A Secret Burden…
After a mysterious sojourn in Paris, Beryl Burnham has returned home to the village of Shepton Worthy ready to resume the life she left behind. Betrothed to the wealthy Sir Henry Rivenhall, she has no reason to be unhappy—or so people keep reminding her. But Beryl’s life isn’t as perfect as everyone believes.
A Longstanding Love…
As village curate, Mark Rivenhall is known for his compassionate understanding. When his older brother’s intended needs a shoulder to lean on, Mark’s more than willing to provide one. There’s no danger of losing his heart. He already lost that to Beryl a long time ago.
During an idyllic Victorian summer, friends and family gather in anticipation of Beryl and Sir Henry’s wedding. But in her darkest moment, it’s Mark who comes to Beryl’s aid. Can he help her without revealing his feelings—or betraying his brother?
After a mysterious sojourn in Paris, Beryl Burnham has returned home to the village of Shepton Worthy ready to resume the life she left behind. Betrothed to the wealthy Sir Henry Rivenhall, she has no reason to be unhappy—or so people keep reminding her. But Beryl’s life isn’t as perfect as everyone believes.
A Longstanding Love…
As village curate, Mark Rivenhall is known for his compassionate understanding. When his older brother’s intended needs a shoulder to lean on, Mark’s more than willing to provide one. There’s no danger of losing his heart. He already lost that to Beryl a long time ago.
During an idyllic Victorian summer, friends and family gather in anticipation of Beryl and Sir Henry’s wedding. But in her darkest moment, it’s Mark who comes to Beryl’s aid. Can he help her without revealing his feelings—or betraying his brother?
Mimi Matthews is an author whose books I love. There is something about the way she writes that resonates with me. Her stories fall so gently around my heart and mind but honestly it's probably because of her characters. I always feel so connected with them. This was true for this book as well. Beryl and Mark firmly planted themselves in my heart from the very beginning. I absolutely adored them both but if I were picking, it would have to be Mark as the true gentleman and hero in this book. The care he took with Beryl was endearing and yes, even romantic.
Beryl struggles with melancholy. It's more than just a passing difficulty and I could really feel the heaviness Beryl carried because nobody understood what she was feeling and the treatments of the day were frightening, not to mention ineffective. Mark though. If everyone had a Mark the world would be a better place for sure. He approached Beryl with compassion, thoughtfulness and love. He really tried to understand and provide Beryl with things that he felt might help her. I told you he was the hero of this book and I wasn't exaggerating.
Yes, this book is a bit heavier than other books by this author but I personally didn't feel overwhelmed by the weight of the subject matter. There was a sweet balance because of Mark. He brought light to Beryl and he brought light to the story. The romance was sweet and believable. It was so good.
If you haven't read anything by this author, you really need to. She's one of my favorites and I always feel so lucky to read her books. Release day for this book is July 14th but you can pre-order now!
Content: kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
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