| Title | : | Promises and Primroses (Mayfield Family #1) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 1629724572 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9781629724577 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 336 |
| Publication | : | First published September 4, 2018 |
Peter, Elliott’s eldest nephew, thinks the entire idea is ridiculous. A widower with two young daughters, he simply needs a governess, not a wife. Julia Hollingsworth certainly has the credentials and the experience, but is altogether too young and pretty for such a job. So why can’t he stop thinking about her?
Julia loves working as a governess, despite the objections of her mother, Amelia. And as it turns out, Amelia has a lot to say about the Mayfield men—none of it good. But Julia dismisses the rumors of ruined reputations and instead concentrates on helping Peter with his children and his fledgling business in canine husbandry. His kindness and gentleness is endearing—and increasingly attractive.
But Amelia, whose heart was broken thirty years ago by none other than Elliott Mayfield, is determined to prevent any relationship from blooming either between Peter and Julia—or between herself and Elliott.
Hearts and history collide as both couples must face their pasts and decide if risking it all is worth the promise of new love and a new future.
Promises and Primroses (Mayfield Family #1) Reviews
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I liked this a ton despite being really frustrated with two characters. The setup is a bit unique for a Regency romance in that it tackles class boundaries head-on as Julia's gentry mother, Amelia, married a banker and her children are solidly middle-class, though decidedly on the upper edge of that distinction. Further, Julia has been a governess for five years when the story starts, cementing her in that class. What makes this remarkable is that Kilpack makes it integral without feeling either too cheap or too heavy.
The story has two relationships and includes PoV from all four main characters. Which is good because either romance would have been a bit short on its own, Julia and Peter because they were so well-suited and Amelia and Elliot because it's a rediscovery rather than a new romance.
The problem I had with the story is that poor Julia is treated very badly by both her mother, Amelia, and her employer/interest, Peter. Peter lets her overhear a rather curt dismissal early on and his internal monologue is bent on removing her due to his attraction to her—and as a result making plans that are peremptory and, if not outright cruel, are certainly extremely unfeeling of both her and his daughters. Julia is loving and kind and does nothing to merit his censure. He stops short of blaming her for his attraction but that doesn't alter the fact that she would bear the brunt of the damage his plans would incur. This made it very hard to like Peter for the first half of the novel. Fortunately, once he concedes, he bends that same strength of purpose and honor in his pursuit of Julia and I liked him much better for it.
Amelia, Julia's mother, is a lot harder to reconcile myself with. She's bitter and that lets her give into her fears for Julia's position in the household of a despicable Mayfield. So she works very hard to manipulate that situation so that Julia will "come home". She's manipulative and controlling and determined to see the worst possible motivations and possibilities. As a result, her actions are, if not outright evil then certainly evil-adjacent. Don't get me wrong, her character's motivations make sense (which is good because we're at least partially in her perspective, here). But I don't like that when it comes time to choose, she makes the worst choice possible if she truly cares for her daughter's happiness.
Which sounds like a lot of bad for a book I'm going to give four stars. Offsetting my disappointment is a lot of lovely interaction with family, love, forgiveness, and kindness at its heart. Julia is awesome, yes, but not unreasonably so and I liked seeing her find strength without letting go of her kind heart. I'd say she's worth reading the story all on her own, but that does the plot and many of the interwoven themes an injustice. Really, Kilpack has a deft hand with crafting moving moments and building characters of faith and honor.
So what of the fourth main character? Elliot (Peter's uncle and Amelia's one-time intended) is maybe a little blinkered, but I liked him in an avuncular way. I loved that he admired Amelia and yet could still see her bitterness and call her out on it in a gentle but firm way that could penetrate her shield of fear and past pain. He's just a little bit delusional in his desire to help others but is still willing to give it a shot and actively solicits ideas for improvement from others. If he's the glue that holds the series together I won't mind.
So yeah. Four well-earned stars for a story that touched my heart.
A note about the publisher: I can't believe the ebook price Shadow Mountain is asking for this book. It's ridiculous and it makes me sad how that will limit the audience this fine book should have. Such a shame.
A note about faith: Kilpack does an excellent job showing how important faith and church are at this time. Church attendance plays an important role in the lives of the characters and bible stories are frequently referenced as both guide and precept, particularly in teaching children. I loved how well-integrated this was into the story and characters while still being a relatively light touch.
A note about Chaste: This is very chaste with just a kiss or two. -
What's better than reading one of Josi Kilpack's books and having a sweet love story? Why, it's reading one of Josi Kilpack's books and getting TWO sweet love stories to enjoy, of course!
I have to say that I am really looking forward to this new Mayfield Family Series. What a fun idea! And I must say that I'm pretty curious to see how many books will be written for it. After all, when you look at the family tree included in the beginning of this book there are many, many possibilities. I've been on a reading high with my last several books. All of them have been 5 star reads for me. And the characters within the stories have all had their struggles and stories of redemption. Promises and Primroses was no exception. For me it is very worthy of the five star rating, and then some.
Lord Elliot Mayfield, uncle, and the family Patriarch, has strived his whole life to help his family and create stability in the failing family estate. Through his own sacrifices and loss of what he had hoped for, he finds himself older and carrying a great desire to help his nieces and nephews find happiness by righting past mistakes. So emerges his marriage campaign (so named by the first nephew to be told about it).
I have to say that my favorite aspect about this book was how the author showed missed opportunities in some of the characters' lives and how they were given different opportunities, which shaped their lives and led them to become who they are. Yet with those missed opportunities, the author goes on to show that these characters embraced their lives and don't say 'what if,' or wish for what might have been. They accepted their mistakes, worked through the healing process, wanted forgiveness, and worked to make their lives the best they could and be grateful for what came their way.
Peter Mayfield has felt defined by the choices of his family's past. He has strived hard to be good and do good all his life. He will not allow any scandal to touch him. A widower and father of two young daughters, he believes himself content with where his life is now. All until an upsetting encounter. One that will forever find him changed. In doing everything he can to force his path away from one person, he soon learns that his path lies in the one direction he is fighting to avoid.
There are many great characters written into this novel. Sometimes we believe we know what is best for us or our family. But what we believe to be best only succeeds in pushing us away from what we truly want and what is truly best. How to find that balance, protect your heart, hide the aches and keep living with love in your life, is what these characters must figure out.
I finished reading this and wanted to return right away. I wasn't ready to close the book and say goodbye for now to these flawed, yet hopeful, characters who had become friends. If you haven't read any books by Josi Kilpack this one would be a great one to pick up and begin discovering the fabulous author she is. I have been a fan of her books since she first started writing. Her writing style is one I truly enjoy but I think the strongest pull that I have to her books would be the characters. She writes them in a way that I can connect easily with, flaws and all. I'm always drawn instantly into the worlds and lives of the characters and feel as if their struggles and joys could easily be related to me and many other readers.
Julia and Peter have such a sweet and gentle love story. If you're a regency era reader, the gentlemanly manners will have you swooning and sighing. You'll be cheering these two on and wishing Peter would see everything more clearly. His daughters are such a fun addition to the story and will steal your heart away. Dog lovers will also enjoy the addition of Peter's love of dogs.
I'm very much looking forward to seeing who the next candidate for Lord Elliott's marriage campaign will be.
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!! -
If you are looking for historical romance, then check out this book because it combines all of the things I enjoy - dogs, romance, independent women (despite the times), and secrets.
I really love Julia. She is independent, knows what she wants, and isn't afraid to do what she wants after all it is her life! Her mother is her biggest stumbling block and many times I wanted to tell Amelia that she needed to get over the past and stop harboring a grudge. Yes, things didn't go your way but don't let it interfere with Julia's life.
Then there is Peter - very concerned with doing the right thing but putting himself last when he should put himself first since if he is happy then everyone is happy!
We can't forget Elliott - the bachelor uncle that just wants to see his nieces and nephews happy and married so he has set up some challenges for them and if they make an appropriate match they inherit something or will be gifted something special. Of course, Elliott never expects to meet his soul mate. I think these challenges are some peeks into future books and making this a series.
I was intrigued with the dog breeding because while I know has been happening for centuries, I never thought much about the topic until I read this book. I thought it was genius that Peter left Marjorie name one of his Dams (female) and she chose to name her Bumbleberry. There were many touching moments with the dogs throughout the book and even one tearjerker moment.
Overall I really enjoyed the flow of the book, the characters (good and bad), and the potential for future books with cameos by Elliott, Peter, Julia, and more. -
FINALLY! I picked up a book, held it in my hands, and read it from cover to cover in a couple days. It’s been FAR too long. I have been sticking mostly to audiobooks as of late, so it felt glorious to actually have a book in hand and not put it down after one or two chapters.
I enjoyed reading through the eyes of the multiple POVs: Julia and her mother Amelia, Peter and his uncle Elliot. I’m not gunna lie. I low key was more invested in Amelia and Elliot because of their history, the bitterness, the fighting, the misunderstandings. I loved every second of it. (Even when Amelia was being unreasonable because of past heartbreak.) Julia and Peter were another type of sweet with some mishaps and misunderstandings, but overall very well suited.
I don't want to jump the gun because I don’t have much faith in myself at the moment, but maybe I can keep the reading momentum going. Maybe I will be able to reach for another book. Maybe one will call out to me and I'll hear it over the roar of Netflix.
In summation, if you haven’t read Josi Kilpack’s books yet, I suggest you get on the bandwagon and get to reading. If you love Jane Austen, you will love her.
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The Regency books this author has been writing lately are so unique and fun! The very beginning of the book has a family tree and I loved studying that to try and get a feel for who the characters were before I began reading it, but I was kind of surprised that not many of those said people even made an appearance in the story. I'm definitely going to be watching for more in this series because I'm really curious now.
This particular installment focuses on Peter and his never-married uncle, Elliot. Peter needs a governess and finds one in Julia, but her mother, Amelia, has a connection to Elliot and disapproves of this position. Have I confused anyone yet? I promise, the story makes sense and is written in a very clean way, while showing four different points-of-view. This is such a satisfyingly sweet and cozy story that brought out all the feel-good feelings.
Julia doesn't need employment, but thrives in her work, especially as she comes to care for and teach Peter's two young daughters and assists in the dog breeding hobby on the estate. Those two things really set this story apart, adding interesting dimensions to the plot, to go along with the vivid characters. And those characters are what blow these books away--they are so dimensional and written so well. I've been reading books by this author since her early days of writing and I'm beyond impressed at how much she's grown and developed as a writer, which is apparent by the quality of her books.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.* -
La historia es bonita, pero me ha resultado muy cortita y a veces un poco narrativa.
El romance es muy light, y el epílogo inexistente. -
$2.99 on Kindle 5/6/20
https://amzn.to/2YIIO8a
This is a book I finished with a sigh and satisfied smile. Isn't that the best feeling? The premise of the book and series with Lord Elliot's marriage campaign is unique and intriguing, and I'm looking forward to the books that are sure to follow. This first book focused not only on the oldest nephew, Peter, but also explored the history of Lord Elliot's past relationship with Peter's governess's mother. The four-person point of view wasn't overwhelming at all, but seamlessly woven together in a lovely balance as each character worked through their issues. I especially loved Julia and her selfless service for Peter and his children, even though she doesn't have a need for employment. The slowly blossoming romance between her and Peter was oh-so-good and despite the conflicting family dynamics, they are able to find their way to a happily-ever after. Such a wonderful Regency romance with depth and the promise of more to come!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own) -
I’ve come to realize that the books in the “Proper Romance” collection earn mixed reviews from me. Sometimes I love the stories and sometimes I don’t. Promises and Primroses, unfortunately, falls into the latter category. While the cover is beautiful, the story itself wasn’t very interesting to me. I didn’t care for the 4 different points of view, and I feel like I never really connected with any of the characters. I didn’t ever get excited or feel warm fuzzies when I was reading, and I WANT to feel excited and swept off my feet when reading a proper romance.
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I love (adore, am crazy about, put on a pedestal) Josi Kilpack, and don't think I've read anything by her that I haven't liked. That being said, there's a character in the book named Mara, and I'm not sure if I should be happy about it. She's Peter's mother, a seventeen-year-old chambermaid, who married Peter's father only weeks before Peter's birth. They had two more children, and following her husband's death she became a recluse for a decade refusing to leave her home and treating her various maladies with gin or laudanum, or both." So. . .thanks? (lol)
I found out about this new Regency series when I met Jennifer Moore a few months ago (fangirl squeal), so I stalked NetGalley until it appeared and I could request it. When I got the approval email I squealed (I squeal a lot) and did my I-got-approved-to-read-a-book-happy dance. I'm so excited for this new series about the Mayfield family. There's a family tree at the beginning of the book, which means there could be quite a few books coming.
When Lord Elliott Mayfield's father died, Elliott gave up a great deal to "restore the family coffers and then grow his personal wealth." He never married and used his wealth to take care of his nieces and nephews. He wants them to avoid the marital problems and scandals that his brothers and sisters have caused others to associate with the Mayfield name, and he comes up with a "campaign" to entice them to make better choices including marrying responsibly.
His nephew Peter, is the only one who married, had a family, lives an upright life and has managed to stay away from scandal. Peter is now a widower with two young daughters in need of a new governess. Julia Hollingsworth loves being a governess and fits right in with the Mayfield household--she's patient and kind with the Peter's daughters, and also knows about raising dogs (Peter breeds dogs). Unfortunately, her mother, Amelia, was once in love with Lord Elliott Mayfield and she wants Julia out of that house now, and seems determined to get her way no matter the cost.
This isn't just Peter and Julia's story, it's also Elliott and Amelia's story. Peter and Julia's story is about Peter letting his heart mend enough to let someone else in, but Elliott and Amelia's story is about Amelia letting go of the hurt that Elliott inadvertently caused her by his abrupt departure when his father died.
Josi Kilpack's characters are so well written that I come to love them, hate them, and want to throttle them. I loved Peter and Julia--he misses his wife so much he pours most of his energy into breeding and training his dogs. Julia is perfect for his family but it takes time for him to see that and see that she loves his daughters as if they were her own.
Elliott wants to stop his nieces and nephews from making the same mistakes their parents had made. He wants the future generations to be better and had sacrificed having a family of his own building up the family fortune so he could use that to take care of them.
I wanted to wring Amelia's (Julia's mother) neck several times. Yes, Elliott had hurt her, but it wasn't intentional, and she went on to marry and have a family with a wonderful man. But she hadn't forgiven Elliott--she was still holding onto the hurt over 30 years later. Amelia didn't understand Julia and didn't treat her as an adult (she was 27 years old) who could make her own decisions. My heart didn't soften towards Amelia until almost the end of the book when she visits Peter Mayfield's house and finally talks with instead of to Julia.
Parenting adult children can be a fine line to walk. Having lived through it, I know it's difficult to show love for them when they make choices you don't agree with. As Amelia tells Julia "I felt that if I came, I would be showing support for a choice I did not agree with, and so I did not come." Sometimes what we want for them blinds us to how great they are without our help. "I am sorry that I have been so set on what I wanted you to be that I have not realized what an exceptional woman you truly are."
I loved the ending of this book. How can you not, when you get not one, but two, happy endings. I look forward to reading more about the Mayfield family. Thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain for allowing me to read and review this book. -
Josi Kilpack is an author I have complete confidence in. I know that no matter what she writes, I am going to enjoy it. She has ventured into some varying genres over the years and I am always so impressed with her ability to write such great stories.
This is the beginning of a new series and it gives us a great introduction to a family, led by an uncle that is trying to change their bad reputations. You just have to know that this set up will bring us several interesting characters! Honestly, I was completely confused and a little overwhelmed as I studied the family tree in the beginning of the book. I eventually gave up and decided to just start the story and refer back if I needed to. I think the family tree will be more helpful in future books as more characters are introduced.
I really loved Peter in this story. He is so determined to do everything exactly right and properly. Given his history, this mentality makes perfect sense. But unfortunately, love rarely makes perfect sense. Poor Peter is really thrown for a loop.
Julia is everything lovely. I would love to have her as a friend.
There are two separate story lines happening in this book, sort of intertwining their way around each other. I liked the alternating voices which gave me a chance to understand the character's way of thinking and (kind of) like them even when they were acting very unlikable. (Amelia!)
I'm excited to see where this new series takes us!
Content: Clean
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own. -
Promises and Primroses is another wonderful book by Josi Kilpack, and I am looking forward to more books about the Mayfield family. I loved everything about this book. The characters were wonderful. I enjoyed the alternating point of views immensely. It brought a wonderful depth to the story and added an intriguing take on situations, whether they were past misunderstandings, or current aspirations. I especially loved Julia. Her kindness was what I loved the most, but her amazing knowledge of raising dogs, won me over the most. Peter and Elliott were also wonderful. Peter is honorable and kind. Amelia, well, it took time for her to win me over, but her intentions were there. I loved how the story revolved around all four people and the challenges of getting them together. There was one scene (well, actually two scenes) with Peter and Julia that I read several times because I loved them so much.
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A Heartwarming, unique and clean regency era romance read. Highly recommended if you enjoy this genre. Once you start reading, it’s EXTREMELY hard to put it down and move on with your life! So I advise you to clear your schedule once you get started.
Our main characters are Julia, a “spinster” by choice who has a complicated relationship with her mother and Peter, a widower with 2 young daughters and a slightly interfering albeit helpful and devoted Uncle. I loved each of their histories which added a different flair to the story and also the dog addition. I loved these characters, and especially how comfortable Julia is in her own skin. It’s the first in a series, and I look forward to what is to come for the Mayfield family!! -
Promises and Primroses is the charming first book in a new series by Josi. S. Kilpack. I enjoyed the book and how the author writes. There are believable obstacles to Happily Ever After for the two couples involved. I liked that after Elliott broke Amelia’s heart, she found a good man to love and share her life with. Peter and Julia’s relationship is proper for the times – no falling into bed before they’ve done much more than say hello (or, indeed, until they are married). When Julia accidentally reads a letter not intended for her eyes, it doesn’t lead to pages of misunderstanding – she confronts Peter with it and the misunderstandings are cleared up.
The plot involves no surprises, but the characters are real and flawed, and it was fun to watch the two couples travel from A to B. It was also nice to see middle-aged people pursuing romance and Happily Ever After. And the story features dogs!
If you enjoy clean, well written romances with thoughtful storylines, I recommend Promises and Primroses. I read an advance reader copy from Netgalley. -
Every book I read by Josi Kilpack gets better. She is a fabulous writer and I love the first in this new series about the Mayfield Family. I can't wait to read more! In this first novel, we meet Lord Elliot Mayfield, uncle to several nieces and nephews with an idea for a marriage campaign. His nephew, Peter, wants none of it and is content to be a young widower with two children until he meets his new governess, Julia. I absolutely loved Julia's unconventional character in this book. She loves caring for children and dogs and ends up in the perfect household. The way the romance develops in this story is careful, slow, and subtle, yet thrilling for my reader heart at the same time.
While Julia and Peter are navigating a new friendship developed in addition to their employer/servant relationship, Julia's mother, Amelia is pulled back into the past when she meets the man she once thought she would marry, Uncle Elliot. At first I thought Amelia's character would play a very small role in this story, but she ended up being a major force for the theme of this book and I loved it. I highlighted a passage near the end of the book when Julia talked with her mother Amelia about what we can do about past regrets and finding joy despite hardships. I do hope that you read the book and notice page 290 for that paragraph that rang so true for me.
This novel is another excellent addition to the proper romance line and I'll be eagerly awaiting the next book! -
It's well written and smooth as silk. It's 3.5 stars but I can't round it up because the eventual outcomes were all clearly obvious from the first third of the book onward.
The characters were well defined and I especially like Uncle Elliot's "plan" for his 7 nieces and nephews. In that age, I could easily comprehend how that might "work" well to future family solidity and structure.
Somehow I don't think pure romance genre is for me, even in its best styles and forms, like this one is. They almost seem "other-worldly" to me; it's hard to imagine the modesty and restriction in these humans when you view the behaviors exhibited today. And the early, early sexualized language, style in dress etc. for children, especially girls. The courtships here in this age (in which everyday life was less "gifted" in rights or in leisure for most people) of much slower speed and increased sensitivity toward slight emotional reactions in just one aspect alone!
So it's nice to remember that it sometimes can be like this now too, I guess. With a kind friendship evolved over time to a couple identity and bonding in life partnership.
And with all those early deaths! Not uncommon. -
Relaxed reading enjoyment, this story explores a young Englishwoman's determination to find and fulfill her place of independence in the 1800s world. Maternal opposition is thoughtfully portrayed as is our mc's strength in defending her position. Excellent storytelling, I look forward to book 2 of this familial series.
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The first book in a series and I listened via Audiobook with a reader that I enjoyed. The book is written from 4 points of view and each chapter a different character is given voice to move the story along. I thought the book very slow and predictable. I kept waiting for something, anything to happen to move the plot along. The big reveal of what happen just fizzled for me. I read the 3rd book in the series and found it very entertaining. Many others enjoyed this book and it maybe one of those its me not you things.
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This was a nice introduction to historical romance, though I much preferred the younger couple to the older one.
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A third of the way through, I realized this was Christian fiction 0.0 !!!
But it was Christian in the moralistic sort of way and (as Iyabo helped me realize), that is sort of similar to many of the classics which may explain why I liked it.
That is all. -
I really enjoyed reading Promises and Primroses by Josi S. Kilpack. The story revolves around four main characters and two different romantic relationships in this story: one old and one new. First we have Elliott Mayfield, the fifth Viscount Howardsford. He has a master plan to encourage (strongly) wayward nieces and nephews to clean up their lives. (I predict a series!) The first “victim” isn’t really a victim at all. Peter Mayfield, Elliott’s eldest nephew and heir, is the only one of the bunch that has a stable life, is financially sound, and is a true gentleman. Peter, a widower, is in need of a governess for is two little girls. Enter Julia Hollingsworth, an independent young woman determined to live her life as she sees fit. Amelia Edwards Hollingsworth is Julia’s lovely, yet opinionated, mother who has unpleasant memories that involve Peter’s uncle Elliott. Pride, pain, prejudice, and the past greatly impact the way these four people’s lives then intertwine.
The author’s writing style is very smooth. I was pleasantly surprised that I wasn’t distracted by any typos or grammatical errors. Not an easy feat! Ms. Kilpack does a great job of describing the characters’ emotions and what drives them to make the decisions they do. I quickly felt that I knew them well. It wasn’t difficult to figure out how the story would end, but was I still drawn into the story and had a hard time putting the book down. Peter and Julia have chemistry galore. The slow-burn nature of their romance becomes as hard for the reader to endure as it is for Peter and Julia!
Overall, I have nothing to say except READ IT!
The book in this review is an ARC provided to me by the author and/or publisher via NetGalley.com in exchange for my honest opinion. -
***4.5 stars***
This book is about love lost, second chances, and new love.
Elliott Mayfield is fed up with his family and their scandalous behavior. He has a plan to get everyone back on the right path by offering the an incentive. This plan he calls "the marriage campaign." He will help everyone one at a time if they can make a respectable match.
His first "victim"is his heir, Peter. Peter is a widower and not inclined to participate. Regardless of his refusal, fortune finds him when he reluctantly hires Julia Hollingsworth as a governess. She is perfect for his two adorable daughters and share his love of dogs. Yes, dogs. They play an important role in the plot of this book.
You will not find just one romance, but two in this book. Elliott has his own surprises in store when he finds that Julia's mother is the woman he loved and lost in his youth. The book is told from four points of view. It is interesting to see what the principal characters are thinking and feeling. This may seem like a lot to take in, but Josi Kilpack writes it all beautifully. It is easy and interesting to follow along.
Josi Kilpack has a way of weaving humor, romance, and conflict into her stories that is amazing. She knows how to grab and hold my attention. I have enjoyed every single book of hers that I have read, and I have read several. She is a "go to" author for me.
I am excited that this is the first book of a series. I look forward to more time with the Mayfields.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. -
I love it!! The story is very sweet and very cute! Yes, cute! There were 2 couples in this book, they each had different stories but they’re both intertwined beautifully in one book. The moral story that I got about forgiveness is stuck in my mind... I highly recommend it!
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PROMISES AND PRIMROSES is a delightful story! There are two storylines that intertwine, great characters, and plenty of tension to keep things interesting. A sweet beginning to this new series about a family who needs some saving and an uncle who is trying to do so in his own creative way.
This was a fun story to read! I always appreciate when an author can write dialogue that feels genuine and is also engaging. The characters were easy to relate to and the plot had enough twists and turns with some emotional pulls that kept me interested in what would happen next. I loved the chemistry between these characters, particularly between Julia and Peter, although both couples have great chemistry. I don't always enjoy stories with two different storylines, but I was okay with how these two different romances played out. The romance is of course the focus of the story, but there was also a bit more going on here. There is the whole situation with Peter's uncle and their family as well as with the dogs. Peter's little girls were also adorable and added another enjoyable aspect to the story.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I really enjoyed reading this and am looking forward to Peter's brother's story next and to get to know others in the Mayfield family who may need to redeem themselves.
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review nor affect it in any way. -
In the back of the book are questions to reflect on. It is always interesting to read them and find things I hadn’t thought of while reading the book or finding a different take on it.
I appreciated that there were 2 couples in this book. One older and one younger. Time changes things for older couples.
Peter is a very honorable man. He will do anything to keep out of the scandal that the rest of his family (excluding his uncle Elliott) seems to thrive in! He has worked hard. He has a new hobby of raising and breeding dogs. He is still a little new at it. His wife died several years ago and while he still loves her memory, he hasn’t moved on. He doesn’t think he should nor does he have the time. He has 2 well behaved children who do child like things like jumping in the mud or running and sometimes arguing with each other. What kid doesn’t. Peter knows to let them be children for awhile and correct them respectfully and lovingly.
Julia applies for the governess position in Peter’s home. She wants to live her own life and make her own decisions but her mother, Amelia, seems to try to interfere to have her try and find a man to marry and have children with. We learn more about Amelia and follow her story too. Julia is 28 years old and is resigned to a life without children of her own. She is happy serving others. Julia is kind, sincere and polite. She misses her father who raised dogs and showed her all there is to know about them.
When Julia goes to the interview in the beginning of the book. I was reminded of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. There were 3 applicants that day. The first one was a bigger woman, the second one was a small woman with a seriousness to her and then there was Julia who was just right for the job! Hehe! But at first, Peter did not pick her. She rattled something in him. He found her attractive and he didn’t like the feeling one bit. So she is in the hallway and witnesses Peter tell the (what do you call a person who finds people for a job) man that he will hire the second woman. Peter looks at her but doesn’t say one thing. Well that choice was absolutely horrible in more than one way! In the end, Peter has no choice but to hire Julia. And she turns out to be just perfect for his children and household. But of course, we all know this!!
All along, his two closest family members see the budding relationship in them. But Julia doesn’t see it yet. Yet she admires him. Julia is kept in the dark about a lot of things. Peter can’t handle his growing attraction to her. His parents were a scandal and he doesn’t want to be like them. But you can’t stop your heart from loving who you love. Julia’s mother wants her out of the home and Peter will turn her out as soon as he finds another governess. Then, per one of her family’s request, has a dinner party with Amelia and Uncle Elliott and his other family member who is now married who used to be the governess. Let Amelia see the household and that it is a good home and honorable. Amelia only sees red. She used to love Elliott long ago and he left her so she thinks that is the way with all the Mayfield men. Julia doesn’t know why her mother and her were invited to dinner.
Any way, I love how this story unfolds and how past things are corrected and how others communicate and how love blooms not for just one but for 2 couples. I love the meadow full of primroses in the book. I had to look them up so I could see what they really looked like. Yes I know they are on the front cover but I wanted to see what they looked like in real life!
I wonder who will be next in the family to get a book. In the beginning there is a geneology line written out. And Elliott has a campaign to find acceptable spouses for his nieces and nephews. Upon that marriage, they will receive an inheritance or gift. I loved the one bestowed upon Peter!
If you like flowers, dogs, honorable men, overcoming family scandals, riding on a horse for 50 miles, parents mistakes, second chances, finding love again, being your own person, communicating, than this might be for you!! -
3,5
Conocía el estilo de Josi S Kilpack y me apetecía seguir apostando por ella porque guardaba un buen recuerdo, mi memoria no fallaba. No sé si habéis leído algún libro de Libros de Seda del sello clean romance pero creo que está bien hacer un apunte (subjetivo); diría que este sello tiene dos lados: uno más dulzón donde podemos meter a Josi S Kilpack, Judit Fernández o Julianne Donaldson, quien se centra más en las relaciones afectivas, en el propio cortejo y flirteo. Y otro donde además de romance (que dependiendo de la historia tendrá más o menos protagonismo) hay más componentes (misterio, contexto histórico, conflicto social de la época, etc) donde la mayor representante es Julie Klassen.
Así que nos movemos en territorio 'dulce' por llamarlo de alguna forma, sí que es cierto que personalmente me gusta más Julianne Donaldson porque tiene un estilo más clásico, parece que está escrito por una autora de otro siglo.
No obstante, Josi Kilpack aporta frescura y tras su sencillez, consigue que el lector se meta de lleno en la época sin esfuerzo, son historias que se leen en una tarde ideales para salir de un bloqueo lector o si venís de leer otras temáticas de romántica (por ejemplo romántica histórica adulta) y queréis probar con el clean romance es una buena opción, porque recuerda al estilo que tienen Julia London o Gaelen Foley pero sin dejar de lado la novela blanca.
Dicho esto, pasamos a analizar la historia. El punto de partida es una propias de Lord Elliot Mayfield para incentivar a su familia a que empiecen a andar por el buen camino, su apellido lleva un tiempo manchado y él está cansado de limpiar el nombre de la familia, es como nadar a contracorriente. El único en quien confía y va por el buen camino es su sobrino Peter, a pesar de todas las circunstancias que rodean su nacimiento y con las que tuvo que vivir. Este es el punto de partida no solo de esta historia sino de la propia saga, porque cada libro tendrá como protagonista a un familiar de Elliot.
En este caso, aunque Peter es el heredero de Elliot y la persona más intachable de la familia, es viudo y tiene muchas responsabilidades a su cargo, no solo administrar las tierras y aprender a gestionar lo que un día será suyo por herencia, sino a sus dos hijas pequeñas a las que adora y no sabe cómo cuidarlas solo. Así que buscará una institutriz para que le ayude con su educación. Y aquí es donde entra nuestra otra protagonista, Julia.
Tanto Peter como Julia tendrán que superar los obstáculos familiares que les rodean. Los de Peter anclados en el pasado y los de Julia debido a los temores y malas vivencias de su madre Amelia.
Por otro lado, habrá una trama secundaria de corte romántico que a veces se "come" a la principal, no desvelaré muchos detalles pero es un punto fuerte en el libro e incluso diría que tiene más peso y profundidad que la principal.
Respecto a la relación de Peter y Julia, se va cociendo a fuego lento y conoceremos los dos puntos de vista. Creo que el de Peter me ha gustado más porque muestra sus temores e inseguridades, mientras que Julia me dio la sensación de que era más hermética, aunque en la última mitad parece que va espabilando y conecta más con el lector.
En resumen, una historia delicada y bonita que engancha desde el principio. Un buen inicio para una saga que no me pienso perder. -
I am so glad Shadow Mountain allowed me to read this book for an honest review- it might be my favorite arc of 2018 so far...
I’ll admit I am a tough critic when it comes to romance books... I want to feel the love story but not slip into any form of insta-love or over the top flirtations...
This book was very well paced as far as the love story build up.
I appreciated the four different perspectives in order to get a full perspective of the history that brought these characters Into their current circumstance. And as each person found the inner courage to face their own personal demons all stemming from very different roots.
While I appreciated the setting and era of the story. I was not a fan of the second budding relationship that forms throughout the book. I am assuming it is the set up for the series this book is going to kick off. A series that will probably consist of mostly stand alone off shoot stories as one MC is beginning quite the Family quest...
I am going to allow the book to sit for a bit before writing a complete and detailed review on my blog... I’ll update it here when I do. -
Peter Mayfield is dedicated to his children and helping his family but mostly keeping to himself. He tends to be closed off and withdrawn, he does little interaction with his household staff but does have a loving relationship with his two daughters. Elliot Mayfield has given up on love in order to restore his family's name to its once glory. He has now moved on to making sure his nieces and nephews are taken care of, but he has not forgotten the one woman who caught his attention.
Julia Hollingsworth has returned back to her small town roots but is intending to keep her job as a governess, no matter her mother disagrees with her decision. She is single, beautiful, but unmarried and has no plan of locating any suitors. She is easy going, loving, caring and motivating towards her young charges. Her mother Amelia Hollingworth, lives the simple life of taking care of her neighbours, children and grandchildren. She does not trust the Mayfield family because of the betrayal of Elliot's actions when they were young.
The story is written in the third person with a setting that is well described and easy to imagine. The characters show growth as the story progress and with that growth, it makes them easier to connect with. The storyline is evenly paced until the end when it goes into overdrive. The story contains two different romances. Elliot and Amelia, who once were almost engaged and Peter and Julia, who are now employer and employee. The relationships do feel real and are easy to connect with but also imagine taking place in the time period.
Yes, I would recommend this book. It is an excellent beginner Historical Romance read. The characters are well written and allow the readers to connect with them and their story. The story itself is an interesting read and a keeps your interest.
