"A Return of Devotion" by Kristi Ann Hunter

My review...

What a delightful Regency-era book!

Hunter takes the reader on a wonderful journey in the second installment in the “Haven Manor” series. Beautiful prose, well-crafted characters, and an enjoyable story line combine in this book, which could stand alone, but the reader will have a greater appreciation for the story if they read them in order. At the core, it’s a sweet romance, with strong themes of forgiveness (including oneself), but there are some moments that had me chuckling, and other times I was on the verge of tears. Vivid detailing made me feel a part of the story. And the cover? Absolutely gorgeous! I look forward to returning to Haven Manor with the next book.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

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"A Defense of Honor" by Kristi Ann Hunter

My review...

While there is  a prequel to this book (A Search for Refuge), this can be read as a standalone.

Kit and Lord Graham Wharton meet at a ball. Graham is bored, and Kit is hiding behind a plant 😊 From that point on, their lives get more interesting and intertwined, particularly after Wharton’s best friend’s sister disappears. Graham is determined to find her, and the search leads him to Kit … and a house full of women and children. What will happen when he discovers what Kit is doing? Is it possible Kit is connected to the missing woman Graham is seeking?

There’s a nice blend of serious topics and humorous moments. The topics are still important and relevant today. I particularly enjoyed the ongoing chuckle regarding dancing with plants! Kit is a strong, determined heroine. Graham is kind and a gentleman. There is solid character growth, and the romance is not a fluffy one, as the reader may assume based on the beautiful cover. This is a Regency romance with a few twists, particularly regarding what Kit is doing with the women and children. (No spoilers!) The story is a reminder of how God can bring beauty from any situation, as well as the importance of forgiveness and how it can bring freedom and peace.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

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