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Brethren in Arms #5
What Might Have Been
Young love torn apart by war and a cold marriage… is ten years too late to start again?
Captain James Frome, seasoned veteran and war hero, is returning home after ten years away. He has sold his commission and must face what he left behind. Besides finding an estate that is in ruin and a family that is lost without his direction, he also runs into his past and the reason he was forced into the army in the first place.
Lady Annag Calder has finally cast off her mourning blacks and escapes back to her family home in Scotland for some peace, except peace is not what she finds. Instead, she runs into the reason she was forced into a bad marriage in the first place. Seeing James again confirms her constant heart, but can he accept her love?
After ten years, neither James nor Annag are the same people, but is there still enough love left for them to have a future?
Captain James Frome, seasoned veteran and war hero, is returning home after ten years away. He has sold his commission and must face what he left behind. Besides finding an estate that is in ruin and a family that is lost without his direction, he also runs into his past and the reason he was forced into the army in the first place.
Lady Annag Calder has finally cast off her mourning blacks and escapes back to her family home in Scotland for some peace, except peace is not what she finds. Instead, she runs into the reason she was forced into a bad marriage in the first place. Seeing James again confirms her constant heart, but can he accept her love?
After ten years, neither James nor Annag are the same people, but is there still enough love left for them to have a future?
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 22, 2022
223 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Johns
80 books360 followers Like many writers, Elizabeth Johns was first an avid reader, though she was a reluctant convert. It was Jane Austen's clever wit and unique turn of phrase that hooked Johns when she was "forced" to read Pride and Prejudice for a school assignment. She began writing when she ran out of her favorite author’s books and decided to try her hand at crafting a Regency romance novel. Her journey into publishing began with the release of Surrender the Past, book one of the Loring-Abbott Series. Johns makes no pretensions to Austen’s wit but hopes readers will perhaps laugh and find some enjoyment in her writing.
Johns attributes much of her inspiration to her mother, a retired English teacher. During their last summer together, Johns would sit on the porch swing and read her stories to her mother, who encouraged her to continue writing. Busy with multiple careers, including a professional job in the medical field, author and mother of small children, Johns squeezes in time for reading whenever possible.
Johns attributes much of her inspiration to her mother, a retired English teacher. During their last summer together, Johns would sit on the porch swing and read her stories to her mother, who encouraged her to continue writing. Busy with multiple careers, including a professional job in the medical field, author and mother of small children, Johns squeezes in time for reading whenever possible.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
October 22, 2022
After reading the previous books in the series, I was more than ready to read James's story. This book can be read alone, but I highly recommend the series.
This was such a great book. Not that I expected less. Elizabeth Johns is a brilliant writer.
The romance in this story takes a while to spark up, but the anticipation is there. James and Annag are meeting again after ten years and create a loving and interesting book while deciding the right path to take forward. The book was interesting and entertaining throughout, not at all dull. I loved that James's horse, Sancho had such a personality that added even more humour to the book. There wasn't a time that I wanted a break from reading.
This story is is well-written and flows nicely. It isn't full of excitement or intrigue, but there is enough that it is not dull and slow. There are no sex scenes or vulgar language for those that do not prefer it.
This was such a great book. Not that I expected less. Elizabeth Johns is a brilliant writer.
The romance in this story takes a while to spark up, but the anticipation is there. James and Annag are meeting again after ten years and create a loving and interesting book while deciding the right path to take forward. The book was interesting and entertaining throughout, not at all dull. I loved that James's horse, Sancho had such a personality that added even more humour to the book. There wasn't a time that I wanted a break from reading.
This story is is well-written and flows nicely. It isn't full of excitement or intrigue, but there is enough that it is not dull and slow. There are no sex scenes or vulgar language for those that do not prefer it.
December 21, 2022
4.8 stars
James was basically thrown from the home when he paid court to Lady Annag Aka Anna 10 years ago. She suffered a horrible marriage to an Earl who openly flaunted his mistress. She had one son who was the joy of her life but always wondered what might have been had she been allowed to wed James! His time in the army has produced a brethren of friends at arms who always have each other’s back!
These same friends are crucial in the events to come with Fenella Anna’s irresponsible sister! There is so many loose ends tied with this story and it’s much more romantic than the previous one! Still only kissing but emotions way more powerful and believable!
James has so many problems that Waverly the Duke just swoops and fixed!
James father has no real presence of mind and literally ran the small estate into the ground! His parents were given use of a cottage by the sea and his sister married and other had a London season!
The wives of the brethren are strong and stick together in adversity and Anna fits right in! I love the camaraderie between the men and women!
Get ready for nonstop action as a call to arms also helps in a HEA! Bravo
James was basically thrown from the home when he paid court to Lady Annag Aka Anna 10 years ago. She suffered a horrible marriage to an Earl who openly flaunted his mistress. She had one son who was the joy of her life but always wondered what might have been had she been allowed to wed James! His time in the army has produced a brethren of friends at arms who always have each other’s back!
These same friends are crucial in the events to come with Fenella Anna’s irresponsible sister! There is so many loose ends tied with this story and it’s much more romantic than the previous one! Still only kissing but emotions way more powerful and believable!
James has so many problems that Waverly the Duke just swoops and fixed!
James father has no real presence of mind and literally ran the small estate into the ground! His parents were given use of a cottage by the sea and his sister married and other had a London season!
The wives of the brethren are strong and stick together in adversity and Anna fits right in! I love the camaraderie between the men and women!
Get ready for nonstop action as a call to arms also helps in a HEA! Bravo
October 29, 2022
What Might Have Been by Elizabeth Johns
Brethren in Arms Series Book Five
James Frome had survived the war, but two of his friends had not. His other friends from the army were now married and doing well. So he returned to his family’s estate in Scotland. An estate that was falling apart in every way.
Annag McKiernan Calder had loved James. But, after he went into the army, she was forced to marry an old lord. Then, after his death, her only son was sent to Eton. So now she’s in Scotland visiting her family, which was easier than being near her mother-in-law. Freeing.
After ten years, James and Annag have returned. James was refused her hand because of his station in life, and now he had even less. So he’ll be her friend, but he has to refuse anything more.
Loved the characters, both human and equine. And it’s always nice to “see” old friends from the previous books.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Brethren in Arms Series Book Five
James Frome had survived the war, but two of his friends had not. His other friends from the army were now married and doing well. So he returned to his family’s estate in Scotland. An estate that was falling apart in every way.
Annag McKiernan Calder had loved James. But, after he went into the army, she was forced to marry an old lord. Then, after his death, her only son was sent to Eton. So now she’s in Scotland visiting her family, which was easier than being near her mother-in-law. Freeing.
After ten years, James and Annag have returned. James was refused her hand because of his station in life, and now he had even less. So he’ll be her friend, but he has to refuse anything more.
Loved the characters, both human and equine. And it’s always nice to “see” old friends from the previous books.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
March 23, 2024
#5 was a winner! I give it 4 1/2 stars. Loved the story but found the name 'Annag' irritating to read, thus the 1/2 star off. I was so happy when on page 32 he called her 'Anna'. So much easier to read smoothly. (Just a personal preference.)
Anyway, Lady Anna Calder is a widow, and gratefully so as it was a horrible marriage forced on her by her father. The love of her young life was James and it broke both their hearts to be parted. Ten years later they are reunited and of course the love was easily rekindled. The conclusion of all the Brethren coming together to find the bad guy and cleverly involving the women was well done!
The story is well done and keep my interest from start to finish. I have thoroughly enjoyed this 5-part series, reading them in order and consecutively. Yes, I do recommend the 'BrethrenIn Arms' series & will send them to my cousin who likes similar books.
Loved the series! Well done, Elizabeth Johns!
Anyway, Lady Anna Calder is a widow, and gratefully so as it was a horrible marriage forced on her by her father. The love of her young life was James and it broke both their hearts to be parted. Ten years later they are reunited and of course the love was easily rekindled. The conclusion of all the Brethren coming together to find the bad guy and cleverly involving the women was well done!
The story is well done and keep my interest from start to finish. I have thoroughly enjoyed this 5-part series, reading them in order and consecutively. Yes, I do recommend the 'BrethrenIn Arms' series & will send them to my cousin who likes similar books.
Loved the series! Well done, Elizabeth Johns!
April 23, 2024
2 Stars
This is the first book I have read in this series. I read the first book after this one and I liked this one better. This is a second chance at love story. The reason for the initial breakup is more believable then in some novels. Once back in their hometown, they pretty much fall right back in love with each other; well, not that they have ever stopped.
Like in the first book (and the others too maybe?), there's a villain that must be thwarted and brought to justice. All the 'brothers' and others get together to do so.
I do not plan to read any more of the books in the series.
CONTENT:
Intimacy: Kissing only.
Violence: The h gets slightly hurt in an altercation in later chapter.
Bad Language: None that I recall.
This is the first book I have read in this series. I read the first book after this one and I liked this one better. This is a second chance at love story. The reason for the initial breakup is more believable then in some novels. Once back in their hometown, they pretty much fall right back in love with each other; well, not that they have ever stopped.
Like in the first book (and the others too maybe?), there's a villain that must be thwarted and brought to justice. All the 'brothers' and others get together to do so.
I do not plan to read any more of the books in the series.
CONTENT:
Intimacy: Kissing only.
Violence: The h gets slightly hurt in an altercation in later chapter.
Bad Language: None that I recall.
November 4, 2022
Captain James Frome has some exceptional traits. But understanding his own worth is not one of them. Ten years have passed since James last saw Anna, before she became Lady Calder. He is heart broken over their lost love, and hopes never to set eyes on her again. However, he must return to the family holdings and gauge what must be done to save the land. When the two chance to meet in an old favorite spot, both realize that they still love each other. Neither of them are ready to make amends. But life takes an unexpected turn when events keep them from avoiding each other. As Anna makes her feelings known, James plays the “stupid male” and doesn’t seem to catch on. I have to give Anna the gold for not giving up on him.
November 7, 2022
clean romance
Four and a half stars for the stand alone continuation of a compelling series.
It is hard to not love the main characters and the fellowship they have formed through the trials of war. And love the strong ladies that they love.
This story is not different in that the hero and heroine struggle with a painful past with unrequited love and the challenges surrounding a chance for it to continue. They both struggle to feel worthy of the chance as well as rise above self doubts and past occurrences that shaped them into questioning their self worth.
Humor, love, forgiveness and a touch of intrigue wrap up a sweet story of the brethren and their ladies.
Four and a half stars for the stand alone continuation of a compelling series.
It is hard to not love the main characters and the fellowship they have formed through the trials of war. And love the strong ladies that they love.
This story is not different in that the hero and heroine struggle with a painful past with unrequited love and the challenges surrounding a chance for it to continue. They both struggle to feel worthy of the chance as well as rise above self doubts and past occurrences that shaped them into questioning their self worth.
Humor, love, forgiveness and a touch of intrigue wrap up a sweet story of the brethren and their ladies.
February 26, 2023
James and Annag
What a lovely second chance romance! I loved every bit of this story. The struggle to rekindle what was thought lost for ten years was epic; however the brethren came through with encouragement and the push needed to get them through to a satisfying HEA.
Both protagonists were brilliant. Elizabeth Johns really makes one care about her characters. Even silly Fenella with her Lydia Bennet ways came across as somewhat sympathetic. That’s hard to do, but she did it.
I need to go back to the beginning of this series and start anew. Brava, Ms. Johns, you continue to write engaging stories that keep your readers engaged.
What a lovely second chance romance! I loved every bit of this story. The struggle to rekindle what was thought lost for ten years was epic; however the brethren came through with encouragement and the push needed to get them through to a satisfying HEA.
Both protagonists were brilliant. Elizabeth Johns really makes one care about her characters. Even silly Fenella with her Lydia Bennet ways came across as somewhat sympathetic. That’s hard to do, but she did it.
I need to go back to the beginning of this series and start anew. Brava, Ms. Johns, you continue to write engaging stories that keep your readers engaged.
October 30, 2022
An idyllic brethren
This band of brothers is somewhat idealised—they work together in fraternal harmony, despite differences in station. And they treat their wives as equals. The interest for me was in the characters, rather than the plot, which employs the tropes of elopement, the threat of ruination and difference in social status. It is how these brothers in arms close ranks in service to a friend, and the warmth they extend to his connections. And the fleeting appearance of Tommy is a delight.
This band of brothers is somewhat idealised—they work together in fraternal harmony, despite differences in station. And they treat their wives as equals. The interest for me was in the characters, rather than the plot, which employs the tropes of elopement, the threat of ruination and difference in social status. It is how these brothers in arms close ranks in service to a friend, and the warmth they extend to his connections. And the fleeting appearance of Tommy is a delight.
November 22, 2024
Best one of the Brethren in Arms
This story is by far my favorite of the series. I recommend you read them in order as you will better appreciate all the characters involved. All their stories are great. I loved this one because of its very natural plot twists (ie., very plausible turns in the story), and because the characters are all highly likeable and respectable except for the villain. There is all the humor you expect and more, and Ms. Johns' page- turner writing is ever present. This is a suspenseful, clean, historical recency romance. Suitable for young teens.
This story is by far my favorite of the series. I recommend you read them in order as you will better appreciate all the characters involved. All their stories are great. I loved this one because of its very natural plot twists (ie., very plausible turns in the story), and because the characters are all highly likeable and respectable except for the villain. There is all the humor you expect and more, and Ms. Johns' page- turner writing is ever present. This is a suspenseful, clean, historical recency romance. Suitable for young teens.
October 31, 2022
10 years later...
Ten years after being broken apart by her father, they meet again. The fires of love have been smouldering, but can they be reignited despite the baggage of war, a marriage, and the trials that ten years apart can load onto a person?
There are twists and turns to keep you interested ... and of course the brethren are around to help each other through any difficulty.
A great escape for a day of leisure, though I recommend reading the series in order.
Ten years after being broken apart by her father, they meet again. The fires of love have been smouldering, but can they be reignited despite the baggage of war, a marriage, and the trials that ten years apart can load onto a person?
There are twists and turns to keep you interested ... and of course the brethren are around to help each other through any difficulty.
A great escape for a day of leisure, though I recommend reading the series in order.
November 19, 2022
It has been too long since reading the previous books. A lot of it came back as I read. Even if viewed as a stand-alone (which it isn't) it is a good story. James took a long time to commit without really talking to Anna about his reasons or his feelings. It took her bratty sister and Anna's 8-year old son to get him to realize what he needed. Good story and a good end to the series, which I recommend.
Recommended.
Recommended.
November 24, 2022
Loved or Lost
Ten years is a long time to live unloved, but that was Annag's life. During all that time, James was at war. The depiction of all the characters was excellent, making it easy to judge who I was rooting for and who would be trouble. I enjoyed the storyline and how all the characters coped with what life had thrust upon them. I really enjoyed the camaraderie between the brotherhood and their wives. The ending was perfect.
Ten years is a long time to live unloved, but that was Annag's life. During all that time, James was at war. The depiction of all the characters was excellent, making it easy to judge who I was rooting for and who would be trouble. I enjoyed the storyline and how all the characters coped with what life had thrust upon them. I really enjoyed the camaraderie between the brotherhood and their wives. The ending was perfect.
November 30, 2022
Another happy ending
If you have read any of the other books in the Brethren in Arms series you’ll be glad to read the story of James - Captain Frome. His one true love is now widowed - did she ever really care for him? Annag wonders why he seemingly abandoned her. It’s really not until her silly sister runs away with a rogue (hmm surprisingly similar to Lydia & wicked Wickham) that finally truth is revealed.
If you have read any of the other books in the Brethren in Arms series you’ll be glad to read the story of James - Captain Frome. His one true love is now widowed - did she ever really care for him? Annag wonders why he seemingly abandoned her. It’s really not until her silly sister runs away with a rogue (hmm surprisingly similar to Lydia & wicked Wickham) that finally truth is revealed.
December 28, 2023
She was a widow forced into a marriage of Convenience by her father. Her husband kept mistresses after she produced a heir. After he passed away his family sent her young son away to school to be educated as a peer should be.
He sold out of the military after the Napoleonic Wars and returned home to find his father’s health in serious decline and the farm in ruins. Oh what a happy beginning to a love story! No thanks!
He sold out of the military after the Napoleonic Wars and returned home to find his father’s health in serious decline and the farm in ruins. Oh what a happy beginning to a love story! No thanks!
October 26, 2022
A delightful and compelling story
A compelling story, appealing characters and a fitting continuation to the previous books in the series. It successfully captures the camaraderie of the band of brothers, and the complete trustt engendered by their shared experiences. AND no Americanisms or overly modern speech. A delightful and compelling read.
A compelling story, appealing characters and a fitting continuation to the previous books in the series. It successfully captures the camaraderie of the band of brothers, and the complete trustt engendered by their shared experiences. AND no Americanisms or overly modern speech. A delightful and compelling read.
November 27, 2022
What a great ending for the brethren in arms!
Having read the stories of each of this band of men, it is a wonderful ending for their story. The brotherhood of the men and the inclusion of their wives was so wonderful. James's story was bittersweet as he finally got the lady of his heart.. A must read series no to be missed.
Having read the stories of each of this band of men, it is a wonderful ending for their story. The brotherhood of the men and the inclusion of their wives was so wonderful. James's story was bittersweet as he finally got the lady of his heart.. A must read series no to be missed.
December 14, 2022
What Might Have Been
A most interesting story. James, the Scottish returned to Scotland after the war en. Their estate was in shambles, his father had developed dementia and was unable to run the estate. His poor mother had let all but a few of the servants go. Then he met Anna p, the love of his life.Just the beginning of a beautiful story, enjoy.
A most interesting story. James, the Scottish returned to Scotland after the war en. Their estate was in shambles, his father had developed dementia and was unable to run the estate. His poor mother had let all but a few of the servants go. Then he met Anna p, the love of his life.Just the beginning of a beautiful story, enjoy.
January 21, 2023
This is an excellent story of true love never dies
Excellent. He is miss judged by her father on wealth. Her father forces him to the army and marries his daughter to a rich despicable Lord. It starts ten years later. I have enjoyed this series of a band of brothers very much. I consider it a must read. Highly recommended for all readers.
Excellent. He is miss judged by her father on wealth. Her father forces him to the army and marries his daughter to a rich despicable Lord. It starts ten years later. I have enjoyed this series of a band of brothers very much. I consider it a must read. Highly recommended for all readers.
February 11, 2023
wonderfully written
A very well worded story of love and intrigue…. In a time when love matches were few and far between this group of five young men and brothers in arms have found true love matches in women who will stand up for and to the gentlemen in question … good job Ms Johns. I look forward to reading another period romance series of yours
A very well worded story of love and intrigue…. In a time when love matches were few and far between this group of five young men and brothers in arms have found true love matches in women who will stand up for and to the gentlemen in question … good job Ms Johns. I look forward to reading another period romance series of yours
February 14, 2023
The series came to an end with again a very satisfying instalment.
This author was new to me but I will certainly read the rest of her work.
Again in this second chance story we had a very relatable coming together of these star crossed lovers and a number of subplots which were not just diversions but conducive to the HEA and well integrated .
This author was new to me but I will certainly read the rest of her work.
Again in this second chance story we had a very relatable coming together of these star crossed lovers and a number of subplots which were not just diversions but conducive to the HEA and well integrated .
October 8, 2024
Excellent just really excellent
Fifth in the series and I strongly recommend starting with the first book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish and an excellent finish it was. These are such likable characters except the ones who aren’t and it was fun to really dislike them.
Beautifully written.
Fifth in the series and I strongly recommend starting with the first book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish and an excellent finish it was. These are such likable characters except the ones who aren’t and it was fun to really dislike them.
Beautifully written.
November 3, 2022
Great book
I loved this book and the whole series. We hadn’t got to know James much before this book so I was looking forward to reading his story and I was not disappointed. Highly recommended.
I loved this book and the whole series. We hadn’t got to know James much before this book so I was looking forward to reading his story and I was not disappointed. Highly recommended.
November 13, 2022
To forgive...to begin again after rejection
I appreciated so much the humility of James, last to marry of the Brethern. His willingness to be a father to her first husband's son speaks volumes about his character. I am delighted to have met Anna and James.
I appreciated so much the humility of James, last to marry of the Brethern. His willingness to be a father to her first husband's son speaks volumes about his character. I am delighted to have met Anna and James.
November 18, 2022
Brethren in arms seies
I have read all five books in the series and loved every one thanks so much for keeping me entertained for hours at a time
I appreciate your stories are good clean romance no steamy love scenes. Keep up the good work. God bless
I have read all five books in the series and loved every one thanks so much for keeping me entertained for hours at a time
I appreciate your stories are good clean romance no steamy love scenes. Keep up the good work. God bless
November 23, 2022
What Might Have Been
This book is an exceptionally written regency romance. To be a story of fiction, this author has included situations that could also be used today. Great job Elizabeth John’s.
This book is an exceptionally written regency romance. To be a story of fiction, this author has included situations that could also be used today. Great job Elizabeth John’s.
November 27, 2022
Oh wow!
I have read this whole series back to back and enjoyed every single word! I couldn't wait to read the next book and the next. What a delightful series and mystery and intrigue and of couse romance is there in every single story. I highly recommend this series!
I have read this whole series back to back and enjoyed every single word! I couldn't wait to read the next book and the next. What a delightful series and mystery and intrigue and of couse romance is there in every single story. I highly recommend this series!
December 7, 2022
The best until the end.
The series was one of the best to read. Great stories of bravery, honor and happy ever after love stories. Adorable humor in between. Worth your time for quick reading.
The series was one of the best to read. Great stories of bravery, honor and happy ever after love stories. Adorable humor in between. Worth your time for quick reading.
December 11, 2022
Disappointed
Awkward use of language that had me rereading paragraphs to try to understand what was being said. Attempted humor missed the mark. It was an unsatisfying read with a strange cast of characters.
Awkward use of language that had me rereading paragraphs to try to understand what was being said. Attempted humor missed the mark. It was an unsatisfying read with a strange cast of characters.
December 25, 2022
A wonderful story by a talented author. Captain James is a seasoned Veteran. Now he’s retired and back home to ruined property and a family that needs him. Will he finally find romance with everything that is going on. Easy to read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews