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The Daughters of Amhurst #3
The Gentleman's Promise
A social pariah due to her scandalous activities, Lady Sarah Beauchamp yearns for redemption to obtain a husband. The assistance of Society darling Mr. Jonathon Annesley gives her hope of success. However, the more effort he puts into helping her, the more she realizes the only esteem she wishes to earn is that of the handsome Jonathon. However, her reputation would potentially ruin his political aspirations.
Offering a gentleman's promise to help his sister's friend regain the favor of the ton should be easy for son of a viscount, Jonathon Annesley. After all, he's well liked and considered a rising star in Parliament. Until he learns Sarah's ultimate goal is a husband. No man is good enough and could ever appreciate her for all she is. But she is not for him—his focus rests solely on gaining reforms for society's weakest members. Yet, a promise made cannot be broken…
Each book in the Daughters of Amhurst series is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order. Series #1 The Earl's New BrideBook #2 To Win a ViscountBook #3 The Gentleman’s Promise
Offering a gentleman's promise to help his sister's friend regain the favor of the ton should be easy for son of a viscount, Jonathon Annesley. After all, he's well liked and considered a rising star in Parliament. Until he learns Sarah's ultimate goal is a husband. No man is good enough and could ever appreciate her for all she is. But she is not for him—his focus rests solely on gaining reforms for society's weakest members. Yet, a promise made cannot be broken…
Each book in the Daughters of Amhurst series is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order. Series #1 The Earl's New BrideBook #2 To Win a ViscountBook #3 The Gentleman’s Promise
- GenresHistorical Romance
230 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 17, 2017
7 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
About the author
Frances Fowlkes
10 books61 followersAfter viewing her all-time favorite love story, “Anne of Green Gables”, at the impressionable age of ten, Frances Fowlkes has been obsessed with affable boy-next door heroes, red-heads, and romance stories with lots of “highfaluting mumbo jumbo” written within their pages. It only seems natural then that she married the boy who used to pull on her curls in her high school English class, had not one, but THREE red-headed boys, and penned multiple love stories with bits of flowery prose.
When not writing, Frances loves spending time with her family, fangirling, and planning her next vacation.
Frances Fowlkes, originally a northern mid-westerner, now lives in the southeast with her ardent hero of a husband, three playful and rambunctious boys, and one spoiled standard poodle.
A self-professed Anglophile and summa cum laude graduate of LeTourneau University, Frances Fowlkes combines her passion for happily-ever-afters with her interests in both American and English histories.
When not writing, Frances loves spending time with her family, fangirling, and planning her next vacation.
Frances Fowlkes, originally a northern mid-westerner, now lives in the southeast with her ardent hero of a husband, three playful and rambunctious boys, and one spoiled standard poodle.
A self-professed Anglophile and summa cum laude graduate of LeTourneau University, Frances Fowlkes combines her passion for happily-ever-afters with her interests in both American and English histories.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 16, 2017
'The Gentleman's Promise' by Frances Fowlkes is book Three in the "Daughters of Amhurst" series. This is the story of Lady Sarah Beauchamp and Mr. Jonathon Annesley. I have read the other books but feel this can easily be a standalone book. Although Sarah fall from the grace of the town did happen in book One 'The Earl's New Bride' when she was younger trying to help her sister. But they easily catch you up in this book.
Sarah is wanting to marry like her two sisters but since the town hasn't let go of the past and her innocent scandal she doesn't get even a offer to dance. The Earl has up the dowry for her but nothing has changed. One day when talking to her best friend Olivia her brother Jonathon walks in to hear them wishing for a 'wish granting tree'. Jonathon finds out that Sarah is been pretty much turn away by the town. Jonathon offers to help her with getting back into the town's good graces.
This was a sweet captivating romance! I have enjoyed Ms. Fowlkes books and this was another great story to be added to this series.
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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Sarah is wanting to marry like her two sisters but since the town hasn't let go of the past and her innocent scandal she doesn't get even a offer to dance. The Earl has up the dowry for her but nothing has changed. One day when talking to her best friend Olivia her brother Jonathon walks in to hear them wishing for a 'wish granting tree'. Jonathon finds out that Sarah is been pretty much turn away by the town. Jonathon offers to help her with getting back into the town's good graces.
This was a sweet captivating romance! I have enjoyed Ms. Fowlkes books and this was another great story to be added to this series.
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
February 26, 2018
While the pace of the book was good and even, I wasn't able to enjoy the book much. The reading experience for m was dragging and it took me too much time to finish the book. I wasn't a fan of the story. I didn't get the feeling that I was reading a historical novel. There were definitely more boundaries on social setting, but Sarah's behavior reminded me the one of a modern woman. Not the one of a person of the ton was likable with the exception of the main characters and some of their family. I would have liked to see Sarah having some kind of success with her winemaking and her teas. I would have also liked to see people realizing that it wasn't Sarah's fault that her sister drunk too much of the tea she had made. In the end, I wasn't overly satisfied with the story.
March 24, 2017
**NetGalley Review**
I read this just after reading this story about an Indian girl being overqualified to marry. She had a doctorate and every guy who was proposed to her did not want to marry her because she was overqualified. The society looked down upon her for having the desire to read and study further.
When I read this book I found so many similarities with her and the society of then times. The society can be cruel even though they don't have a reason to just because of the reason of you not fitting into their perfect little box. Sarah was like that. She is intelligent but does not want to show it, it comes out when she feels that she cannot hold it back. She feels being intelligent is a sin and feels that marriage is the only thing that would bring her happiness because that is what the society inculcates into your brain from your childhood. However as the story progresses we find a rare creature called Johnathan who admires her for who she is; especially her intelligence. We fall in love with her, him and both of them together. An intelligent man and an intelligent woman falling in love...How can you say no to that?
I read this just after reading this story about an Indian girl being overqualified to marry. She had a doctorate and every guy who was proposed to her did not want to marry her because she was overqualified. The society looked down upon her for having the desire to read and study further.
When I read this book I found so many similarities with her and the society of then times. The society can be cruel even though they don't have a reason to just because of the reason of you not fitting into their perfect little box. Sarah was like that. She is intelligent but does not want to show it, it comes out when she feels that she cannot hold it back. She feels being intelligent is a sin and feels that marriage is the only thing that would bring her happiness because that is what the society inculcates into your brain from your childhood. However as the story progresses we find a rare creature called Johnathan who admires her for who she is; especially her intelligence. We fall in love with her, him and both of them together. An intelligent man and an intelligent woman falling in love...How can you say no to that?
December 31, 2017
Lady Sarah wants to get married like her two sisters but the town won’t let go of the past for the last two years and she doesn’t even get an offer to dance. There is a diary set up for Sarah by the Duke but nothing is happening. While talking to her best friend Olivia . Olivia's brother Jonathan offers to get Sarah in the town’s good graces again. Jonathan is a future Viscount. He is also a member of Parliament and has plans for building a school to help women. Society seems to be threatened by women with knowledge and Sarah is intelligent and sometimes have problems holding it back. While trying to repair Sarah’s reputation Jonathan and Sarah realize they have a strong attraction for each other. Jonathan realizes he wants to marry Sarah but some men try to change his mind and threaten to hold their votes - in Parliament and hold it over Jonathan's head.
I didn’t particularly care for this story. The plot was okay but didn’t really come together for me. I do advise you to read the book in this series in order as it brings everything together. I didn’t really connect with Sarah even though I do understand how in this era women weren’t weren’t supposed to be smart. I don’t really know what went wrong for me in this book I just know I didn’t care for it really.
I didn’t particularly care for this story. The plot was okay but didn’t really come together for me. I do advise you to read the book in this series in order as it brings everything together. I didn’t really connect with Sarah even though I do understand how in this era women weren’t weren’t supposed to be smart. I don’t really know what went wrong for me in this book I just know I didn’t care for it really.
March 15, 2017
I received this book from net galley for an honest review. Thank you!!
This novel was a good read. I enjoyed the plot, especially a woman who does things in society that many believe only men should be able to do.
For the last 2 years society has scorned Lady Sarah Beauchamp due to her poisoning tea. She has decided she wants to get her reputation restored after seeing the happiness her sisters have with marriage. Mr. Jonathon Annesley, a future viscount, makes a gentleman's promise to help restore Sarah's place in society. However, he is a member of Parliament and has great plans for building a school to help women. He wants this to pass legislation since he promised his mother after his cousin had fallen on hard times. He feels much guilt from it and will do whatever is necessary for the Parliament to accept his proposal.
Sarah, Johnathan, and Johnathan's sister Olivia attend a house party. Sarah is not received well. Society still scorns her and sisters. They make comments about Sarah and her sisters. Sarah is very well read and after her mishap two years ago, made herself more knowledgeable. She even made her own wine that has some healing properties. However, society believes that a woman cannot do this and they feel threatened by women with knowledge.
As Sarah and Johnathan try to repair her reputation, they cannot keep denying their attraction for one another. Johnathan realizes he wants Sarah as his wife, but some of the men at the party try to dissuade him from assisting Sarah and hold their votes over his head. Which path will Jonathan choose and does it it include breaking his gentleman's promise? When Sarah is accused of poisoning someone, will Jonathan stand by her or let society blame her for something she did not commit?
This novel was a good read. I enjoyed the plot, especially a woman who does things in society that many believe only men should be able to do.
For the last 2 years society has scorned Lady Sarah Beauchamp due to her poisoning tea. She has decided she wants to get her reputation restored after seeing the happiness her sisters have with marriage. Mr. Jonathon Annesley, a future viscount, makes a gentleman's promise to help restore Sarah's place in society. However, he is a member of Parliament and has great plans for building a school to help women. He wants this to pass legislation since he promised his mother after his cousin had fallen on hard times. He feels much guilt from it and will do whatever is necessary for the Parliament to accept his proposal.
Sarah, Johnathan, and Johnathan's sister Olivia attend a house party. Sarah is not received well. Society still scorns her and sisters. They make comments about Sarah and her sisters. Sarah is very well read and after her mishap two years ago, made herself more knowledgeable. She even made her own wine that has some healing properties. However, society believes that a woman cannot do this and they feel threatened by women with knowledge.
As Sarah and Johnathan try to repair her reputation, they cannot keep denying their attraction for one another. Johnathan realizes he wants Sarah as his wife, but some of the men at the party try to dissuade him from assisting Sarah and hold their votes over his head. Which path will Jonathan choose and does it it include breaking his gentleman's promise? When Sarah is accused of poisoning someone, will Jonathan stand by her or let society blame her for something she did not commit?
March 19, 2017
The Gentleman's Promise Is an easy read by Frances Fowlkes. The story of Lady Sarah, a young woman considered disgraced because she chose to educate herself through reading and who may or may not have poisoned her own sister. She truly seeks a husband that will accept her for who she is and to have the one thing that seems most elusive....true love. The struggles of overcoming what society thinks of her downfalls can only be won by a handsome man, who happens to be her best friends brother.
The Gentleman's Promise was a realistic interpretation of how society can hold people at fault for things that they assume rather than giving someone the benefit of the doubt. I truly enjoyed this read and will definitely be looking more of Ms. Fowlkes work in the future.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The Gentleman's Promise was a realistic interpretation of how society can hold people at fault for things that they assume rather than giving someone the benefit of the doubt. I truly enjoyed this read and will definitely be looking more of Ms. Fowlkes work in the future.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 14, 2017
This was a hard one for me to get through. I really didn't like Sarah that much. I like her much better in her sister's books...
Having said that, it did have an interesting storyline. Sarah's reputation had to be fixed if she was going to have a life in ton so her best friend's brother helps her along. They end up falling in love in the process.
This was just an ok read for me...
Having said that, it did have an interesting storyline. Sarah's reputation had to be fixed if she was going to have a life in ton so her best friend's brother helps her along. They end up falling in love in the process.
This was just an ok read for me...
April 17, 2017
Publisher's Description
A social pariah due to her scandalous activities, Lady Sarah Beauchamp yearns for redemption to obtain a husband. The assistance of Society darling Mr. Jonathon Annesley gives her hope of success. However, the more effort he puts into helping her, the more she realizes the only esteem she wishes to earn is that of the handsome Jonathon. However, her reputation would potentially ruin his political aspirations.
Offering a gentleman's promise to help his sister's friend regain the favor of the ton should be easy for son of a viscount, Jonathon Annesley. After all, he's well liked and considered a rising star in Parliament. Until he learns Sarah's ultimate goal is a husband. No man is good enough and could ever appreciate her for all she is. But she is not for him—his focus rests solely on gaining reforms for society's weakest members. Yet, a promise made cannot be broken…
My Thoughts:
This is the first book I have read by this author. The cover art alone was enough to pique my interest. I checked out the author's website and found most of her covers to be similar in type. They are actually quite lovely.
I also discovered this to be book #3 of this series, Daughters of Amhurst .
Our hero is a bit stodgy, but starts out with the notion that due to her nature our heroine, Sarah may be better off unmarried. This notion is so incongruous to his nature that to say it surprised Sarah is an understatement., but his feelings soon become something entirely different.
Since she had tried to help one of her sisters along the path to wedded bliss by serving a noxious herbal tea to the other lady seeking the affections of the same man, she has been a social pariah. After all she is not your usual society lady.
Jonathon offers to help her find her way back into the good graces of society.and invites her along to a house party that he and his sister are attending.
This is only the start of this well written, convoluted tale.
I gave this book 4.25 of 5 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 2.50 of 5 flames. There is not much in the way of physically sensual interaction between our hero and heroine as they seem to be always interrupted before things go further than a touch or a kiss.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I have reviewed voluntarily.
A social pariah due to her scandalous activities, Lady Sarah Beauchamp yearns for redemption to obtain a husband. The assistance of Society darling Mr. Jonathon Annesley gives her hope of success. However, the more effort he puts into helping her, the more she realizes the only esteem she wishes to earn is that of the handsome Jonathon. However, her reputation would potentially ruin his political aspirations.
Offering a gentleman's promise to help his sister's friend regain the favor of the ton should be easy for son of a viscount, Jonathon Annesley. After all, he's well liked and considered a rising star in Parliament. Until he learns Sarah's ultimate goal is a husband. No man is good enough and could ever appreciate her for all she is. But she is not for him—his focus rests solely on gaining reforms for society's weakest members. Yet, a promise made cannot be broken…
My Thoughts:
This is the first book I have read by this author. The cover art alone was enough to pique my interest. I checked out the author's website and found most of her covers to be similar in type. They are actually quite lovely.
I also discovered this to be book #3 of this series, Daughters of Amhurst .
Our hero is a bit stodgy, but starts out with the notion that due to her nature our heroine, Sarah may be better off unmarried. This notion is so incongruous to his nature that to say it surprised Sarah is an understatement., but his feelings soon become something entirely different.
Since she had tried to help one of her sisters along the path to wedded bliss by serving a noxious herbal tea to the other lady seeking the affections of the same man, she has been a social pariah. After all she is not your usual society lady.
Jonathon offers to help her find her way back into the good graces of society.and invites her along to a house party that he and his sister are attending.
This is only the start of this well written, convoluted tale.
I gave this book 4.25 of 5 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 2.50 of 5 flames. There is not much in the way of physically sensual interaction between our hero and heroine as they seem to be always interrupted before things go further than a touch or a kiss.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I have reviewed voluntarily.
April 23, 2017
This was a delightful story showcasing just how narrow-minded and fearful of knowledge high society could be. Sarah is shunned, because of a mistake two years prior and because she seeks to educate herself. But, she wants a husband. Jonathon is a well-respected member of society that makes a "gentleman's promise" to help Sarah redeem herself and find a suitable husband. In doing so, Sarah and Jonathon find themselves inexplicably drawn to one another. But, Jonathon also needs to fulfill a promise made to his deceased cousin. Marrying Sarah could ruin not only the plans he has been working so long and hard to see come to fruition, in honor of his cousin, but also ruin his good name in society. Sometimes, love isn't enough... or is it?
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley & Entangled Publishing, LLC in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley & Entangled Publishing, LLC in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
July 28, 2017
Okay, I completely missed the fact that this is the third book in a series. Which explains why I was a little bit lost and didn't get some of the references to the other books. I think I would have liked this much more, had I read the previous two. Sarah is a noble lady but is not accepted in society because she likes to do things like read. Jonathon vows that he will help save her reputation so that she will be able to find a husband. Those two end up falling in love, and there is a weird sex scene.
*This book was provided free for review by the NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
*This book was provided free for review by the NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
March 28, 2017
The Gentleman's Promise by Frances Fowlkes is Book 3 of the Daughters of Amhurst Series. This is the story of Lady Sarah Beauchamp and Mr. Jonathon Annesley. While this story is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone.
This was my first time reading Ms. Fowlkes work and I wasn’t disappointed. The author did a wonderful job of putting together a good storyline, a great cast of characters and a defined world that was properly portrayed for that time period. The writing was smooth and flowed well, keeping a steady pace and I found no lag or drag to deter me. Very enjoyable read and definitely recommended!
Please note that an ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
This was my first time reading Ms. Fowlkes work and I wasn’t disappointed. The author did a wonderful job of putting together a good storyline, a great cast of characters and a defined world that was properly portrayed for that time period. The writing was smooth and flowed well, keeping a steady pace and I found no lag or drag to deter me. Very enjoyable read and definitely recommended!
Please note that an ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
March 30, 2017
It's a lighthearted historical romance, and I loved reading it. I've loved first two books in this series and this one is just as good. Lady Sarah is unlike any woman, she is intelligent, she reads, and not afraid of stating her opinion. Unfortunately those are not the traits which anyone admires in a woman. Scandal has touched her life and now she is unable to find herself a husband. When her dear friend's brother, Jonathon offered his help to redeem her in the eye of society, she accepts. But little did they know, it will not be an easy task. Apparently Ton is not willing to forget her misadventures, nor forgive them. Soon Sarah realizes how futile her efforts have been, she might never be accepted in society again. Now all she can do is make sure that people she loves do not suffer the same fate.
I loved all the characters and it is quite well-written story. I adore historical fiction and Daughters of Amhurst is one of my most favorite series.
I loved all the characters and it is quite well-written story. I adore historical fiction and Daughters of Amhurst is one of my most favorite series.
April 6, 2017
When Mr. Jonathon Annesley makes a promise, he intends to keep it. His promise to his late mother was to fight to pass a bill to start a school to help former prostitutes find gainful employment. Another is to help his sister’s best friend, Lady Sarah Beauchamp, repair her reputation with the ton. Unfortunately for Jonathan, the two promises conflict with one another.
Lady Sarah has been shunned by the ton since she created a toxic tea to help her beloved sister win the heart of her true love. The tea was meant for her sister’s competition, but the plan backfired when Sarah’s sister was one of the ladies who drank the noxious tea. Everything turned out all right, except for Sarah’s reputation.
Jonathan trusts Sarah implicitly and knows she has suffered terribly for the mistake she made. He agrees to take his sister, Olivia, and Sarah to a hunting party in hopes of helping restore her to the ton. What Jonathan doesn’t plan on is falling in love with Sarah at the worst possible time in his career.
Fowlkes delights us once again with her complex and thrilling plot. I loved Jonathan from the very start. He defends Sarah even when she thinks she’s not worth defending anymore. Though they’ve know each other for years, Sarah and Jonathan embark on a natural progression into romance. It didn’t seem forced or all of a sudden, it was written like it was just the next step. Even though the timing couldn’t possibly be worse, Jonathan and Sarah were meant to fall in love exactly when they did. I’m not sure I’m explaining it correctly, but I hope you get what I am saying.
I know all the Daughters of Amhurst are now all secured with a husband and new families, but I do hope Fowlkes will give us a story for Olivia. I adored her friendship with Sarah and her meddling with Jonathan almost as much as the love story itself!
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Lady Sarah has been shunned by the ton since she created a toxic tea to help her beloved sister win the heart of her true love. The tea was meant for her sister’s competition, but the plan backfired when Sarah’s sister was one of the ladies who drank the noxious tea. Everything turned out all right, except for Sarah’s reputation.
Jonathan trusts Sarah implicitly and knows she has suffered terribly for the mistake she made. He agrees to take his sister, Olivia, and Sarah to a hunting party in hopes of helping restore her to the ton. What Jonathan doesn’t plan on is falling in love with Sarah at the worst possible time in his career.
Fowlkes delights us once again with her complex and thrilling plot. I loved Jonathan from the very start. He defends Sarah even when she thinks she’s not worth defending anymore. Though they’ve know each other for years, Sarah and Jonathan embark on a natural progression into romance. It didn’t seem forced or all of a sudden, it was written like it was just the next step. Even though the timing couldn’t possibly be worse, Jonathan and Sarah were meant to fall in love exactly when they did. I’m not sure I’m explaining it correctly, but I hope you get what I am saying.
I know all the Daughters of Amhurst are now all secured with a husband and new families, but I do hope Fowlkes will give us a story for Olivia. I adored her friendship with Sarah and her meddling with Jonathan almost as much as the love story itself!
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
April 12, 2017
Friends to Lovers Regency style.
Jonathan an aspiring politician and elder brother of Sarah's best friend vows to use his influence to rehabilitate Sarah in polite society (due to a foolish prank, she has been ostracised by all but family for the last two years). However, the views of the Ton are more intractable than he believed and it is now his reputation that is threatened. An enoyable piece of fluff.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
Jonathan an aspiring politician and elder brother of Sarah's best friend vows to use his influence to rehabilitate Sarah in polite society (due to a foolish prank, she has been ostracised by all but family for the last two years). However, the views of the Ton are more intractable than he believed and it is now his reputation that is threatened. An enoyable piece of fluff.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
April 12, 2017
I received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review. I loved the book. The love story of Jonathan and Sarah is well written and highly enjoyable. He tries to restore her place in society in order for her to find a husband and in the process comes to discover he loves her and does not wish for her marry someone else. I would highly recommend this book.
April 18, 2017
A social pariah due to her scandalous activities, Lady Sarah Beauchamp yearns for redemption to obtain a husband. The assistance of Society darling Mr. Jonathon Annesley gives her hope of success. However, the more effort he puts into helping her, the more she realizes the only esteem she wishes to earn is that of the handsome Jonathon. However, her reputation would potentially ruin his political aspirations.
Offering a gentleman's promise to help his sister's friend regain the favor of the ton should be easy for son of a viscount, Jonathon Annesley. After all, he's well liked and considered a rising star in Parliament. Until he learns Sarah's ultimate goal is a husband. No man is good enough and could ever appreciate her for all she is. But she is not for him—his focus rests solely on gaining reforms for society's weakest members. Yet, a promise made cannot be broken…
Review:
I was so angry on Sarah's behalf, she is a woman before her time and society shuns her for it. I love when historical romances feature a heroine is a bluestocking. There are so many twist and turns that the story can take with that type of heroine, which this story does. I loved Jonathon he is a man with a purpose and a good heart. He is willing to help Sarah get back into society's good graces, but also does not want her to lose her spirit. The romance was a slow build which made perfect sense for the story.
So I did it again, I read a series out of order, but if you know me that happens all the time. I can truly say that the Author did a great job of catching up on the events that lead up to this story. So if you read them out of order you will not have any problems. This is also a new to me Author and I really enjoyed her writing and her characters. I definitely want to go back and read about Sarah's sister who rode as a jockey in the derby, she sounds fun too.
4Stars
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book provided by the publisher.*
Offering a gentleman's promise to help his sister's friend regain the favor of the ton should be easy for son of a viscount, Jonathon Annesley. After all, he's well liked and considered a rising star in Parliament. Until he learns Sarah's ultimate goal is a husband. No man is good enough and could ever appreciate her for all she is. But she is not for him—his focus rests solely on gaining reforms for society's weakest members. Yet, a promise made cannot be broken…
Review:
I was so angry on Sarah's behalf, she is a woman before her time and society shuns her for it. I love when historical romances feature a heroine is a bluestocking. There are so many twist and turns that the story can take with that type of heroine, which this story does. I loved Jonathon he is a man with a purpose and a good heart. He is willing to help Sarah get back into society's good graces, but also does not want her to lose her spirit. The romance was a slow build which made perfect sense for the story.
So I did it again, I read a series out of order, but if you know me that happens all the time. I can truly say that the Author did a great job of catching up on the events that lead up to this story. So if you read them out of order you will not have any problems. This is also a new to me Author and I really enjoyed her writing and her characters. I definitely want to go back and read about Sarah's sister who rode as a jockey in the derby, she sounds fun too.
4Stars
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book provided by the publisher.*
April 14, 2017
Lady Sarah Beauchamp has spent the last two years shunned by society. She made a certain tea and accidentally made her sister ill. She has what society sees as terribly dangerous, a brain that she likes to use. Now she desperately wants what her sisters have, a happy marriage.
Jonathon Annesley is a politician who is trying to gain votes for a special project. He holds the respect of most of society and believes he can help his sister's friend restore her reputation.
An invitation for few days to a Viscount's country house for hunting seems like a nice gentle start.
This story gives us a taste of just how limited our female ancestors lives were. Thank you the suffragist movement. Our intelligent and brave heroine always puts the welfare of others above her own. Our hero is trying to do his best for everyone.
This is part of a series. While this story would be better if you read the previous books , you can still enjoy this one on its own.
I loved it.
Jonathon Annesley is a politician who is trying to gain votes for a special project. He holds the respect of most of society and believes he can help his sister's friend restore her reputation.
An invitation for few days to a Viscount's country house for hunting seems like a nice gentle start.
This story gives us a taste of just how limited our female ancestors lives were. Thank you the suffragist movement. Our intelligent and brave heroine always puts the welfare of others above her own. Our hero is trying to do his best for everyone.
This is part of a series. While this story would be better if you read the previous books , you can still enjoy this one on its own.
I loved it.
April 18, 2017
A very easy story to read. It very nicely told of a woman's fight for acceptance
From a society that is very unforgiving but along the way she finds something so much worthwhile, true love
I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley.
From a society that is very unforgiving but along the way she finds something so much worthwhile, true love
I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley.
April 27, 2017
"The Gentleman's Promise" is a sexy and intriguing installment to Frances Fowlkes' Amherst Sisters series. This novel focuses on Lady Sarah Beauchamp. She inadvertently poisoned a houseful of debutants who were seeking the attention of the Earl her sister ended up marrying. Unfortunately Sarah miscalculated her recipe and many of the girls became deathly ill including her younger sister who almost died. Sarah's a social pariah in the ton. Regardless of having a sizable dowry she has no suitors nor any invitations to balls or soirees. Her only solace is her best friend Olivia Annesley who is steadfast in her loyalty. Despite of the infamous poison incident Sarah still educates herself in the study of herbs. She dedicates herself in becoming extremely knowledgeable regarding the effects of herbs and their effects on the human body. Sarah's also become a skilled vintner of curative wines.
Olivia has several brothers the eldest, Jonathon, disbelieves that Sarah's situation is as dire as she and her sister describe. Jonathon's a young and up and coming member of the Tory Party in Parliament. He's working on garnering votes for a radical pet project, the formal education of former prostitutes. Jonathon, needs the backing of influential and conservative members of the House of Lords. He believes accompanying her and his sister to several social events will help Lady Sarah regain the ton's acceptance. Almost immediately Jonathon and Sarah find themselves thinking of each other as more than just friends. They're attracted to each other, especially when Jonathon discovers Sarah's fascination with the Kama Sutra. Even though they both know that Sarah isn't good for Jonathon they begin to succumb to their chemistry and attraction. Jonathon's attracted to many of the very qualities that make Sarah unacceptable in society.
Jonathon realizes that aligning himself romantically with Sarah is political suicide. Unfortunately at the same time he realizes he's completely in love with her. Especially the moment an influential Lord takes ill she's immediately accused of poisoning the man by his wife. Lord Vincent's health declines becomes during the night. And Jonathon is told to bring Sarah to help relieve the him of some of his ailments. After a long night Jonathon and Sarah's resolve is weakened by their exhaustion. Jonathon declares his love for Sarah and tells her he plans to marry her, he takes her to his bed.
In the morning the guests of the house party are still accusing Sarah of poisoning Lord Vincent. They say her plan all along was to cure him in an effort to redeem herself. Sarah's convinced that no matter she does she'll never be accepted by the ton. And if she marries Jonathon, their children will be shunned by society. Her friend, and Jonathon's sister, might never find a husband. And Jonathon's political career would be over. Sarah decides she must distance herself from Jonathon completely. She declares to all of the guests of the house party, she's officially giving up on conforming to society's standards. Sarah tells Jonathon all of the reasons why she can't marry him and he fights against her reasoning. But then he sees her logic, how it could affect his sister, and his future children. Then Jonathon lets her leave him.
I love the Daughter's of Amherst series. Frances Fowlkes creates unique and intelligent Heroines and Heroes who in their state of smitten-ness encourage and support them. The romance is definitely a slow burn. "The Gentleman's Promise" is filled with characters who are charming, engaging, and lovable. Sarah's origin story began in the first book of the series and has followed her throughout. Jonathon is a fabulous character in that he's a combination Alpha/Beta. He has the possessive protective Alpha traits and the Beta's nurturing and caretaker qualities. This series has been a true pleasure to read. I hope there's a spin-off series featuring Olivia and her brothers. I'd also like to see Lord Satterfield finally get the girl. Here's hoping.
To read the entire review please visit: http://wp.me/p4XqxF-1Rg
This novel was provided, voluntarily read, and honestly reviewed
Olivia has several brothers the eldest, Jonathon, disbelieves that Sarah's situation is as dire as she and her sister describe. Jonathon's a young and up and coming member of the Tory Party in Parliament. He's working on garnering votes for a radical pet project, the formal education of former prostitutes. Jonathon, needs the backing of influential and conservative members of the House of Lords. He believes accompanying her and his sister to several social events will help Lady Sarah regain the ton's acceptance. Almost immediately Jonathon and Sarah find themselves thinking of each other as more than just friends. They're attracted to each other, especially when Jonathon discovers Sarah's fascination with the Kama Sutra. Even though they both know that Sarah isn't good for Jonathon they begin to succumb to their chemistry and attraction. Jonathon's attracted to many of the very qualities that make Sarah unacceptable in society.
Jonathon realizes that aligning himself romantically with Sarah is political suicide. Unfortunately at the same time he realizes he's completely in love with her. Especially the moment an influential Lord takes ill she's immediately accused of poisoning the man by his wife. Lord Vincent's health declines becomes during the night. And Jonathon is told to bring Sarah to help relieve the him of some of his ailments. After a long night Jonathon and Sarah's resolve is weakened by their exhaustion. Jonathon declares his love for Sarah and tells her he plans to marry her, he takes her to his bed.
In the morning the guests of the house party are still accusing Sarah of poisoning Lord Vincent. They say her plan all along was to cure him in an effort to redeem herself. Sarah's convinced that no matter she does she'll never be accepted by the ton. And if she marries Jonathon, their children will be shunned by society. Her friend, and Jonathon's sister, might never find a husband. And Jonathon's political career would be over. Sarah decides she must distance herself from Jonathon completely. She declares to all of the guests of the house party, she's officially giving up on conforming to society's standards. Sarah tells Jonathon all of the reasons why she can't marry him and he fights against her reasoning. But then he sees her logic, how it could affect his sister, and his future children. Then Jonathon lets her leave him.
I love the Daughter's of Amherst series. Frances Fowlkes creates unique and intelligent Heroines and Heroes who in their state of smitten-ness encourage and support them. The romance is definitely a slow burn. "The Gentleman's Promise" is filled with characters who are charming, engaging, and lovable. Sarah's origin story began in the first book of the series and has followed her throughout. Jonathon is a fabulous character in that he's a combination Alpha/Beta. He has the possessive protective Alpha traits and the Beta's nurturing and caretaker qualities. This series has been a true pleasure to read. I hope there's a spin-off series featuring Olivia and her brothers. I'd also like to see Lord Satterfield finally get the girl. Here's hoping.
To read the entire review please visit: http://wp.me/p4XqxF-1Rg
This novel was provided, voluntarily read, and honestly reviewed
April 28, 2017
Just ok. I never really connected with the leads. I didn't care for Sarah, and I thought Jonathon was a bit stupid. Particularly, I thought his insistence on going through Parliament to create a reform school for prostitutes was a bit weird because that seems like something you would set up a private charity for, and his guilt over his cousin seemed a bit much to me. Also, he only ever spoke about the House of Lords even though he would have been in the House of Commons. I also didn't get his lack of understanding over why Sarah would want to get married. At the time it would have been expected for her to get married and want it, and honestly, I don't think a person does need a reason to want to get married. He was right that being married wouldn't make her happy automatically, but it's still well within her rights to want marriage.
I had conflicting thoughts on the scandal. Yes, what she did was awful, but also considering her wealth, beauty, and parentage, I feel like someone would have been willing to overlook/risk it to marry her.
My biggest complaint was probably the focus on the Kama Sutra. I just ranted in another review about this, but please HR authors, stop condensing India to sex/the Kama Sutra. It's gross and orientalist, and Sarah probably wouldn't have read it. The first publication of this in English was in 1883 aka 60 years after this book took place. I mean maybe somewhere she could have gotten her hands on it, especially if it was in Sanskrit, but there were multiple English translations in this book. This is something very easy to look up and the combo of anachronism and orientalism pissed me off.
Better than the mess of a second book, but the first was definitely the best of the three.
I had conflicting thoughts on the scandal. Yes, what she did was awful, but also considering her wealth, beauty, and parentage, I feel like someone would have been willing to overlook/risk it to marry her.
My biggest complaint was probably the focus on the Kama Sutra. I just ranted in another review about this, but please HR authors, stop condensing India to sex/the Kama Sutra. It's gross and orientalist, and Sarah probably wouldn't have read it. The first publication of this in English was in 1883 aka 60 years after this book took place. I mean maybe somewhere she could have gotten her hands on it, especially if it was in Sanskrit, but there were multiple English translations in this book. This is something very easy to look up and the combo of anachronism and orientalism pissed me off.
Better than the mess of a second book, but the first was definitely the best of the three.
June 6, 2018
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This was actually a fairly decent read. I did enjoy the story a lot more and I was able to get into the story a lot better than the previous book .
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