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Castles and Courtship
An Amiable Foe
She wants to be left alone with her family’s castle. He wants to show off the home he has just inherited. Neither of them can win.
Marianne Edgewood is perfectly capable of running Brindale Castle, if only the task would be left to her. A centuries-old house of stone is solid, unchanging, whereas people are not to be relied upon. It little matters that a stranger inherited the castle. She simply must find a way to stay.
At last, fate has been kind to Peregrine Osborne, and he has won the approval of his baron uncle, his London friends, and the deed to a castle in Kent. He certainly deserves his success after suffering a series of setbacks through no fault of his own. If only the castle’s pretty resident, Miss Edgewood, didn’t stand in the way of his urgent attempts to bring the castle to its proper glory.
When Perry embarks on a whirlwind renovation of Brindale, Marianne proves to be confoundingly resistant to his efforts. As Perry finds it increasingly difficult to force her to his will, he begins to question whether having his way at all costs is worth forcing Marianne from everything she has ever known. And Marianne must decide whether a cold pile of stones is truly a replacement for a warm, beating heart.
Marianne Edgewood is perfectly capable of running Brindale Castle, if only the task would be left to her. A centuries-old house of stone is solid, unchanging, whereas people are not to be relied upon. It little matters that a stranger inherited the castle. She simply must find a way to stay.
At last, fate has been kind to Peregrine Osborne, and he has won the approval of his baron uncle, his London friends, and the deed to a castle in Kent. He certainly deserves his success after suffering a series of setbacks through no fault of his own. If only the castle’s pretty resident, Miss Edgewood, didn’t stand in the way of his urgent attempts to bring the castle to its proper glory.
When Perry embarks on a whirlwind renovation of Brindale, Marianne proves to be confoundingly resistant to his efforts. As Perry finds it increasingly difficult to force her to his will, he begins to question whether having his way at all costs is worth forcing Marianne from everything she has ever known. And Marianne must decide whether a cold pile of stones is truly a replacement for a warm, beating heart.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2023
About the author
Jennie Goutet
38 books549 followersJennie Goutet is the best-selling author of twelve Regency romances, including the Clavering Chronicles, Memorable Proposals, and Daughters of the Gentry series. Her books have received first place in historical romance for the New England Reader’s Choice Awards and have hit the number one spot in Regency Romance on Amazon. They have been featured on BookBub and Hoopla, and are translated into five languages.
Jennie is an American-born Anglophile who lives with her French husband and their three children in a small town outside of Paris. Her imagination resides in Regency England, where her best-selling proper Regency romances are set. You can learn more about Jennie’s books and sign up for her newsletter on her author website: jenniegoutet.com or purchase her books at jenniegoutetbooks.com.
Photo credit: Caroline Aoustin
Jennie is an American-born Anglophile who lives with her French husband and their three children in a small town outside of Paris. Her imagination resides in Regency England, where her best-selling proper Regency romances are set. You can learn more about Jennie’s books and sign up for her newsletter on her author website: jenniegoutet.com or purchase her books at jenniegoutetbooks.com.
Photo credit: Caroline Aoustin
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
August 19, 2023
I shall forever treasure this book as my first succesful listen of a full audiobook! Not sure what clicked here after many failed audiobook attempts throughout the years, but I was able to hang on to this one and quite enjoyed myself in general. Just so happy at the possibility of trying out more audios as the spoonful of sugar for daily tasks.
This is also my first Jennie Goutet, and I very much enjoyed her charming, effortless writing. I already have so many of hers in my TBR, I’m excited for more.
I’m left a little adrift though on this one because, rounding on the third act, it started to go downhill for me, mainly because of pacing. I’d been dragging along some worries about how Perry has such a great little arc of selfish social-climber turned self-sacrificing protector, but Marianne, our painfully naive recluse, just did not keep up in growth. And then, gimme all the misunderstanding and emotional trepidation, but keep those lovebirds in close proximity, or I’ll be skimming into that epilogue (which also brought on some head-scratching choices).
It’s not meant to be a set-you-afire epic soul mates tale, it was a sweet “You’re the opposite of what I rationally wanted, but you’re ‘it’ for me”. There were some lovely romantic gestures to go with our hero’s bumbling and loved that castle setting.
Content notes: Kissing only. Mentions of past indiscretions, predatory secondary character, on page parent loss grief.
This is also my first Jennie Goutet, and I very much enjoyed her charming, effortless writing. I already have so many of hers in my TBR, I’m excited for more.
I’m left a little adrift though on this one because, rounding on the third act, it started to go downhill for me, mainly because of pacing. I’d been dragging along some worries about how Perry has such a great little arc of selfish social-climber turned self-sacrificing protector, but Marianne, our painfully naive recluse, just did not keep up in growth. And then, gimme all the misunderstanding and emotional trepidation, but keep those lovebirds in close proximity, or I’ll be skimming into that epilogue (which also brought on some head-scratching choices).
It’s not meant to be a set-you-afire epic soul mates tale, it was a sweet “You’re the opposite of what I rationally wanted, but you’re ‘it’ for me”. There were some lovely romantic gestures to go with our hero’s bumbling and loved that castle setting.
Content notes: Kissing only. Mentions of past indiscretions, predatory secondary character, on page parent loss grief.
March 20, 2023
A charming romance with a beautiful cover. This is book one of a series about castles and courtship. A perfect distraction that helped me remember how precious life is. Women had very little say about their lives in 1810 and Marianne was no exception. Peregrine has inherited Marianne’s Castle and now must do the right thing. But what does that look like??
A short read this offered a ball, a mystery of sorts and a sweet romance. And of course a HEA.
Thanks to Jennie Goutet for this lovely story. I look forward to reading the rest of this series!
A short read this offered a ball, a mystery of sorts and a sweet romance. And of course a HEA.
Thanks to Jennie Goutet for this lovely story. I look forward to reading the rest of this series!
April 16, 2023
This was a nice book, and I felt like the writing style was a little different than this author's previous books. I'm not sure what it is that's different, but I liked it. It was sweet and had some fun moments.
May 8, 2023
What a cute book! I already knew I would love this series just because of all of the amazing authors that are writing them!!
Marianne is happy with her life. She is content with her rundown castle and her outdate clothing. But when Mr. Osborn shows up, surprising her with shocking news and upending all of her hopes and dreams, she is forced to uproot her plans and take a different course in life.
Peregrine has worked to become the man that he is, respected by his friends and given the opportunity to prove he can be a proper gentleman. But when he meets the woman who resides at the castle, unexpected things happen and the things he thought were important, may not be as important as he thought them to be.
You will LOVE all of the characters in this book, and I am HOPING this is a caveat to other characters in future books as I really enjoyed getting to know some of them in this one. I really want to hear Rafe’s story!! This book is also available on Jennie’s you tube channel and the narrator is awesome!
*I received a copy of this book as an ARC reviewer, but a positive review wasn’t required. All thoughts are solely what I personally thought of this beautiful book.❤️❤️❤️
Marianne is happy with her life. She is content with her rundown castle and her outdate clothing. But when Mr. Osborn shows up, surprising her with shocking news and upending all of her hopes and dreams, she is forced to uproot her plans and take a different course in life.
Peregrine has worked to become the man that he is, respected by his friends and given the opportunity to prove he can be a proper gentleman. But when he meets the woman who resides at the castle, unexpected things happen and the things he thought were important, may not be as important as he thought them to be.
You will LOVE all of the characters in this book, and I am HOPING this is a caveat to other characters in future books as I really enjoyed getting to know some of them in this one. I really want to hear Rafe’s story!! This book is also available on Jennie’s you tube channel and the narrator is awesome!
*I received a copy of this book as an ARC reviewer, but a positive review wasn’t required. All thoughts are solely what I personally thought of this beautiful book.❤️❤️❤️
June 20, 2023
This is a sweet historical romance, and watching this sweet romance unfold was perfection. Goutet knows just the right way to write phrases, personalities, settings, and events that speak to my heart and sweep me off my feet.
Opposites attract
Forced Proximity
Misconceptions
He Falls First
Slow burn
Sweet optimistic heroine
Lots of muddy situations
Funny moments scenes a pond, and a pig.
Opposites attract
Forced Proximity
Misconceptions
He Falls First
Slow burn
Sweet optimistic heroine
Lots of muddy situations
Funny moments scenes a pond, and a pig.
May 20, 2024
IT WAS SWEET.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I liked this one! I haven’t read a Goutet book in a bit and I enjoyed being back in her writing style and storytelling. I loved the castle setting and the dynamics between the main couple, Perry and Marianne.
The little dash of mystery added some good forced proximity and I FELT for Marianna as she tried to navigate being a part of society. I haven’t seen much of this kind of plot decisions in historicals and I liked that unique atmosphere. I loved the way that Perry looked after Marianne and really grew into himself too. They were both people trying to take new steps forward and they found that way together.
I adore this cover. The audiobook was great and this was a nice read to spend my time with.
Overall audience notes:
- Historical Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: break-in, bullying, loss of parents
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I liked this one! I haven’t read a Goutet book in a bit and I enjoyed being back in her writing style and storytelling. I loved the castle setting and the dynamics between the main couple, Perry and Marianne.
The little dash of mystery added some good forced proximity and I FELT for Marianna as she tried to navigate being a part of society. I haven’t seen much of this kind of plot decisions in historicals and I liked that unique atmosphere. I loved the way that Perry looked after Marianne and really grew into himself too. They were both people trying to take new steps forward and they found that way together.
I adore this cover. The audiobook was great and this was a nice read to spend my time with.
Overall audience notes:
- Historical Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: break-in, bullying, loss of parents
March 29, 2023
Do you like cozy romances in crumbling castles? An Amiable Foe is a book about new starts, misconceptions and finding what we need is not what we’ve been looking for.
This is the first release in the Castles and Courtship series and I think each one is going to be delightful, especially going into spring and summer.
Jennie did a good job creating an opposites attract romance in a forced proximity setting. I think one of my favorite parts was the character growth of the MMC and how he learned to be his own man and not what other expected him to be!
While these two could have been enemies I think their personalities made them fast friends and there were some fun and memorable moments shared between them!
Loved the setting and can’t wait to see where this series takes us.
Thank you sweet @aladyinfrance for my beautiful copy. Review is my own✨
April 12, 2023
A great start to the Castles and Courtship series! Marianne has been running her family’s castle for years since her parent’s death and knows how to handle herself although not seen as a respectable lady. Perry is trying to get his uncle’s approval and seen in society in a good light. With Perry inheriting Marianne’s castle it’s a little bit of an enemies to lovers but he is always kind and understanding of the situation. Their meet cute is so fun and I loved watching their characters grow and develop feelings. There is also just the right touch of mystery. A very enjoyable read.
April 22, 2023
Jennie's writing is so smooth and lyrical that it's a true joy to read. Her books are the type to wrap up with a hot drink and a cozy blanket in a comfy chair and read for hours.
This new series featuring castles and courtship in a regency setting immediately caught my attention and I am so excited to read each and every book that follows.
This particular book features an opposites attract, enemies to more, turned friends to more and forced proximity. I loved the complexity of our male main character (MCC). He had a lot of character growth and you could tell right from the beginning how much potential and heart he had. It was fun to see that growth spill out on the pages. Our female main character is a bit naïve and juvenile (completely true to her character of how she was raised and the situations she faced), but I loved seeing her character grow and in turn watching the two of them make the other character better.
'She couldn't be sure, but it seemed that his eyes were soft when he looked at her, as though their shared adventure had disposed him more kindly toward her. She sensed a solicitude that was new, and it matched the warmer feelings she had begun to develop toward him.'
There were some incredibly fun and memorable scenes in this book of a hero coming to the rescue and those really sold me on this book. I also loved the overall theme that love can conquer all. I'm a sucker for a good love story and this ended exactly how I wanted it to!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content/trigger: death of parents, unsure future, kisses.
This new series featuring castles and courtship in a regency setting immediately caught my attention and I am so excited to read each and every book that follows.
This particular book features an opposites attract, enemies to more, turned friends to more and forced proximity. I loved the complexity of our male main character (MCC). He had a lot of character growth and you could tell right from the beginning how much potential and heart he had. It was fun to see that growth spill out on the pages. Our female main character is a bit naïve and juvenile (completely true to her character of how she was raised and the situations she faced), but I loved seeing her character grow and in turn watching the two of them make the other character better.
'She couldn't be sure, but it seemed that his eyes were soft when he looked at her, as though their shared adventure had disposed him more kindly toward her. She sensed a solicitude that was new, and it matched the warmer feelings she had begun to develop toward him.'
There were some incredibly fun and memorable scenes in this book of a hero coming to the rescue and those really sold me on this book. I also loved the overall theme that love can conquer all. I'm a sucker for a good love story and this ended exactly how I wanted it to!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content/trigger: death of parents, unsure future, kisses.
March 24, 2023
“Everyone is a stranger until they become a friend.”
What a perfect book to cozy up with on a stormy day! Loved this latest book from Jennie Goutet & the first book in the Castles and Courtship series. It’s a delightful slow burn, enemies to lovers Regency romance with lovely characters, a touch of mystery, and of course swoonworthy kisses.
Marianne Edgewood has been managing her family’s castle since the death of her parents. When her uncle passes away, the castle’s inheritance goes to a stranger. Marianne resents the unexpected arrival of the new owner and all the changes he wants to enact.
Peregrine Osborn is excited to take up his baron uncle’s challenge to prove he’s worthy of his inheritance. After a number of setbacks, he’s finally been given a castle in Kent to prove his worthiness. Unfortunately, the resident miss proves to be an obstacle to his plans, but as he gets to know this beautiful, endearing combatant, he begins to lose his heart to her.
Loved Perry & Marianne! Marianne quickly drew my sympathy. She lost both parents at a young age and has an indifferent companion to guide her. She tends to be a little clumsy and her first society dance proves to be disastrous. While she’s somewhat naive and lacks the knowledge of all the social graces and fashions, her sweet, caring disposition endears her to Perry and brings out his protective instincts.
I enjoyed watching their relationship change from one of resentment to friendship to love. Loved Perry’s growth throughout the story. He goes from an ambitious, social seeking young man to thoughtful and caring as he learns what’s most important.
All the side characters bring a welcome addition to the story. I enjoyed the friendships between Marianne and her servants and the new friend she makes. Also liked Perry’s friends, especially Raife.
Definitely a must read for clean Regency romance fans! The well written dialogue, romance, characters, and delightful story provide pure enjoyment. Thanks to the author for the arc! All opinions are my own and freely given.
What a perfect book to cozy up with on a stormy day! Loved this latest book from Jennie Goutet & the first book in the Castles and Courtship series. It’s a delightful slow burn, enemies to lovers Regency romance with lovely characters, a touch of mystery, and of course swoonworthy kisses.
Marianne Edgewood has been managing her family’s castle since the death of her parents. When her uncle passes away, the castle’s inheritance goes to a stranger. Marianne resents the unexpected arrival of the new owner and all the changes he wants to enact.
Peregrine Osborn is excited to take up his baron uncle’s challenge to prove he’s worthy of his inheritance. After a number of setbacks, he’s finally been given a castle in Kent to prove his worthiness. Unfortunately, the resident miss proves to be an obstacle to his plans, but as he gets to know this beautiful, endearing combatant, he begins to lose his heart to her.
Loved Perry & Marianne! Marianne quickly drew my sympathy. She lost both parents at a young age and has an indifferent companion to guide her. She tends to be a little clumsy and her first society dance proves to be disastrous. While she’s somewhat naive and lacks the knowledge of all the social graces and fashions, her sweet, caring disposition endears her to Perry and brings out his protective instincts.
I enjoyed watching their relationship change from one of resentment to friendship to love. Loved Perry’s growth throughout the story. He goes from an ambitious, social seeking young man to thoughtful and caring as he learns what’s most important.
All the side characters bring a welcome addition to the story. I enjoyed the friendships between Marianne and her servants and the new friend she makes. Also liked Perry’s friends, especially Raife.
Definitely a must read for clean Regency romance fans! The well written dialogue, romance, characters, and delightful story provide pure enjoyment. Thanks to the author for the arc! All opinions are my own and freely given.
March 18, 2023
“She lifted her bright blue eyes to him and smiled with approval—the reaction he had been hoping for. He looked away. She must not see by his fidgeting that his heart had started to tap out a faster rhythm.”
I’ve been looking forward to reading this new series. I mean, castles and Regency Romance, what a fantastic combo! This book was so cute and I loved it! The cover is stunning, and this story has a Cinderella feel to it that I enjoyed!
I loved getting to know Marianne Edgewood and Peregrine Osborne. They start out as foes as he’s inheriting her family castle. It’s the only thing she has left of her parents’, and she misses them dearly. As Marianne gets to know Perry, she realizes he might be a more amiable foe then she supposed!
I really love Perry and Marianne! They both go through so much character growth and I loved their relationship arc. They have swoony moments together, tender moments, awkward embarrassing moments, with the sweetest gestures, and a slow burn romance that is oh so sweet.
Read for:
🏰A castle setting
🏰The hilarious meet cute
🏰Chivalrous hero
🏰Sweet optimistic heroine
🏰 He falls first
🏰Foes to more
🏰Lots of muddy situations😉
🏰Sweet touching romance and kisses
🏰The epilogue
🏰Memorable moments including a garden, a pond, a church and a pig.
I enjoyed this story and the journey it took me on! Their happily ever after melted my heart and made me laugh. This a wonderful book that historical romance lovers will definitely enjoy!
Releases March 24!
Thank you to the author for the ARC copy. All opinions are my own.
Content:death of parents in the past, kisses only
I’ve been looking forward to reading this new series. I mean, castles and Regency Romance, what a fantastic combo! This book was so cute and I loved it! The cover is stunning, and this story has a Cinderella feel to it that I enjoyed!
I loved getting to know Marianne Edgewood and Peregrine Osborne. They start out as foes as he’s inheriting her family castle. It’s the only thing she has left of her parents’, and she misses them dearly. As Marianne gets to know Perry, she realizes he might be a more amiable foe then she supposed!
I really love Perry and Marianne! They both go through so much character growth and I loved their relationship arc. They have swoony moments together, tender moments, awkward embarrassing moments, with the sweetest gestures, and a slow burn romance that is oh so sweet.
Read for:
🏰A castle setting
🏰The hilarious meet cute
🏰Chivalrous hero
🏰Sweet optimistic heroine
🏰 He falls first
🏰Foes to more
🏰Lots of muddy situations😉
🏰Sweet touching romance and kisses
🏰The epilogue
🏰Memorable moments including a garden, a pond, a church and a pig.
I enjoyed this story and the journey it took me on! Their happily ever after melted my heart and made me laugh. This a wonderful book that historical romance lovers will definitely enjoy!
Releases March 24!
Thank you to the author for the ARC copy. All opinions are my own.
Content:death of parents in the past, kisses only
March 12, 2023
Jennie has done it again! What a wonderful story of grit, perseverance and love.
The meet cute was adorable! I loved how Marianne didn’t let misfortunes keep her down. She even learned to stand up against those who betrayed her. I loved it when she finally spoke her mind!
Perry was desperate to be accepted in society and to prove himself to his uncle. I enjoyed watching his feelings and priorities change.
Things to expect:
Enemies to More
Clandestine meeting
Humorous but embarrassing moments.
Betrayal by those who should care
Mud, lots of mud
Misunderstandings
Sweet and swoony kisses.
Happily Ever After
If you love a clean Regency romance I heartily recommend this book to you!
The meet cute was adorable! I loved how Marianne didn’t let misfortunes keep her down. She even learned to stand up against those who betrayed her. I loved it when she finally spoke her mind!
Perry was desperate to be accepted in society and to prove himself to his uncle. I enjoyed watching his feelings and priorities change.
Things to expect:
Enemies to More
Clandestine meeting
Humorous but embarrassing moments.
Betrayal by those who should care
Mud, lots of mud
Misunderstandings
Sweet and swoony kisses.
Happily Ever After
If you love a clean Regency romance I heartily recommend this book to you!
June 23, 2024
Lovely, sweet, period romance
Romance, sweet, period;
Marianne and Perry’s romance is an enemies to lovers story. Two honorable people, both learning things about themselves, and finding each other in the process.
Lovely fall, sweetly composed with bits of mistakes on both their parts, Perry’s missteps, and Mariann’s slip ups (always mud and the pig!) helped them slowly see each other through to their genuine honest nature. Lovely fall.
Romance, sweet, period;
Marianne and Perry’s romance is an enemies to lovers story. Two honorable people, both learning things about themselves, and finding each other in the process.
Lovely fall, sweetly composed with bits of mistakes on both their parts, Perry’s missteps, and Mariann’s slip ups (always mud and the pig!) helped them slowly see each other through to their genuine honest nature. Lovely fall.
May 4, 2023
3.8 stars...not quite four. It took me several chapters to get interested in this story. It does turn out really good. I end up loving the MMC Perry and his sweet side. He makes her so much more comfortable in her own skin. I wish Marianne had developed more during the story. Overall good story, just lacking in certain areas.
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
September 25, 2023DNF at 9%. I know not everyone will feel this way, but I have a hard time with people who cling to things over people. It's a trauma response, I know. But I have too many people in my life with that trauma response and don't want to read about a woman who treasures her castle more than life.
June 20, 2023
Mmm I think I've finished gathering the data on Jennie Goutet. And my conclusion is I really enjoy her writing style, but her stories don't click with me. Definitely a case of it's not you, it's me.
With every entry I've read from Goutet I always find the writing to be great and the character work to be exceptional, but where it always falls down for me is the execution of the romance and the pacing. And all of that rings true for this book.
The premise is that the castle that Marianne has lived in her whole life is bequeathed to her uncle's distant relative upon his death leaving Marianne to have to build a new life so apart from the one she loves and has grown accustomed to. The inheritor of the castle is Perry who comes to inspect his new property.
From the jump Goutet writes Marianne and Perry beautifully as incredibly flawed characters who aren't impossible to root for. And this is something I feel like she always excels in across all her books. I was really looking forward to the gradual character growth for both characters as they grew closer. Now gradual doesn't mean slow, it just means progression. As in, seeing the change happen, rather than leaps and bounds. For example, in the first half of the book Perry is pretty selfish. Not mean-spirited, but definitely very self-focused and -interested. He's also a little lost in the world in terms of excessively seeking the approval of those from a higher station. Through the first half of the book, he regards Marianne but not excessively so. He's still more focused on himself and his own goals. Suddenly at the halfway mark or so, there's this huge shift and he's in love with Marianne and is doing all these things to please her and make her happy. That in itself isn't bad but the suddenness of it make it feel entirely unearned. And once that happens my investment takes a nosedive.
This really is the central gripe that I have with the story, which can be boiled down to poor execution. All the ingredients were there but it didn't come together. The character development was sort of abandoned halfway through, the romance never laid down a sufficient foundation for lift-off, and the plot itself wasn't engaging enough to maintain my interest.
I feel if I go through all my reviews for Goutet books I would have said similar things, which makes me conclude that her books don't click with me.
Definitely a me thing though, she's an excellent writer.
With every entry I've read from Goutet I always find the writing to be great and the character work to be exceptional, but where it always falls down for me is the execution of the romance and the pacing. And all of that rings true for this book.
The premise is that the castle that Marianne has lived in her whole life is bequeathed to her uncle's distant relative upon his death leaving Marianne to have to build a new life so apart from the one she loves and has grown accustomed to. The inheritor of the castle is Perry who comes to inspect his new property.
From the jump Goutet writes Marianne and Perry beautifully as incredibly flawed characters who aren't impossible to root for. And this is something I feel like she always excels in across all her books. I was really looking forward to the gradual character growth for both characters as they grew closer. Now gradual doesn't mean slow, it just means progression. As in, seeing the change happen, rather than leaps and bounds. For example, in the first half of the book Perry is pretty selfish. Not mean-spirited, but definitely very self-focused and -interested. He's also a little lost in the world in terms of excessively seeking the approval of those from a higher station. Through the first half of the book, he regards Marianne but not excessively so. He's still more focused on himself and his own goals. Suddenly at the halfway mark or so, there's this huge shift and he's in love with Marianne and is doing all these things to please her and make her happy. That in itself isn't bad but the suddenness of it make it feel entirely unearned. And once that happens my investment takes a nosedive.
This really is the central gripe that I have with the story, which can be boiled down to poor execution. All the ingredients were there but it didn't come together. The character development was sort of abandoned halfway through, the romance never laid down a sufficient foundation for lift-off, and the plot itself wasn't engaging enough to maintain my interest.
I feel if I go through all my reviews for Goutet books I would have said similar things, which makes me conclude that her books don't click with me.
Definitely a me thing though, she's an excellent writer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2023
The h is a complete miss for me - pun not intended. What sort of creature is she? At times she sounds like a competent and independent woman, at other times like a complete nincompoop. What kind of woman would think that a 20 year-old dress, too long, and a size too big could be acceptable to wear at a ball?! Doesn't she have eyes? A self-preservation instinct? Anything? And how did she even manage to be marginally normal having grown up with no adult supervision, education, friends, parent figures, teachers? She should be positively feral! Everything about her is so completely unrealistic that it really put me off the book altogether
March 27, 2023
Brindale Castle has been Marianne's home her entire life, so when her uncle passes and fails to name her heir, she's more than a little reluctant to meet her home's new owner. To her surprise, the castle's new holder has handed the place off to his nephew, Mr. Osborne, a man set to inherit the barony. The man is eager to cast her out to the small patch of land and cottage that was once part of the estate, and Marianne is left with only her companion, a crotchety spinster whom Marianne hopes to soon be rid of, and her maid.
Perry Osborne is eager to prove himself as his uncle's heir, but the castle now in his possession is in dire need of repair. What's more, the previous mistress of the estate is as beautiful as she is confusing, a lady raised as a recluse with little knowledge of social norms and etiquette. He should avoid her to preserve his own reputation, but a growing feeling of protectiveness he simple cannot ignore berates his guilty conscience for having evicted her from the castle.
When the cottage suffers a break-in, Perry insists Marianne remain at the castle with him until the building can be secured. But with his London friends visiting, he must protect her just as much within the stone walls of his new home as outside them, and the more time he spends in her company the less concerned he is with maintaining his reputation and the more he wishes to win her heart.
This story was so cute! I really liked Marianne. She begins as quite the recluse and so naive to the ways of high society. This provides several situations where she is left vulnerable and a mockery in society, and who should come to her rescue but the very man who kicked her out of the only home she's ever known. I adored Perry, and his protective nature of Marianne was so sweet. Both characters had great growth, IMO, and the romance was just adorable. A perfect example of beautiful, unconditional love and a perfect start to the Castles and Courtship series.
Perry Osborne is eager to prove himself as his uncle's heir, but the castle now in his possession is in dire need of repair. What's more, the previous mistress of the estate is as beautiful as she is confusing, a lady raised as a recluse with little knowledge of social norms and etiquette. He should avoid her to preserve his own reputation, but a growing feeling of protectiveness he simple cannot ignore berates his guilty conscience for having evicted her from the castle.
When the cottage suffers a break-in, Perry insists Marianne remain at the castle with him until the building can be secured. But with his London friends visiting, he must protect her just as much within the stone walls of his new home as outside them, and the more time he spends in her company the less concerned he is with maintaining his reputation and the more he wishes to win her heart.
This story was so cute! I really liked Marianne. She begins as quite the recluse and so naive to the ways of high society. This provides several situations where she is left vulnerable and a mockery in society, and who should come to her rescue but the very man who kicked her out of the only home she's ever known. I adored Perry, and his protective nature of Marianne was so sweet. Both characters had great growth, IMO, and the romance was just adorable. A perfect example of beautiful, unconditional love and a perfect start to the Castles and Courtship series.
March 14, 2023
I just finished another great read by Jennie Goutet @aladyinfrance ! I am a big fan of her sweet historical romance books! An Amiable Foe releases March 24th! I am very intrigued with this Castles and Courtship series. I am excited to see where Jennie takes it!
Marianne is a young lady left in charge of Brindale castle while her Uncle is away in India. But after his sudden death, she is left at the mercy of a new owner. Mr. Osborne arrives without notice to his newly inherited estate to find it in dire need of repair and renovation. What he doesn’t expect is to find the sweet but obstinate Marianne quite attached to the castle which makes his plans quite frustratingly difficult.
I think my favorite thing about this book is how different it is from other regency reads. Marianne is innocent, strong-willed, and a little quirky. So much awkward humor and some embarrassing moments. I found myself laughing and saying “Oh no” often. Very unique premise in a castle with unusual forced proximity and a little enemies to lovers. I love how Perry was like… “I really shouldn’t like her.” 😂😂😂
But the romance was so sweet!
A regency romance set in a castle? Sign me up. Great read for those who love sweet historical romance. Check this one out 3/24!
Thank you to the author for the early copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*Romance- kisses
#histfic #historicalromance #sweetromance #jenniegoutet #earc #kindlereads #castlesandcourtship #regencyera #quirkyheroines #countryliving #anamiablefoe #earlycopy #marchreads #marchpub #marchrelease #newbook
Marianne is a young lady left in charge of Brindale castle while her Uncle is away in India. But after his sudden death, she is left at the mercy of a new owner. Mr. Osborne arrives without notice to his newly inherited estate to find it in dire need of repair and renovation. What he doesn’t expect is to find the sweet but obstinate Marianne quite attached to the castle which makes his plans quite frustratingly difficult.
I think my favorite thing about this book is how different it is from other regency reads. Marianne is innocent, strong-willed, and a little quirky. So much awkward humor and some embarrassing moments. I found myself laughing and saying “Oh no” often. Very unique premise in a castle with unusual forced proximity and a little enemies to lovers. I love how Perry was like… “I really shouldn’t like her.” 😂😂😂
But the romance was so sweet!
A regency romance set in a castle? Sign me up. Great read for those who love sweet historical romance. Check this one out 3/24!
Thank you to the author for the early copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*Romance- kisses
#histfic #historicalromance #sweetromance #jenniegoutet #earc #kindlereads #castlesandcourtship #regencyera #quirkyheroines #countryliving #anamiablefoe #earlycopy #marchreads #marchpub #marchrelease #newbook
June 16, 2023
Marianne has been running her household to the best of her ability on a shoestring budget and a prayer. She's been left to her own devices for far too long and learning the castle has been bequethed to another is a slight she's ill prepared for. Unfortunately, the new heir, Perry, has no qualms with sending her packing to her cottage on the perimeter of the estate.
Jennie's sly wit and sweet, thoughtful prose will keep me coming back to her writing. I liked the premise and the development of the romance between Marianne and Perry. This just happened to miss some of the angst and drama that I always want from her (or any author, really). But I'm blaming her for giving me A Daring Proposal (my very favorite of hers) and Philippa Holds Court (second only to ADP) to compare all of her work to. It did take me a longer time than normal to finish this book, but it's because my mood has demanded fantasy and contemporary for an absurd amount of time and I'm only now back into a historical mood.
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
Jennie's sly wit and sweet, thoughtful prose will keep me coming back to her writing. I liked the premise and the development of the romance between Marianne and Perry. This just happened to miss some of the angst and drama that I always want from her (or any author, really). But I'm blaming her for giving me A Daring Proposal (my very favorite of hers) and Philippa Holds Court (second only to ADP) to compare all of her work to. It did take me a longer time than normal to finish this book, but it's because my mood has demanded fantasy and contemporary for an absurd amount of time and I'm only now back into a historical mood.
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
March 23, 2023
This is the first in a series by some sweet romance authors.
Marianne has been orphaned for 10 years. Her guardian lived in India before he died and gave her home to someone else. She has been so very alone, and was never taught what she should learn from her companion.
Perry has inherited this castle from his Uncle, as a proving ground to become a Baron. He is unaware of Marianne, or the needs of the castle, and truly comes to the property in a less than helpful frame of mind.
As the two get to know each other, hearts soften, and Perry learns to love the castle and wants to improve it and make it profitable. Can a profitable castle and a couple become friends lead anywhere?
The characters were well thought through, they learned many lessons, the most important being that you shouldn't live to be accepted by society, there are more important things in life.
Marianne has been orphaned for 10 years. Her guardian lived in India before he died and gave her home to someone else. She has been so very alone, and was never taught what she should learn from her companion.
Perry has inherited this castle from his Uncle, as a proving ground to become a Baron. He is unaware of Marianne, or the needs of the castle, and truly comes to the property in a less than helpful frame of mind.
As the two get to know each other, hearts soften, and Perry learns to love the castle and wants to improve it and make it profitable. Can a profitable castle and a couple become friends lead anywhere?
The characters were well thought through, they learned many lessons, the most important being that you shouldn't live to be accepted by society, there are more important things in life.
March 24, 2023
The Amiable Foe by Jennie Goutet
A Castles and Courtships novel
Now available
This is a sweet historical romance about a girl who has, for all intensive purposes, grown up alone without a guiding hand to teach her how to move about in society. This is well and fine with her until she learns her beloved castle was left to another after the death of her uncle and she must find her own way. In comes Percy, a man on a mission to prove himself. He has been gifted the castle by his uncle and told to get it up to snuff.
This is a fun quick read. I loved watching the romance unfold between these very different but seemingly similar people. What a great start to a to new series. I can’t wait to read them all.
Things I loved:
🌷 climbing through the window 😏
🌷 gothic castle vibes
🌷 the pig
🌷 slow burn
🌷 protective instincts
A Castles and Courtships novel
Now available
This is a sweet historical romance about a girl who has, for all intensive purposes, grown up alone without a guiding hand to teach her how to move about in society. This is well and fine with her until she learns her beloved castle was left to another after the death of her uncle and she must find her own way. In comes Percy, a man on a mission to prove himself. He has been gifted the castle by his uncle and told to get it up to snuff.
This is a fun quick read. I loved watching the romance unfold between these very different but seemingly similar people. What a great start to a to new series. I can’t wait to read them all.
Things I loved:
🌷 climbing through the window 😏
🌷 gothic castle vibes
🌷 the pig
🌷 slow burn
🌷 protective instincts
March 29, 2023
Jennie Goutet is perfect at delivering the sweet regency romance. It’s sweet, as in very light romance, but you still love the couple and their path to finding love. I loved seeing the MMC grow and change through this. He was never awful, but he was a bit narrow minded at times and when he recognized it, he was quick to change it.
The risk and angst in this book is low, if you’re looking for an easy sweet read, that will deliver you a romance story with warm fuzzies, I highly recommend this one. There wasn’t any unnecessary drama and this is the type of story I would cuddle up in a big blanket and a hot drink with.
The risk and angst in this book is low, if you’re looking for an easy sweet read, that will deliver you a romance story with warm fuzzies, I highly recommend this one. There wasn’t any unnecessary drama and this is the type of story I would cuddle up in a big blanket and a hot drink with.
September 15, 2023
Marianne is currently residing in her family home when the new owner shows up. Perry is happy to get the castle but Marianne is upset. Perry and Marianne start out as foes but as they get to know each other and spend more time together they grow into friendship and then more! This story was very sweet, clean read. I really liked both characters! Perry owns the castle but he still wants to make sure Marianne has somewhere to go and is safe. After a break in at her cottage, Marianne and her maid come stay back at the castle and that’s when Marianne and Perry’s relationship really takes off. Overall a nice sweet story and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
March 24, 2023
Another pleasurable read by Jennie Goutet. This sweet story features Marianne Edgewood, an orphaned young woman who resides in Brindale Castle and has had the running of the castle essentially since her girlhood. She is suddenly bereft of her home when Peregrine Osborne, the new owner, comes to take possession of it. The story follows along with a sweet, slow burn romance, a little bit of mystery, a little bit of misunderstanding, and growth of both main characters. Another clean romance with an HEA that held my attention and made me want to grab that cup of tea and a scone to enjoy with it! Thank you to Jennie Goutet for the ARC and another chance to get lost in Regency England.
December 28, 2023
DNF @25% due to losing interest. I still don’t care about either of these characters and there’s a lot of internal monologue, noticing the other is attractive, and running about a castle.
I’m disappointed because I had this on hold for a long time and was excited to try this series. I think others in the series are better, or at least I’m optimistic 🤞
Content: per her other books, I’m assuming this is a kissing only book
I’m disappointed because I had this on hold for a long time and was excited to try this series. I think others in the series are better, or at least I’m optimistic 🤞
Content: per her other books, I’m assuming this is a kissing only book
May 26, 2023
I listened to this book via YouTube. It was a sweet story and the narration was well done. I look forward to listening to more.
December 23, 2023
My “sick for Christmas” booky 🫶 not on purpose ofc but I started it and then got sick so :,(
January 7, 2024
Absolutely loved this book!!! I loved the chemistry between Marianne and Perry... wonderful story... definitely recommends...
March 26, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this story of a young lady, left to basically raise herself in her home/castle after the death of her parents when she was 10 years old. Now, 10 years later, her guardian, a distant uncle she never really knew, died and left the castle to another man instead of her as he’d said he would. That man’s nephew shows up unexpectedly to take possession of the castle, sending her to a nearby cottage.
This book is filled with a host of characters, including a disagreeable companion, kind servants, and a male childhood friend.
I love Jennie Goutet’s writing style and the narration of the audiobook (free on YouTube) is perfect. I highly recommend this closed-door Regency romance!
This book is filled with a host of characters, including a disagreeable companion, kind servants, and a male childhood friend.
I love Jennie Goutet’s writing style and the narration of the audiobook (free on YouTube) is perfect. I highly recommend this closed-door Regency romance!
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