upcoming arranged marriage though by marrying her instead. All he has ever wanted is someone to love him, a family of his own.
Just a beautiful heart warming story that is so well writting. I loved it and will definitely be reading more of joanna Johnson books and recommending her.
April 28, 2020
A delicate historical romance, not so much "Ton" in this book even if.... Fell and Sophia are two good characters and the plot is not so unbelievable, also the quota of drama is perfect. It seemed to me a sort of old romance, where there is no speaking about sex and everything is more "pure". Good book.
Un delicato romanzo d'amore storico, anche se avrei potuto parlare di un regency, ma di alta società ce n'è proprio poca in questo libro, anche se....Fell e Sophia sono due buoni personaggi e anche la trama, per quanto stiracchiata, non é completamente incredibile, inoltre la "quantità di dramma" é perfetta. Sembra quasi un romance d'altri tempi questi, dove il sesso viene vagamente accennato e tutto é molto piú "puro" e centrato sui sentimenti. Bel libro.
THANKS NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!
Un delicato romanzo d'amore storico, anche se avrei potuto parlare di un regency, ma di alta società ce n'è proprio poca in questo libro, anche se....Fell e Sophia sono due buoni personaggi e anche la trama, per quanto stiracchiata, non é completamente incredibile, inoltre la "quantità di dramma" é perfetta. Sembra quasi un romance d'altri tempi questi, dove il sesso viene vagamente accennato e tutto é molto piú "puro" e centrato sui sentimenti. Bel libro.
THANKS NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!
December 11, 2025
I read this book because it was part of a set. The first one was 'The Temptations of Lord Tintagel' by Bronwyn Scott which had me entertained. Unfortunately I didn't connect as much with Joanna Johnson's writing and found it extremely repetitive and banal, apart from some dialogue and descriptions. Honestly, nothing much happens throughout the story, except for the very beginning and end. It was a bit of a slog to get through and the bulk of the book could be summarised by: Fell & Sophia incessantly agonizing over how 'unworthy' or 'unlovable' they are and projecting their pain and feelings onto each other. It just made me want to get to the end.
May 21, 2020
Fell Barden is a blacksmith with Roma heritage.
While walking through the local woods, he discovers Sophia Somerlock.
This is a "sweet romance."
While walking through the local woods, he discovers Sophia Somerlock.
This is a "sweet romance."
August 18, 2020
I enjoy stories about blacksmiths. The young lady who runs away from a heartless mother rather than be wed, stumbles around the rural neighbourhood until she meets a half-Romany blacksmith who takes her in, thinking she's a maid. A maid with soft hands, and no great skill, but he doesn't ask questions. Soon the simple life and being her own woman feel so nice that the young lady decides she'd do better to marry the smith. I am not sure if people had hormones in those days, since they're never mentioned, but I suspect that hormonal attraction may have been involved.
Anyway, a hasty marriage sounds alluring but it won't resolve all the problems.
I thought the ending the author chooses to provide is a cop-out, giving in to the rigid class structure of the day, besides being a Georgette Heyer cliche. But maybe it was imposed on her by the editor. Sorry, but it seems like she stopped thinking at that point and said oh, let's just do this. Other readers may be okay with the ending. Otherwise, I enjoyed the refreshingly relaxed romance.
I read an e-ARC from Net Galley and Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
Anyway, a hasty marriage sounds alluring but it won't resolve all the problems.
I thought the ending the author chooses to provide is a cop-out, giving in to the rigid class structure of the day, besides being a Georgette Heyer cliche. But maybe it was imposed on her by the editor. Sorry, but it seems like she stopped thinking at that point and said oh, let's just do this. Other readers may be okay with the ending. Otherwise, I enjoyed the refreshingly relaxed romance.
I read an e-ARC from Net Galley and Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
May 3, 2020
With a gothic feel, suspense, a wounded heroine fleeing to get away from a terrible future, a hero finding her wounded, a journey to happiness, if only they can find a way the story pulled at my heart. An interwoven story of two wounded, almost broken people who find each other by happenstance.
Sophia Somerlock had fled her home once she was told the name of the man she was to marry. She had been hated by her mother since she had been born and when her beloved father had died, her mother had reminded her everyday how worthless she was, but now she would marry a man that terrified her.
Through a series of events, she winds up fleeing in the forest and injured and that is when she is found by Fell, a blacksmith, half Roma and half English. He had lived his entire life not belonging to either side and was only tolerated due to his excellent work as a blacksmith.
As the two spend time together, they began slowly to help each other find their own acceptance. But would Sophie's mother find her and drag her back? Would Sophie betray Fell as he had been before with another woman who had claimed devotion?
An enjoyable read although at times a lot of introspective thoughts by the two characters that was long but explained a lot. The first book I have read by this author but looking forward to reading more!
Sophia Somerlock had fled her home once she was told the name of the man she was to marry. She had been hated by her mother since she had been born and when her beloved father had died, her mother had reminded her everyday how worthless she was, but now she would marry a man that terrified her.
Through a series of events, she winds up fleeing in the forest and injured and that is when she is found by Fell, a blacksmith, half Roma and half English. He had lived his entire life not belonging to either side and was only tolerated due to his excellent work as a blacksmith.
As the two spend time together, they began slowly to help each other find their own acceptance. But would Sophie's mother find her and drag her back? Would Sophie betray Fell as he had been before with another woman who had claimed devotion?
An enjoyable read although at times a lot of introspective thoughts by the two characters that was long but explained a lot. The first book I have read by this author but looking forward to reading more!
May 24, 2020
A story quite different from what I am used to in historical romances. A sweet girl fleeing a cruel destiny drawn by her own mother who never loved or cared for her finds in the arms of a humble, loyal, strong blacksmith something more intense than she could imagine.
Beautiful, exciting, touching. I loved every detail, every moment of tension and I loved the ending very much
5/5 stars
Beautiful, exciting, touching. I loved every detail, every moment of tension and I loved the ending very much
5/5 stars
August 22, 2020
I've been super busy and haven't been reading or reviewing much, but I am a big fan of Joanna Johnson's books and had to read this one when it was released! I absolutely loved this one!
Detailed review to come here on Goodreads, social media, and my blog soon!
May 11, 2020
I have never read anything by this author but I enjoyed the book very much.
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