Each of the books in this series introduces us to a young woman of the Regency era in British history. It was a time when society and family pressure to 'marry correctly' dominated lives. As much as I am intrigued by the books written about the time period, I am most often reminded of how grateful I am that I was not born during that time period. Still, I remain intrigued by it.
Like many readers, I was originally drawn into Regency romance fiction by Jane Austen and the Bennet family in Pride and Prejudice, as well as the Dashwood daughters of Sense and Sensibility. At a very young age, these books introduced me to a real part of history, their homes, the British peerage (the hierarchy of nobility), even their fashion, but mostly to the dominance of lineage. Like so many things, the facade is beautiful.
I have read and reviewed several books by Martha Keyes. She does a wonderful job of creating unique situations for us to read about and consider. Hazelhurst is an excellent example of how Keyes involves her readers in the life of her fictional character and makes us feel a range of emotions for our new friend.
Synopsis of "Hazelhurst" by Martha Keyes
Hazelhurst: A Sweet Regency Romance
(Families of Dorset Book 4)Check Price Lady Anne Vincent Haywood is devastated by the loss of her husband.
In this case, loss means exactly that. Her husband has
disappeared! She has no idea if he is dead or alive. All she
knows is that he has been missing for 3 weeks. Her brother has hired a
Bow Street Runner to help them find the missing husband, Anthony. What
he finds is unbelievable. The name Anthony Haywood is an alias.
His real name is Nicholas Hackett and he married his wife, Louisa, two years
ago. Therefore, Anne is not really married.
She returns to her parents home and is once again, living under her father's rule. Lord Purbeck is determined to see the stain removed from his daughter, his name, and his family. She will marry Tobias Cosgrove. The Cosgrove family is wealthy, but has no title. Lady Anne can bring a title to the marriage, but no money. As far as her father is concerned, it is the perfect solution for all.
Tobias Cosgrove's father and mother have informed him of his father's agreement with Lord Purbeck. Tobias is not ready to marry and give up his carefree lifestyle, but he has known Lady Anne all of his life through his sisters. She seems a reasonable sort. He decides that perhaps the two of them can come to an agreement of their own. It is with that in mind, that he calls on Lady Anne.
Lady Anne is relieved by Tobias suggestion. She has already been duped by the romantic idea of a marriage for love. Theirs will be a marriage of convenience. Both families will get what they want and Anne and Tobias can live separate lives under the same roof without romantic entanglements.
Sounds perfect, right? Marriage is never quite that simple, especially when the Ton is watching!
_________
Books by Martha Keyes Previously Reviewed on ReviewThisReviews.com
- Review of Reputation at Risk: A Chronicle of Misadventures by Martha Keyes
- To Hunt an Heiress by Martha Keyes - Book Reviewed
- Review of Reputation at Risk: A Chronicle of Misadventures
- A Suitable Arrangement
- Secrets of a Duke: A Chronicle of Misadventures
- The Widow and the Highlander (Tales from the Highlands Book1)
- The Enemy and Miss Innes (Tales from the Highlands Book 2)
- The Innkeeper and the Fugitive (Tales from the Highlands Book 3)
- A Reckless Courtship: A Chronicle of Misadventures
I know how sad a reader feels when they reach the end of a dearly loved book series. (That's why I frequently go back to favorite series at a later date and re-read them). Glad you enjoyed the Hazelhurst series. Knowing how romance can 'find its way' despite other plans, I would imagine that Book 4 brings Tobias and Lady Anne together in love by the end of the story. :) Thanks for your fascinating book reviews of Martha Keyes' Regency Romances.
ReplyDeleteThanks to your reviews, I have already read and enjoyed several excellent Regency romance novels by Martha Keyes. As you know, I too, am a big fan of well written books of this popular genre. And since many are not so well written, I always appreciate learning about good Regency romance authors and series. Thanks so much for your excellent review and recommendation!
ReplyDeleteI too am disappointed when a good series ends. Thanks for the recommendation
ReplyDeleteI’m so intrigued about their arrangement and you have me curious about what happens going forward!
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