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The Upstart Christmas Brides #2
Convincing the Countess
A penniless widowed countess with trade in her blood descends upon the country manor of her sons’ negligent guardian, intent on confronting him about her boys’ futures. Instead, she finds his younger brother, a business-minded aristocrat with a penchant for widows and a distaste for emotional entanglements. A man who once witnessed her greatest humiliation. A man offering enticing distractions that threaten to derail all her plans.
Called home at Christmas to bring his older brother to heel and sort out the family finances, a baron’s younger brother wishes nothing more than to finish the task and return to his railway project. But when he finds his mother entertaining a fetching widow he met many years earlier as the unfortunate bride of a ne’er-do-well earl, temptation steers him along a different track, one that may derail all his plans.
Can he convince the reluctant countess to set a course for her future that includes him?
Previously published in the Mistletoe & Mayhem Regency Holiday Romance Anthology
Called home at Christmas to bring his older brother to heel and sort out the family finances, a baron’s younger brother wishes nothing more than to finish the task and return to his railway project. But when he finds his mother entertaining a fetching widow he met many years earlier as the unfortunate bride of a ne’er-do-well earl, temptation steers him along a different track, one that may derail all his plans.
Can he convince the reluctant countess to set a course for her future that includes him?
Previously published in the Mistletoe & Mayhem Regency Holiday Romance Anthology
137 pages, Paperback
First published November 10, 2020
About the author
Alina K. Field
41 books312 followersAward winning and USA Today bestselling author Alina K. Field earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and German literature, but prefers the much happier world of romance fiction. Though her roots are in the Midwestern U.S., after six very, very, very cold years in Chicago, she moved to Southern California where she shares a midcentury home with her husband and her spunky blonde rescued terrier.
Visit her at:
https://alinakfield.com/
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Visit her at:
https://alinakfield.com/
or sign up for occasional newsletters at https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
March 30, 2021
SETTING:
A touching story that rings all too true: married for her family’s money, Sophie Halverton finds the estate and her sons future prospects in a muddle when her husband dies. No help has been received from the guardian appointed over her sons and the estate, from the letters she has written, so she goes to his manor to sort out matters. Lord Loughton, the guardian, promptly decamps for a hunting party, unwilling to face the unfortunate widow with the truth of how indebted her late husband left the estate.
Into this scene walks son # 2, George, who is just the level-headed, compassionate man Sophia needs to bring his brother Lord Loughton to heel, and help Sophia to wisely use her estate and remaining funds.
CRITIQUE:
A heartwarming story, with well-developed characters, and convincing storyline. Your heart-strings are tugged by the rough treatment Sophia receives as a young bride by her first husband, and then the mess he leaves her with at his death. There is a budding romance that gives a HEA for our H as well as her 2 sons.
How Sophia overcomes the rejection of her husband without resenting sons is a wonderful example of how to conquer evil with good. A clean story that readers of all ages will enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A touching story that rings all too true: married for her family’s money, Sophie Halverton finds the estate and her sons future prospects in a muddle when her husband dies. No help has been received from the guardian appointed over her sons and the estate, from the letters she has written, so she goes to his manor to sort out matters. Lord Loughton, the guardian, promptly decamps for a hunting party, unwilling to face the unfortunate widow with the truth of how indebted her late husband left the estate.
Into this scene walks son # 2, George, who is just the level-headed, compassionate man Sophia needs to bring his brother Lord Loughton to heel, and help Sophia to wisely use her estate and remaining funds.
CRITIQUE:
A heartwarming story, with well-developed characters, and convincing storyline. Your heart-strings are tugged by the rough treatment Sophia receives as a young bride by her first husband, and then the mess he leaves her with at his death. There is a budding romance that gives a HEA for our H as well as her 2 sons.
How Sophia overcomes the rejection of her husband without resenting sons is a wonderful example of how to conquer evil with good. A clean story that readers of all ages will enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 28, 2021
He wishes he had helped her before. She does not want to ever remarry.
This book is so good. It speaks to family issues helping siblings, listening to parents and also what to do when it goes awry. How a lady and her maid are like family and how a strong mother deals with unhealthy situations. As well of course the issue of love and age. Its just great to see how it all informs.
This book is so good. It speaks to family issues helping siblings, listening to parents and also what to do when it goes awry. How a lady and her maid are like family and how a strong mother deals with unhealthy situations. As well of course the issue of love and age. Its just great to see how it all informs.
April 8, 2021
His Love💘 is a Diamond 💎
ADULT Late Regency Romance💕
Sophie💃💋, The widow of the Earl of Glanford, who gambled their fortune away and was deep in debt at the time of his death, comes penniless to confront her guardian, Fritz Lovelace the Baron Loughton. Fritz is another aristocrat who doesn't want to be bothered with his responsibility to her and her two boys.
Sophie has her two young sons with her. Arthur, the oldest is the new Earl of Glanford, after his worthless father. What kind of inheritance will be have except a rundown, entailed country manor?
Instead of getting the needed help from Fritz, Sophie💃💋 meets his brother George🐺🍆⛲💪, a business man investing in a railroad🚂🚃🚃, a very new and speculative endeavor at the time. George🐺🍆⛲ seems to be the more responsible of the two brothers and he has a thing for widows!
Fritz continues to shirk his guardian responsibilities to Sophie💃💋, so George🐺🍆⛲ takes up the mantle, finding himself mesmerized by The beautiful Sophie💃💋.
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
This ebook was $2.99 on Amazon at the time of this review.
Opinions Expressed here are entirely my own.
This is a well thought out and well written ADULT Historical novel, with several plot lines. The characters are well developed, with the exception of Fritz, who plays a minor role in the book. He is seen as a distant father to his own two sons. After the death of his wife and infant child, he has his own troubles and he avoids responsibly by being away much of the time, leaving George🐺🍆⛲ to take up the slack with the affairs of the Barony..
ADULT Late Regency Romance💕
Sophie💃💋, The widow of the Earl of Glanford, who gambled their fortune away and was deep in debt at the time of his death, comes penniless to confront her guardian, Fritz Lovelace the Baron Loughton. Fritz is another aristocrat who doesn't want to be bothered with his responsibility to her and her two boys.
Sophie has her two young sons with her. Arthur, the oldest is the new Earl of Glanford, after his worthless father. What kind of inheritance will be have except a rundown, entailed country manor?
Instead of getting the needed help from Fritz, Sophie💃💋 meets his brother George🐺🍆⛲💪, a business man investing in a railroad🚂🚃🚃, a very new and speculative endeavor at the time. George🐺🍆⛲ seems to be the more responsible of the two brothers and he has a thing for widows!
Fritz continues to shirk his guardian responsibilities to Sophie💃💋, so George🐺🍆⛲ takes up the mantle, finding himself mesmerized by The beautiful Sophie💃💋.
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
This ebook was $2.99 on Amazon at the time of this review.
Opinions Expressed here are entirely my own.
This is a well thought out and well written ADULT Historical novel, with several plot lines. The characters are well developed, with the exception of Fritz, who plays a minor role in the book. He is seen as a distant father to his own two sons. After the death of his wife and infant child, he has his own troubles and he avoids responsibly by being away much of the time, leaving George🐺🍆⛲ to take up the slack with the affairs of the Barony..
May 16, 2021
I found this novel painful to read at first, as Sophie once again experiences insults at the hands of the man who has guardianship over her sons. To make matters worse, his brother George is also visiting, reminding Sophie of all she has endured. Overcome with remorse for not being there for Sophie on the first occasion he met her, George reaches out to her, offering her his assistance. This romance is a reminder of all we have gained as a result of those women who fought for our rights, making me grateful for their sacrifices. As George stands up for Sophie, together they find the way forward. I read this novel as part of the Mistletoe and Mayhem anthology, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
April 12, 2021
4.5 stars
I did feel for Sophie and the way she was forced into her marriage with such a despicable man. Now, she is a widow and has come to see her boys’ guardian, Lord Loughton. For some reason, he keeps avoiding Sophie. Staying at the manor as well, is his younger brother, George Lovelace. George and Sophie were very attracted to each other but Sophie had experienced one unhappy marriage and didn’t want another like that. There was also her boys to consider. This is the time when the railways were being developed and this plays a part in the story. This was an entertaining and enjoyable read. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I did feel for Sophie and the way she was forced into her marriage with such a despicable man. Now, she is a widow and has come to see her boys’ guardian, Lord Loughton. For some reason, he keeps avoiding Sophie. Staying at the manor as well, is his younger brother, George Lovelace. George and Sophie were very attracted to each other but Sophie had experienced one unhappy marriage and didn’t want another like that. There was also her boys to consider. This is the time when the railways were being developed and this plays a part in the story. This was an entertaining and enjoyable read. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 15, 2021
Alina K. Field’s “Convincing the Countess” is book two in The Upstart Christmas Brides Series took me a little bit to get into in the beginning because the was the Earl treated his wife was deplorable and hateful. He was cruel and unjust. I found it very heartbreaking. Alas, there must be villains and the author did an excellent job when she created the Earl. I do realize that sometimes in life, in order to get to the good things we have to go through the bad first. Having gone through the worst one can truly appreciate the best.
The story begins with the Earl of Glanford complaining and joking to his friend Fitz and George, Fitz’s younger brother about how he had married Sophie for her money and she had the audacity to be ill while pregnant with his child. The hateful Earl died and left Fitz, heir to Baron Loughton, guardian of his two sons.
Sophie had taken her two sons to the home of Sophie has taken her two sons to Baron Loughton’s home because the hateful Earl left them penniless. Since the death of his father Fitz has become Baron Loughton. Fritz is having difficulties and he’s ignoring his responsibilities to his mother and siblings, his daughter and his wards Sophie arrives to compel him to do what’s right for her son’s. His mother summoned his brother George home to help get the situation in hand.
When George sees Sophie being entertained by his mother he remembers how cruel the Earl had been that day long ago and he is determined to help her in anyway he can.
Sophie is an amazing character considering the cruelty she suffered at the hands of her husband the evil Earl. She is a wonderful mother who does all she can for her boys after being left penniless and has only the interest of her two sons at the forefront of her mind. She has maintained interest in her trade roots and even encourages her eldest son, who is heir to his father’s title in his interest in iron as a possible future. She has no interest in marriage and refuses to entertain the idea.
Though there are villains in the story, the characters are wonderfully written and I thoroughly enjoyed this engaging story. It was nice to see George’s family except Sophie and her boys and to see how George treated them. It was wonderful to see their love story unfold.
Thank you Ms. Field for the heartwarming love story.
The story begins with the Earl of Glanford complaining and joking to his friend Fitz and George, Fitz’s younger brother about how he had married Sophie for her money and she had the audacity to be ill while pregnant with his child. The hateful Earl died and left Fitz, heir to Baron Loughton, guardian of his two sons.
Sophie had taken her two sons to the home of Sophie has taken her two sons to Baron Loughton’s home because the hateful Earl left them penniless. Since the death of his father Fitz has become Baron Loughton. Fritz is having difficulties and he’s ignoring his responsibilities to his mother and siblings, his daughter and his wards Sophie arrives to compel him to do what’s right for her son’s. His mother summoned his brother George home to help get the situation in hand.
When George sees Sophie being entertained by his mother he remembers how cruel the Earl had been that day long ago and he is determined to help her in anyway he can.
Sophie is an amazing character considering the cruelty she suffered at the hands of her husband the evil Earl. She is a wonderful mother who does all she can for her boys after being left penniless and has only the interest of her two sons at the forefront of her mind. She has maintained interest in her trade roots and even encourages her eldest son, who is heir to his father’s title in his interest in iron as a possible future. She has no interest in marriage and refuses to entertain the idea.
Though there are villains in the story, the characters are wonderfully written and I thoroughly enjoyed this engaging story. It was nice to see George’s family except Sophie and her boys and to see how George treated them. It was wonderful to see their love story unfold.
Thank you Ms. Field for the heartwarming love story.
April 18, 2021
I received this ARC via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review. As I’ve said before, I always give honest reviews whether people appreciate them or not.
This is the second book of the Upstart Christmas Brides series from author Alina K. Field. This begins in 1811 where the Earl of Glanford is drinking and joking with his friends. He married his wife Sophie for her money and is loudly complaining that she’s constantly ill because she is not of the higher class. She’s expecting their child and heaven forfend she be ill! Anyway, the first chapter is actually very difficult for me. Anyway, Glanford’s best friend is Fitz is the heir to Baron Loughton. Fitz is there with his next brother George and both are witness to the Earl’s humiliation of his bride.
As the story continues, Sophie has taken her two sons to Baron Loughton’s home. You see, her husband has passed away, they are penniless, and the old Earl left Fitz the guardian of his sons. Oy vey. Fitz himself recently became Baron Loughton at the death of his father. He’s the oldest of ten children. Not only is he ignoring his two wards, he’s ignoring his mother and all his siblings. Oh, and his daughter. Sophie is determined to bully him into more care for the young Earl (her oldest son) as well as the estate. Fitz’s brother George is called in by his mother to try to reign Fitz in somehow. George has never forgotten Sophie and that horrible day years before. He’s determined to assist her however she needs.
I grew up reading Regency Romances, so I genuinely love this genre. However, now that I am much older and know more about the history of the period, the books aren’t always so enjoyable to me. Ms. Field, while writing a book of fiction, has made it real enough for the story to not be as fun as I’d hoped. It was slow paced and I kept wanting someone to slap Fitz since he was such a jerk. Luckily Fitz isn’t the main, male character here, we’ll be seeing his story next, I think. George was doing his best to dig into what the issues are with Fitz, with Fitz and the Earl of Glanford, and how he can assist Sophie while getting her to fall in love with him. The last third of the book picked up in pace and action. So I eventually liked the story, but it took some time.
This is the second book of the Upstart Christmas Brides series from author Alina K. Field. This begins in 1811 where the Earl of Glanford is drinking and joking with his friends. He married his wife Sophie for her money and is loudly complaining that she’s constantly ill because she is not of the higher class. She’s expecting their child and heaven forfend she be ill! Anyway, the first chapter is actually very difficult for me. Anyway, Glanford’s best friend is Fitz is the heir to Baron Loughton. Fitz is there with his next brother George and both are witness to the Earl’s humiliation of his bride.
As the story continues, Sophie has taken her two sons to Baron Loughton’s home. You see, her husband has passed away, they are penniless, and the old Earl left Fitz the guardian of his sons. Oy vey. Fitz himself recently became Baron Loughton at the death of his father. He’s the oldest of ten children. Not only is he ignoring his two wards, he’s ignoring his mother and all his siblings. Oh, and his daughter. Sophie is determined to bully him into more care for the young Earl (her oldest son) as well as the estate. Fitz’s brother George is called in by his mother to try to reign Fitz in somehow. George has never forgotten Sophie and that horrible day years before. He’s determined to assist her however she needs.
I grew up reading Regency Romances, so I genuinely love this genre. However, now that I am much older and know more about the history of the period, the books aren’t always so enjoyable to me. Ms. Field, while writing a book of fiction, has made it real enough for the story to not be as fun as I’d hoped. It was slow paced and I kept wanting someone to slap Fitz since he was such a jerk. Luckily Fitz isn’t the main, male character here, we’ll be seeing his story next, I think. George was doing his best to dig into what the issues are with Fitz, with Fitz and the Earl of Glanford, and how he can assist Sophie while getting her to fall in love with him. The last third of the book picked up in pace and action. So I eventually liked the story, but it took some time.
May 21, 2021
Penniless Countess and Industrialist Aristocrat
I loved the heroine in this book. Life had dealt her a tough hand when an unscrupulous earl compromised her to get her large dowry. The first scene shows us her very public humiliation as he talks about her and his mistress with his friends… when she is pregnant and has just found out her beloved father has passed away. Yet, as we meet her 10 years later, we find her to be an excellent mother to her two young boys, doing her best when they’ve been left penniless after the earl’s death. I love how all the children in the book were portrayed, her eldest more like a little gentleman compared to her host’s youngest two boys and their rapscallion ways. She is firm yet loving with them, even engaging in an impromptu snowball fight. I liked how she didn’t lose touch with her trade roots, encouraging her young earl son in his interest in iron. The hero is a younger son in a noble family, and he has a great interest in industry… not the done thing for a gentleman! His current plan is a railway scheme. As often happens in romance, these two had instant chemistry, though she especially fought it because she didn't want to marry again or be a man's mistress. The book has some low-level suspense about why the earl (the hero's older brother and guardian to the heroine’s children) ignores her letters, won't talk to her when she shows up at his mother's house, and in fact, runs away to a hunting party after she arrives. This is a novella, and I found it so enjoyable that I wish the author had written a proper novel so the romance would have had time to really evolve. It felt a little rushed for the scope of the story. But, all in all, I found this to be a thoroughly engaging story with believable and likable characters.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
I loved the heroine in this book. Life had dealt her a tough hand when an unscrupulous earl compromised her to get her large dowry. The first scene shows us her very public humiliation as he talks about her and his mistress with his friends… when she is pregnant and has just found out her beloved father has passed away. Yet, as we meet her 10 years later, we find her to be an excellent mother to her two young boys, doing her best when they’ve been left penniless after the earl’s death. I love how all the children in the book were portrayed, her eldest more like a little gentleman compared to her host’s youngest two boys and their rapscallion ways. She is firm yet loving with them, even engaging in an impromptu snowball fight. I liked how she didn’t lose touch with her trade roots, encouraging her young earl son in his interest in iron. The hero is a younger son in a noble family, and he has a great interest in industry… not the done thing for a gentleman! His current plan is a railway scheme. As often happens in romance, these two had instant chemistry, though she especially fought it because she didn't want to marry again or be a man's mistress. The book has some low-level suspense about why the earl (the hero's older brother and guardian to the heroine’s children) ignores her letters, won't talk to her when she shows up at his mother's house, and in fact, runs away to a hunting party after she arrives. This is a novella, and I found it so enjoyable that I wish the author had written a proper novel so the romance would have had time to really evolve. It felt a little rushed for the scope of the story. But, all in all, I found this to be a thoroughly engaging story with believable and likable characters.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
April 24, 2021
❄️❄️ONE COMPELLING ADVENTURE❄️❄️
Bonking boggles boo! Alina knocked the brakes off this incredibly tantalizing wild ride, raising the stakes and making bank, blowing this bad boy clean out of the water, testing the thrill of the chase and the skill of the hunt with this sensational, earth quaking, rock-my-world landslide, skyrocketing this baby to a whole new level. Attributes and perceptions in each thread you unravel with every page your drawn into this tangled web so intricately and precise, cognizant of the daunting struggles and thrilling triumphs while attentive to the dramatic twists and stunning turns unfolding, secrets are confessed and revelations are disclosed, putting our characters through their paces, wrapping this jewel up sleek, shiny and tight. Entwined, combined and tightly woven, mindful of the soaring ups and agonizing down, impressive in it's simplicity and wondrous in it's depth, sketchy lines and weakened barriers heightened as promises are pledged and amplified, vigilant of the guarded quirks and defying bents, jetting this jewel to life flawlessly. The characters banter, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits that balance out smoothly and fluid, adding depth and diversity, transforming into outstanding personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Amazing job Alina, thanks for sharing this awesome little gem with us.
Bonking boggles boo! Alina knocked the brakes off this incredibly tantalizing wild ride, raising the stakes and making bank, blowing this bad boy clean out of the water, testing the thrill of the chase and the skill of the hunt with this sensational, earth quaking, rock-my-world landslide, skyrocketing this baby to a whole new level. Attributes and perceptions in each thread you unravel with every page your drawn into this tangled web so intricately and precise, cognizant of the daunting struggles and thrilling triumphs while attentive to the dramatic twists and stunning turns unfolding, secrets are confessed and revelations are disclosed, putting our characters through their paces, wrapping this jewel up sleek, shiny and tight. Entwined, combined and tightly woven, mindful of the soaring ups and agonizing down, impressive in it's simplicity and wondrous in it's depth, sketchy lines and weakened barriers heightened as promises are pledged and amplified, vigilant of the guarded quirks and defying bents, jetting this jewel to life flawlessly. The characters banter, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits that balance out smoothly and fluid, adding depth and diversity, transforming into outstanding personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Amazing job Alina, thanks for sharing this awesome little gem with us.
April 17, 2021
The first time George Lovelace met Sophie Clark, he had just walked away from her husband who was disparaging her to a group of his friends. She was standing in a garden awaiting her carriage. The next time he sees her is when he comes home for Christmas with his family. It seems that her deceased husband left guardianship of her two sons in the hand of George’s brother Fitz Lovelace, Baron Loughton. He has neglected this responsibility as he has most of his others according to his very worried mother. George wants to help put things to rights, Fitz’s personal mess, the estate, and the obligation to Sophie and her son’s. It doesn’t take long for George to realize that he is falling in love with Sophie. He adores her boys and treats them like family. It seems she might be taken with him as well, even though she is very cautious, having been hurt before. Can George help Fitz, calm his mother’s worries, AND convince the countess that he loves her and wants a family with her?
This is a lovely story. George comes from a large happy family, even though they are mourning the passing of the former baron, and they welcome her from the start. Sophie welcomes their ready inclusion of her and the boys. George’s siblings treat Artie and Ben like brothers. There are some secrets that need to be revealed, and there are some problems. George and Sophie have some interests in common that might help solve some of the problems. These two are intelligent and forward thinking. A formidable couple more than capable of facing challenges, and more than willing to grab their happily ever after. Good read. I recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout. My review is voluntary.
This is a lovely story. George comes from a large happy family, even though they are mourning the passing of the former baron, and they welcome her from the start. Sophie welcomes their ready inclusion of her and the boys. George’s siblings treat Artie and Ben like brothers. There are some secrets that need to be revealed, and there are some problems. George and Sophie have some interests in common that might help solve some of the problems. These two are intelligent and forward thinking. A formidable couple more than capable of facing challenges, and more than willing to grab their happily ever after. Good read. I recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout. My review is voluntary.
April 19, 2021
I have liked most of Ms. Alina K. Field's books I have read till now and this book is no exception. This story follows two independent and straight-forward people, who have brains and aptitude for trade, while they discover what they are for each other.
The heroine of this book is a particular favorite of mine. She is intelligent, resourceful and independent; and makes every effort to create a better life for herself and her children.
The hero is also a decent gentleman who understands what is acceptable behavior and what is not, something which is becoming less prevalent in most of the books these days.
I particularly liked the way how their relationship grew and how they reached the pinnacle of their association. The author has, as always, written a wonderful story, which managed to hold my interest enough, for me to finish it in a single sitting.
I recommend this book for all people who would like to read a sweet, wholesome story about very likable characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The heroine of this book is a particular favorite of mine. She is intelligent, resourceful and independent; and makes every effort to create a better life for herself and her children.
The hero is also a decent gentleman who understands what is acceptable behavior and what is not, something which is becoming less prevalent in most of the books these days.
I particularly liked the way how their relationship grew and how they reached the pinnacle of their association. The author has, as always, written a wonderful story, which managed to hold my interest enough, for me to finish it in a single sitting.
I recommend this book for all people who would like to read a sweet, wholesome story about very likable characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 18, 2021
Delightful! Sophie and George met under uncomfortable circumstances when he was a young man. A decade later he goes home for Christmas and is surprised to discover her there. Sophie, a widow with two young boys, has been trying to get an audience with Fritz, her sons’ guardian and George’s brother. Desperate, Sophie shows up unannounced at his familial estate where his mother invites her to stay. George is thrilled to see her, as he has never forgotten her, and offers to assist her with whatever she needs. This is a quick heartwarming story. It is so easy to visualize the characters and their interactions with each other, and the family dynamics are spot on. This is a wonderful story for a cold rainy night!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 17, 2021
A great ending.
When I first read this in Mistletoe & Mayhem Regency Holiday Romance Anthology I did not do a review but I am pleased to do one now. Sophie Halverton Clark needs help, a widow with two sons she is penniless due to her late husband's ways. Going to the boy’s guardian’s home she hopes to receive the aid she needs. I am not sure if I like either George or Fritz and I can understand why Sophie does not see them as gentlemen. The characters did have a depth to them and I liked how the author portrayed them. I loved Willa and George gets a whole lot better. This was a really good story that I highly recommend. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
When I first read this in Mistletoe & Mayhem Regency Holiday Romance Anthology I did not do a review but I am pleased to do one now. Sophie Halverton Clark needs help, a widow with two sons she is penniless due to her late husband's ways. Going to the boy’s guardian’s home she hopes to receive the aid she needs. I am not sure if I like either George or Fritz and I can understand why Sophie does not see them as gentlemen. The characters did have a depth to them and I liked how the author portrayed them. I loved Willa and George gets a whole lot better. This was a really good story that I highly recommend. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
April 17, 2021
When we meet Sophie she's already a widow and determined to get some answers from her sons' guardian. We don't learn too much of her past, other than her father earned his money. A pity her father did not ensure there was a decent settlement for his daughter in the marriage contract.
Sophie thaws very slowly to George, making the story believable. Her boys play a small role, but brighten each scene they're in. Intrigue is added with regard to George's railroad plans, which just may hinder his honorable intentions towards Sophie.
The story is well-written as I've grown to expect of this author. It moves at a good pace and kept my interest and attention throughout.
I read a free advance copy via BookSprout; the thoughts expressed are my own.
Sophie thaws very slowly to George, making the story believable. Her boys play a small role, but brighten each scene they're in. Intrigue is added with regard to George's railroad plans, which just may hinder his honorable intentions towards Sophie.
The story is well-written as I've grown to expect of this author. It moves at a good pace and kept my interest and attention throughout.
I read a free advance copy via BookSprout; the thoughts expressed are my own.
April 18, 2021
I really enjoyed this story. You could really feel the underlying emotions strumming through Sophie and George in the beginning when initially acquainted and their lives diverge. So many feelings of helplessness and worry for family safety/security! Each time I read about how women use to be viewed as financial objects for men to acquire and exert legal control over make me wonder how relationships in this type society ever survived. Watching some of Sophia and George’s past and then present mysteries unfold was very enjoyable. A genuine HEA at Christmas surrounded by family was wonderful to see.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 3, 2025
2025-I liked the story but maybe a little too short to do romance justice. Liked H & h. Met George in book 1, didn't really like him but did like him in this own book. I've read 4 of the 5 books in The Upstart Christmas Brides series and liked them all. I like shorter books but I think several of these books might have been better if a little longer giving a little more background information and/or making transitions smoother. I rated the first book in the series 5, the other 3 books 4.5. I haven't read the 3rd book. I wasn't that fond of George's brother Fitz. But since I liked this series I'll probably give it a try.
April 19, 2021
The second book in the Upstart Christmas Brides Series a well written story that held my interest throughout. Sophie, her sons Artie and Ben, and George’s story is well written with a very good storyline. George is the second son but he comes to her aid when Fritz his brother, who is her son's guardian goes on a hunting trip. The railway is also coming to their part of the country as George works to bring it there. I enjoyed seeing this story come together. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 13, 2021
She is a penniless, widowed Countess with a family background in trade, he is her son's negligent guardian's younger brother with a penchant for business, widows and a distaste for emotional entanglements.
He is summoned home to sort out his older brother and family finances, but due to the machinations of his mother he is greeted not only with his family's issues, but the underlying attraction of a widow he met years ago. Can he prove to her that he maybe a temptation that she can't resist and that her future is aligned to his.
He is summoned home to sort out his older brother and family finances, but due to the machinations of his mother he is greeted not only with his family's issues, but the underlying attraction of a widow he met years ago. Can he prove to her that he maybe a temptation that she can't resist and that her future is aligned to his.
April 21, 2021
Loved this wonderful book. George is a great character, I loved how much everyone liked him. He is a very good guy. I’m so glad Sophie let her walls down and let others in, she doesn’t let anyone get away with anything. Loved the kids they for sure are not the be seen and not heard type. Loved everything about this book, never disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 25, 2021
Sophie, Lady Glanford, a widow with two boys, one of them the Duke of Glanford, needs desperately to speak with the guardian of her sons.
George can’t forget the day he met Sophie and when he sees her again, his interest in her picks up rather quickly.
A story of two honest to God people, both of them struggling but in different ways.
Lovely story, easy to read and sweet. I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
George can’t forget the day he met Sophie and when he sees her again, his interest in her picks up rather quickly.
A story of two honest to God people, both of them struggling but in different ways.
Lovely story, easy to read and sweet. I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 4, 2021
This was a story that is easy to read and conveys the emotions well. The decisiveness of a woman in the early 19th century where a woman is subordinate to her husband even after his death, the custody of her sons transferred to someone else. She does not remain in the shadows when the happiness of her children is at stake. Where she fights for her children, she finds love for herself
recommended
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
recommended
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 16, 2021
The love story of Sophie and George was very well-written with a touch of suspense...just the way I like HR done! I have been reading books by Ms. Field almost from the beginning of her writing career and have always found them to be insightful and well-researched to accurately portray the time period that she is writing in. This was a true treat to read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 5, 2021
Compromised by a rake after her fortune, Sophie finds herself married to a gambler who quickly goes through her money. Ten years later, now a widow with two young boys, she must find a way to provide for their future. A task not made any easier when the boys guardian evades her at every opportunity and his brother is trying to seduce her! I originally read this as part of the Mistletoe and Mayhem Boxset and freely give this review.
April 18, 2021
She is a widow and penniless with no sign of the children guardian, she goes to confront him. He likes widows but not to marry. Can she get the help her children need? What will she do if he does not? What about the other brother? See where life will take them
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 19, 2021
THE WIDOW AND THE SECOND SON
Charlotte, Lady Glanford, is desperate to speak to her boys' guardian. As a widow with no money, taking care of her sons is her first priority. Showing up at their guardian's home at Christmas, she hopes to pin him down for a conversation. He's avoiding her. His level headed and charming brother George steps in to help her. When push comes to shove, he wants to marry her himself. He will have to maneuver his way to win her hand with honesty. A short, passionate
holiday romance.
Charlotte, Lady Glanford, is desperate to speak to her boys' guardian. As a widow with no money, taking care of her sons is her first priority. Showing up at their guardian's home at Christmas, she hopes to pin him down for a conversation. He's avoiding her. His level headed and charming brother George steps in to help her. When push comes to shove, he wants to marry her himself. He will have to maneuver his way to win her hand with honesty. A short, passionate
holiday romance.
May 3, 2021
Sophie was trapped into marriage by a scoundrel interested in her fortune, which he lost before he died, leaving Sophie and her sons destitute. When her letters to Lord Loughton, the guardian of her boys go unanswered, Sophie takes her sons to him so she can discuss his plan for their education. Unfortunately, Lord Loughton is not at his home, but Sophie is welcomed by the Dowager Lady Loughton and before she knows it, has been made part of the extended family in residence. Finally, Lord Loughton and his younger brother George appear, rather worse for drink, giving Sophie no chance to speak privately. And then the blasted man takes himself off to a house party more than a day's ride away! Luckily, George stays and agrees to help Sophie get everything sorted out for her sons.
The chemistry between George and Sophie is amazing. They are intellectually compatible and enjoy each other's company, which troubles Sophie as she is not interested in an affair or remarriage. George has tremendous respect for Sophie and gradually finds himself falling in love with her. All he has to do is convince Sophie to marry him. Convincing the Countess is delightful and I recommend it to the reader who likes historical romances that are not a fairy tale.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The chemistry between George and Sophie is amazing. They are intellectually compatible and enjoy each other's company, which troubles Sophie as she is not interested in an affair or remarriage. George has tremendous respect for Sophie and gradually finds himself falling in love with her. All he has to do is convince Sophie to marry him. Convincing the Countess is delightful and I recommend it to the reader who likes historical romances that are not a fairy tale.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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