Julianna Bartlett never thought she would be living under her mother’s thumb once more. But after the passing of her husband, she and her daughter have little choice. While her mother is pushing for another marriage, Julianna is certain a loveless match will do nothing to repair what’s been broken.
Between a chance encounter and a meddlesome grandmother, two injured hearts might just find unexpected love.
My Review:
There is a matchmaking grandmother and her friends in Bath who are dubbed the “Gossiping Grandmas”. Simon Wayford’s grandmother seems to be the leader of the group and, he is not safe from the ploys they will enact to see him married. I loved Simon’s grandmother! She was one of my favorite characters besides him and widow, Julianna Bartlett. Lord Duckworth is cleverly brought into the story and it’s pretty funny how that dastardly duck is protected, even by the law!
I loved the literary society where books such as Pride and Prejudice were discussed and varying views were offered. It was funny that it was all women with the exception of Simon and his friend that he invited so he wasn’t so outnumbered. More matchmaking plots were being hatched…
Simon was a huge supporter of Julianna and her dreams. I thought he was such a dear man when he encouraged her and included Bridget, her daughter in so many things. He exemplified the saying, “Love is patient, love is kind.” by deciding he would wait for Julianna to be ready to take the next step and not rush her in their relationship.
Things to love:
he falls first
protective MMC
Bridget
writing and illustrating stories
stick races
reading aloud
This is part of the Hearts of Somerset series, but can be read as a standalone. If you enjoy Regency period romances with a friends to more trope, you’ll want to add this to your list of reads. This is the first book that I have read by this author, and I look forward to reading more of her books.
I received this complimentary copy of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
