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english_lady03's review against another edition
4.0
Well, this was a lovely book. Carolyn Miller became one of my favourite Regency authors with her first series, and this second series is proving to be just as good. I love her rich plots full of historical detail, witty dialogue and treatment of flawed, yet sympathetic characters. Plus, the faith elements are woven seamlessly into the story without appearing too preachy.
This story followed Serena, the younger sister of Katherine Winthrop from the last story, and the male protagonist is one of Johnathan Curlew 's (the hero from that story) friends. Henry, Viscount Carmichael. I won't call him a rake, he seemed to be more of a lovable rogue at the beginning.
He's a struggling nobleman commissioned by his friend John to look out for his young sister in law, Serena. She's supposed to be very young. No more than about 18 or 19, or something, and recently escaped an unfortunate situation involving a sleazy Art Teacher.. Serena is a talented artist: although her negative experience and the censure of society leave her unsure of her vocation.
Many adventures, rendenvous, polite dinners and society functions later, and of course Serena and Henry (one of my favourite names), are in love, but there's much keeping them apart. Henry's estate is struggling, his father threatens to disown him if he does not marry the person he wants, and Serena wants nothing to do with a man who gambles: nor does she believe he can ever trust a man again. Although Henry is very sweet, kind and reaches out to her with acceptance, and introduces her to his family.
His sister and her two lovable children: lovable and typically forthright, who immediately ask of their new friend is going to marry their favourite Uncle.
The title, in some sense refers to 'secrets' or rather the difficulties that have to be overcome on both sides,. Henry's problems are not a 'secret' per se, but he wants to change to earn the love of a good woman: and because he knows he's not the man he wants to be. He needs to grow up and face the responsibility of running his estate, only to be faced with illness in his family.
Again, there were shades of the Classics, and Austen here: but the novel is not just aping them. Its an independent creation.
As before, I loved how the landscape and details about the region were used in this story: in this case its a mention of a local stone, a type of Agate which is only found in parts of the county of Derbyshire. One would almost not believe the author is, in fact, Australian.
The only minor niggle that I had (which other reviewers have pointed out), is some uncertainty over the precise details of certain events relating to Serena, and a hint at some behaviour on the part of Henry which did not seem consistent with the way he was presented in the story before. I just could not really believe he had done such a thing before his reformation. Also, younger readers might need to be aware of a couple of scenes towards the end relating to adult themes, and the consummation of marriages. There is nothing graphic, but might be a bit embarrassing for some.
Overall though, this was another wonderful story and addition to the latest series. I downloaded an ebook of this title courtesy of Kregel Blog Tours and was not required to write a positive review, all opinions expressed are my own.
This story followed Serena, the younger sister of Katherine Winthrop from the last story, and the male protagonist is one of Johnathan Curlew 's (the hero from that story) friends. Henry, Viscount Carmichael. I won't call him a rake, he seemed to be more of a lovable rogue at the beginning.
He's a struggling nobleman commissioned by his friend John to look out for his young sister in law, Serena. She's supposed to be very young. No more than about 18 or 19, or something, and recently escaped an unfortunate situation involving a sleazy Art Teacher.. Serena is a talented artist: although her negative experience and the censure of society leave her unsure of her vocation.
Many adventures, rendenvous, polite dinners and society functions later, and of course Serena and Henry (one of my favourite names), are in love, but there's much keeping them apart. Henry's estate is struggling, his father threatens to disown him if he does not marry the person he wants, and Serena wants nothing to do with a man who gambles: nor does she believe he can ever trust a man again. Although Henry is very sweet, kind and reaches out to her with acceptance, and introduces her to his family.
His sister and her two lovable children: lovable and typically forthright, who immediately ask of their new friend is going to marry their favourite Uncle.
The title, in some sense refers to 'secrets' or rather the difficulties that have to be overcome on both sides,. Henry's problems are not a 'secret' per se, but he wants to change to earn the love of a good woman: and because he knows he's not the man he wants to be. He needs to grow up and face the responsibility of running his estate, only to be faced with illness in his family.
Again, there were shades of the Classics, and Austen here: but the novel is not just aping them. Its an independent creation.
As before, I loved how the landscape and details about the region were used in this story: in this case its a mention of a local stone, a type of Agate which is only found in parts of the county of Derbyshire. One would almost not believe the author is, in fact, Australian.
The only minor niggle that I had (which other reviewers have pointed out), is some uncertainty over the precise details of certain events relating to Serena, and a hint at some behaviour on the part of Henry which did not seem consistent with the way he was presented in the story before. I just could not really believe he had done such a thing before his reformation. Also, younger readers might need to be aware of a couple of scenes towards the end relating to adult themes, and the consummation of marriages. There is nothing graphic, but might be a bit embarrassing for some.
Overall though, this was another wonderful story and addition to the latest series. I downloaded an ebook of this title courtesy of Kregel Blog Tours and was not required to write a positive review, all opinions expressed are my own.
farmfreshlisa's review against another edition
4.0
This is book 2 in the series. This series spins off of the first Regency brides. So there are a few character crossovers. This book explores Catherine Winthrop’s sister Serena. We learn her story and secrets. It’s interesting about her abdominal migraines as I have recently been learning more about those just in conversations from other people.
rosannelortz's review against another edition
5.0
Serena has always had the soul of an artist. But after an unfortunate encounter with a lecherous art teacher, she abandons her gift and tries to retreat from society. Accompanying her sister and brother-in-law to a friend’s country estate, she is thrown into the company of the Viscount Carmichael. Deterred by his excess of charm, Serena counters his attentions with icy set-downs until she realizes there might be more to him than his dandyish exterior.
Harry, Lord Carmichael, has been playing the dissolute heir for most of his life. but when his friend, Lord Winthrop, orders him to refrain from paying his attentions to his wife’s sister Serena, Harry struggles manfully against his growing attraction. Underneath her poised beauty, Harry senses Serena has been hurt. He encourages her to rediscover her love for painting, but when she chooses to make a portrait study of him, events conspire to make fools of them both….
I have been reading Carolyn Miller’s books in the wrong order. I first met Serena and Lord Carmichael, already married, in the third book of this series (The Making of Mrs. Hale). Something about a scandalous portrait painted by Serena was mentioned, and I knew that I needed to read the earlier book.
This book is one of the more realistic portrayals of the reformed rake trope. Neither Serena nor her guardian brother-in-law take Lord Carmichael’s flaws lightly. Harry must prove himself over a period of time to demonstrate that he has indeed changed into a God-fearing man with actions to support his faith. Serena is a very sympathetic character, her emotional scars from the past etched deeply but still able to be overcome by Harry’s tenderness. Harry himself is the epitome of charm, the good kind of charm that saves the day in social situations and acts the perfect gentleman when a damsel is in distress.
I enjoyed this book so much that I think I’ll find myself going backwards again and looking for the first book in the series. Recommended.
Harry, Lord Carmichael, has been playing the dissolute heir for most of his life. but when his friend, Lord Winthrop, orders him to refrain from paying his attentions to his wife’s sister Serena, Harry struggles manfully against his growing attraction. Underneath her poised beauty, Harry senses Serena has been hurt. He encourages her to rediscover her love for painting, but when she chooses to make a portrait study of him, events conspire to make fools of them both….
I have been reading Carolyn Miller’s books in the wrong order. I first met Serena and Lord Carmichael, already married, in the third book of this series (The Making of Mrs. Hale). Something about a scandalous portrait painted by Serena was mentioned, and I knew that I needed to read the earlier book.
This book is one of the more realistic portrayals of the reformed rake trope. Neither Serena nor her guardian brother-in-law take Lord Carmichael’s flaws lightly. Harry must prove himself over a period of time to demonstrate that he has indeed changed into a God-fearing man with actions to support his faith. Serena is a very sympathetic character, her emotional scars from the past etched deeply but still able to be overcome by Harry’s tenderness. Harry himself is the epitome of charm, the good kind of charm that saves the day in social situations and acts the perfect gentleman when a damsel is in distress.
I enjoyed this book so much that I think I’ll find myself going backwards again and looking for the first book in the series. Recommended.
meezcarrie's review against another edition
5.0
4.5 stars
Miller’s characters feel as though they’ve been plucked from the background of an Austen novel and given their own chance to shine in a smart, layered and delightfully-rendered story. The people on the pages of Miss Serena’s Secret are no exception. There is Serena, who may come across as distant at first (with good reason) but in reality has a heart of gold, a heart falling for a man all kinds of wrong for her. There is Henry, a rake by reputation (some of it well-deserved) whose promise to look after Serena without wooing her is sorely tested the more he spends time with her. Henry’s sister Melanie and their grandmother are refreshing spots of light amid a society (including Henry’s parents) who are entirely too reticent, and Serena’s sister and her husband (whom we meet in Winning Miss Winthrop) add further light to the shadows. Let’s not forget the dowager Lady Winthrop, Serena and Catherine’s mother who could give Mrs. Bennet a run for her money and will be sure to have you stifling giggles more than once. And of course I cannot forget to mention Monsieur Despard, Serena’s new art master, whom I could easily imagine scurrying around his studio. Miller has done such a brilliant job drawing these characters, giving them distinct personalities, wit, heart, and sincerity.
The internal journey that Serena and Henry both find themselves on is honest and layered, the integration of faith, grace and redemption organic and heartfelt without feeling preachy or forced. Readers from all walks of life and experience will be able to relate to the hero and the heroine, for if we haven’t been exactly in their shoes we’ve felt the same anxieties and inadequacies on one level or another. As part of this internal journey they are on, their romance fits right in. Not only is it swoonworthy, with sizzles and sparks of electric chemistry and deep attraction, but the emotions behind it are complex and uncertain. This leads to some deliciously held, don’t-dare-breathe gazes and deeply felt emotions.
Bottom Line: Reading a book by Carolyn Miller is truly an immersive experience for me. The verbiage, the setting, the characters, the romance, the faith – it all draws me in until I’m lost somewhere in the Gloucestershire countryside, ear to the door while I eavesdrop on the lords and ladies in the next room. Miller gets even better with each book, and with the ending of this one I’m waiting impatiently for The Making of Mrs. Hale!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Miller’s characters feel as though they’ve been plucked from the background of an Austen novel and given their own chance to shine in a smart, layered and delightfully-rendered story. The people on the pages of Miss Serena’s Secret are no exception. There is Serena, who may come across as distant at first (with good reason) but in reality has a heart of gold, a heart falling for a man all kinds of wrong for her. There is Henry, a rake by reputation (some of it well-deserved) whose promise to look after Serena without wooing her is sorely tested the more he spends time with her. Henry’s sister Melanie and their grandmother are refreshing spots of light amid a society (including Henry’s parents) who are entirely too reticent, and Serena’s sister and her husband (whom we meet in Winning Miss Winthrop) add further light to the shadows. Let’s not forget the dowager Lady Winthrop, Serena and Catherine’s mother who could give Mrs. Bennet a run for her money and will be sure to have you stifling giggles more than once. And of course I cannot forget to mention Monsieur Despard, Serena’s new art master, whom I could easily imagine scurrying around his studio. Miller has done such a brilliant job drawing these characters, giving them distinct personalities, wit, heart, and sincerity.
The internal journey that Serena and Henry both find themselves on is honest and layered, the integration of faith, grace and redemption organic and heartfelt without feeling preachy or forced. Readers from all walks of life and experience will be able to relate to the hero and the heroine, for if we haven’t been exactly in their shoes we’ve felt the same anxieties and inadequacies on one level or another. As part of this internal journey they are on, their romance fits right in. Not only is it swoonworthy, with sizzles and sparks of electric chemistry and deep attraction, but the emotions behind it are complex and uncertain. This leads to some deliciously held, don’t-dare-breathe gazes and deeply felt emotions.
Bottom Line: Reading a book by Carolyn Miller is truly an immersive experience for me. The verbiage, the setting, the characters, the romance, the faith – it all draws me in until I’m lost somewhere in the Gloucestershire countryside, ear to the door while I eavesdrop on the lords and ladies in the next room. Miller gets even better with each book, and with the ending of this one I’m waiting impatiently for The Making of Mrs. Hale!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
betherin02's review against another edition
5.0
Full review on FaithfullyBookish.com
Beauty and artistry leap from the pages of Carolyn Miller's latest faith-filled Regency Brides romance. These authentic, complex characters are perfectly flawed and completely endearing.
Serena Winthrop's predicament did a number on my heartstrings! Any reader who has ever felt betrayed or unworthy will be inspired and encouraged by her journey. Lord Carmichael knows he hasn't exactly been living his life on the straight and narrow but for the first time, it's a path he regrets. Henry's eyes and heart are opened to the consequences of both action and inaction.
I am again impressed by the ease and natural flow of faith-based elements within this story. Struggles, prayers, scriptures, and more are seamlessly integrated into the fabric of the characters' lives and impressed on the heart of this reader. I highly recommend this series as well as Ms. Miller's previous Regency Brides series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Beauty and artistry leap from the pages of Carolyn Miller's latest faith-filled Regency Brides romance. These authentic, complex characters are perfectly flawed and completely endearing.
Serena Winthrop's predicament did a number on my heartstrings! Any reader who has ever felt betrayed or unworthy will be inspired and encouraged by her journey. Lord Carmichael knows he hasn't exactly been living his life on the straight and narrow but for the first time, it's a path he regrets. Henry's eyes and heart are opened to the consequences of both action and inaction.
I am again impressed by the ease and natural flow of faith-based elements within this story. Struggles, prayers, scriptures, and more are seamlessly integrated into the fabric of the characters' lives and impressed on the heart of this reader. I highly recommend this series as well as Ms. Miller's previous Regency Brides series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
anke_books's review against another edition
4.0
Carolyn Miller schrijft fantastische Regency-romans, die zich afspelen onder de aristocratie, en voornamelijk gesitueerd zijn op het platteland, hoewel London nog weleens bezocht wordt.
Het leuke is dat alle hoofdpersonages terug blijven komen in haar vervolgboeken. Ik denk dat Lavinia geen enkel Regencyboek van Miller overslaat!
Schrijfstijl is fantastisch en er zit altijd een goed intrige in. In dit boek had ik iets meer trauma verwacht waardoor Serena langer deed over het overwinnen van haar schilderangsten.
Haar worsteling met haar gevoelens en het schilderen van het veelbesproken schilderij was echt fantastisch.
Ook erg goed gedaan vind ik hoe Miller Henry Carmichael van onbezonnen levensgenieter naar verantwoordelijke erfgenaam laat groeien. Nog voordat de overname van de titel Graaf onverwacht dichtbij komt, probeert hij al verantwoordelijk met het landgoed om te gaan. Ook laat zijn gedrag naar zijn neefje en nichtje toe zien dat hij niet alleen lol is, maar ook serieus over zaken nadenkt.
Ik had meer strijd verwacht tussen Henry en Serena over zijn gokgedrag. Het wordt wel besproken, maar had van mij heftiger mogen zijn.
Wat vooral roet in het eten gooit, is Henry's verleden en dan vooral een vrouw met wij hij een relatie heeft gehad en hem nu weer terug wil. Kiest hij uiteindelijk voor Lilly of toch voor Serena?
Dit boek had 5 sterren gekregen als het tot geloof komen niet zo'n nadrukkelijke rol zou hebben. Werkelijk elk boek is minimaal 1 bekeringsverhaal, waarbij het 'hij gelóóft' of 'zij gelóóft' er te dik bovenop ligt wat mij betreft.
Het leuke is dat alle hoofdpersonages terug blijven komen in haar vervolgboeken. Ik denk dat Lavinia geen enkel Regencyboek van Miller overslaat!
Schrijfstijl is fantastisch en er zit altijd een goed intrige in. In dit boek had ik iets meer trauma verwacht waardoor Serena langer deed over het overwinnen van haar schilderangsten.
Haar worsteling met haar gevoelens en het schilderen van het veelbesproken schilderij was echt fantastisch.
Ook erg goed gedaan vind ik hoe Miller Henry Carmichael van onbezonnen levensgenieter naar verantwoordelijke erfgenaam laat groeien. Nog voordat de overname van de titel Graaf onverwacht dichtbij komt, probeert hij al verantwoordelijk met het landgoed om te gaan. Ook laat zijn gedrag naar zijn neefje en nichtje toe zien dat hij niet alleen lol is, maar ook serieus over zaken nadenkt.
Ik had meer strijd verwacht tussen Henry en Serena over zijn gokgedrag. Het wordt wel besproken, maar had van mij heftiger mogen zijn.
Wat vooral roet in het eten gooit, is Henry's verleden en dan vooral een vrouw met wij hij een relatie heeft gehad en hem nu weer terug wil. Kiest hij uiteindelijk voor Lilly of toch voor Serena?
Dit boek had 5 sterren gekregen als het tot geloof komen niet zo'n nadrukkelijke rol zou hebben. Werkelijk elk boek is minimaal 1 bekeringsverhaal, waarbij het 'hij gelóóft' of 'zij gelóóft' er te dik bovenop ligt wat mij betreft.
beckys_bookshelves's review
5.0
Miss Serena’s Secret by Carolyn Miller is an amazing Regency read. The story follows Miss Serena Winthrop and Henry, Lord Carmichael through indifference, friendship and lastly to love. Serena is a reserved character who I had to warm up to. But, by the end of the book I wished I could master the cooling looks she is able to give and wanted to meet her for lunch. Lord Carmichael was a delight and reminded me how the Gospel truly changes us, and how extraordinarily exciting that is.
My surprise love in this book was how much I enjoyed learning about the Regency art world. I was especially fascinated with how women were viewed and treated. It is easy to forgot that things have gotten better for women. The Summer Exhibition, an art show, mentioned in the book was so well portrayed that I felt myself walking through the exhibit.
Ms. Miller took me back in time to London, the English countryside and stately manners, and I did not want to leave! This is a pleasurable read and I highly recommend it. I was given this book by the publisher and not required to write a review.
My surprise love in this book was how much I enjoyed learning about the Regency art world. I was especially fascinated with how women were viewed and treated. It is easy to forgot that things have gotten better for women. The Summer Exhibition, an art show, mentioned in the book was so well portrayed that I felt myself walking through the exhibit.
Ms. Miller took me back in time to London, the English countryside and stately manners, and I did not want to leave! This is a pleasurable read and I highly recommend it. I was given this book by the publisher and not required to write a review.
cctblog's review against another edition
4.0
As often happens to me with a Carolyn Miller book, as I read Miss Serena's Secret, I swiftly became immersed in Serena's world.
I loved both Serena and Henry as characters, and their romance was both sweet and frustrating ... but ultimately satisfying, of course!
Henry and Serena were both flawed characters who spurred each other to be better and to rely on God. One thing I absolutely loved about this book was the way that Henry's renewed relationship with God did not make him perfect. He still struggled with one particular sin ... which led Lord Hawkesbury (Nicholas Stamford, hero of The Elusive Miss Ellison) to offer the following advice: "If London has the means to ensnare, then why stay? Return north, and remember who you are. And who you are no longer." I know I'd do well to remember that advice in my own life!
I did find a couple of things confusing: I wasn't quite sure what the art master had done to Serena (and apparently I was imagining something much worse than what actually happened), and her mystery illness was ... well ... quite mysterious. Though both of these were somewhat explained near the end of the novel, the way the reader was kept in the dark didn't add anything to the novel and really just pulled my focus from the main story.
Overall, though, I loved this book! It's romantic, entertaining, and challenging—a wonderful read! 4-1/2 stars.
Disclosure of material connection: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.
I loved both Serena and Henry as characters, and their romance was both sweet and frustrating ... but ultimately satisfying, of course!
Henry and Serena were both flawed characters who spurred each other to be better and to rely on God. One thing I absolutely loved about this book was the way that Henry's renewed relationship with God did not make him perfect. He still struggled with one particular sin ... which led Lord Hawkesbury (Nicholas Stamford, hero of The Elusive Miss Ellison) to offer the following advice: "If London has the means to ensnare, then why stay? Return north, and remember who you are. And who you are no longer." I know I'd do well to remember that advice in my own life!
I did find a couple of things confusing: I wasn't quite sure what the art master had done to Serena (and apparently I was imagining something much worse than what actually happened), and her mystery illness was ... well ... quite mysterious. Though both of these were somewhat explained near the end of the novel, the way the reader was kept in the dark didn't add anything to the novel and really just pulled my focus from the main story.
Overall, though, I loved this book! It's romantic, entertaining, and challenging—a wonderful read! 4-1/2 stars.
Disclosure of material connection: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.
kristi518's review against another edition
5.0
Usually, when I receive a Carolyn Miller novel I tear into it like a kid does their presents on Christmas morning. This time I decided to read the book more slowly and enjoy my time with the characters. After all, once a book is read you never have the chance to read it for the first time again and the wait for a new Miller novel can seem as long as that wait for Santa Claus.
To be completely honest this book started out a bit slow. Once I got a bit into the story I found it a delightful story to read. I really liked Serena's character and her way of saying what she thought even though it wasn't always the proper thing to say. We've all been there, right? Even though Serena spoke her mind I never found her to be rude or too overbearing as a character. In fact, I found her character to be refreshing. The perfect balance to her was Harry, Viscount Carmichael. Now, he's a bit of a rake but he's trying to shed that nasty little label and at times struggles a bit. Serena and Harry together were wonderful to read about. There is a tension between the two that even though it didn't take center stage still leaped off the pages at times. I liked the progression of their relationship, and I just really, really enjoyed these two together. Other favorite characters were Melanie, Harry's sister, and his grandmama. These characters were almost upstaged by the one and only M. Despard. The French art instructor added a bit of humor to the story with his opinions and the way he advised Serena. And not only in matters of art. I loved his accent. It was "ze best" and added to his charm. I would love to see him in more stories!!!
It is clear the author does a thorough job of researching the subject matter for her books. From the way she describes the settings to naming off paint colors and art techniques to dialogue, she does a fantastic job of making the reader forget everything around them and making them feel as if they are part of the story and time period. This along with her ability to tell an excellent story has made her one of my favorite authors. I haven't yet met a Carolyn Miller book I haven't liked and I honestly doubt I ever will.
I highly recommend this book. It has complex characters and an excellent storyline. Even though it's the second book in the series it completely stands on its own. Grab a copy of Miss Serena's Secret today. You won't be disappointed!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.
To be completely honest this book started out a bit slow. Once I got a bit into the story I found it a delightful story to read. I really liked Serena's character and her way of saying what she thought even though it wasn't always the proper thing to say. We've all been there, right? Even though Serena spoke her mind I never found her to be rude or too overbearing as a character. In fact, I found her character to be refreshing. The perfect balance to her was Harry, Viscount Carmichael. Now, he's a bit of a rake but he's trying to shed that nasty little label and at times struggles a bit. Serena and Harry together were wonderful to read about. There is a tension between the two that even though it didn't take center stage still leaped off the pages at times. I liked the progression of their relationship, and I just really, really enjoyed these two together. Other favorite characters were Melanie, Harry's sister, and his grandmama. These characters were almost upstaged by the one and only M. Despard. The French art instructor added a bit of humor to the story with his opinions and the way he advised Serena. And not only in matters of art. I loved his accent. It was "ze best" and added to his charm. I would love to see him in more stories!!!
It is clear the author does a thorough job of researching the subject matter for her books. From the way she describes the settings to naming off paint colors and art techniques to dialogue, she does a fantastic job of making the reader forget everything around them and making them feel as if they are part of the story and time period. This along with her ability to tell an excellent story has made her one of my favorite authors. I haven't yet met a Carolyn Miller book I haven't liked and I honestly doubt I ever will.
I highly recommend this book. It has complex characters and an excellent storyline. Even though it's the second book in the series it completely stands on its own. Grab a copy of Miss Serena's Secret today. You won't be disappointed!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.
alliesommers3's review against another edition
hopeful
relaxing
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.5