Secret of the Sonnets

by Samantha Hastings

Miranda Hatch is a scholar, and at the advanced age of twenty-six, she is undoubtedly a spinster. Her single-minded ambition leads her not to seek a husband but to find the lost manuscripts of William Shakespeare. So when she discovers a connection between the Bard and the local dashing marquess, she pens a letter requesting access to papers that might secure her academic triumph.

Lord Robert Hamilton is drowning in debt and must turn things around or risk losing his ancestral home. With the weight of the world on his shoulders, he has little time to bother with a letter from an M. Hatch requesting access to ancestral papers―until he realizes there may be some financial merit in granting the request. To his great surprise, M. Hatch turns out to be none other than the lovely Miss Miranda. The pair soon embarks on the trail of a centuries-old mystery, drawn together not only by their shared goal but by their growing attraction. However, someone else is seeking the priceless papers, and they will not hesitate to remove anyone in the way of glory.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Regency, Historical Romance, Historical, Audiobook, Clean Romance

293 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2023

About the author

Samantha Hastings has degrees from Brigham Young University, the University of Reading (Berkshire, England), and the University of North Texas. She met her husband in a turkey-sandwich line. They live in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she spends most of her time reading, eating popcorn, having tea parties, and chasing her kids. She writes cozy mysteries under Samantha Larsen.

Reviews

[Sheila (sheilasbookreviewer) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secret of the Sonnets had my favorite kind of female heroine. Miranda was smart, bookish, witty, and confident. For this time period, most women wouldn't have been described this way. I also loved Miranda's relationship with her parents. Her father is a scholar and her mother was supportive of her husband and daughter. This isn't something you always see in Regency books and this family loved spending time together and the father and daughter had a heartwarming bond.

Robert's main focus was on his financial hardships. This brings Miranda and Robert together as Miranda and her father are on a hunt for the missing sonnets of Shakespeare. I grew to like Robert more once he began to partner up with Miranda. They had great chemistry and I loved every scene they were in together.

There are so many things to love about Secret of the Sonnets from the many references to Shakespeare's work, the ongoing hunt for the missing sonnets, the mystery behind who's trying to sabotage the Hatch Family's scholarly pursuits, the slow burn romance filled with frivolity and banter, and of course, let's not forget, the gorgeous cover on this novel.

Author Samantha Hastings has written a unique story full of danger, mystery, humor, and of course sweet, clean, romance. Historical Romance readers will want to read Secret of the Sonnets.

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shall I compare thee to a summer's Day...
Let me not to the marriage of true minds...

These are two of Shakespeare's sonnets that are probably recognized by many. It was fun to dive into this book with all of the references to his sonnets and much of his other work.

Miranda and her father are both scholars and a mutual love in learning that they share are the works of Shakespeare. Much as we would quote favorite movies or songs to each other when someone says or does something that reminds us of those quotes, Miranda and her father do the same with Shakespeare's words. It has become a game to them and might have confused a couple secondary characters who knew nothing about Shakespeare. It was fun to try to figure out what they were quoting before they said where it came from. I caught several references but there were plenty I had to rely on the characters telling us what they were quoting.

All of the history and back information about the Bard's works was very interesting and created a great storyline as Miranda and Robert set off on their little quest to discover more about the Bard's sonnets.

I felt for Robert and his predicament in finances due to his father's inability to manage their household in the best way. It created a lot of strain on Robert. And his mother certainly didn't help. I didn't care much for her. Lol! She reminded me a lot of the mom in the Jennifer Ehle/Collin Firth version of Pride and Prejudice. All of her flutterings and poor nerves and such. Well Robert's mom and all of her spending and redecorating and clothing and such had my nerves on end. But I liked his character and desire to do what was right and good in caring for his family.

Miranda was a fun character. Very smart and quick-witted and not one to shy away from her bluestocking ways. I couldn't imagine living in that time period and struggling to be able to study and learn as a woman without being treated as a societal pariah.

The mystery was great. The characters were well written and the references to Shakespeare were fun. I loved the friendship that developed between Miranda and Robert. And of course I loved how it continued to develop and build to more than just friends. They were genuine.

Content: Clean.

I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Laura Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book! I honestly didn’t know what to expect when I picked this up. This is a new to me author and I didn’t know too much about the book at first other than it is a historical fiction, which I enjoy. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from this book but whatever it was I got so much more than I was expecting.

Every single character in this book was amazing! I quickly fell in love with both the heroine and the hero, Miranda and Robert. I was pulled into their individual stories right from the start. Miranda is witty and smart. She made me smile so many times. She is a scholar and stands out from the women of her time. She is confident and not afraid to state her opinion. Robert was such a sweetheart. Kind and funny. I truly felt for him with his financial difficulties throughout the story. Not only are the main characters great but so are the side characters. I love Miranda's father and the relationship they had. Robert and his sister Eugenia were also so fun together and of course, I can’t forget Fredrick or the clumsy maid Alice. Everyone was so full of life. Samantha Hasting sure knows how to create standout characters.

The plot was so clever and unique. I found myself turning the pages quickly with the mystery and searching for Shakespeare's sonnets. Not only that but the romance was so great throughout the story. Everything from when Miranda and Robert first ran into each other to their conversations as they get to know each other, the adventures and danger they find themselves in, the hand brushes, and first kiss were remarkably done!

I will admit I don’t know too much about Shakesphere or his Sonnets so if you are like me don’t let that hold you back from this book because you will still enjoy it. I found I enjoyed reading the sonnets at the beginning of each chapter and Miranda Shakespeare quotes. I highly recommend this one if you love historicals, great characters, mystery, adventures, and romance.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Linda (NOT RECEIVING NOTIFICATIONS) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though I am not a big fan of William Shakespeare (I still cringe on what I was required to read in school), I couldn't help but love this intuitively written HR.

Miss Miranda Hatch, at the age of six and twenty, was the late-in-life only daughter of two affectionate parents. She soaked up her papa's love for the Bard's writings and could call herself a scholar. Except the year was 1812 and women were rarely thought of as intelligent.

Robert Hamilton, Marquess of Marsworth, had inherited a money pit. Upon his sire's death, he was left at home with a spendthrift mother, a younger sister and numerous debts. He had few choices except marrying an heiress or finding some hidden wealth.

I took pleasure while reading about Miranda and Robert. After a rough start (he almost ran her over with his horses and carriage), a friendship developed between the two. Except ever mindful, the ton frowned upon mixing trade with nobility.

The plot included an absorbing bit of suspense mixed with likeable MCs. I was rooting for this couple all along. I wanted each of them to find the answers they needed.

Thank you to NetGalley, Samantha Hastings and Covenant Communications for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I would definitely consider reading other HRs written by this author.

[Melissa’s Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Robert leaned forward, placing his lips on hers, and it was as if all the sonnets and love poems ever written were for such a moment as this.”

Thoroughly enjoyed Secret of the Sonnets! Samantha Hastings is a new to me author and I will definitely be reading more of her books. This story is a refreshing new take on Regency romance with a Shakespeare tie-in that was well done. Whether you’re a Shakespeare fan or not, the mystery surrounding his works continues today and this story provides an interesting twist to part of the mystery. There’s also a sizzling but clean romance with plenty of wit and humor thrown in.

Opposites definitely attract when Miranda Hatch, a 26 year old bluestocking scholar from the working class with a love of Shakespeare meets the handsome but poor Marquess, Lord Robert Hamilton who is more into horses than the Bard. Miranda is a force to be reckoned with. She’s quick witted with a dry sense of humor. Robert is thoughtful and charming but left with heavy financial burdens from his father’s reckless investments, and a mother who has no idea what the word economy means.

When Lord Hamilton receives two separate inquiries into a long lost relative’s ties to Shakespeare, he hopes that this may somehow be an answer to his financial woes. He and Miranda work together to search for the lost Shakespearean sonnets and along the way find intrigue and romance. But is their love enough to overcome class differences or will Robert be forced to marry a wealthy heiress if they can’t solve the mystery?

This is definitely an author I’ll keep an eye on. I enjoyed all the references to Shakespeare and the swoon-worthy romance. Robert’s mother was awful and it was satisfying to see her get her comeuppance. It’s always fun to try a new author and I definitely recommend giving Samantha Hastings a try. Looking forward to the next book in the series she teases at the end. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the unique plot in this book! Miranda and her father have a great love (bordering on obsession) for literature and especially all things Shakespeare. Her self-confidence is admirable, and she is comfortable with herself and finds joy and laughter in life, reminding me a bit of Elizabeth Bennett. She has a lovely family dynamic with her mother and father. They are impressed with Robert as a gentleman and although he doesn’t share their literary interests, there is a connection of congeniality and sense of humor that makes him fit right in. I enjoyed how naturally their relationship progressed. There is a sense of tension as Robert has limited time to pay the debts left by his father, and the presence of a saboteur lingers in the background, leaving the reader in suspense as to when he will meddle with our characters. I was intrigued by the details I learned about Shakespeare and couldn’t wait to see if they would actually make a discovery.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a lovely story. Full of Shakespeare. If you are a fan you will love this. I enjoyed the love story. I like that is was so sweet and you got to really feel and see them fall in love. I liked the danger elements of this were believable and not over the top.
This is a proper romance with some kisses. There is a bit of violence. No religion.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are so many things to love about this book! The author did such a great job with her characters, the plot, and the mystery. It’s a must read book for this year.

Miranda is our main female character. She’s 25 so in her day she’s considered old to not be married. But at the beginning of the book she didn’t care. In fact, the opening scene shows her being proposed to by the local pastor. That scene made me laugh so very hard. Miranda is a scholar. She is so interested in Shakespeare. I loved the way she and her father were constantly quoting his plays or sonnets.

Then there’s Robert. As a reader, I hated that his father could leave him with such debt. And most of his family kept adding to it. Robert is the honorable type of man. He wants to pay the debt, but it requires him to sell so many of his family’s things. And his own as well. Robert knew he needed to marry well and gain a young woman’s dowery.

I loved that Miranda and Robert had a mystery they were trying to solve. The two of them were smart. But they got themselves into situations they couldn’t get out of too. They were just so good together. Even though they both knew there was no future together.

This book was such a happy surprise for me. There were parts that made me laugh. And parts that made me try to solve the mystery. I loved it so much!

I was sent an e-copy of Secret of the Sonnets as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Lady Alexandrine · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I saw the cover of this book I instantly wanted to read it. It is pure perfection. But how about the story? The main character was likable and I cheered her on. Miranda was bookish, funny and didn’t hesitate a moment before going on an adventure to find the lost manuscripts of the Bard. The pacing was good, the titbits about Shakespeare thrown here and there were interesting enough. Still, the characters felt two-dimensional to me. I didn’t really connect with any of them. The mood of the book was cheerful even when the characters were bruised, tied up and locked in a shed or on a brink of financial ruin. There is something like too much cheerfulness, I discovered, at times it was grating. Also, the final discovery… I am not sure, but it was a bit much. To sum up, the book was lighthearted and pleasing, but a little silly. If you don’t mind a little silliness and you like Shakespeare you may consider reading it.

I received "Secret of the Sonnets" from the publisher via NetGalley. I would like to thank the author and the publisher for providing me with the advance reader copy of the book.

[Sarah Monzon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like when a heroine is smart (and bookish!) and not a simpering ninny, and Miranda was certain the formal and not the later. The banter and rejoinders were fun and I enjoyed learning more about Shakespeare throughout the book.

[Emily Flynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Samantha Hastings brings a fantastic mystery to the Regency Era that revolves around no other than the Bard himself. The story is wonderfully written and I was drawn in and captivated almost immediately . The mystery was fresh and covered a scholarly topic.

The couple at the center of this had beautiful chemistry. Their interest at the beginning was strictly scholarly on her part and financial on his, but as they uncovered the Secret of the Sonnets and unlocked the mystery, their chemistry and attraction grew.

I love the combination of a mystery and a love story and this one was well written. I loved every minute of it and would recommend it to others. Miranda's knowledge of Shakespeare leads them on the adventure of a lifetime. The final outcome, and the Secret of the Sonnets are not to be missed.

I received an early copy through the publisher and NetGalley and this is my honest review.

[Ashleigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Thank you to Netgalley, Covenant Communications, and the author for the opportunity to review an e-arc. All thoughts are my own*

Secret of the Sonnets was an absolute delight! This was the second Samantha Hastings book I’ve read, and I would love to read more from her. Her books are lighthearted and fun, and this one often brought a smile to my face and had me trying to solve the mystery!

Miranda Hatch is a scholar and as she is 26, she is considered to be a spinster. She intends to find the lost works of William Shakespeare, rather than a husband. She discovers a connection between the Bard and the local dashing marquess, and so she sends a letter requesting access to papers that might secure her academic success. She is quite a charming character, and she and her father often work together. He encourages her to pursue her academic dreams.

Lord Robert Hamilton finds himself in dire straits as he risks losing his ancestral home which he has come to inherit after his father’s passing. His father unfortunately made some very poor decisions, and his mother has frivolous spending habits, and Robert must wade through it all. With the weight of everything laying upon him, he could care less when he receives a letter from an M Hatch requesting access to ancestral papers. After thinking things through though, he realizes that there may be some financial benefit to the request. To his surprise, M Hatch turns out to be the lovely Miss Miranda. The pair soon find themselves drawn into a centuries-old mystery. They are not only drawn together by their common goal, but also by a growing attraction. Unfortunately, there is someone else seeking the papers and they will stop at nothing to get what they want.

I love Miranda! She is so smart and funny, and I love the relationship she has with her parents, especially her father. He is so encouraging, and I love how he and Miranda would quote Shakespeare to each other. I love how she put the pursuit of academics and her love of learning above societies expectations. I also loved watching the friendship with Robert blossom.

Robert was also a very likeable character. I loved that he was so honorable and trying to make everything right after his father’s misdeeds. I enjoyed his partnership with Miranda, and watching their relationship develop. There was great banter between them and it was so fun watching him join her on her quest.

I loved the combination of a mystery and a sweet historical romance. I definitely recommend!

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Winkfield, England, 1812

Lord Robert Hamilton is drowning in debt after his father's death, so when M. (Miranda) Hatch’s letter arrives on his desk inquiring about obtaining correspondence that may have transpired between his great-great-grandfather and William Shakespeare, he puts it aside. He has no interest in the writing world.

He is beguiled by Miranda Hatch when they finally meet at her parent's home. He is surprised by her parents but most importantly, Miranda. She is an accomplished scholar and has no interest in marrying as is evident being six and twenty and a spinster. Lord Robert Hamilton is encouraged to look for possible correspondence because it could help him pay off his overwhelming debts.

Secrets of the Sonnets was a cute regency romance detailing the sonnets written by William Shakespeare’s wife, Anne Hathaway. I really liked Miranda and her parents were very supportive and loving towards their daughter who didn’t follow society’s norms as was expected of a woman, she was a scholar and loved the written word. I think this is what initially drew Robert towards Miranda, she didn't pretend who she wasn't, and he was attracted to her authenticity. This was a slow read for me, but I still enjoyed it nonetheless!

My gratitude to Netgalley and Covenant Communications. All opinions expressed are mine.

[Amber Thiessen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh I do enjoy a female character with a quirky-for-the-time-period, passion for literature!

Miranda Hatch is a Shakespearean scholar, jilted by a previous boyfriend who stole her research, she's got no aspirations of entering the marriage mart. Lord Hamilton is drowning in debt and surprised to hear that he may have something of worth in his possession, that hasn't yet been sold - letters. As he and Miranda try to unravel the historical mystery, someone else seeks to do the same and they don't intend to share the findings.

I loved Miranda's endearing family, who contrast the drama in Lord Hamilton's. The mystery had me turning pages to find out how it would end - and whether their friendship would grow.

Clean historical romance written for general market.

*Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

[Jacqueline Firkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet, cheerful read that blends heart fluttery flirtation with Shakespeare-quote-filled banter and a light look at the impacts of class and wealth in England in the early 19th century. Our hero and heroine form a quick attraction when his carriage nearly knocks her over. Too bad he's high class and her family comes from trade. Too bad she's well educated and he's more interested in horses than in books. Good thing for them both they have a mystery to solve as they join forces to seek out information that might help put Shakespeare's sonnets in their proper order. They also have balls to attend, gardens to explore, and an archery competition in which to best each other, such that Hastings balances the scholarly research with lots of frothy flirty scenes that will delight hist-fic lovers. While this one will likely appeal most to Shakespeare fans, due to the many references to his poems and plays, Hastings keeps the tone light and the scenes moving, so the story is easily accessible for readers with no prior knowledge of Shakespeare's work or life. Overall, a sweet romance, with two easy-to-root-for leads, a lightly threaded mystery to solve, and lots of lovable characters.

[Suzan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miranda Hatch is a 26 year old scholar who is seeking to find the lost manuscripts of William Shakespeare.

Lord Robert Hamilton inherited his father’s estate, and a mountain of debt to go along with it. The only way to save his ancestral home seems to be to marry someone with a large dowry.

The two make a connection and Robert realizes there may be some financial gain in helping Miranda with her quest, and a chance to avoid a loveless marriage. The pair soon begin searching together for answers to a centuries old mystery.

I was completely charmed by this witty, smart, and romantic story! The growing attraction and romance between Robert and Miranda was wonderful. I absolutely adored the loving relationship between Miranda and her scholarly father, and the way they humorously spoke to each other with Shakespearean phrases.

I learned a lot about Shakespeare and his works, but none of it felt over my head. The author takes some liberties with the life of his wife, and the twist that brought to the mystery was a lot of fun. I loved it!!

Many thanks to the author and Covenant Communications for a gifted copy. All opinions are completely my own.

[Genesis (geny.reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read it for the:
- references to William Shakespeare
- Scholar FMC/Sportsman MC dynamic
- Charming romance
- Mystery elements
- funny side characters
- overall light-hearted tone

Secret of the Sonnets is a regency romance that is a treat to English literature and sweet romance fans alike.

I was not expecting to have such a fun time reading this story. It had a little bit of everything- mystery, humor, romance, banter, and historical facts, but kept an overall light-hearted and entertaining tone.

What I loved most was the dynamics between the characters. The side characters added to the plot and added a certain realism to the book to keep it grounded. I loved the Hatch family and their conversations. Alice the maid also brought in some good laughs with her untimely interruptions and well-meaning comments.

The romance between Robert and Miranda was one I found unique in that they did not have many common interests - Miranda being a lady scholar from a low-class family with a fear of horses and Robert- being an avid sportsman and Marquess who didn't like to read. However, despite this fact, their romance was well-paced and entertaining to watch grow. They had the chemistry. They brought in the flirt. And they worked together.

I was intrigued by reading some of the research done by the author on William Shakespear and his sonnets. My inner literary nerd enjoyed the quotes sprinkled throughout the novel. The mystery element kept the plot fresh. But I will say the final resolution felt like it could have had something more.

Overall, this was a fun read and I look forward to reading more from this author.


*I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

For readers who love Regency romance, yet are looking for something different than the prerequisite balls and affairs of the ton, “Secrets of the Sonnets” is just the thing.

Read full review in the 2022 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Sarah {The Clever Reader} · Rating 5 out of 5]

Samantha's books are always fun. She has found the perfect recipe for historical romance with tone, setting, and comedic relief. I enjoyed listening to Miranda and Robert's adventure on their search for William Shakespeare's sonnets.

Miranda is an educated woman, far more than the other women in society at the time. I loved the banter between her and her parents, especially her father, and thought it was a beautiful portrayal of a supportive upbringing. She was not limited by her gender and time and I thought Samantha did a wonderful job of writing her. I wish I could meet Miranda in real life and have her tell me all about Shakespeare! Sonnet quotes and all!

Robert was so sweet. I felt for him and his situation after his father passed. His mother was very typical of a spoiled brat and I struggled with her so much! I'm glad Samantha gave him some sisters that understood his position and supported them in the best way they could. I liked that Samantha portrayed his struggle between needing to marry due to his position but that he also found himself so enamored by Miranda that as he got to know her more, the more he fell for her.

This book has adventure, sweet romance, and the perfect setting. I definitely recommend it to anyone looking for their next regency romance because this is top notch!

[Mindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a delightful book from start to finish. I was instantly taken with this story. Miranda was a joy to read. She is smart, kind, thoughtful, and enchantingly fun. Robert too was wonderful. Even with his financial struggles, he longed to be near Miranda. Frederick and Eugenia were also delightful additions. Every character was memorable (even the grumpy sisters, Robert's annoying mother and the hilarious Alice). I especially loved Miranda's parents. Just lovely, enjoyable people who loved and supported each other with kindness and encouragement. I thoroughly enjoyed Miranda and Robert's adventure (which at times was quite dangerous) and how they loved being with each other and watching their relationship bloom was a treat. Their banter alone was entertaining. There was some charming, romantic moments. I loved the chapter headings with the sonnets. But my favorite part was near the end and the conversation between Miranda's father and Robert.

I received a complementary copy from Netgalley. All views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this new book from author Samantha Hastings, readers will be charmed with this story that revolves around the history of Shakespear and specifically the search for his Sonnets. When a scholarly spinster and a Lord who is drowning in his deceased father’s debts meet because of their shared interest in the Sonnets, a sweet and charming story ensues. Readers will adore this sweet romance with a touch of mystery, as the characters are The characters are delightful and charming and Hastings has a beautiful way with words and storytelling.

Genre: historical, regency, romance
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: January 3, 2023
Number of pages: 293

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book by Samatha Hastings. I thought she did a great job on her research on Shakespeare and she did a great job telling this story. I liked how there was a mystery as the characters tried to find anything written in Shakespeare’s own hand. I though it had some elements of “The DaVinci Code” just by how the clues were laid out so I thought that was fun. I also liked how the romance between Robert and Miranda developed. I liked that he loved her just for being the intelligent woman she was and she loved him even though he wasn’t a scholar. I thought they were great compliments to each other. I liked this book and would recommend it.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love historical mysteries, you will want to make time to read Secret of the Sonnets by Samantha Hastings. It’s a great way to start your new year! Ms. Hastings is a new-to-me author and I really enjoyed her writing style, witty conversation, and balance of mystery and romance.

In Secret of the Sonnets, readers are introduced to Miranda Hatch a twenty-six-year-old spinster scholar with a particular interest in William Shakespeare’s sonnets. Her research leads her to a possible piece of correspondence between Shakespeare and the ancestor of a nearby marquess, Lord Robert Hamilton. Miranda writes to Robert and asks if he has any family papers that could be from Shakespeare’s time. Her letter comes at a good time, since Robert is trying to sell anything of worth to save his estate from the debts his father incurred before his death. Gathering what papers he can, Robert visits the Hatch family, hoping he has something of worth that could save his heavily mortgaged home. During his visit, they uncover a clue that might lead them to Shakespeare’s lost manuscripts. It doesn’t take long before Robert and the Hatch family are drawn into a web of intrigue. The closer Miranda and Robert get to finding the manuscripts, the closer they become as a couple who may have a future together—but an enemy is waiting to come between them and are ready to do whatever it takes to keep the secret for themselves.

I have always loved Shakespeare’s plays and this book has a surprising twist on some of the controversy that surrounds him as an author even today. Readers will be riveted to the page as Miranda and Robert try to untangle a centuries old mystery regarding the Bard. Not only is the author skilled at weaving the clues to the mystery into the story, she also expertly entwines a tender romance with Shakespearean discussions and references that are delightful and charming. Our hero and heroine were intelligent and believable, and the supporting cast felt real with their quirks and nuances, adding an extra layer of depth to this imaginative and clever story.

But this treasure hunt is about so much more than Shakespeare’s secrets as Miranda and Robert begin to see that perhaps the treasure is each other. However, with danger surrounding them and Society’s expectations a heavy weight to bear, can they really find a way to be together? Readers will definitely want to set aside enough time for this book because they won’t want to set it down.

[Kaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lord Robert Hamilton is about to lose his properties to debt he inherits from his father. He needs to marry an heiress or find some other means to save himself and his properties. Miranda Hatch is a Shakespearean scholar. She loves working along side her academic father. Miranda writes Robert asking if he has any family papers with a connection to William Shakespeare. His ancestor was part owner of the globe. This starts them out on a search for documents thats value may save him from losing everything and will be crucial to her research. Of course there is a villain that doesn’t want them to succeed.

This is a very enjoyable romance and treasure hunt. Miranda is smart, and witty. She loves to trade Shakespeare quotes like we quote from popular shows or movies. Her parents are loving and supportive of her non traditional interests. Robert is fun as he deals with a stereotypical spendthrift mother and my other favorite side character is his younger sister.

I like that along the way you learn some facts about Shakespeare and his wife Anne. And it mostly takes place outside of London and includes visits to Shakespeare’s home and grave. (Which I’ve been fortunate enough to visit.) If you’re not a Shakespeare fan you can skip the sonnet quotes at the beginning of each chapter and still enjoy the story. Clean for intimacy and language.

Thank you to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Amy Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Miranda is smart, bookish and determined to find Shakespeare’s lost manuscripts. Robert, the Marquess of Mansworth, was left drowning in debt after the death of his father. When Miranda contacts Robert about his ancestor’s possible connection to Shakespeare, they both get swept away into a wild adventure and romance!

Miranda and Robert were so great together. I loved the meet cute carriage incident. I knew Miranda would be a fun character in that moment! I also loved that she and Robert really have nothing in common. Robert enjoys horses and sports, while Miranda quotes Shakespeare and writes literary articles. It’s definitely a case of opposites attract.

I loved Miranda’s relationship with her parents. They were so supportive of her. Robert’s sister was also a great character. There were a couple of characters I didn’t like and I felt like a major part of the story concerning one character in particular wasn’t really resolved.

The Shakespeare mystery was a fun twist to the story. I’ve never been a big fan of his writings, but I enjoyed reading the quotes throughout the book.

Overall, this was a sweet, smart and funny story. I definitely recommend to historical and regency fans.

Thank you to @netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

This is a clean romance.

[April B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and Samantha Hastings for the opportunity to read the eARC of Secret of the Sonnets!

Well this book is a real gem! A true historical time piece for fiction with smart, charming and witty characters! The pacing was perfect, it never lags or gets ahead of itself. You don't have a big Shakespeare fan to enjoy this novel, so anyone can get into this story with ease! If you need a book to lift your spirits, this is it!

I will post my review on Netgalley, Barnes and Noble, Goodreads and Google play and Amazon

[Marsha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and would have given it 5 stars if one lingering loose thread would have been resolved. I loved Miranda and her whole family. They were delightful! Even the maid was hilarious. There were so many laugh out loud moments. Robert took a bit to grow on me but then he was awesome as well. There were exciting scenes and interesting history. I loved that the author gives some notes at the end. I have been a Shakespeare fan for many years and the quotes bandied about were awesome. Highly recommend!

[Cathy | A Case Full of Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a delightful regency romance that features an intriguing Shakespearean mystery. Miranda was a relatable heroine, if a little to chipper and optimistic for my taste. I had a great time tagging along on her journey to discover Shakespeare's lost manuscripts.

[The_Power Of_The Page · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a new author to me. I enjoyed the story, the wit and the banter. The mystery and romance added even more to keep me turning pages.

I really liked the main characters. They each had obstacles to overcome. Whether it was being a woman, class, debt or family. It was fun to see how they did not conform to society’s expectations. They were genuine and refreshing.

If you enjoy a good historical romance with mystery and even some danger thrown in. you will enjoy this book. If you are a Shakespeare lover then you will definitely like this book.
It is a clean read with a little violence sprinkled with wit and humor.

[Marta Cleverly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loved the dynamics between characters but there’s just something off about the plot and pacing