Reviews

This had some big emotional hits that I think worked really well. I will say some of the inciting incidents around the climax didn’t quite feel earned? But in hindsight I see what she was doing.

Bram grew on me, but I certainly wasn’t a fan of his misogynistic introduction and initial character development.

I loved some of the side characters and I’m looking forward to reading their books in the future!

tarathebookworm's review

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emotional lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

cmfricano's review

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emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

peculiarly_reading's review against another edition

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3.5

The gender essentialism in this one was wild, especially considering the setting (no lesbians in spindle cove? no way). the third act conflict did not feel supported enough by sufficient foreshadowing and how it got resolved was through convenient circumstances. It didn’t require much of the character’s to challenge themselves at all.

That being said, I had a fun enough time. Susannah Finch is my girl. I can’t believe the amount of PUBLIC places these characters hooked up without getting caught.

sunny_r's review

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3.0

3.3- I honestly have so many mixed feelings about this book, especially because I was so frustrated at the beginning by some of the things that Bram said. I understand that Dare wants to remain historically accurate, but gosh I’m usually drawn to her novels because they abstain from the bs misogyny that characterizes most historical romances. Oh well- it was cute, but I wouldn’t say it’s anything to write home about. I’m excited to try the second book though!

hebberelle's review

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1.0

DNF at 23%. This book is actually OFFENSIVE. I could not believe what I was reading. The fact that the main character is looking for Real Men was the first clue, but then the book just flushes itself down the toilet after that. The blacksmith who can't be a Real Man because he's making pretty hinges? The vicar who likes pew cushions? The tavern owner who makes tea cakes because the village is actually FULL OF WOMEN... None of them are REAL MEN. But Bram, he's a Real Man. He can think of nothing but steak and sex and war. He treats everyone in the village like dogs and shits on anything remotely feminine.. Sounds like a real winner, I can't wait to read more about that guy! Ohhhhhhhh wait, I can. Delete.

cobaltbookshelf's review

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3.0

I love Tessa Dare's Girl Meets Duke series and while I liked writing, I found Bram and Susanna romance just ok. Minerva and Colin crumbs were amazing.

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