Misterio en Haven Manor

Haven Manor #1

by Kristi Ann Hunter

Una huida, un regreso y una apuesta arriesgada para salvar a quienes lo necesitan... Y salvar su amor. Cuando Katherine «Kit» FitzGilbert dio la espalda a la sociedad londinense hace más de una década, decidió no volver a poner un pie en un salón de baile. Pero cuando un asunto la lleva a Londres y se ve obligada a luchar por su vida, tiene que volver a uno de esos salones, donde se topa con Graham, lord Wharton. Y por primera vez en la vida, desea que las cosas hubieran sido distintas... Sin embargo, desde hace tiempo se dedica a ayudar a mujeres que deben escapar de la ciudad cuando su situación se ve comprometida en sociedad, así que no puede distraerse. Ojalá se lo pudiera contar todo a Graham, pero, si lo hiciera, ¿qué precio tendrían que pagar por la verdad aquellos a los que ama?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Romance, Regency, Fiction, Historical, Historical Romance

Paperback

First published June 1, 2018

About the author

Kristi Ann Hunter graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in Computer Science but always knew she wanted to write. Kristi is an RWA Golden Heart contest winner, an ACFW Genesis contest winner, and a Georgia Romance Writers Maggie Award for Excellence winner. She lives with her husband and three children in Georgia. Find her online at www.kristiannhunter.com.

Reviews

[Kellyn Roth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Original Review After I Just Finished It:

4.5 stars? Not sure, might even be five after I think about it.

At first I was seriously like, "I like blackmailing people! Why'd they have to stop blackmailing?" Then *coughs* I remembered that blackmailing is wrong.

Oh well, I suppose it couldn't go on forever. ;)

It was really great!

Actual Review:

Originally posted on Reveries Reviews.

Title: A Defense of Honor

Author: Kristi Ann Hunter

Series: Haven Manor, #1

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Era: 1810s (Regency)

Setting: England, London and countryside

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers

Source: from the publisher in exchange for honest review

Overall Rating: 5/5 stars

A Defense of Honor by Kristi Ann Hunter

WHOA! If you thought Hawthorne House was good, get ready for something even more fantastic! Hunter’s Haven Manor series looks to be the most fantastic thing she – or any other author – has come out with in a while!

Let’s just get right into things before I start fangirling.

PLOT: 5/5
*incoherent screaming*

OH MY GOODNESS! This plot is so amazing that it makes all the other amazing plots ashamed of their lack of amazing!

I don’t want to give spoilers, so I won’t go into it much. I couldn’t put it down! It was paced perfectly, it was entertaining, it made sense …

When a book doesn’t have a ton of issues (none that I can remember), there’s often not a lot to say. However, I was so, so pleased!

CHARACTERS: 5/5
THE CHARACTERS WERE AMAZING! :D I got so into Kit’s mind that I forgot the difference between right and wrong. xD So yep. Kudos to the author; I think I’ve got a book hangover.

Both Kit and Graham were excellent characters! I’m so excited to read an update about their lives in the next books. ;)

Other amazing characters who I loved to death: Daphne, Aaron & Oliver, Jess, Priscilla … they’re all so much fun!

Basically, all the characters were amazing! I cannot put into words how excited I am to see them again in the next book!

SETTING: 5/5
As far as I could tell, there were no major inaccuracies in the book and the setting was well-portrayed.

There are some very unconventional characters, especially for the era, but Hunter pulls it off perfectly. No complaints!

WRITING: 5/5
I LOVE HUNTER’S WRITING STYLE!!! It is basically the best, most amusing third person limited I have ever had the honor to read!

*jumps up and down while waiting for the next book*

CONTENT: 3/5
Language: n/a

Violence: n/a

Sexual: lots of talk about unwed mothers and their illegitimate children; handled super well. A couple kisses, none too detailed. Mentions of evil men, philanderers, etc. A story about a woman being seduced by a man is told in minor detail though nothing about the actual sex is mentioned.

Other: talk about childbirth, pregnancy, and nursing

3/5. Not recommended for readers under 14. A story about a home for illegitimate children & women who help couldn’t have been handled with more taste.

OVERALL: 5/5
I can’t tell you how much I love this story. I ADORE A DEFENSE OF HONOR! Please let the time until the next book comes out go quickly because other I WILL DIE.

~Kellyn Roth, Reveries Reviews

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a lovely start to what promises to be an engrossing series! I admit, I'm pretty attached to the Hawthorne family, but the inhabitants of Haven Manor are proving to be stiff competition. Kit, Daphne, Jess (who readers will probably recognize from the Hawthorne books) are easy-to-love characters, not to mention the sweet rambunctious nature of the children in their care. Graham is endearing from the start, easily climbing over all of the barriers that the three ladies, especially Kit, have set in order to keep themselves and the children hiding in seclusion. As the son of an earl, he is restless and lacking purpose, but not lacking a good heart and a desire to help others. There were a few times that I wished for Kit not to feel quite so distant (although that did make me empathize with Graham), but eventually I was won over by her genuine struggles and loved her all the more for them. Children in stories are hit or miss for me because sometimes they just end up sounding just like the adult characters. The children in this story feel realistic, and I found myself completely charmed by them.

One thing especially spoke to me throughout this story. One being that God places value on everyone, whether the world does or not - what a comforting, needed thought that is right now. Kit deals with a lot of guilt and shame, something that many find overwhelming and are unable to defeat without support. There is a lot of urging to reach out for help if you need it, but often those who need help most can't find it in themselves to do that - others must reach out to them and be observant to their cries of help. I didn't mean to go on this tangent, but the message that there is so much hurting in the world and sometimes one kindness or one relationship can make all of the difference is so important.

I enjoyed the change of pace from the ballrooms and society-driven needs of London. Most of the setting is in a quiet country village that radiates peace, tranquility, and safety. The subject matter of illegitimate children is handled quite well, painting a realistic picture without going into sordid details. Hunter doesn't shy away from the consequences of their indiscretion and is very honest about the huge difference and double standard of those consequences for the woman involved. Kit's work with these women offers them hope in an otherwise hopeless situation. This combined with her overall realization that she doesn't have to bear it all makes for a emotional story.

Along with Kit and Graham, this story introduced several intriguing and lovable secondary characters. Of course, Daphne's story is next, and I can't wait to read that. Jess is no less deserving of her own story, and I even like the quirky Priscilla. Oh, and I must mention Graham's best friends, Oliver and Aaron. I especially loved Aaron and wouldn't mind seeing him again. Historical details, a thoughtful plot, and endearing characters make this first book in the Haven Manor series a winner for me.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher and was not required to post a review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, emotional rating here! This atmospheric story checked so many boxes for me that I really wanted to jump right into the second book without delay. The romance is so sweet and feels so genuine, and I loved how Kit’s inner conflict unfolds bit by bit over the story. Masterful drawing of the emotional issues in that! I was also impressed of how both Kit and Graham act like adults with each of the issues that come up and I loved how they are able to both spark each other to draw closer to God...so sweet. The stories of the children Kit is looking out for really caught my heart early on and Hunter did a great job of portraying each one clearly even with limited page time.

I was grateful for having read the prequel about Margaretta and Nash first because it made it easier to figure out what was going on at Haven Manor and move forward with the story.

Thanks to the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required. However, I listened to the finished copy as an audio from my library and the narrator also receives five stars for her narration.

[Melissa (Hiatus for Work-Will Pop In When I Can)) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars, RT Top Pick
The first novel in Hunter's new Haven Manor series is both gripping and heartwarming at the same time. It is fascinating to read about these situations, which have so many parallels to the present day, yet because this book is set in the 1800s, it has more impact and can be quite challenging to the reader. Hunter communicates her storyline with such grace and passion, showing light on God's mercy and how He can restore any broken situation for His glory.

When Graham, Lord Wharton, encounters a mysterious woman at a ball, he is intrigued because she seems so different from the other women. She resists all attempts at communication, but even afterward, he cannot stop thinking about her. When his friend enlists Graham to help look for his missing sister, Graham is stunned to encounter the woman again in an unexpected place. Katherine "Kit" FitzGilbert shunned London and all of its society trappings many years ago after a terrible incident. She has made it her life's mission to help women and their children live fulfilling lives even after the unspeakable happens to them. Can Graham and Kit ever see eye to eye and learn to trust and help one another?

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the foundation of this series with the three young ladies from different backgrounds. In A Defense of Honor readers get to know Kit who was in the elite crowd previously. The main lesson in the novel is a good one...God has an even better plan than our own.

I look forward to learning more about Daphne and Jess.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

My thoughts:

This book wasn't nearly as light as some of the author's other books. Yet I was captivated with it. I loved the characters in this book from Graham and Kit to the people they encounter. I'll admit that this book was a little slower than the others the author has written, but this book was really good. I truly enjoyed it.



I received a copy of the book from the publisher in order to share my honest opinion about it. My thoughts and opinions are my own.



Recommended to fans of Jody Hedlund, Julie Klassen, Jane Austen



Rating - 5 stars

[Victoria Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Let me just off this review by saying that I want to applaud Miss Hunter for writing about such a difficult subject with such ease and delicacy.
The story itself was beautiful and I have to say that this hero was one of my favorites that I have read in a while. The heroine, Kit, was lovely as well, though I personally did not relate to her in some ways, I found myself loving her heart and motive, regardless of whether her actions were the right ones or not. I was rooting for all of them and incredibly intrigued by where the story would go and what would actually be the reasoning behind all of the seemingly odd circumstances. I was very fascinated as I turned page after page how Miss Hunter would handle each of these predicaments. And I was pleasantly pleased with how much she handled without being graphic in the least.
This is the kind of fiction that I seek to write. Uplifting and beautiful while still shining a light on the indecencies of and social injustices of the times.
The story was a little hard for me to follow in one or two parts, but that might have been because I was struggling to find time to read, so this book was spread out over a month.
The characterization was excellent, enjoyable, and I loved the diversity of the types of personalities and motivations.
The ending had me crying. That hasn’t happened in a while either. I found myself overwhelmed by the sweet feelings that the book invoked in my heart in the second to last chapter.
I would highly recommend this book to mid to late teens and adults. Due to subject matter, if you are younger than that, I would recommend asking your parents. It was incredibly well handled in my humble opinion, but it is centered around a group of illegitimate children.
Content: Frequent mentions of illegitimacy. Mentions of women being swept away by men and mentions of the consequences, while everything in between was left to the imagination.

[Amanda Geaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do not fancy myself a romance reader, but I could be swayed if more authors in this genre would spin stories like Kristi Ann Hunter. Everything about this book is perfection! The characters were genuine and likable. The writing is effortless and captivating. Highly recommend!

[Dana Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book by Hunter is a wonderful and original story. I love Regency Era books and this one is very unique. I've never read one like this. I loved it. I think anyone who loves this genre will really appreciate and enjoy this story. The characters are so likeable and I felt as if I was there with them in their quest to make the lives of the children better. They were very selfless and loving. They were also flawed and not perfect. However, Graham the hero was pretty much perfect in my book. I loved his wit and his charm. For some reason, I kept picturing Hugh Grant as Graham. (young Hugh Grant) And, as I said the story line was very original. I really enjoyed the story and I cannot wait for the next installment in the series.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and was not required to leave a review. This is my honest opinion.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this unique Regency story. I listened to the audio book through my library and the narrator did a fine job.

I loved the way Graham slowly learned the secrets of Haven Manor and the way he and Kit were drawn to each other.

Difficult topics were addressed in a tactful manner and even though Kit, Jess, and Daphne had been doing a very good and noble thing in their care of the children, Kit needed to face the reality that the method that they had been using might not have been pleasing to God.

This was a very good and interesting story from the beginning to the end.

(4.5 stars)

[Jaina Rose · Rating 2 out of 5]

This review and many more like it are available on Read Till Dawn .

This is an odd mix of a book.

For one thing, it's a grim look at the underside of 19th-century highbrow English society, sparing no punches in its depiction of a world where Kit's project–an orphanage and rehab program to help illegitimate mothers impregnated by nobility–is necessary.

From another angle, it's a love story between a woman traumatized by her past and tied down by duty and a man who . . . well, who doesn't have much of a driving force besides a strong friendship for his friend (whose sister has gone missing, most likely into Kit's program) and a penchant for curiosity that brings them together in the first place.

From still another angle, it's a sappy, idealistic book about believing the best in people and about how there are always honorable people out there, even when it seems like everyone is rotten.

I'll be the first to say that I got sucked into the story and enjoyed a few pleasurable hours reading it. But I'll immediately add that that third point quickly began to grate. You can't have a book about abandoned illegitimate children and then try to argue that humans are inherently good. Further, when Kit blackmails these crummy noblemen fathers into paying child support, this is treated like a morally questionable (to downright evil) action. Why?

No, seriously. Why does everyone get so upset about this? These are obviously, by and large, extremely terrible people who will not do what they are obligated to do unless someone holds their feet over the fire. I have absolutely zero issues with Kit threatening to expose their dirt to the world unless they pay paternity (in fact, my only qualm about this arrangement is that this means she is hiding their criminal activity from the world in exchange for child support they should already be providing!).

I was enjoying the book quite a bit until they started bringing this up as a big moral issue, because I just so completely don't agree with the idea that Kit has done anything wrong. The ending is fine enough, though, and the characters are interesting enough (and the children are definitely cute enough!), so I say definitely do give it a try if you'd like.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. 

[Sarah Monzon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book...in fact it’s making it as one of my favorite books of the year. Yes, I’m that confident even though it’s only June. This is my favorite book by Kristi Ann Hunter. Yes, I’ve read them all. I loved the slow romantic burn, and that first kiss? Swoon!! I loved the plot which was unique and not something I’ve read in Regency over and overnight again like some plots/tropes. I can’t wait to read more books in this series!

[Chanel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Defense of Honor is THE Regency romance for me right now and it was such a beautiful story to be swept away in! Intriguing premise, likeable characters, gorgeous setting, and an undeniably romantic love story! I'm a sucker for heroes that pursue and gently chip away the walls around a heroine's heart, so this book definitely made me swoon. Overall, A Defense of Honor was a charming read that I absolutely adored and a keeper for my bookshelf. Highly recommend!

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The most precious gems are forged from pressure. God brings beauty from adversity, when you let him.”

A terrific read that touches the heart. Children in books is one of my favorite things, and it generally guarantees a heart touching story. It’s happy and sad, wonderful and glorious, yet heartbreaking as well.

What is the right way to handle the illegitimate children and the mothers? This book proves that there is no easy answer to that question, and not every situation has the same answer. The one thing that is known is that God loves them all.

The characters in this story are incredibly well done, the subject is a difficult one that was handled so incredibly well by this author, and the story is one that evokes compassion and empathy. Adoption and foster care are two subjects so very close to my heart. We adopted a toddler who needed a family so this story felt so personal!

It’s hard to say sometimes what is exactly the right way for wrong in this world to be handled. It is easy to say that Ms. Hunter did a terrific job in handling the subject in this well done novel. To me, though I liked the characters, the plot is what pulled me in to the story...the adventures of the children were a delight as well. Please don’t miss this story that, though historical, deals with a topic that still resonates today in many ways.

“ The very idea that anyone would tell Benedict or Blake or young, quiet Arthur that they were curses who never should have been born made Graham’s hands curl into fists...he did feel incredibly, unbelievably blessed.”

I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Patry Fernandez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Me ha sorprendido gratamente como la autora ha tratado un tema tan delicado, como era en esa época el que una mujer soltera sea despreciada por la sociedad ya sea por ver manchada su reputación por un escándalo o un embarazo. Como las mujeres veían completamente su futuro arruinado, mientras que los hombres se podían lavar las manos sin problema.

Me ha gustado mucho, tanto los personajes (algunos muy cuquis) además que adoro cuando los niños tienen protagonismo, y como se ha desarrollado la historia finalmente.

[Alysha (For The Love of Christian Fiction) · Rating 5 out of 5]

We always talk about all the things we "miss" from the 1800's, but we never talk about the truly terrible things that happened during this time period. Leave it to Kristi to deal with heavy topics with such a flawless execution!

Illegitimate children born to aristocracy were a huge issue, that was also taboo to talk about. The men could sire a child and never see a consequence, while the mother of this child would lose her place in society and quickly become an outcast. AND THE POOR CHILD! 😲😞 It was a sad time indeed! One we still don't talk a whole lot about, much less read about it. Kristi took on this bear of a topic and crafted a story full of hope and redemption while educating me.

You get a foundation for a series that will deal with loads of loaded subjects in this book.

We met Kit briefly in "A Search for Refuge" and you can tell she is carrying a heavy weight on her shoulders. 12 years later and that weight has only gotten heavier. Kit had been carrying around so much guilt for 12 years it had completely changed her outlook on life, and God. Yes she still believed in Him, but one might say she was "going through the motions".
Throughout the book you can see the change take place on the pages. You can see her shell harden and harden until it finally crumbles and God's love turned her into a new creature.

Graham was Kit's opposite in SO many ways. Yes they both grew up in Society, but that's about where the similarities end. Graham had an easygoing life. He had loving parents, good (if unconventional) friends, and he didn't have a "past". He was a gentleman with a good heart! Even when he came across Haven Manor he was patient, relaxed and observant. AND HE HAD A SENSE OF HUMOR!
While you can see Kit's armor fall apart, you see a change in Graham as well. You see his faith in himself and God solidify and a purpose begin to take root.

This book was FULL of touching moments! One of my ABSOLUTE favorites was the deep conversation between Graham and his father. *tears up a bit just thinking about it*

Kristi TRULY knows how to craft a family from ashes of nothingness, and turn it into the PERFECT blend of humor and seriousness!

I rated this a 4.5/5 stars. I cannot wait to come back to Haven Manor for I know I will leaved changed again!

*I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review**I was not required to give a positive review**All opinions are my own*

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This huge almost 400 page book was great, it only had one problem and it was a big one. Too many words. This book could have lost 100 pages of unnecessary words. Repeated thoughts, scenes that were unnecessary because they repeat what we already know is happening. I debated giving this 3 stars, but dang the story, the characters, the setting and the truths taught in this book are worth the read. This is a Christian story with a touch of regency England about Kit and her friends who help save woman and there illegitimate children from a awful fate. I loved everything about Kit. She is so real and raw. Graham is just awesome and I loved him. This is a great story of forgiveness and doing that right thing and also love. There is a prequel I would suggest reading, it is good but not necessary. I am excited to see where the next book goes.

[Tricia Mingerink · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the book, but not as much as some of Kristi Ann Hunter's previous books, though I doubt any of them will quite reach the heights of her first book with all the spy intrigue and danger. I listened to the audiobook version and the narrator was ok, but not my favorite, which probably didn't help when influencing my enjoyment of the book.

This book was still good. A little bit of danger. A little mystery. It handled the tough topic of illegitimate children and how they come about delicately without too many details.

Still, I overall enjoyed it and I'm excited to get more of Daphne's story in the next book! Though, I really, really hope we get stories for Aaron and Lord Eversly (not sure on spelling since listened to the audiobook) someday! And Jess, of course.

[Abigail · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good. I just need to take a moment and applaud Mrs. Hunter for her amazing job at dealing with such difficult topics. I was blown away by the beautiful message this book.

All the characters in this book were so endearing and I just loved them all to pieces. Especially Graham, he knew when and when not to push Kit. He also was kind and compassionate with everything he said and did. I was very happy that we had a male lead like him in this book.

I cannot wait to read book 2 and see what happens next with the Haven Manor!

[sydney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am very pleasantly surprised with this book. I have read a couple others from Ms. Hunter before but was not that impressed, and now I’m wondering if I need to go back and re-read them. one of her newest books Vying for the Viscount interested me but I didn't want to put my money towards it until I made sure I actually enjoyed Ms. Hunters writing, and I did with this one! I was confused for a good bit, but then once everything was revealed it all made a lot more sense which is why this is a 4-star review and not a 3-star review. I really loved the characters, even the side ones. The romance was really sweet and clean, and I enjoyed the plot and the writing. There’s nothing incredibly outstanding to me that I really loved, but I did enjoy the entire story as a whole.

The only thing I wish was different is the way God fit into the conversation. At one point Graham makes a comment about how Kit trusts him more then God, and to be honest it didn’t seem all that fair because they never talked about God in the first place. In fact, the only time anything faith-based was mentioned was when the women held a church service for the children, and that’s it up until the point where they do actually have a conversation (which even then is 75% into the book). In a lot of books the Christian content can feel preachy, but this is one I wish there was more. The way the book is set up (I don’t want to spoil anything but you’ll know what I mean if you’ve read it) gives perfect opportunity for faith-based conversations that feel natural instead of just throwing one in at the last minute.

[Andrea Boyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read all of Kristi's books and have loved every one of them. But this is my favorite! Cannot wait to get my hands on the next one!

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite thing about this book is the contrast of personalities between Kit and Graham. They both have so much to learn from each other and both bring a new and fresh perspective to their friendship and relationship. Graham's cheerful and light-hearted nature brings joy to the children and the women who care for them. Kit's mission and purpose shows Graham a serious side to the consequences of society's dictates and he admires her determination to work towards solutions. There is some danger and suspense as long-held secrets come to light, and Kit learns over time to do the right thing and trust God to provide solutions as she turns her cares over to Him. There is conflict that comes between Kit and Graham, but I loved what ultimately brings them together as they continue to pursue ways to help those in need. Loving this new series!!!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

[Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

Props for the original storyline! I loved that I haven't read a story like this in all my regencies. I liked the storyline and setting. I haven't read it yet, but I think it would probably be a good idea to read the prequel, A Search for Refuge, I did feel a bit lost or that I was missing something in the beginning, I would have liked if Kit's story had been in a prologue or told earlier on in the story. Overall, it was a good read and I'm curious to read the rest of the books in the series.



Content
Romance: Squeaky clean
Language: None
Violence: None
Religious: Mild-Moderate
Other: Main plot deals with illegitimate children and the circumstances surrounding all that

Source: Netgalley

[Gretchen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a lot of thoughts & mixed feelings about this book, but the feelings are overall positive. I liked this book but I didn’t love it. First, I can see why writing this series was gutsy & I appreciate the unique storyline. I really liked Graham the hero- he is great with children & I liked that he was searching for his purpose because I think that is a realistic scenario for many men waiting to inherit titles. I enjoyed the sisterhood of Kit, Daphne, & Jess; Daphne by far is my favorite character. Kit was okay, she was written to have layers but I just didn’t connect with her. I don’t know if it’s just my mood but I didn’t find Jess that likable. Maybe my feelings will change as I keep reading the series.

So the things that bothered me a twinge:
The writing was way too wordy at times. I felt like I was seen/told things that weren’t relevant to the story to the point that I wanted to skim & have a condensed version; I think the book was a touch too long.

Okay, then some storyline issues I had:
I get this is fiction & it probably was just the mood I’m in- but I can’t see the masquerade mistake/incident being realistic at all. Daphne, living in the regency period when being alone or holding hands without gloves was a big deal, pretended to be her friend for one night & slept with a guy she didn’t even know? Obviously that could happen but that just seemed really far fetched to me for whatever reason. Like the guy didn’t know it was someone other than Kit??

Also: Daphne has a kid & doesn’t want to tell him she’s his mom just so he feels the same as the other orphans??? What kind of logic is that! “I’m gonna have him grow up thinking he has no parents so he doesn’t feel different than other kids.” so dumb 😂. I know I’ll read all about that more with the second book but that really bothered me. Who in their right mind would find that logical?

Also: I think it’s nice that Graham found homes for the kids in the end but I was hoping he & Kit would keep some of them instead of just giving them away.

Also: I feel like the storyline with Prissy was just left at loose ends. I personally think it would have enriched the storyline if Aaron wanted to marry her so her kid isn’t illegitimate like he was. I felt like her weird quirky character was out of place too. I liked Graham’s friends & wished there would be more to their stories. (I obviously don’t know if this will be addressed in the next books but here’s hoping 🤞🏼).

All that said, I’m going to read the second book & I’m happy it’s about Daphne cause I really like her.

[Joleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, this one was hard to put down. I’m on vacation, escaping the freezing January temps in the north for the mid-70°s in Florida. Although the warm weather kept me busy outside all day, I found I could barely wait to pick this book back up at night.

I loved the premise of the story: a noble woman disgraced (by no fault of her own), going into hiding with her best friend as a form of penance, to save her friend's honor and the honor of about twelve children born of the similar circumstances with other noblemen and naive women.

Society in London was not forgiving of women who found themselves in predicaments, but the birth fathers could get away with anything. So Kit (The Honorable Katherine FitzGilbert) found ways of sheltering the mothers until the birth of the child, then a less than honorable way of supplying needs for the children until they were old enough to take a job or apprenticeship. The children stayed with her, her best friend Daphne, and another woman in hiding named Jess. (I loved her and I hope we hear more about her).

Life was hard but they managed quite well until two things came into her life. Graham (the son of an Earl, determined to find out everything he could about this mysterious woman) and a nobleman who was looking for “The Governess”, as Kit referred to herself.

The only issue I had with this fascinating book was that I wished Kit had a conscience about what she was doing instead of being shamed into it. It turned out well, and God was honored, but wouldn’t it be lovely to see sin yourself first and repent before someone threw it in your face? The alternative would have been that she refused to listen, learning nothing, and it would have turned out all wrong. So at least there's that.

Ah well, still a really good book.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Now I need to know - does the rest of the series follow Jess and Daphne, or Aaron and Oliver? All of the above? Other characters we haven’t met yet? How does Graham and Kit’s venture turn out? What drove Jess to that London alley where she met Kit? Why did she leave Ryland and Miranda? Will we see any of the Hawthornes again?

[Tamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a story that resonated with me in a way that was can only be likened to a beautiful sunny and warm day. Katharine "Kit" FitzGilbert's story slowly unfolds and it's not one that holds back in anyway. The cadence and rhythm is perfect and steady. I never felt that anything was rushed, nothing was held back as the novel moved from beginning to end. Graham, Lord Wharton sees Kit in a way no has before, and he is able to call her out to live her life in a more truthful manner. He doesn't expect Kit to be any more than she can be, and but loves her despite, what she at first doesn't realize what she is doing through blackmailing. The rest of the characters also add to the depth of this novel. I personally liked Jess and her ability to call a spade a spade. The interactions between Graham and the children at Haven Manor wasn't forced and their obvious trust in him was evident. Love that!

[Cheryl Baranski · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Defense of Honor is book one in the Haven Manor series by Kristi Ann Hunter. If you love the Regency area romance than this is the book for you. This story is one that grabs at the heartstrings. This is a story that is full of love, hope, longing, dreams and what has been. I love the protectiveness and determination of Kit. Then there is Graham oh my. A girls dream guy. Be sure to get your copy of A Defense of Honor today.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful story and message.

This book gripped me from beginning to end; even had me up until 4am one night (I really shouldn’t have done that). Loved the writing, the story, the characters. Everything was done extremely well. ❤️

[Trisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed getting to know Graham and Kit. They are unique, well-written characters that won't soon leave your imagination.  Graham has a fun sense of humor and a playful endearing quality that draws you in and makes you want to linger. Kit is more serious. She is determined and practical. She needs a little encouragement to let down her hair and laugh. Graham is just the man for the job.

Haven Manor is a hidden gem. A safe place of refuge for those who the elite of society has deemed unworthy, and has cast aside. Kristy Ann Hunter has given us a new series of Regency-era stories to enjoy. New characters to meet and a fresh look at an often hidden side of the Regency era.

While this story deals with the delicate subject matter of the seemingly rampant indiscretions of the nobility and elite class in Regency London, it is handled with grace and points toward the importance of trusting God.

With dynamic, original characters and a vivid setting, this delightful story is sure to not only entertain but to also leaves the reader with something to think about beyond the story itself. I give this story 4.5 stars and I eagerly anticipate the next stories in this new series.

(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.)