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The Land Steward's Daughter
Elaina Walker has waited for her childhood sweetheart to return from the Napoleonic Wars for eight years. At five-and-twenty, the pressure to marry well is mounting, despite being unable to forget Will, the Duke of Blackmore’s second son.
Will Winter doesn’t care much for his father’s qualifications for a proper wife. When he returns to England and sees Elaina again, he knows he must have her, despite her meager dowry and precarious standing in society as the daughter of his family’s land steward.
As their attraction to one another intensifies, Elaina must make a decision: one that may further damage her reputation and Will’s already delicate relationship with his family, or one that will leave her unfulfilled and wondering for the rest of her life.
Will Winter doesn’t care much for his father’s qualifications for a proper wife. When he returns to England and sees Elaina again, he knows he must have her, despite her meager dowry and precarious standing in society as the daughter of his family’s land steward.
As their attraction to one another intensifies, Elaina must make a decision: one that may further damage her reputation and Will’s already delicate relationship with his family, or one that will leave her unfulfilled and wondering for the rest of her life.
299 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2020
46 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Becky Michaels
3 books47 followersBecky Michaels is a historical romance author and self-proclaimed Anglophile. After graduating from Boston University with a degree in English, she reluctantly decided to get a day job but never stopped writing—or dreaming. THE LAND STEWARD’S DAUGHTER, a Regency romance set in 1815 England, is her debut novel. Despite the cold winters and high rent, she still lives in the Boston area with her boyfriend and cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
June 23, 2025
Elaina and Will, playmates as children, are grown up now, and their childhood friendship, deepened through their correspondence while Will was at war, is instantly recognized by both as more than mere attraction when he returns home. Will is all in, even though his parents and older brother are determined to find him an heiress. Will’s parents are fond of Elaina, but they are determined to match her with their wealthy banker, Mr. Hunt, not their son.
So Elaina rejects Will, who loves and wants her.
“The only fool here is you,” she countered, nostrils flaring. “You’d have been better off sitting next to one of the other girls tonight. I won’t let you put your future in jeopardy for some ridiculous childhood infatuation.”
Then spends the first half of this book thinking about how Mr. Hunt will make her a good husband and she’ll have a good life with him. Repeatedly.
Seriously. Elaina, if this is the way you feel, go ahead and do it. By all means, marry Mr. Hunt, you dumb twit. If you don’t care about Will and being happy with someone you love, why should I?
I finished the book, and Part 2, was better than Part 1, but I’d already checked out both emotionally and mentally by then and the book never recaptured my interest.
As a debut novel it showed promise, but the author gravely miscalculated how much interest her heroine could show in another man before the reader became disinvested in her relationship with Will.
So Elaina rejects Will, who loves and wants her.
“The only fool here is you,” she countered, nostrils flaring. “You’d have been better off sitting next to one of the other girls tonight. I won’t let you put your future in jeopardy for some ridiculous childhood infatuation.”
Then spends the first half of this book thinking about how Mr. Hunt will make her a good husband and she’ll have a good life with him. Repeatedly.
Seriously. Elaina, if this is the way you feel, go ahead and do it. By all means, marry Mr. Hunt, you dumb twit. If you don’t care about Will and being happy with someone you love, why should I?
I finished the book, and Part 2, was better than Part 1, but I’d already checked out both emotionally and mentally by then and the book never recaptured my interest.
As a debut novel it showed promise, but the author gravely miscalculated how much interest her heroine could show in another man before the reader became disinvested in her relationship with Will.
October 28, 2020
*** I received an eArc of this book from Book Sirens in exchange for an honest review.***
***3.5 stars
After finishing The Land Steward's Daughter I particularly enjoyed the gradual build of a romantic relationship between the two main characters. They progress from best friends to lovers in a believable and realistic manner.
This was an enjoyable regency romance that offered great characters and a fun setting that maintained my interest throughout the story. The two main characters, Will and Elaina were engaging and ambitious characters that were both strong-willed throughout the story.
I admired the determination needed for both characters to remain committed to one another. There were struggles and obstacles in their relationship that tested their devotion to one another. I appreciated how the author was able to justify and prove that their relationship was significant and important.
This was a great story by a new author that I fully recommend for a strong and confident historical romance.
***3.5 stars
After finishing The Land Steward's Daughter I particularly enjoyed the gradual build of a romantic relationship between the two main characters. They progress from best friends to lovers in a believable and realistic manner.
This was an enjoyable regency romance that offered great characters and a fun setting that maintained my interest throughout the story. The two main characters, Will and Elaina were engaging and ambitious characters that were both strong-willed throughout the story.
I admired the determination needed for both characters to remain committed to one another. There were struggles and obstacles in their relationship that tested their devotion to one another. I appreciated how the author was able to justify and prove that their relationship was significant and important.
This was a great story by a new author that I fully recommend for a strong and confident historical romance.
November 10, 2020
'Elaina Walker has waited for her childhood sweetheart to return from the Napoleonic Wars for eight years. At five-and-twenty, the pressure to marry well is mounting, despite being unable to forget Will, the Duke of Blackmore’s second son.
Will Winter doesn’t care much for his father’s qualifications for a proper wife. When he returns to England and sees Elaina again, he knows he must have her, despite her meager dowry and precarious standing in society as the daughter of his family’s land steward.
As their attraction to one another intensifies, Elaina must make a decision: one that may further damage her reputation and Will’s already delicate relationship with his family, or one that will leave her unfulfilled and wondering for the rest of her life.'
_______________________________
The Land Steward's Daughter is Becky Michael's debut novel and is a historical romance set in England during the Napoleonic Wars.
This book is a very sweet story about the journey of two childhood sweethearts, waiting to be reunited across years of seperation, and their path toward building a life together. What I really enjoyed about this book is that it was just as much a story of the work that goes into the marriage after the wedding as it was a story of the work that must lead up to the wedding day. It felt like there was a good balance between the two. I also loved that there was no villain thwarting them or getting in their way, just other flawed characters who are likely to put their own wishes before other's.
I wasn't sure that I really liked Eliana at the start of the book. I completely understood the sense of obligation she felt to the Duke and Duchess for taking her into their own home to raise alongside their sons and provide her with an education and several London seasons. At the same time though I was so disappointed by her prolonged willingness to throw her hapiness away(as well as the unhappiness of the two men involved) in order to follow their wishes. Her retincence at first made sense to me, but as the issue continued she mever really fought for what she wanted.
They were both obnoxiously stubborn at times, to the point of being childish, but I understood thier reasoning for most of it. And I was really glad it was there because things felt more genuine due to there being some kind of obstacle for them after they were able to overcome the issue of marrying.
Being Becky Michaels' first novel, I enjoyed it and will be looking forward to seeing more books by her in the future.
_____
I would like to thank BookSirens and Becky Michaels for sharing an eARC of The Land Steward's Daughter with me. This is my honest review.
Will Winter doesn’t care much for his father’s qualifications for a proper wife. When he returns to England and sees Elaina again, he knows he must have her, despite her meager dowry and precarious standing in society as the daughter of his family’s land steward.
As their attraction to one another intensifies, Elaina must make a decision: one that may further damage her reputation and Will’s already delicate relationship with his family, or one that will leave her unfulfilled and wondering for the rest of her life.'
_______________________________
The Land Steward's Daughter is Becky Michael's debut novel and is a historical romance set in England during the Napoleonic Wars.
This book is a very sweet story about the journey of two childhood sweethearts, waiting to be reunited across years of seperation, and their path toward building a life together. What I really enjoyed about this book is that it was just as much a story of the work that goes into the marriage after the wedding as it was a story of the work that must lead up to the wedding day. It felt like there was a good balance between the two. I also loved that there was no villain thwarting them or getting in their way, just other flawed characters who are likely to put their own wishes before other's.
I wasn't sure that I really liked Eliana at the start of the book. I completely understood the sense of obligation she felt to the Duke and Duchess for taking her into their own home to raise alongside their sons and provide her with an education and several London seasons. At the same time though I was so disappointed by her prolonged willingness to throw her hapiness away(as well as the unhappiness of the two men involved) in order to follow their wishes. Her retincence at first made sense to me, but as the issue continued she mever really fought for what she wanted.
They were both obnoxiously stubborn at times, to the point of being childish, but I understood thier reasoning for most of it. And I was really glad it was there because things felt more genuine due to there being some kind of obstacle for them after they were able to overcome the issue of marrying.
Being Becky Michaels' first novel, I enjoyed it and will be looking forward to seeing more books by her in the future.
_____
I would like to thank BookSirens and Becky Michaels for sharing an eARC of The Land Steward's Daughter with me. This is my honest review.
December 8, 2020
Prodigious Info-Dumping and Language Issues
As one who has written fiction that I've never published (and non-fiction that I have), I have a soft spot for debut novels. Unfortunately, this one did not live up to my hopes and expectations. When I read the book description at one of my favorite book review sites, I liked that it had the steward's daughter as a heroine. I read a lot of Regency and Victorian romances, and I don't think I've ever seen a book with a heroine with that background. It immediately sets up a story that has the potential for conflict between the classes. Unfortunately, the book turned me off right away, and I actually DNFed it before 10%. For one thing, the start of the book was an intense and long information dump. This is a proper novel, nearly 300 pages, and the author could have used some of that space to more artfully and naturally share that information. I was also turned off by the use of so much modern language. I don't expect a book written by a contemporary author to sound like Jane Austen, but an author of historical works should use terms and sentence structures from the time of the book. Or she should at least aim for elevated language even if it isn't authentic. At the very least, she should refrain from using so many modern terms that people of those times wouldn't have known or used. A woman of those times wouldn’t be known as a “party planner”; they have deemed her something more like an excellent hostess. I actually find myself wondering how many historical novels the author has read and how much research she did into the time period. Because of all these issues, I just could not get into the book.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
As one who has written fiction that I've never published (and non-fiction that I have), I have a soft spot for debut novels. Unfortunately, this one did not live up to my hopes and expectations. When I read the book description at one of my favorite book review sites, I liked that it had the steward's daughter as a heroine. I read a lot of Regency and Victorian romances, and I don't think I've ever seen a book with a heroine with that background. It immediately sets up a story that has the potential for conflict between the classes. Unfortunately, the book turned me off right away, and I actually DNFed it before 10%. For one thing, the start of the book was an intense and long information dump. This is a proper novel, nearly 300 pages, and the author could have used some of that space to more artfully and naturally share that information. I was also turned off by the use of so much modern language. I don't expect a book written by a contemporary author to sound like Jane Austen, but an author of historical works should use terms and sentence structures from the time of the book. Or she should at least aim for elevated language even if it isn't authentic. At the very least, she should refrain from using so many modern terms that people of those times wouldn't have known or used. A woman of those times wouldn’t be known as a “party planner”; they have deemed her something more like an excellent hostess. I actually find myself wondering how many historical novels the author has read and how much research she did into the time period. Because of all these issues, I just could not get into the book.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
dnf
May 13, 2025DNF at 10% in. The writing is just so continually clunky ("The idea of him intimidated her, knowing he had seen much more of the world than her, and if he was anything like his older brother, then he'd be terribly handsome and quite the catch to anyone who saw him") that I couldn't force myself to keep reading.
November 19, 2020
An interesting Regency story from a debut author. Elaina Walker was cut off from her mother's family (an earldom) because her mother chose to marry the land steward instead of a member of the aristocracy. Fortunately, she is raised as a lady with the Winter family. When he childhood friend, the duke's younger son, returns from war, their budding romance blossoms. However, the match is opposed because of her father. Elaina and Will are forced to elope to Scotland and struggle to rebuild an impoverished estate.
This is the author's first book and it shows. She demonstrates potential as a writer, but the story itself was weak. The difficulties of the hero and heroine were mild. Sometimes the emotional reactions of the heroine didn't make much sense to me. The author needs to develop a more compelling story for her future books -- more action and less conversation, more roadblocks for the lovers, and a stronger resolution for the story.
ARC provided through BookSirens.
This is the author's first book and it shows. She demonstrates potential as a writer, but the story itself was weak. The difficulties of the hero and heroine were mild. Sometimes the emotional reactions of the heroine didn't make much sense to me. The author needs to develop a more compelling story for her future books -- more action and less conversation, more roadblocks for the lovers, and a stronger resolution for the story.
ARC provided through BookSirens.
October 12, 2020
This is a good enough book, for a Regency Romance. It's not extraordinarily revolutionary in any sense, but I guess most people are not looking for something out of the norm once they have come to like the reliability of certain genres.
Elaina is the, you have guessed it, Land Steward's daugther (someone who keeps up with all that happens around an estate and manages it) and for anyone like me not entirely familiar with the ins and outs and ups and downs of titles and positions within polite English society during this era, it's not a very high position to be in, as Land Steward's daughter. Nevertheless, Elaina mingles with the rich and beautiful because even though she may be not as rich, she certainly is beautiful and she has some powerful connections, thanks to her late mother being a Lady herself. Although she threw it all away to be with the man she loved, the Land Steward (something not forgotten or forgiven by her family).
Elaina is the companion and go-to-person for the dutchess and she is treated well by them and included in everything, also thanks to Elaina's mother who was a friend to the dutchess. Elaina has lived with the dutchess and duke ever since her mother's death, her father being the land steward and working for the duke also got rooms in the house, when Elaina was only five. While the dutchess was always kind to her, her heir (Montgomery) wasn't, frequently teasing her and too serious (and responsible) to have fun. Luckily the second son, Will, was nicer and soon became Elaina's friend. But of course, Will, like all the eligible sons went to Eton at some point and left her; not without them exchanging their first kiss (I think that's innocent information, as it was an innocent kiss between children, so I am leaving this here). He then also felt that he needed to prove himself and went off to war. The two stayed in contact though and Elaina felt sure that she would marry him one day.
The plot, although sweet and entertaining, was simple. I was waiting for a twist or turn in events all the time, but it never came. That doesn't mean the book is boring, it is just...not particular exciting. In my mind, I was expecting Montgomery to claim Elaina's hand and for there to be a lot more confusion and heart-ache and distress, but alas! None of that happened.
Thank you BookSirens for granting me an e-ARC of this book.
Elaina is the, you have guessed it, Land Steward's daugther (someone who keeps up with all that happens around an estate and manages it) and for anyone like me not entirely familiar with the ins and outs and ups and downs of titles and positions within polite English society during this era, it's not a very high position to be in, as Land Steward's daughter. Nevertheless, Elaina mingles with the rich and beautiful because even though she may be not as rich, she certainly is beautiful and she has some powerful connections, thanks to her late mother being a Lady herself. Although she threw it all away to be with the man she loved, the Land Steward (something not forgotten or forgiven by her family).
Elaina is the companion and go-to-person for the dutchess and she is treated well by them and included in everything, also thanks to Elaina's mother who was a friend to the dutchess. Elaina has lived with the dutchess and duke ever since her mother's death, her father being the land steward and working for the duke also got rooms in the house, when Elaina was only five. While the dutchess was always kind to her, her heir (Montgomery) wasn't, frequently teasing her and too serious (and responsible) to have fun. Luckily the second son, Will, was nicer and soon became Elaina's friend. But of course, Will, like all the eligible sons went to Eton at some point and left her; not without them exchanging their first kiss (I think that's innocent information, as it was an innocent kiss between children, so I am leaving this here). He then also felt that he needed to prove himself and went off to war. The two stayed in contact though and Elaina felt sure that she would marry him one day.
The plot, although sweet and entertaining, was simple. I was waiting for a twist or turn in events all the time, but it never came. That doesn't mean the book is boring, it is just...not particular exciting. In my mind, I was expecting Montgomery to claim Elaina's hand and for there to be a lot more confusion and heart-ache and distress, but alas! None of that happened.
Thank you BookSirens for granting me an e-ARC of this book.
September 10, 2020
Thank you BookSirens for giving me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Actual rating: 6/10
Plot: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆
Characters: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Writing: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Romance: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Diversity/Rep: -
Does it get explicit?
A little! what i liked about the smut scene was that it didn't happen immediately or at the 1/5 mark of the book, so it was quite enjoyable and well written.
How intriguing was the first chapter itself? Did it set the tone/pace for the entire book?
The story is romance so i wouldnt call it intriguing but it was interesting enough and i do love a childhood friends to lovers trope so i enjoyed it. The writing style wasnt hard to read and it was quite an easy read, i finished it in one seating.
"Keeping them apart would be like asking the moon to stop orbiting the earth"
We are introduced to the tomboy-ish Elaina and her shy, one year younger childhood friend william. They were inseparable since kids and when will sets off to Eton for schooling and eventually joins the war, Elaina becomes worried. She is not of great fortune, her dowry close to nothing in the eyes of wealthy people and as she waits for will to return, she begins to wonder if will even considers her as his lover or if he has found someone during the war. On the other hand, will hears of elaina going husband hunting with his mother, and when he returns, elaina is courted by someone else.
Thus begins the drama within Blackmore, where everyone expects will to marry a rich woman to help him rebuild the Larkspur Castle and Elaina to be wed to a rich banker in London. Will the both of them bow down to the expectations of the people or will they risk their reputation to be together?
"I do not want a great fortune, Elaina. I want you."
It was understandable for the both of them to struggle throughout the first part of the book. When they eventually came to a decision, i didnt really like their choice, but it was, as i said, understandable. The second half of the book didn't quite interest me as much but i still read on and it is the reason why i gave this book 3 stars instead of 4. However, the ending concluded well, with all the problems resolved well and tied with a pretty ribbon. The conclusion was a nice one and i very much enjoyed this.
Actual rating: 6/10
Plot: ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆
Characters: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Writing: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Romance: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
Diversity/Rep: -
Does it get explicit?
A little! what i liked about the smut scene was that it didn't happen immediately or at the 1/5 mark of the book, so it was quite enjoyable and well written.
How intriguing was the first chapter itself? Did it set the tone/pace for the entire book?
The story is romance so i wouldnt call it intriguing but it was interesting enough and i do love a childhood friends to lovers trope so i enjoyed it. The writing style wasnt hard to read and it was quite an easy read, i finished it in one seating.
"Keeping them apart would be like asking the moon to stop orbiting the earth"
We are introduced to the tomboy-ish Elaina and her shy, one year younger childhood friend william. They were inseparable since kids and when will sets off to Eton for schooling and eventually joins the war, Elaina becomes worried. She is not of great fortune, her dowry close to nothing in the eyes of wealthy people and as she waits for will to return, she begins to wonder if will even considers her as his lover or if he has found someone during the war. On the other hand, will hears of elaina going husband hunting with his mother, and when he returns, elaina is courted by someone else.
Thus begins the drama within Blackmore, where everyone expects will to marry a rich woman to help him rebuild the Larkspur Castle and Elaina to be wed to a rich banker in London. Will the both of them bow down to the expectations of the people or will they risk their reputation to be together?
"I do not want a great fortune, Elaina. I want you."
It was understandable for the both of them to struggle throughout the first part of the book. When they eventually came to a decision, i didnt really like their choice, but it was, as i said, understandable. The second half of the book didn't quite interest me as much but i still read on and it is the reason why i gave this book 3 stars instead of 4. However, the ending concluded well, with all the problems resolved well and tied with a pretty ribbon. The conclusion was a nice one and i very much enjoyed this.
November 6, 2020
The Land Stewards Daughter is an enjoyable romance where the lovers prevail over all of the obstacles that may fall them & it was a very happy ending!!!!! Our main character Elaine is a very strong minded woman & that is what makes readers love her & root for her. I highly recommend this book. Thank you to Netgalley and BookSiren for my early review copy.
October 20, 2020
Solid Regency Romance. Believable characters. Enjoyable plot. You will feel like you get to know Elaina (the land steward's daughter) and Will (the second son of a Duke), who have been close friends since childhood and grew to love each other despite years apart.
There were two refreshingly different things about this book than other Regency Romance's that I've read: one, the steamy scenes do not happen immediately in the book and the characters don't spend the entire book unclear about their feelings.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There were two refreshingly different things about this book than other Regency Romance's that I've read: one, the steamy scenes do not happen immediately in the book and the characters don't spend the entire book unclear about their feelings.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 11, 2020
The Land Steward’s Daughter by Becky Michaels is a fun historical romance that takes place in Regency times. Elaina is the Daughter of the title, and is in love with a second son named Will. The book is broken into two parts, the first part is the courtship, the second part, the afterwards. It was mostly easy to read, with a different plotline than others I’ve read recently, which made it an interesting read as well. There are few issues I had with the story technically, but nothing bad enough to keep me from finishing.
Elaina and Will are great characters. They’re easy to like, easy to see together, easy to cheer for. Will has a bit of a daddy issue, as he wants to be just as appreciated as his brother. His brother is the typical heir: rakish, charming, etc. Will was an officer in the Army and upon returning home is given an estate in Oxford to manage. Will and Elaina have written to each other over the separation, and Will wants to marry her. His mother, however, is engineering a match between Elaina and a rich banker. How it works out, you can probably guess from the title of the book.
I really liked this book, but for a few bumps. First, they refer to some of the titled men as “Earl Gillingham,” and such, when the correct form of address is “Earl of Gillingham” or just “Gillingham.” Also, Will’s brother is Graham Winter, the Marquess of Montgomery. It’s mentioned once in passing on the first page of the book, then never again. Will doesn’t call him Graham, he calls him Montgomery, which really made no sense, since they’re supposed to be somewhat close. But then, everyone calls him Montgomery, except for the narrator, who calls him Graham when he’s in intimate situations. It gets a bit confusing.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It was a quick read, but for a bump or two. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received an ARC from Booksirens and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Elaina and Will are great characters. They’re easy to like, easy to see together, easy to cheer for. Will has a bit of a daddy issue, as he wants to be just as appreciated as his brother. His brother is the typical heir: rakish, charming, etc. Will was an officer in the Army and upon returning home is given an estate in Oxford to manage. Will and Elaina have written to each other over the separation, and Will wants to marry her. His mother, however, is engineering a match between Elaina and a rich banker. How it works out, you can probably guess from the title of the book.
I really liked this book, but for a few bumps. First, they refer to some of the titled men as “Earl Gillingham,” and such, when the correct form of address is “Earl of Gillingham” or just “Gillingham.” Also, Will’s brother is Graham Winter, the Marquess of Montgomery. It’s mentioned once in passing on the first page of the book, then never again. Will doesn’t call him Graham, he calls him Montgomery, which really made no sense, since they’re supposed to be somewhat close. But then, everyone calls him Montgomery, except for the narrator, who calls him Graham when he’s in intimate situations. It gets a bit confusing.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It was a quick read, but for a bump or two. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received an ARC from Booksirens and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
November 14, 2020
Closing the Generation and Class Gap💕
ADULT Regency Romance💕 and Epic Family Adventure.
Elaina Walker💃💋 is the daughter of the land steward for the Duke of Blackmore. Her mother was the late Lady Eleanor Crawford, the daughter of an Earl, who married down for 💘love. Her family basically disowned Lady Crawford. Elaina💃💋 writes often to Will Winters🐺🍆⛲🔪🔫, away in the military. He's the second son of the Duke of Blackmore. The Duke's wife, Lady Helena Winter👵, has raised Elaina💃💋 as her own. She even had a season, but Elaina💃💋 knows she doesn't fit in.
A huge House Party is planned for the Duke's heir, Graham, the Marquess of Montgomery. He is to finally meet his betrothed, Lady Clara👰, the Duke of Edgerton's daughter.
Will🐺🍆⛲🔪🔫 gets home just in time! Giles Hunt💰, the Duke's banker, wants to marry Elaina💃💋, his purpose is unclear. Elaina💃💋 thinks she owes it to the Duke to marry Hunt💰, even though it's plain Will🐺🍆⛲🔪🔫 loves her and she loves him!
ARC Provided by Book📚 Sirens💃
This ebook was $3.99 on Amazon at the time of this review.
Opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
I read this from the ARC copy which contains a number of continuity errors. First the author says Montgomery and Clara had never met until the house party. Then later it says they knew each other before! Then the author has Will and Elaina playing baseball as children when the game wasn't invented until 1845. The author has Will lighting candles with matches that also had not been invented yet! I
The cross country trek of 300 miles in three days with the same team of horses would not be possible. I liked the story very much but the author needs to study up on actual history!
ADULT Regency Romance💕 and Epic Family Adventure.
Elaina Walker💃💋 is the daughter of the land steward for the Duke of Blackmore. Her mother was the late Lady Eleanor Crawford, the daughter of an Earl, who married down for 💘love. Her family basically disowned Lady Crawford. Elaina💃💋 writes often to Will Winters🐺🍆⛲🔪🔫, away in the military. He's the second son of the Duke of Blackmore. The Duke's wife, Lady Helena Winter👵, has raised Elaina💃💋 as her own. She even had a season, but Elaina💃💋 knows she doesn't fit in.
A huge House Party is planned for the Duke's heir, Graham, the Marquess of Montgomery. He is to finally meet his betrothed, Lady Clara👰, the Duke of Edgerton's daughter.
Will🐺🍆⛲🔪🔫 gets home just in time! Giles Hunt💰, the Duke's banker, wants to marry Elaina💃💋, his purpose is unclear. Elaina💃💋 thinks she owes it to the Duke to marry Hunt💰, even though it's plain Will🐺🍆⛲🔪🔫 loves her and she loves him!
ARC Provided by Book📚 Sirens💃
This ebook was $3.99 on Amazon at the time of this review.
Opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
I read this from the ARC copy which contains a number of continuity errors. First the author says Montgomery and Clara had never met until the house party. Then later it says they knew each other before! Then the author has Will and Elaina playing baseball as children when the game wasn't invented until 1845. The author has Will lighting candles with matches that also had not been invented yet! I
The cross country trek of 300 miles in three days with the same team of horses would not be possible. I liked the story very much but the author needs to study up on actual history!
September 14, 2020
*3.5 stars
Who doesn't love a good regency novel?? Personally, I'm a big fan of all things Jane Austen and have read Pride and Prejudice an embarrassing amount of times. Becky Michaels did a fantastic job getting the dialogue and settings correctly in my opinion. Although the story itself was a bit cliched, I enjoyed the read very much and will certainly read Michaels' next book when it comes out. I would have liked the romance between the two characters to have been dragged out a bit longer, but all in all it was a very fun historical read.
Thank you to BookSirens, the publisher, and the author for a free ARC. This has not affected my review in anyway and I give this review voluntarily.
Who doesn't love a good regency novel?? Personally, I'm a big fan of all things Jane Austen and have read Pride and Prejudice an embarrassing amount of times. Becky Michaels did a fantastic job getting the dialogue and settings correctly in my opinion. Although the story itself was a bit cliched, I enjoyed the read very much and will certainly read Michaels' next book when it comes out. I would have liked the romance between the two characters to have been dragged out a bit longer, but all in all it was a very fun historical read.
Thank you to BookSirens, the publisher, and the author for a free ARC. This has not affected my review in anyway and I give this review voluntarily.
August 29, 2021
A new author with a touching love story of two children that grew up together. As the second son, he goes off to war. Through their letters over the years, love and affection only grows stronger. When Will returns he finds the woman he loves afraid to take a chance to be together. She tries to resist him thinking only of duty to his family on their choice of a husband. But he's one determined man. Heartache and struggles will test their devotion to each other. Great first book. I look forward to reading the next one. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book through BookSirens.
September 27, 2020
3.7 Stars
Elaina is waiting for Will, her childhood sweetheart, to return from the Napoleon war. Letters keep them connected through the years as both feel love blooming between them.
But Elaina is the daughter of a land steward, and Will is the second son of a duke. It doesn’t help that Elaina feels grateful towards the duke and the duchess for caring for her from her childhood. With Elaina being pressurized to get married (she’s 25 years old already) and Will returning right on time, things seem anything but easy for these two lovebirds.
Thrown in Will’s elder brother and his already decided fiancé, a prospective suitor for Elaina, and a bunch of other characters and we have a decent story about their lives.
The writing is nice, and the flow is good. It took a while in the beginning, but I picked up the pace soon. None of the characters are perfect. They have emotions humans are expected to have. However, they do redeem themselves quite soon. We have no villains in the book. There is some drama, but nothing too complex.
In fact, there really isn’t anything complex or twisted in this book. It’s light and easy to read. If you are looking for a book where you don’t have to invest your emotions, this one should work well. It has various conflicts, all of which, get resolved quite easily.
I’m not sure if more books will follow this one (it says the book si snot a part of a series), but some characters just drifted in and out without much to do. Also, some characters probably need HEA someday. Either way, it wouldn’t make difference to this one. It ends well.
Overall, it’s a nice book, but not something that will stay with you for a while. It’s something you’d pick up one noon, read, smile, finish, and move on. Great for reading between two heavy books.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Elaina is waiting for Will, her childhood sweetheart, to return from the Napoleon war. Letters keep them connected through the years as both feel love blooming between them.
But Elaina is the daughter of a land steward, and Will is the second son of a duke. It doesn’t help that Elaina feels grateful towards the duke and the duchess for caring for her from her childhood. With Elaina being pressurized to get married (she’s 25 years old already) and Will returning right on time, things seem anything but easy for these two lovebirds.
Thrown in Will’s elder brother and his already decided fiancé, a prospective suitor for Elaina, and a bunch of other characters and we have a decent story about their lives.
The writing is nice, and the flow is good. It took a while in the beginning, but I picked up the pace soon. None of the characters are perfect. They have emotions humans are expected to have. However, they do redeem themselves quite soon. We have no villains in the book. There is some drama, but nothing too complex.
In fact, there really isn’t anything complex or twisted in this book. It’s light and easy to read. If you are looking for a book where you don’t have to invest your emotions, this one should work well. It has various conflicts, all of which, get resolved quite easily.
I’m not sure if more books will follow this one (it says the book si snot a part of a series), but some characters just drifted in and out without much to do. Also, some characters probably need HEA someday. Either way, it wouldn’t make difference to this one. It ends well.
Overall, it’s a nice book, but not something that will stay with you for a while. It’s something you’d pick up one noon, read, smile, finish, and move on. Great for reading between two heavy books.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
November 17, 2020
The first thing that comes to mind when I think of "The Land Steward's Daughter" is sweet. This is a sweet, easy to read regency romance novel. Set in early 19th century England, we are introduce to childhood friends Will and Elaina whose friendship continued through letters from adolescence and early adulthood.
Will, the independent stubborn second son of the Duke of Blackmore arrives unexpectedly the day of his mother's annual house party. Elaina, the motherless daughter of the Duke and Duchess' land steward, is the first to bump into Will once he arrives. Will and Elaina's comfortable friendship picks up right where it left off, except they are no longer 13 and 14 years old but a 24 year old gentlewoman and 23 year old captain.
Pressures to marry advantageously force Will and Elaina to make tough decision about their futures. And can a childhood friendship sustained by letters a marriage make?
Typically in a love triangle, there is one insufferable person, but Becky manages to make you admire or fall in love with each of the characters in her novel. There is a fairly large cast of characters in the Blackmore family and friendship circle. In this debut novel, we see glimmers for potential sequels and couplings.
For some characters, the reader will have instant chemistry (ie., Claire) and for others, it's a slow burn (i.e, Montgomery). The situations these characters are placed in feel impossible because of mounting familial or social pressure...and stubbornness abounds! Luckily, there is always a happy ending.
Overall, I recommend this book to anyone who wants an easy read. Snuggle up with a cup of tea and read Becky Michaels' latest "The Land Steward's Daughter."
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Will, the independent stubborn second son of the Duke of Blackmore arrives unexpectedly the day of his mother's annual house party. Elaina, the motherless daughter of the Duke and Duchess' land steward, is the first to bump into Will once he arrives. Will and Elaina's comfortable friendship picks up right where it left off, except they are no longer 13 and 14 years old but a 24 year old gentlewoman and 23 year old captain.
Pressures to marry advantageously force Will and Elaina to make tough decision about their futures. And can a childhood friendship sustained by letters a marriage make?
Typically in a love triangle, there is one insufferable person, but Becky manages to make you admire or fall in love with each of the characters in her novel. There is a fairly large cast of characters in the Blackmore family and friendship circle. In this debut novel, we see glimmers for potential sequels and couplings.
For some characters, the reader will have instant chemistry (ie., Claire) and for others, it's a slow burn (i.e, Montgomery). The situations these characters are placed in feel impossible because of mounting familial or social pressure...and stubbornness abounds! Luckily, there is always a happy ending.
Overall, I recommend this book to anyone who wants an easy read. Snuggle up with a cup of tea and read Becky Michaels' latest "The Land Steward's Daughter."
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 12, 2021
‘The Land Steward’s Daughter,’ by Becky Michaels, is an immersive, Regency-period romance exploring a forbidden love a decade in the making.
Taking place in England during the early nineteenth-century, ‘The Land Steward’s Daughter’ is the story of a pair of childhood sweethearts, separated by war and circumstance, and their struggle to reconnect. At the age of thirteen, Elaina Crawford, the daughter of the Duke of Blackmore’s land steward, shares her first kiss with Will, the Duke’s youngest son. Unfortunately, Will then leaves for Eton, and eventually finds his way to the battlefield in the Napoleonic wars.
Ten years later, with Elaina soon to be married to another, Will returns. With a decade-old flame rekindled, Will and Elaina’s enduring love is put to the ultimate test, one that finds the pair at odds with both convention and tradition. What follows is a slow-burn, ‘will-they-or-won’t-they’ narrative that offers readers a vivid glimpse of Vicotorian-era England.
More often than not, ‘The Land Steward’s Daughter’ hits its mark. Sure, the novel suffers from a few grammatical and historical inconsistencies—most glaring are the abundance of ‘modern’ phrases and jargon that simply don’t jive with the Victorian setting—but given that this is Michael’s debut novel, these are easily forgiven. Additionally, the changes in perspective help to add a sense of momentum to what is an admittedly plot-heavy story.
A thoroughly enjoyable, albeit, somewhat flawed slice of historical-romance from a promising author, ‘The Land Steward’s Daughter’ is recommended for fans of historical-romance.
Taking place in England during the early nineteenth-century, ‘The Land Steward’s Daughter’ is the story of a pair of childhood sweethearts, separated by war and circumstance, and their struggle to reconnect. At the age of thirteen, Elaina Crawford, the daughter of the Duke of Blackmore’s land steward, shares her first kiss with Will, the Duke’s youngest son. Unfortunately, Will then leaves for Eton, and eventually finds his way to the battlefield in the Napoleonic wars.
Ten years later, with Elaina soon to be married to another, Will returns. With a decade-old flame rekindled, Will and Elaina’s enduring love is put to the ultimate test, one that finds the pair at odds with both convention and tradition. What follows is a slow-burn, ‘will-they-or-won’t-they’ narrative that offers readers a vivid glimpse of Vicotorian-era England.
More often than not, ‘The Land Steward’s Daughter’ hits its mark. Sure, the novel suffers from a few grammatical and historical inconsistencies—most glaring are the abundance of ‘modern’ phrases and jargon that simply don’t jive with the Victorian setting—but given that this is Michael’s debut novel, these are easily forgiven. Additionally, the changes in perspective help to add a sense of momentum to what is an admittedly plot-heavy story.
A thoroughly enjoyable, albeit, somewhat flawed slice of historical-romance from a promising author, ‘The Land Steward’s Daughter’ is recommended for fans of historical-romance.
May 16, 2021
I must admit when I read the blurb, I immediately thought, “Childhood friends to lovers? Yes please!” However, beyond that, I did not have any expectations. Instead, I had hoped to enjoy this book. And boy, did I – and then some.
I did not really mind the inconsistencies in the narrative, especially with the time period the story is set in. Though perhaps this is because I was more focused on the characters. It was fairly obvious from the beginning that both Elaina and Will had their own insecurities to deal with and I commend the author for giving each character enough time to process said insecurities. I particularly loved how Will concluded his own insecurity about being the second son. And though it took a while, seeing Elaina move past her own self-doubts due to her being “less” in social standing was satisfying.
Beyond that, I am genuinely curious of the side characters in the story such as Clara, and Montgomery and Hunt. The way it’s written, it seems like there are more to their story than their short interlude chapters seem to present. Some parts I am literally the two eyes staring emoji.
Although I would have wished for the pacing to be a bit slower at times. There are plenty of times when it does feel like I’m reading a montage of moments that would have been nice to read through its slow and steady progress. Still, The Land Steward’s Daughter is a wonderful story about two obviously flawed individuals finding love and eventually growing together. Highly recommended to avid readers of historical-romance.
I did not really mind the inconsistencies in the narrative, especially with the time period the story is set in. Though perhaps this is because I was more focused on the characters. It was fairly obvious from the beginning that both Elaina and Will had their own insecurities to deal with and I commend the author for giving each character enough time to process said insecurities. I particularly loved how Will concluded his own insecurity about being the second son. And though it took a while, seeing Elaina move past her own self-doubts due to her being “less” in social standing was satisfying.
Beyond that, I am genuinely curious of the side characters in the story such as Clara, and Montgomery and Hunt. The way it’s written, it seems like there are more to their story than their short interlude chapters seem to present. Some parts I am literally the two eyes staring emoji.
Although I would have wished for the pacing to be a bit slower at times. There are plenty of times when it does feel like I’m reading a montage of moments that would have been nice to read through its slow and steady progress. Still, The Land Steward’s Daughter is a wonderful story about two obviously flawed individuals finding love and eventually growing together. Highly recommended to avid readers of historical-romance.
September 28, 2020
Elaina grew up with Will, the second son of the Duke of Blackmore, and his family when her mother died. Her father was their Land Steward, but they treated her as a daughter. She kept in contact with Will whilst he was at Eton and then when he went to fight in the Napoleonic wars. Despite his family's attempts to marry her off she waited for him to return, however the family were against the two of them being together.
It is always interesting to read a book by a new to me author, especially when it is their first. In this case it was an enjoyable book, although spicier than those that I normally read. Those scenes were well written though and did fit in with the story, rather than just added to add interest to an otherwise lacklustre book. It was interesting to see the interplay between the nobility and the Middle Classes, with the expectations and strictures of the former limiting their ability to live the life they chose. The relationship began Elaina and Will was also not simple, with two headstrong people sometimes at loggerheads despite their love for each other. There is certainly some threads which are screaming out for their stories to be told and I really look forward to reading those.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher, however this did not influence my review of the book.
It is always interesting to read a book by a new to me author, especially when it is their first. In this case it was an enjoyable book, although spicier than those that I normally read. Those scenes were well written though and did fit in with the story, rather than just added to add interest to an otherwise lacklustre book. It was interesting to see the interplay between the nobility and the Middle Classes, with the expectations and strictures of the former limiting their ability to live the life they chose. The relationship began Elaina and Will was also not simple, with two headstrong people sometimes at loggerheads despite their love for each other. There is certainly some threads which are screaming out for their stories to be told and I really look forward to reading those.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher, however this did not influence my review of the book.
May 1, 2021
This is a well-crafted story about Elaina, the daughter of Mr. Walker, a land steward at Duke Blackmore's residence. Elaina and her father lived with the duke and duchess since her mother, Lady Eleanor, who had passed on when Elaina was young, was a close companion of the duchess. The duchess extended her kindness to Lady Eleanor's husband and his daughter. Duke Blackmore had two sons, Montgomery and Will. Elaina and Will were very close since childhood and each had love interest in the other. Will enlists in the army and goes off to war for eleven years. While they keep in touch through letters, Elaina hopes that she will be married to Will once he comes back despite their different social status, she, the daughter of a land steward with no social standing, and he, a duke's son. Will's father asks him to come back to oversee Larkspur Castle at Cambridgeshire. Their feelings mutual, Elena and Will have to overcome societal prejudice, opposition from family, and other barriers to fight for their love.
Author Becky did a great job interweaving backs stories and present events in a captivating manner. This makes the reader meld with the main character, Elaina. While enjoying the rich and enjoyable plot, I felt like I was on a helicopter ride across the Victorian era. The plot was easy to follow and the pace was perfect. This book was an enthralling read for me.
Author Becky did a great job interweaving backs stories and present events in a captivating manner. This makes the reader meld with the main character, Elaina. While enjoying the rich and enjoyable plot, I felt like I was on a helicopter ride across the Victorian era. The plot was easy to follow and the pace was perfect. This book was an enthralling read for me.
October 28, 2020
Thank you BookSirens for a free copy for a review.
I really enjoyed this book, I love a good childhood friends to lovers romance and this book was sweet in parts, steamy in others. The main heroine, the daughter of a land steward and a runaway Earls daughter, finds herself in a similar predicament when her childhood friend, the second son of a duke returns from war. He wishes to marry her against his families wishes. I liked this book, although the trope of the low born girl with the high born boy is somewhat overdone in this genre. The reason I liked it was because Elaina isn’t some simpering, passive woman like they are in so many of these novels, it takes her a bit but she takes her destiny in her own hands. So many novels in this genre, especially from 10/20 years ago the heroine is so demure and boring. My one criticism would be that she regularly introduces the characters by their title and then half way through swaps to their Christian names, I found this a little confusing in parts trying to figure out who she was talking about... but perhaps that’s just me?
I really enjoyed this book, I love a good childhood friends to lovers romance and this book was sweet in parts, steamy in others. The main heroine, the daughter of a land steward and a runaway Earls daughter, finds herself in a similar predicament when her childhood friend, the second son of a duke returns from war. He wishes to marry her against his families wishes. I liked this book, although the trope of the low born girl with the high born boy is somewhat overdone in this genre. The reason I liked it was because Elaina isn’t some simpering, passive woman like they are in so many of these novels, it takes her a bit but she takes her destiny in her own hands. So many novels in this genre, especially from 10/20 years ago the heroine is so demure and boring. My one criticism would be that she regularly introduces the characters by their title and then half way through swaps to their Christian names, I found this a little confusing in parts trying to figure out who she was talking about... but perhaps that’s just me?
November 3, 2020
Elaina was born during a time where titles meant everything and women were commodities. She and Will were best friends as children and continued their relationship while he was off at school and then again while he was fighting Napoleon. Her father was the land steward for Will's family. Will was the spare son so he had more freedom than his older brother, but was still not entirely free. Will's family is presenting her on the ton trying to make a favorable match for her, despite realizing the connection between Elaina and Will; they are also trying to encourage him to make connections with a wealthy heir to pay for an estate his father purchased that he is supposed to manage... something he's not convinced he wants to do, but something which Elaina has been raised to do. Will they buck tradition as her mother and father did and go against society's wishes or will they succumb to expectations? Enjoyed the historical romance about taking a stand and fighting for what you want out of life.
May 3, 2021
Victorian flare with a fairytale caliber. Every word, sentence, and chapter I felt my heart was getting warmer and warmer. For me, this book will definitely be on my nightstand if I need an escape from reality. This book has a lot of Downton Abbey and Bridgerton flare so, fans of the show will appreciate this book.I also caught some Jane Austen elements in the story especially ones that reflected on Emma and Persuasion which definitely made me want to continue reading. I do admit , I am a romantic at heart and reading the love and passion Will and Elaina had for each other was admirable and heart warming. I can definitely see this story coming to life in the big screen or even a Netflix and Amazon original series. Most of all, the relationship Elaina had with he father was admirable enough that every daughter wishes that they could have the same relationship. The Land Stewards Daughter was a romantic story that definitely left me refreshed when I was done.
A heartwarming read that I give 5 stars.
A heartwarming read that I give 5 stars.
October 2, 2020
It has been some time since I've read such an enjoyable Regency Romance. I could not put The Land Steward's Daughter by Becky Michaels down!
The characters are well developed with the author interweaving their past relationships into the current situations. The dialogue is witty and genuine. There are well done steamy liaisons along with heated arguments that kept me guessing how it would all end.
The author is also gifted in giving descriptive narrative on setting, wardrobe, and societal norms without being bogged down by it, moving quickly back to the plot. All this made me feel as if I was part of the story - so much so, I was sorry to have it end! I think that this book will make a perfect escape in these difficult times for not only fans of the genre, but anyone looking for an engaging and entertaining story.
I received an advanced copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The characters are well developed with the author interweaving their past relationships into the current situations. The dialogue is witty and genuine. There are well done steamy liaisons along with heated arguments that kept me guessing how it would all end.
The author is also gifted in giving descriptive narrative on setting, wardrobe, and societal norms without being bogged down by it, moving quickly back to the plot. All this made me feel as if I was part of the story - so much so, I was sorry to have it end! I think that this book will make a perfect escape in these difficult times for not only fans of the genre, but anyone looking for an engaging and entertaining story.
I received an advanced copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2020
Two brothers, a duke’s heir and the spare, and the daughter of the estate’s steward, grew up together. This story follows the three characters through their intertwined story as the spare returns home after a long stint in the army intent on claiming the steward’s daughter for his bride. The dynamic of the brothers’ relationship, the disapproval of the duke over his younger son’s actions, and the daughter’s reluctance to disappoint those around her are all combined in a story that, while fairly long, does not really have any shocks or surprises. However, I realized at the end that I had not been bored or impatient for it to finish. It’s simply a steady, engrossing study of a set of characters trying to come to terms with expectations and find happiness in spite of them. The book is not clean, but neither is it very steamy, if you have a preference with that sort of thing. I enjoyed the read (I received an ARC) and look forward to more from this author.
November 9, 2020
Great story!
Childhood best friends as well into adulthood with letter between the two. Elaina was close to her home while Will was away at Eaton then off in the Army. They might not have seen one another in the flesh but for 10 years their letters became their connection. Will’s parents were hard on him but he had freedom as the second son of a Duke but even this parents wanted him to married for money for the gift his father & brother got him. Being a scandal of a daughter to a well breed society lady and a middle class father, Elaina’s mother side shunned her and won’t acknowledge her as family, no she has only a one thousand pound dowery. But she love for Will will make it hard for her to find a wealthy man but she must. Even if Will comes back home, but he needs to leave soon for his ‘new’ estate. But will he leave his father’s country home with a wealthy wife? Or will he leave alone? Will their be more scandal adhered to Elaina’s name???
Childhood best friends as well into adulthood with letter between the two. Elaina was close to her home while Will was away at Eaton then off in the Army. They might not have seen one another in the flesh but for 10 years their letters became their connection. Will’s parents were hard on him but he had freedom as the second son of a Duke but even this parents wanted him to married for money for the gift his father & brother got him. Being a scandal of a daughter to a well breed society lady and a middle class father, Elaina’s mother side shunned her and won’t acknowledge her as family, no she has only a one thousand pound dowery. But she love for Will will make it hard for her to find a wealthy man but she must. Even if Will comes back home, but he needs to leave soon for his ‘new’ estate. But will he leave his father’s country home with a wealthy wife? Or will he leave alone? Will their be more scandal adhered to Elaina’s name???
November 10, 2020
What a future childhood friends have.
Written in two parts this is the tale of Will Winter and Elaina Walker. Will is off fighting in Napoleonic Wars as Elaina awaits him back home. Years go by but still, she waits even through at 25 the pressure to wed is pressing on her. When Will does finally returns home he knows that Elaina is who he wants but like all good romances his family and society thinks a land steward daughter and the second son of a duke is just not right. The author has done a splendid job of showing the challenges that they faced and she made the romance so much more realistic by the slow build-up. The characters had a depth to them there is a tiny bit of heat but really the book is just a well-written historical that I am happy to recommend. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Written in two parts this is the tale of Will Winter and Elaina Walker. Will is off fighting in Napoleonic Wars as Elaina awaits him back home. Years go by but still, she waits even through at 25 the pressure to wed is pressing on her. When Will does finally returns home he knows that Elaina is who he wants but like all good romances his family and society thinks a land steward daughter and the second son of a duke is just not right. The author has done a splendid job of showing the challenges that they faced and she made the romance so much more realistic by the slow build-up. The characters had a depth to them there is a tiny bit of heat but really the book is just a well-written historical that I am happy to recommend. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
May 18, 2021
Michaels succeeds in making readers feel the longing between two lovers, apart for eight years, trying to overcome their differences in social class and standing. Will's family doesn't approve of the heroine who is less than perfect in living up to their standards and class. While the hero doesn't give one whit about pleasing his father, he still has to contend with societal norms. This is an endearing historical romance that employs strong, descriptive period details. The layers of complexity between hero and heroine are sometimes raw and always genuine and the author isn't afraid of giving them flaws making them even more relatable. It's a classic for the genre with the well-drawn characters and plot with some refreshing twists that sometimes take it beyond the standards of the genre. Seeing this is Michaels debut novel, it certainly has me looking forward to reading the next one.
September 9, 2020
I found this debut novel from the author to be charming, witty, and refreshing. The characters were well-developed, their growth as a couple along with their family relationships, was well done and I found myself thoroughly enjoying this story. It was romantic but not overdone. The struggles they faced were realistic and one thing I throughly loved was the fact that they followed their hearts and didn’t conform to the societal ton and fear of scandals like so many other novels in this time period end up doing. I look forward to seeing more from this author in the future for an easy, uncomplicated read!
I was given an ARC For free from the author and Booksirens and this review is my honest and my own.
I was given an ARC For free from the author and Booksirens and this review is my honest and my own.
September 15, 2020
This was a readable historical romance. The period was created well, and the plot, although predictable, was enjoyable.
The love scenes were a bit explicit, personally I prefer Barbara Cartland style flutters to road map descriptions. Luckily the love scenes didn’t consume too much of the story.
I found the characterisation a little inconsistent – certain characters were described as ‘bullies’ by the hero and yet acted unselfishly towards the heroine. This was despite some character commenting somewhere that bullies don’t reform.
I read an advance review copy furnished by Book Sirens. I am being fussy, but with a tweak I think this story could be a real entertainer. I look forward to seeing the final release.
The love scenes were a bit explicit, personally I prefer Barbara Cartland style flutters to road map descriptions. Luckily the love scenes didn’t consume too much of the story.
I found the characterisation a little inconsistent – certain characters were described as ‘bullies’ by the hero and yet acted unselfishly towards the heroine. This was despite some character commenting somewhere that bullies don’t reform.
I read an advance review copy furnished by Book Sirens. I am being fussy, but with a tweak I think this story could be a real entertainer. I look forward to seeing the final release.
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