Review: Chiara's Choice by Chalon Linton

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Chiara Madero, daughter of an Italian baron, is the epitome of beauty and fire, and when confronted, her lovely lips reveal a sharp tongue. But her enchanting facade hides a less-than-elegant truth: her family believes her true value lies in her ability to secure an advantageous match. And there is no better place to find a wealthy, titled husband than the London Marriage Mart.

Mr. Abraham Jamison is not a firstborn son and has procrastinated choosing an occupation. Nevertheless, his honest and forthright nature immediately captures Chiara’s attention. He is unsuitable for a woman of her station in all ways, but she can’t seem to resist seeking out his company. Abraham sees through her fiery personality and refuses to play her games, yet after waging a mutual battle of wits, an unexpected friendship forms between them—a rapport that soon blossoms into something more.

Abraham’s wish is to become a man worthy of her. But when faced with her family’s determination to manipulate circumstances to their advantage, he and Chiara must face their feelings and find the strength to defy an insurmountable obstacle: Chiara’s mother.

My Review

Chiara is such an interesting character! I loved how the author challenges our first impressions of Chiara by peeling back her layers, revealing the vulnerable young woman behind the facade she has learned to use. Abraham is instrumental in provoking Chiara and making her see past the games of society. I enjoyed her sense of humor, and how she did her own provoking to get Abraham out of his reserved and often grumpy shell. They are both at an important crossroads in their lives, with the pressures of career and marriage. They seem like an unlikely couple, but their opposite natures compliment each other and their chemistry is palpable. The pace felt unhurried, which allowed me to enjoy the nuances of all the characters and the situations they find themselves in. Recommend to fans of sweet Regency romance!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Don't miss the other Regency novels by Chalon Linton . . .

Review: Forever Phoebe by Chalon Linton

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

At the dignified age of eighteen, Phoebe Jamison knows she should behave in a manner befitting her station, as her three loving elder brothers often tease. Unfortunately, the lively young woman has a personality every bit as fiery as her red hair, a fact brought to her attention in the criticism from the gentleman she has long pined for. But not every man is of the opinion that a woman should be decorous above all else. The newest resident of Somerset, Mr. Franklin Everly, is considered a most eligible bachelor, and he is immediately drawn to Phoebe’s spirited nature as he becomes acquainted with the delightful Jamison siblings of Primly Park.

Franklin embarks on a friendship with Phoebe that quickly deepens into a warm and thrilling connection. But even as he fights for Phoebe’s attentions, a very real danger is revealed: girls in neighboring villages have gone missing, and the kidnapper is moving ever closer to Primly Park. Despite the guard of her fiercely protective brothers and Franklin, Phoebe must rely on her own strength when she finds herself in the sights of the Bride Snatcher.

My Review

Phoebe, her brothers, and Mr. Everly are all easy to like in this sweet Regency romance. They share a fun camaraderie whether riding, shooting, dancing, or just visiting. The love triangle didn't make much sense to me since Mr. Mason was not likeable, and didn't treat Phoebe well, but she persisted in holding onto her longtime crush. It seemed a bit out of character for her to accept that kind of treatment. Her swift friendship with Franklin and their budding romance was a pleasure to read, and the kidnapping of local young women provided a bit of suspense. Overall the elements of the story were a bit disjointed, but I enjoyed the characters and their interactions as Franklin established himself at his estate and in the neighborhood.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Don't miss the previous connected book . . .

Review: Fly Home to Me by Chalon Linton

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

A traffic jam is the last thing Piper Holland has patience for. The dry cleaner’s will soon close, and she really hopes to wear her luxury silk blouse when she pitches her theme to the editors of the magazine she works for. But when she finally sees what’s caused the backup, she feels a pinch of guilt: a man in a military uniform is gallantly pushing a stalled vehicle off the road. Suddenly her rush to the dry cleaner’s seems incredibly unimportant. Fate offers Piper a chance to redeem herself, however, when the handsome good Samaritan crosses her path again.

Gabriel Orsini, a fighter pilot stationed at Luke Air Force Base, seems to be the perfect man, and an assignment at the magazine offers Piper the perfect chance to get to know him better. Her “Day in the Life: Hometown Heroes” article was tailor-made for the bighearted pilot. Before long, their interviews for the article enter date territory, and Piper realizes she’s falling for Gabriel. But her tragic past has taught her one thing: everyone leaves. And the transient lifestyle of a military man leaves her no doubt that Gabriel will eventually abandon her too. With her heart on the line, Piper must decide: is the risk of loss worth the possibility of forever?

My Review

This sweet and gentle romance follows Piper's healing journey as she comes to terms with how her losses and grief are affecting her relationships. Her parents and one of her brothers had been killed in a car accident several years previously, and the fear and anxiety she developed over losing those she loves influences her relationships with her remaining brothers, sister-in-law, best friend, and dating life. I appreciated that her process of awareness and change included long term work with her therapist as well as her deepening relationship with God through church and prayer. She is well put together and successful in her career, and Gabriel's sunny personality instantly draws her to him. Their rapport develops quite naturally and is refreshingly realistic. Gabriel is patient as she gets used to the idea of ditching her four-date rule and moving into a meaningful relationship. I felt like her constant worrying overshadowed the joy of their falling in love, and I found it a little difficult to connect to those feelings. The lessons she learns about reconciliation and letting go of her perceived control bring both depth and  light to her character and I was happy to see her growth by the end of the story. The pace of the book is on the slower side with plenty of details that bring each scene to life, allowing me to easily envision them in my mind.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

 

Don't miss the first book in the Flying in Love series . . .

 

 

 

Review & Giveaway: Flying in Love by Chalon Linton

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Will Paige decide to share her heart or fly solo?

Paige Hall’s happy ending may just be in sight. She has been dating her boyfriend for months and feels confident their relationship is going in the right direction—until she catches him kissing another woman. Humiliated and hurt, Paige retreats from the dating scene and pledges to never fall hard again as she throws herself into her work as a speech therapist. Her vow is upended in a grocery store parking lot when she is nearly run over by a handsome and very apologetic air force pilot.

Captain Jake Summers is everything a girl could dream of: charming, considerate, and hardworking. Despite Paige’s determination to avoid falling into another relationship, her resolve is no match for the whirlwind romance that ensues. When Jake is not flying, he and Paige are inseparable, and Paige begins to believe in happily ever afters again. But when the couple faces a heartrending loss, they must find strength in each other and in their faith or risk losing a once-in-a-lifetime love.

My Review

I was thrilled to learn that one of my favorite Regency authors was writing a contemporary romance since I love both genres. I knew that with the author's background as a military wife, we would get an authentic story with details that really bring depth. I was not disappointed! Paige and Jake are great together, even with their flaws and mistakes, and I loved seeing how they not only fell in love, but overcame obstacles and supported each other. The tone of the book is definitely emotional and I was able to easily connect to the characters. The California setting was so fun since I live in San Diego, and it was easy to picture them in their environment. There are strong themes of insecurity, trust, family dynamics, and having a relationship with God. I loved that there was a faith element to the story that was tastefully done- no heavy preaching, but genuine and sincere. I'm excited for more sweet contemporary romance from this author... as well as her historicals!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

About the Author

Chalon Linton was first introduced to Jane Austen by a dear friend and now she can’t get enough of handsome men in tailcoats. Her intrigue in the genre stems from a nostalgic longing for manners, wit, and true love. Fortunately, Chalon found her dashing gentleman, married him, and now lives happily ever after in Southern California.

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Review & Giveaway: Adoring Abigail by Chalon Linton

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Captain Robert Wilkins has never aspired to grandeur. So when the returned war hero unexpectedly inherits the vast estate of Cattersley from his great-aunt, he feels woefully inadequate in his new role. Out of place in his lavish surroundings, his first glimmer of hope comes when he happens upon a lovely trespasser in his gardens.

Words have never come easily for Abigail Rutherford, and she prefers the solitude of exploring the gardens at the neighboring country estate to engaging in uncomfortable conversation. But when she unexpectedly encounters Captain Robert Wilkins in her place of solace, she is surprised at the immediate ease she feels in his presence. Soon her brightest moments are those spent with the captain. But even as their friendship grows into something more, outside forces have other plans for the two. Mr. Mead, the handsome vicar, has also taken a liking to the quiet and timid Abigail—and he will stop at nothing to ensure she becomes his wife.

My Review

Adoring Abigail is a quality Regency romance featuring a gentle relationship between Robert and Abigail that blossoms from genuine friendship into something even more special. The settings were easy to envision, from the vast estate Robert inherited, to the meadow and woods, to the cottage where Abigail lives with her grandmother. I enjoy characters that have realistic flaws and struggles, and Abigail having not only a speech impediment, but also a highly critical guardian, made me feel so much empathy for her. Through her circumstances she develops admirable attributes such as compassion and kindness, but it is Robert’s encouraging approval that helps her overcome her timidity and strengthen her courage when faced with her most difficult trial of all. 

Robert is at an important transition point in his life, and while he doesn’t always handle the change gracefully, he is quick to apologize and make things right. I love how he and Abigail bring out the best in each other because they feel safe and accepted for who they really are. The story is well-rounded with the supporting cast of various community members and especially Robert’s sister Hazel, all of whom brought the distinct feeling of country society. The author is skilled at drawing forth emotion while exploring a variety of themes such as gossip, loneliness, hypocrisy, prejudice, friendship, loyalty, perseverance, and triumph over adversity. There is a nice balance of character development, tension, sweetness, and satisfaction. Highly recommend!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

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Review & Giveaway: Escape to Everly Manor by Chalon Linton

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Nineteen-year-old Lizzy and her young brother, Thomas, find themselves orphaned after a tragic accident claims the lives of their parents. Their estranged Uncle Cline arrives to claim his inheritance, and his roguish ways cast a shadow over the manor. Both the family estate and guardianship of his niece and nephew were left to him, and diabolical Uncle Cline is determined to indulge in his newfound wealth and rid himself of his charges. Desperate to save her brother from a dangerous life at sea, and herself from being married off to a detestable old gentleman, Lizzy knows there is only one choice left— they must run.

Lizzy and Thomas sneak away and find refuge in an abandoned cabin. There they remain hidden until fate acquaints Lizzy with Mr. Barton, a charming gentleman who is immediately intrigued by the mysterious young woman. Concealing her identity, Lizzy is unaware that there is much more to this compassionate man than meets the eye. Through his kindness to herself and her brother, Lizzy begins to trust him. Soon Lizzy realizes Mr. Barton may be her best hope for a life in which she can live—and love—as she chooses . . .

My Review

I loved the unique plot in this Regency romance! The characters are memorable and I loved Barton and Lizzy's interactions, even if their misunderstandings were frustrating at times. There is a strong supporting cast of characters that rounded out the story, and I enjoyed the family dynamics and evidence of their devotion to one another. Lizzy is so protective of her brother, and Barton is full of compassion for the both of them, making him a perfect hero! The setting of the small village was idyllic and the adventure made the pace of the book move steadily forward.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

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