Once an Heiress (Gilded Promises) by Renee Ryan

Once an Heiress (Gilded Promises) Reviews

• 
  Jennifer

  This was a surprise. It was clean, featured a wonderful H, and had a lovely message of hope and forgiveness. The plot was well paced and the author didn't let the angst be drawn out for too long. I adored the H. He was such a good man. The author gave him opportunities to flirt with, think about, or start a relationship with OW, but he never does. He stayed true to the h, even when he was furious with her in the beginning of this story. The h, on the other hand, was so frustrating. Filled with self loathing, it took a while for me to connect with her character. I understand what she went through and the motivation behind her decisions, but it was all just so frustrating.
  
  The development of the MCs's relationship felt natural and so sweet. And while the resolution to the h's familial problems was a little too easy, I found that I didn't mind it. Sometimes that's how it is in real life when you own up to your mistakes and look the people you've wronged in the face. The only thing that was unresolved was all the secrets and lying. Won't someone in New York recognize the h as her alter persona? What if people ask questions about the time she spent abroad studying music? This aspect of the story was unsatisfyingly swept under the rug.. An epilogue that takes place further in the future would have been appreciated as well.
  
  I would recommend this to anyone who likes inspirational Christian romance, a clean and safe read, with an amazing H and an h who grows on you. I do really admire what she tried to do, however msiguided it might've been. But the H really stole the show.
• 
  Lynda

  I have read several of Renee Ryan's novels and enjoyed them all. Somehow, however, I missed the beginning books in her Gilded Promises series; hoping I could read this one as a standalone, I eagerly snapped it up. Even so, I found myself unprepared for the depth of storytelling and how it engaged my emotions on a level that I have not experienced in a long time—this is one of the absolute best books I have had the privilege of reading this year.
  
  These characters are incredibly vivid and multifaceted. Flawed and sometimes a bit ugly, they are also honest, more so than we are willing to be with ourselves in many cases. Along with that honesty is a journey of self-discovery, of trying to understand who we are and what motivates us and those in our lives.
  
  That particular characteristic kept me turning the pages in fascination: to watch people willing to admit their missteps and struggle through resolving the issues that arise is empowering, regardless of what situation the reader may be facing. Hope exists, no matter how bleak things may seem.
  
  There is a strong faith element in this novel as well, especially as regards forgiveness. Interestingly enough, the forgiveness most necessary here is of self, of understanding that it is available from God, and often from others, if we but ask. As with salvation, it cannot be earned but it is freely given based on who God is. The reader is invited to watch that play out beautifully in these pages.
  
  The romance is incredible. Misunderstandings, fear, pride, the past, and even the future conspire to keep the hero and heroine apart, but rather than feeling cliché or implausible, the author skillfully uses these obstacles to build the romantic tension. And just when I thought the ending had come and it couldn't get any better, there were several more pages that led to a tearful and truly sigh-worthy ending.
  
  I really enjoyed this book of second chances, redemption, and love. I highly recommend it to those who enjoy historical romance, stories set in the Gilded Age, an interest in historical theater, or the parable of the Prodigal son. The characters come alive on the page, inviting us to journey with them a while and share their discoveries, maybe even spurring one or two of our own.
  
  I voluntarily received an Advance Reader Copy for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
• 
  Tricia Mingerink

  I probably shouldn't have started with book 3 first, but this was the one that first caught my eye to the series and I didn't realize it was the last book until I'd already started it. Oh well. It didn't seem to hurt my understanding of the book to have started with this one.
  
  Over all, I enjoyed the book. It was a good glimpse into the Gilded Age New York society. Sometimes some of the dialogue seemed a bit stilted and awkward. Still, it remained compelling enough to keep me listening, a good easy read to listen to without taking too much concentration.
  
  The Christian theme in the book is very light, more prominent at the end.
  
  The audiobook's narrator was good, but struggled with the male voices.
• 
  Bree

  If a reader is looking to be swept away in a beautiful story, they won't have to look past this book. It was beautiful and breathtaking to read. Each chapter held a glimmer of gold to it as you were taken back in time and given a gown or dinner coat. I was enchanted reading this story.
• 
  LisLovesReading E.Espinoza

  From the eye-catching earth tones in the captivating cover art, to the intriguing story contained within, Once an Heiress, by Renee Ryan, captured my attention and kept me continuously enthralled. Though it happens to be the third book in the Gilded Promises series, it can be read quite well as a stand-alone novel. Even though I have not yet read the first two books in the series, I was able to enjoy this book with pleasurable ease, because this novel combines elements of history, mystery, intrigue, faith, and romance that effortlessly meld together to create a uniquely satisfying story.
  
  The well-crafted elements of plot, characterization, and setting come together artfully to create an alluring reading experience. The entertaining plot of this novel is extremely clever and character-driven. There are also moments of mystery sprinkled throughout the story that are entirely satisfying and engaging. The characters are well-developed and experience remarkable growth as the story unfolds. The early twentieth century setting adds depth and history to the story as the characters interact backstage in a theater, visit in the drawing rooms of friends, and stroll along the sidewalks of New York City. Page after page, there is certainly much to enjoy about this novel.
  
  I can easily recommend this book to readers of historical fiction who also enjoy a bit of mystery and appreciate a dash of romance as well. Renee Ryan has certainly created a compelling novel that is well worth the reader’s time and attention.
  
  *I was provided a copy of the book by the author. All opinions in my review, whether positive or negative, are entirely my own.
  
• 
  Nova

  This is book #3 in the Gilded Promises series. It is the story of Gigi Wentworth.
  
  Gigi Wentworth is a Boston society darling who left behind everything for the sake of love. She learns the man she planned to elope with is nothing but a thief and a scoundrel. She is left in New York City saddled with debts made by the man she though loved her. Gigi must sell a prized family heirloom in order to survive but even that is not enough to get her home. She takes on the job of working as a lady's maid and keeps her identity a secret. Unfortunately a former friend discovers her.
  
  Christopher "Fitz" Fitzpatrick sets out to return Gigi to her rightful place with her family. He is also dealing with his own serious family issue but knows he needs to get Gigi back to Boston. He interacts with this "new" Gigi, and is shocked to find she has changed. She is not the frivolous beauty dressing in expensive gowns anymore. He finds she has become a woman he could grow to love. Can Gigi and Fitz find the trust they need to confront the past? Can they open their hearts to each other?
  
  I loved Gigi's story. She was in the first two books of the series. I like that Caroline and Elizabeth were both in this book as well as the ones that told their stories. Gigi and Fitz are a great couple and I enjoyed them finding their way back to each other.
  
  
• 
  Cindy

  Once an Heiress by Renee Ryan was a wonderful historical novel set during the Gilded Age in New York City. This is the third book in the "Gilded Promises" series which was preceded by Journey's End and A Touch of Scarlet.
  
  I love books that have strong, well-developed characters that almost come to life on the written page. Gigi and "Fitz" are two characters that fall into this category. In fact, I almost felt like they stepped off of the page into my life and they are still with me. Well done, Ms. Ryan.
  
  There is a conflict between these two flawed but lovable characters. Gigi feels she is beyond redemption of her past sins, but our God is a God of second chances.
  
  The plot flowed along very nicely and took me right along for the ride. I found myself getting so lost in the story that I lost all track of time. When a book is this good, I hate to finish the last page.
  
  I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romance novels. It's a story that follows the theme of the prodigal son. A story of redemption and second chances. A story to be embraced and loved.
  
  On a 5-Star scale = 5 Stars!!!!!
  
  I would like to thank the author for my copy of Once an Heiress. I voluntarily received an Advanced Readers Copy in exchange for an honest review.
• 
  Angela Aldridge

  A Very Nice Conclusion to Renee Ryan's Gilded Promises series.
  Gigi Wentworth, a former Boston society girl, made an unfortunate decision (a cad deceived her and left her almost penniless in New York) and she has been working in disguise as a lady's maid for about a year, trying to earn back a family heirloom from a crooked pawnbroker so she can return home - and hoping for her family's forgiveness.
  Christopher "Fitz" Fitzpatrick has been searching for Gigi, and is shocked when he finally finds her - she is definitely not the frivolous heiress he remembered. As they spend time together, Fitz begins to understand what Gigi is up against, and regrets that he didn't do more to keep her from choosing a cad. They begin to open up more about the past - can they forgive and trust enough to believe in a future?
  This was a page-turner for me, as usual with a book by Renee Ryan. Sorry to see the series end, and looking forward to her next novel. Highly Recommend.
  I voluntarily received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
• 
  Maria Dariotis

  I haven’t had the pleasure of reading Renee Ryan’s Books but I can tell you I’ll be looking her up.
  
  Can be read as a stand alone but reading the previous books gives you a clearer picture on the secondary characters. Boston socialite Gigi Wentworth has eloped with the man she believes loves and cherishes her more than anything. Leaving a life of wealth and privilege behind she travels to New York only to be abandoned by the man she believed had loved her. Selling a cherished family heirloom and taking a position as a lady’s maid to survive is a struggle for the once pampered young woman.
  Until she comes face to face with Christopher Fitzpatrick, her secret identity will be exposed.
  
  Christopher Fitzpatrick can’t believe the young Gigi has changed so much, not the spoiled heiress of the Boston Society but a woman of strength and character and he finds that the more he knows of her the more he falls in love. But he can’t allow himself to lose his heart he has his own issues.
  
  This was a well written book and the flow and development of the plot was nicely done. The characters were likeable, the romance beautiful and well crafted. Through redemption they find forgiveness and love.
  I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest unbiased opinion.
• 
  Kelly Knapp

  Can Gigi/Sally become the prodigal child?
  
  Because this Inspirational story was set at the turn of the 20th Century, I was surprised that it was not replete with Biblical verses, but the author penned a perfect cozy romance with tension and big moral issues.
  
  The author showed the protagonist in a real type of moral dilemma for the period. Gigi, daughter of blue blood Bostonians attempts to elope but finds herself stranded by the groom. Now considered a fallen woman, Gigi (calling herself Sally) fears going home to be rejected, finding herself taking on the duties of a maid and then finding a niche as a personal maid, who has the ability to provide etiquette to up and coming debutantes.
  
  But people from her past are searching for her and are getting close. And those who employ her are curious how a maid knows so much about proper decorum. As Gigi/Sally's two worlds begin to collide, will she become the prodigal child or a permanent outcast?
  
  Won as part of the Goodreads Firstreads giveaways
• 
  Elly

  I really enjoyed this book! It was so different from what I expected too! It was so much deeper and more thoughtful than I would ever have thought it would be. And I loved that! Instead of flighty thoughts and jumping into action (don't get me wrong, I enjoy that sort of thing), I actually got time to sit down and get to really KNOW the characters. Renee Ryan did such an amazing job of fleshing out Gigi and Fitz! I got to see all of the thoughts and struggles that might otherwise have been left out for the sake of the action. I go away feeling as though I know these characters better than even characters that have had an entire SERIES dedicated to their story! It was so unexpected and refreshing! Thank you Ms. Ryan! Once an Heiress is EXACTLY the book I needed to read right now; a reprieve from the norm. I'm SO glad I had the opportunity to read this! (Now I need to go back and read books 1 and 2 in the series!)
  
  I voluntarily received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
• 
  Amber Drake de sousa

  Nice characters, overdramatized
  
  As a whole, i did enjoy the book. I do tend to get wrapped up with characters i like and even though i thought the story line overdramatized and longer than necessary (how many times can one really stand to hear the same conflict without much movement from beginning to end, especially when the guys's "conflict" is a fear that his father's alzheimers is hereditary?). Some of the descriptions were quite over the top (can you tell menwhat a blue, the color of bottled lightning looks like? Or black as a ravens wing... Isnt a raven black all over?). I could have put the book down and did get bored but decided to just jump over paragraphs that were repetitive and it sweet, even if the romantic language reads like a Mexican or Brazilian novelas.
  
• 
  Jeanne Alfveby Crea

  Loved it! With "Once and Heiress", I had no expectations, I had not read the first two books in the series. This book can totally stand alone, as I read it, but it would have been fun to read all in order too. I was drawn in from the beginning and didn't want to put it down, I loved their story. Gigi and Fitz were likeable, flawed, but well developed characters that I found myself rooting for. I love stories that involve forgiveness and second chances. I thoroughly enjoyed "Once an Heiress". I read it in two days, and I stayed up until midnight finishing the book. This is a new-to-me author and I will definitely be reading more of her stories!
  
  I voluntarily received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
• 
  Holly

  Beautiful story of finding forgiveness in others and in yourself. A retelling of the Prodigal Son, Gigi has to lose everything before she learns what really matters. Meanwhile, Fitz learns that he must put his trust in the Lord instead of trying to handle everything himself. Together, they learn to look past each other's masks and discover the person inside.
  I did not want to put this story down, and couldn't help but cry tears of relief near the end. While Once an Heiress is the third book in the series, it can certainly be read as a stand alone novel. I definitely plan to read this story again! Disclaimer: I voluntarily received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. The aforementioned opinions are my own.
• 
  Brandy

  Once an Heiress is the 3rd, and I think final book in Ms. Ryan's Gilded Promises series. Set in Manhattan in 1901. I loved the first 2, but I think Gigi and Fitz's story is my favorite yet. Heartfelt, touching, and romantic. I couldn't put it down. I fell in love with Sally Smith (Gigi Wentworth) when we were first introduced to her. An runaway heiress disguised as a Ladies Maid. I adored Fitz. Christopher Fitzpatrick and felt for him with his father's story. I cried more than once. Although a part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone. But you will want to read the first two as well.
  I was given a copy for an honest review.
• 
  Laura

  Wonderfully captivating historical romance, beautifully written and engaging story. I haven't read anything by Renee Ryan before and will definitely be adding her to my favorite authors list!
  
  Gigi and Fitz are wonderfully complex characters whose stories draw you in quickly. The setting is rich in detail, as are the characters. I was caught by Gigi's hardships and struggle to find redemption immediately. And by her and Fitz's connection.
  
  Loved this book, was exactly the feel-good story I was in the mood for! Highly recommend.
  
  I received the book for free through Goodreads Giveaways.
• 
  Sondra Wayman

  I had read other Gilded Promises books with the other characters who are in the background of this story. I wept at what had happened to "Sally" understanding the times she lived in. I love the way Renee Ryan weaves faith in her stories...also the way she makes the story of the Prodigal Son and lessons from that Biblical parable come alive in this story! I totally recommend this book and this series. I voluntarily received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
• 
  Theresa Wade

  This is the first book I have read by the author Renee Ryan. This seems to also be book 3 of a series. I haven't read the other two and I found that it could be read independently to enjoy the book. It wasn't obvious if I missed some good information found in the previous books.
  
  I really enjoyed this story. The characters were well developed and the story was easy to focus on what was going on. I will be checking out the first two books as well as other books by Renee Ryan.
  
  
• 
  Sandy

  Boston society darling Gigi Wentworth leaves behind everything she holds dear for the sake of love—only to learn that the man with whom she’d planned to elope is nothing but a thieving scoundrel. Abandoned in New York City and saddled with debt, Gigi must sell a prized family heirloom, but even that sacrifice isn't enough to get her home. Her determination drives her to take on work as a lady’s maid, keeping her identity a secret…until she’s discovered by a former friend with a hidden agenda.
• 
  Tracy

  Ok story, but with this being the 3rd book in the series, I felt that the plot was just too similar to the others. I felt as if I knew the outcome of every situation so grew quite bored with it. Another drawback for me was the overly religious nature of the book, I'm sorry, but it just got ridiculous. It was almost childish how the main character thought some guy sitting in the clouds had planned out her life.
• 
  Patti

  I will miss Gigi and Fritz! Theirs is a romance story of God's love, redemption, and His restorative power! It is also a story of two lonely people with secrets who perceive in their minds how others will perceive them, IF they knew. What an eye opener awaits them!
  I would highly recommend this clean romance. There are many life lessons to learn throughout the pages.
  I voluntarily received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.