This was an okay read, but nothing really stood out. I picked it up because I enjoy western historicals, and the premise had potential. Unfortunately,This was an okay read, but nothing really stood out. I picked it up because I enjoy western historicals, and the premise had potential. Unfortunately, the execution didn’t quite hit the emotional depth I was hoping for.
I couldn't help comparing it to Ellen O’Connell’s books, which tend to have more nuanced character work and stronger prose. Here, the writing was simple and clean, but also a bit flat. It got the job done, but I never felt particularly pulled in by the voice or the emotional undercurrents. The dialogue leaned toward stiff in places, and the chemistry between the leads felt more functional than swoony.
The story takes a dramatic turn near the end when the heroine is abducted, but it felt like an unnecessary attempt to stir up conflict rather than something organically built into the plot. It resolved so quickly that it didn’t leave much of an impact, and it didn’t really change anything between the characters.
If you’re looking for a sweet, low-angst historical with a kind hero and a straightforward storyline, this might work for you. But for me, it lacked the kind of depth and emotional payoff I usually look for in this genre....more
A Heart Sufficient had a promising premise, but the execution was a bit too sweet and saccharine—honestly, it made my teeth ache. I was expecting a coA Heart Sufficient had a promising premise, but the execution was a bit too sweet and saccharine—honestly, it made my teeth ache. I was expecting a cold, revenge-driven duke, but what I got was someone far too weepy and emotionally soft for my tastes. It didn’t go the way I hoped, and while it wasn’t a bad read, I ended up feeling disappointed....more
I received a complimentary e-copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions expressed are solely my own.
If you're looking for a historical romance thI received a complimentary e-copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions expressed are solely my own.
If you're looking for a historical romance that feels fresh while still delivering familiar tropes, you can’t go wrong with Ms. Sparks. She takes well-loved themes and adds her own flair, making each story feel new and engaging.
Tropes: - Mature couple (heroine is in her late 30s, hero in his late 40s) - Brother’s best friend - Class difference - Widowed and disabled heroine - A touch of femdom
I adored both Griff and Rose. They’re incredibly likable—decent, kind, and relatable. The setting stands out as well; it appears to be set around the turn of the century in England, as the hero has a chauffeur and a car. The inclusion of the poorhouse, which was supposed to have been abolished by this time, added an interesting historical layer.
The ending was another highlight—it doesn’t take the conventional route, making the happily ever after feel even more satisfying. If you enjoy any of the tropes mentioned above, this novella is a fantastic pick to satisfy that craving. A delightful read to fill a few hours! ...more
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