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Hawthorne House #1
A Noble Masquerade
Lady Miranda Hawthorne acts every inch the lady, but inside she longs to be bold and carefree. Entering her fourth Season and approaching spinsterhood in the eyes of society, she pours her innermost feelings out not in a diary but in letters to her brother's old school friend, a duke--with no intention of ever sending these private thoughts to a man she's heard stories about but never met. Meanwhile, she also finds herself intrigued by Marlow, her brother's new valet, and although she may wish to break free of the strictures that bind her, falling in love with a servant is more of a rebellion than she planned.
When Marlow accidentally discovers and mails one of the letters to her unwitting confidant, Miranda is beyond mortified. And even more shocked when the duke returns her note with one of his own that initiates a courtship-by-mail. Insecurity about her lack of suitors shifts into confusion at her growing feelings for two men--one she's never met but whose words deeply resonate with her heart, and one she has come to depend on but whose behavior is more and more suspicious. When it becomes apparent state secrets are at risk and Marlow is right in the thick of the conflict, one thing is certain: Miranda's heart is far from all that's at risk for the Hawthornes and those they love.
When Marlow accidentally discovers and mails one of the letters to her unwitting confidant, Miranda is beyond mortified. And even more shocked when the duke returns her note with one of his own that initiates a courtship-by-mail. Insecurity about her lack of suitors shifts into confusion at her growing feelings for two men--one she's never met but whose words deeply resonate with her heart, and one she has come to depend on but whose behavior is more and more suspicious. When it becomes apparent state secrets are at risk and Marlow is right in the thick of the conflict, one thing is certain: Miranda's heart is far from all that's at risk for the Hawthornes and those they love.
365 pages, Paperback
First published September 9, 2015
About the author
Kristi Ann Hunter
20 books1,517 followersKristi Ann Hunter graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in Computer Science but always knew she wanted to write. Kristi is an RWA Golden Heart contest winner, an ACFW Genesis contest winner, and a Georgia Romance Writers Maggie Award for Excellence winner. She lives with her husband and three children in Georgia. Find her online at www.kristiannhunter.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,259 reviews
October 25, 2016
I picked up this Regency romance at the library because it was a sequel to a book I read last week, A Lady of Esteem, and because the premise sounded very cute, if very contrived. Lady Miranda has been using her brother's friend as an imaginary friend for years, writing him letters that she then hides away in a trunk under her bed. Both her brother and his friend, by the way, are young, handsome dukes (it never ceases to amaze me how many of those there are in Regencyland). Then one day her brother's new valet comes across one of her letters ... Slightly spoilerish discussion of the first few chapters follows:
It was lightweight and fun, but then it fell apart for me in the second half. Once the big reveal happened, the heroine started acting silly, and then another plot twist kind of came out of left field. I guess something had to happen to keep our hero and heroine apart until the end, but it failed to sustain my interest, and I started skimming. I probably would have liked this novel much better if the second half had been much shorter and more focused on the same issues as the first half.
It's a mix of romance and mystery/suspense, complete with a couple of kidnappings, but then it also has some farcical elements to it, so it's helpful if you like heroines who are sometimes awkward and are also willing to punch a guy out if he makes them angry ... even if he is a duke. The ending got a little better, and sweet romance readers who aren't as picky as I sometimes am will probably enjoy this. Those who like a high degree of realism in their Regency reading, though, should stay far away.
This was a clean Christian romance, but the spiritual element was limited to the main characters praying and talking about God's guidance in our lives. Not overtly preachy.
It was lightweight and fun, but then it fell apart for me in the second half. Once the big reveal happened, the heroine started acting silly, and then another plot twist kind of came out of left field. I guess something had to happen to keep our hero and heroine apart until the end, but it failed to sustain my interest, and I started skimming. I probably would have liked this novel much better if the second half had been much shorter and more focused on the same issues as the first half.
It's a mix of romance and mystery/suspense, complete with a couple of kidnappings, but then it also has some farcical elements to it, so it's helpful if you like heroines who are sometimes awkward and are also willing to punch a guy out if he makes them angry ... even if he is a duke. The ending got a little better, and sweet romance readers who aren't as picky as I sometimes am will probably enjoy this. Those who like a high degree of realism in their Regency reading, though, should stay far away.
This was a clean Christian romance, but the spiritual element was limited to the main characters praying and talking about God's guidance in our lives. Not overtly preachy.
August 21, 2016
It is never a happy day when an eight-year-old girl's cheesecake lands in the dirt, and she certainly doesn't take kindly to the laughing little boy who put it there.
From that first line that had me laughing out loud and explaining to my brothers what was so funny... I was sure I was going to enjoy this book. And I'm happy to say that I wasn't wrong! :D
This book was so much fun to read! If I hadn't had to go to work, I likely would have finished it in one day. For the most part, it's a light, funny, and witty romantic read... not the type of book that I can read quietly, if you know what I mean. ;) But there's also an element of suspense that I liked a lot and I thought that was very well done.
I really love Kristi's writing style. It's vivid and draws me into the story, making me react at times as if I was a part of the story myself. If this author keeps putting out books like this, she's going to end up on my favorite authors list very quickly!
I truly enjoyed these characters! Miranda and Marsh ... Colin... and, especially, Miranda's brothers: Griffith and Trent (love those guys!!). I smile just thinking about them. :) There are some really great scenes with Miranda's brothers that made me think of my own brothers.
And the letters-- I hesitate to say much about those, even though I could probably go on for a while about them-- were such a great part of the story! Though I truly wanted to conk Marsh over the head about that at times... it had me in giggles throughout most of the story. And it also had me wondering how Miranda was going to react when she learned the truth. I wasn't disappointed there, either. (Read the book and I'm sure you'll likely laugh as hard as I did when you get to that scene. When I told my brothers, they were like: "Yep, that would be you." haha!)
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have definite plans to buy my own copy so that I can relive the happy experience of reading it again and again!
I think fans of authors such as Jen Turano and Karen Witemeyer would really enjoy this series. And don't forget to start with the e-book: A Lady of Esteem! :)
From that first line that had me laughing out loud and explaining to my brothers what was so funny... I was sure I was going to enjoy this book. And I'm happy to say that I wasn't wrong! :D
This book was so much fun to read! If I hadn't had to go to work, I likely would have finished it in one day. For the most part, it's a light, funny, and witty romantic read... not the type of book that I can read quietly, if you know what I mean. ;) But there's also an element of suspense that I liked a lot and I thought that was very well done.
I really love Kristi's writing style. It's vivid and draws me into the story, making me react at times as if I was a part of the story myself. If this author keeps putting out books like this, she's going to end up on my favorite authors list very quickly!
I truly enjoyed these characters! Miranda and Marsh ... Colin... and, especially, Miranda's brothers: Griffith and Trent (love those guys!!). I smile just thinking about them. :) There are some really great scenes with Miranda's brothers that made me think of my own brothers.
And the letters-- I hesitate to say much about those, even though I could probably go on for a while about them-- were such a great part of the story! Though I truly wanted to conk Marsh over the head about that at times... it had me in giggles throughout most of the story. And it also had me wondering how Miranda was going to react when she learned the truth. I wasn't disappointed there, either. (Read the book and I'm sure you'll likely laugh as hard as I did when you get to that scene. When I told my brothers, they were like: "Yep, that would be you." haha!)
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have definite plans to buy my own copy so that I can relive the happy experience of reading it again and again!
I think fans of authors such as Jen Turano and Karen Witemeyer would really enjoy this series. And don't forget to start with the e-book: A Lady of Esteem! :)
July 9, 2017
Hace unos meses leí en algún lado que este libro había ganado el premio RWA Golden Heart, el ADFW Genesis y el Georgia Romance Writers Maggie Award. En el 2016 además ganó el premio RITA a la mejor novela romántica inspiracional. Así que ya os podéis imaginar que sencillamente tenía que leerla: sí o sí. Y la verdad es que no me arrepiento de ello. Me ha gustado leer sobre cómo debía comportarse una dama y lo fácil que era caer en desgracia ante la sociedad. Pero sobre todo me ha encantado el personaje de Miranda: su inocencia. Y si no le he dado las cinco estrellitas es porque en algún momento me ha faltado más ¿madurez? ¿realismo? en la historia, y un poco más de pasión en los personajes.
August 15, 2016
This was such a romp! I loved every minute of it. If you need a good laugh, this is definitely the one to pick up. And yet, under the humor of it, there is the stark reality of the spies Marlow is risking his life to catch. There is drama and excitement.
What I loved best is how hard Miranda tries to be a lady. Yet she's always managing to mess up, to fall going down the stairs, to knock her food off her plate, to run into people in the hallway, even to smash her own nose into someone else's raised fist! Sounds like me.
I loved the men of the book, too—Miranda's protective brothers and the manly "Marlow"—thoroughly enjoyed these chaps.
What I loved best is how hard Miranda tries to be a lady. Yet she's always managing to mess up, to fall going down the stairs, to knock her food off her plate, to run into people in the hallway, even to smash her own nose into someone else's raised fist! Sounds like me.
I loved the men of the book, too—Miranda's protective brothers and the manly "Marlow"—thoroughly enjoyed these chaps.
June 8, 2023
I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH! Read this if you love books with lots of moments that will make you laugh out loud, regency romance, great characters, writing secret letters with your love interest, the trope of liking your brother's best friend and lots of secrets along the way leading up to a big reveal! Miranda and Ryland - MY HEART. One of my favorite couples of all time. This book had me laughing and was just a good time. Miranda is one of my favorite characters right now - she is SO funny and truly cares for others but she also ain't afraid to get right in the thick of things! Ryland was also such a good guy and so mysterious- LOVED him.
In this story, we have Lady Miranda Hawthorne who has written her brother's best friend, the Duke of Marshington, these pretend letters for many years. These were really more like journal entries and never meant to be read by anyone. Things get crazy when one accidentally gets mailed by her brother's valet, Marlow. With Miranda approaching spinsterhood, this is the last thing she needs. She finds herself with feelings for 2 men - one she has never met (the Duke of Marshington) and the other she needs in her life with all he has helped her with (Marlow) but he seems suspicious...what will Miranda decide as she gets involved in some serious conflicts....
Such a good lighthearted, Christian historical romance with regency balls, high-society life and all the things you want in a fun romance :)
In this story, we have Lady Miranda Hawthorne who has written her brother's best friend, the Duke of Marshington, these pretend letters for many years. These were really more like journal entries and never meant to be read by anyone. Things get crazy when one accidentally gets mailed by her brother's valet, Marlow. With Miranda approaching spinsterhood, this is the last thing she needs. She finds herself with feelings for 2 men - one she has never met (the Duke of Marshington) and the other she needs in her life with all he has helped her with (Marlow) but he seems suspicious...what will Miranda decide as she gets involved in some serious conflicts....
Such a good lighthearted, Christian historical romance with regency balls, high-society life and all the things you want in a fun romance :)
July 24, 2022
I loved this book! If you haven't read this or her prequel novella and you are a regency fan then you need to put them on the top of your reading list. What a wonderful debut novel! It has all the aspects of a great novel.
The heroine, Miranda was such a great character. I loved watching her trying to follow all of her mother's admonitions of what a lady does or does not do. From the time Miranda was a little girl her mother has been giving her "lady lessons" which consisted of Miranda sitting on a blue chair next to her mother's desk and being lectured about her current missteps. Miranda is now 20 and is struggling showing the proper lady like decorum. She has had several marriage prospects but refuses to marry someone who is only interested in her brother's title and her dowry. Her younger sister is having her coming out season and is rubbing every good thing in Miranda's face. To complicate matters her brother has a new valet who keeps arresting her attention. Another major complication is that Lady Miranda has been writing very personal letters to her brother's best friend, the duke of Marshington since she was 8. He is a solace to whom she can spill everything on paper to, yet never mail the letters but lock them up in a trunk.
Ryland Marcus finds one of those said letters and gets it to the recipient. Lady Miranda is beside herself trying to figure out how to save her reputation after writing such personal information as well as how to stop the infamous duke from reading them. She hopes that since he has been missing for 9 years he won't get it or even respond. She couldn't be more wrong! The duke responds back to her letter and she finds herself falling in love with the valet Marcus and continuing to fall in love with the Duke.
What should she say or do as everything in her world is changing? She must contain her emotions and continue to be the lady she was bred and raised to be even with so much disaster at stake.
There are some fun twists and turns that it will keep you guessing what is to come, not to forget the danger and intrigue, spies and fisticuffs and kidnapping happening throughout as well.
Really this needs to be your next read. You'll just be sucked into the fun and mystery of it all. It is a clean regency read, my absolute favorite go to genre!
Happy Reading!!!
The heroine, Miranda was such a great character. I loved watching her trying to follow all of her mother's admonitions of what a lady does or does not do. From the time Miranda was a little girl her mother has been giving her "lady lessons" which consisted of Miranda sitting on a blue chair next to her mother's desk and being lectured about her current missteps. Miranda is now 20 and is struggling showing the proper lady like decorum. She has had several marriage prospects but refuses to marry someone who is only interested in her brother's title and her dowry. Her younger sister is having her coming out season and is rubbing every good thing in Miranda's face. To complicate matters her brother has a new valet who keeps arresting her attention. Another major complication is that Lady Miranda has been writing very personal letters to her brother's best friend, the duke of Marshington since she was 8. He is a solace to whom she can spill everything on paper to, yet never mail the letters but lock them up in a trunk.
Ryland Marcus finds one of those said letters and gets it to the recipient. Lady Miranda is beside herself trying to figure out how to save her reputation after writing such personal information as well as how to stop the infamous duke from reading them. She hopes that since he has been missing for 9 years he won't get it or even respond. She couldn't be more wrong! The duke responds back to her letter and she finds herself falling in love with the valet Marcus and continuing to fall in love with the Duke.
What should she say or do as everything in her world is changing? She must contain her emotions and continue to be the lady she was bred and raised to be even with so much disaster at stake.
There are some fun twists and turns that it will keep you guessing what is to come, not to forget the danger and intrigue, spies and fisticuffs and kidnapping happening throughout as well.
Really this needs to be your next read. You'll just be sucked into the fun and mystery of it all. It is a clean regency read, my absolute favorite go to genre!
Happy Reading!!!
October 30, 2021
@kristiannhunter we should start a petition to make this book a Netflix movie! What do you say? 😂💖
Guys, I haven’t been so in love with a book in months. I only have 5 books (besides classics) that are on my
“favs forever-will always recommend” bookshelf…
This book has earned a place there. It has freaking won it. One thousand percent.
I’m in love 😂.
How not everyone knows about this book and the fact that there is no merch or stuff for it has me baffled.
What if you fell in love with your older brother’s BFF when you were a kid💖? A friend you’ve never ever met but know about because of your brothers letters from boarding school💌?
What if you write him letters for years and never send them📩? Intimate letters telling him about your life? Letters that have through the years become like your mental health therapy?🖌🥀
What if then a handsome guy with gray eyes and ruffled hair steps into your life as your brother’s valet and now you are torn between the idea of the guy you love and the person in front of you who is impossibly unreachable because you are the daugther of a duke?❤️🔥🖤❤️🩹
What if a letter gets sent? 🤭😱😭
What if there is a traitor in your own home? 🔪
What if you are not meant to be loved for who you are by others?🥀
What if nothing is what it looks like and you stumble upon something so much bigger than yourself and glittering balls, masquerades and card games are more than just that?🌙✨🃏
But you know what sold me? (Not that all the above hadn’t already done so😂).
The sibling relationships.🥲💓
Ohmygosh the overprotective brothers that literally would kill anyone with their bare hands if you as even touched their sister😩❤️🔥!!! There is a scene that had me laughing so hard and there were punches and sass and fight between besties that had me ON THE FLOOR 😩😂💖. The brother relationship between the dudes is GOALS!!! Ugh my heart was oksndbkjs!
Also, the writing is chefs kiss! GORGEOUS!!! The mannerisms, the little details of frustration and love and ahhh! Those were the little things that made you be able to visualize everything to the uttermost detail and it was THE BEST THING EVER!
Ahh *sighs* @netflix pick this book🥲💓
Guys, I haven’t been so in love with a book in months. I only have 5 books (besides classics) that are on my
“favs forever-will always recommend” bookshelf…
This book has earned a place there. It has freaking won it. One thousand percent.
I’m in love 😂.
How not everyone knows about this book and the fact that there is no merch or stuff for it has me baffled.
What if you fell in love with your older brother’s BFF when you were a kid💖? A friend you’ve never ever met but know about because of your brothers letters from boarding school💌?
What if you write him letters for years and never send them📩? Intimate letters telling him about your life? Letters that have through the years become like your mental health therapy?🖌🥀
What if then a handsome guy with gray eyes and ruffled hair steps into your life as your brother’s valet and now you are torn between the idea of the guy you love and the person in front of you who is impossibly unreachable because you are the daugther of a duke?❤️🔥🖤❤️🩹
What if a letter gets sent? 🤭😱😭
What if there is a traitor in your own home? 🔪
What if you are not meant to be loved for who you are by others?🥀
What if nothing is what it looks like and you stumble upon something so much bigger than yourself and glittering balls, masquerades and card games are more than just that?🌙✨🃏
But you know what sold me? (Not that all the above hadn’t already done so😂).
The sibling relationships.🥲💓
Ohmygosh the overprotective brothers that literally would kill anyone with their bare hands if you as even touched their sister😩❤️🔥!!! There is a scene that had me laughing so hard and there were punches and sass and fight between besties that had me ON THE FLOOR 😩😂💖. The brother relationship between the dudes is GOALS!!! Ugh my heart was oksndbkjs!
Also, the writing is chefs kiss! GORGEOUS!!! The mannerisms, the little details of frustration and love and ahhh! Those were the little things that made you be able to visualize everything to the uttermost detail and it was THE BEST THING EVER!
Ahh *sighs* @netflix pick this book🥲💓
September 27, 2015
Kristi Ann Hunter has done a great job with her debut novel. She captures the regency world with elegance and sophistication with a fun spymaster/valet twist that made me smile throughout the entire first half of the book. I loved Miranda's feisty spirit and the way she attempted to tame it in order to follow her mother's "lady lessons." But that same inner fortitude is what led her to save the day on more than one occasion. Her quirky personality with the letters and folded napkins was delightful. Marshington made a dashing hero. I loved his down-to-earth personality and take-charge manner. He was truly a hero worth rooting for.
Readers who enjoy Julie Klassen and Sarah Ladd or any entertaining historical romance will enjoy Kristi Ann Hunter. I highly recommend A Noble Masquerade.
Readers who enjoy Julie Klassen and Sarah Ladd or any entertaining historical romance will enjoy Kristi Ann Hunter. I highly recommend A Noble Masquerade.
September 20, 2024
☕ “A Lady never sits on the floor.' A lady probably wasn't supposed to crawl on her belly through the dirt either.”
[ after a reread in September 2024, the following that I wrote when I read this for the first time back in June still holds true. I love this book even more and would give more than 5 stars if I could! ]
I’m creating a new genre for this unique, amazing book: Christian Regency Rom-Com Mystery.
Yep, that’s what this book is [haha]. It's one of the most quotable books I've read yet. Love that.
📚 WHAT’S TO LOVE? So much. I love a book that’s unexpected and makes me laugh out loud more than once.
The prologue was essential to give us a peek into the very unladylike, eight-year-old Miranda. I was hooked after reading it and couldn’t wait to get to Chapter One.
This was my first Kristi Ann Hunter book and I’m thoroughly impressed. It’s unlike the long list of clean Regency-era books I’ve read so far.
And that’s a good thing.
The faith and the realistic questioning thoughts of the two main characters were great.
I went into this book not knowing much about it.
My advice? Don’t read any more reviews. Just read this book.
Why?
If you read more reviews right now, someone might spill too many beans about the fun London season pomp and circumstance woven amid the mystery, dangerous adventure, romantic situations, and other shenanigans Miranda finds herself in the middle of.
It’s so fun to NOT know what’s coming!
📚 CAUSE FOR PAUSE? The mention of Miranda’s endless lessons in ladylike etiquette from her mother was relayed several times & it wasn’t necessary. It was a major thread throughout and made for great conversations and quotes - hence the FABULOUS quote at the beginning of this review.
Just thinking about the scene in which Miranda had those thoughts makes me laugh - even now [haha].
I didn’t enjoy Miranda’s “physical” outbursts. I felt that was a bit much. There were a few times I felt some circumstances were a bit unrealistic, but, it’s all good.
📚 CONSIDER READING IF… you want a funny, unexpected, clean Regency romance in which the female AND male main characters begin with solid faith that makes you laugh throughout. 😀
MY RATING 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I bumped this one up from four stars to five because I can't stop thinking about it. And am excited to go on in the series. That's a definite 5-star to me!
FYI: I found a free ebook on Libby and got the audio "free" for being an Amazon Prime member - but I want to own a copy. Full review coming at the end of the month on my YouTube channel! ☕📚
[ after a reread in September 2024, the following that I wrote when I read this for the first time back in June still holds true. I love this book even more and would give more than 5 stars if I could! ]
I’m creating a new genre for this unique, amazing book: Christian Regency Rom-Com Mystery.
Yep, that’s what this book is [haha]. It's one of the most quotable books I've read yet. Love that.
📚 WHAT’S TO LOVE? So much. I love a book that’s unexpected and makes me laugh out loud more than once.
The prologue was essential to give us a peek into the very unladylike, eight-year-old Miranda. I was hooked after reading it and couldn’t wait to get to Chapter One.
This was my first Kristi Ann Hunter book and I’m thoroughly impressed. It’s unlike the long list of clean Regency-era books I’ve read so far.
And that’s a good thing.
The faith and the realistic questioning thoughts of the two main characters were great.
I went into this book not knowing much about it.
My advice? Don’t read any more reviews. Just read this book.
Why?
If you read more reviews right now, someone might spill too many beans about the fun London season pomp and circumstance woven amid the mystery, dangerous adventure, romantic situations, and other shenanigans Miranda finds herself in the middle of.
It’s so fun to NOT know what’s coming!
📚 CAUSE FOR PAUSE? The mention of Miranda’s endless lessons in ladylike etiquette from her mother was relayed several times & it wasn’t necessary. It was a major thread throughout and made for great conversations and quotes - hence the FABULOUS quote at the beginning of this review.
Just thinking about the scene in which Miranda had those thoughts makes me laugh - even now [haha].
I didn’t enjoy Miranda’s “physical” outbursts. I felt that was a bit much. There were a few times I felt some circumstances were a bit unrealistic, but, it’s all good.
📚 CONSIDER READING IF… you want a funny, unexpected, clean Regency romance in which the female AND male main characters begin with solid faith that makes you laugh throughout. 😀
MY RATING 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I bumped this one up from four stars to five because I can't stop thinking about it. And am excited to go on in the series. That's a definite 5-star to me!
FYI: I found a free ebook on Libby and got the audio "free" for being an Amazon Prime member - but I want to own a copy. Full review coming at the end of the month on my YouTube channel! ☕📚
April 28, 2018
I've never before read a book that falls under historical romance, historical fiction and Christian fiction genre. So I wasn't sure what to expect at all but the beautiful cover made me pick it up.
The best part of the book was how the romance developed between the leads, mixed with tender yet extremely funny moments.
I liked how the author portrayed Miranda's character. Miranda felt happy that her younger sister's debut in London was turning out to be a success but at the same time as the older yet unmarried sister she felt insecure, resentful and also ashamed by her own feelings. It felt incredibly human.
As for Georgina, I really disliked her. She's apparently the lead in the next book. If so, the author has to do some serious character development to make her remotely likeable.
I liked all the other Hawthorne siblings though Trent is probably my favourite.
Ryland has a wonderful and eccentric selection of staff in his household complete with a smuggler turned butler and former spy turned parlour maid. They contribute to some really funny scenes.
This experimental read sure turned out to be a success!
The best part of the book was how the romance developed between the leads, mixed with tender yet extremely funny moments.
I liked how the author portrayed Miranda's character. Miranda felt happy that her younger sister's debut in London was turning out to be a success but at the same time as the older yet unmarried sister she felt insecure, resentful and also ashamed by her own feelings. It felt incredibly human.
As for Georgina, I really disliked her. She's apparently the lead in the next book. If so, the author has to do some serious character development to make her remotely likeable.
I liked all the other Hawthorne siblings though Trent is probably my favourite.
Ryland has a wonderful and eccentric selection of staff in his household complete with a smuggler turned butler and former spy turned parlour maid. They contribute to some really funny scenes.
This experimental read sure turned out to be a success!
June 24, 2023
Read my updated review HERE: https://penspagesandpulses.wordpress....
Even though my sister did not do a great job of convincing me to read this book, I still loved it.
Miranda is passionate, intelligent, and impulsive. She struggles to live up to her mother's expectations and worries about missing out on her dreams. I loved her spunky, impulsive nature!
The love interest was sweet, protective, and had a great sense of humor. His internal conflict was written exquisitely.
My favorite scene was probably after Miranda realizes that the love interest lied to her. Her angry reaction was hilarious, while still being relatable.
There were a few scenes that I found a bit confusing. For example, I couldn't figure out why Miranda had tomato all over her dress in one of the scenes until I read the acknowledgements.
I would highly recommend this fast, easy read to any fans of clean regency romance!
Even though my sister did not do a great job of convincing me to read this book, I still loved it.
Miranda is passionate, intelligent, and impulsive. She struggles to live up to her mother's expectations and worries about missing out on her dreams. I loved her spunky, impulsive nature!
The love interest was sweet, protective, and had a great sense of humor. His internal conflict was written exquisitely.
My favorite scene was probably after Miranda realizes that the love interest lied to her. Her angry reaction was hilarious, while still being relatable.
There were a few scenes that I found a bit confusing. For example, I couldn't figure out why Miranda had tomato all over her dress in one of the scenes until I read the acknowledgements.
I would highly recommend this fast, easy read to any fans of clean regency romance!
March 24, 2017
Reseña en La Comunidad del Libro
Esta novela esta clasificada como romántica histórica inspiracional, lo que quiere decir que en la trama hace bastante referencia a Dios y a la religión cristiana. La verdad es que si la sinopsis no me hubiera llamado tanto no me hubiera planteado leerla, mis prejuiciosos me hacían pensar que me iba a encontrar una novela moralista y mojigata, nada que ver con lo que me he encontrado, si hace bastante referencias a Dios: "voy a rezar", "para tranquilizarme voy a leer la Biblia", "si Dios quiere", etc, etc... me ha resultado un poco raro, no estoy acostumbrada pero no molesta para nada. Eso si, es un romance blanco, nada de escenas de cama, a lo sumo un par de besos, pero eso no quita que entre los protagonistas exista mucha química.
Me ha gustado mucho, la novela esta escrita con un fino humor que hace que te la leas con una sonrisa perpetúa. La narración es muy fluida lo que hace que sea muy fácil su lectura y entretenida. Si la hubiera leído en verano en un día me la hubiera terminado de leer.
Miranda es adorable, su madre se ha empeñado en enseñarle que una dama nunca pierde la compostura, cosa muy difícil para ella porque esconde mucha pasión dentro suyo. Para calmar sus frustraciones escribe cartas al mejor amigo de su hermano, Marhs, que por lo que le ha contado de su hermano intuye que nunca la criticaría y compartiría sus frustraciones, naturalmente esas cartas nunca llega a mandarlas, una dama soltera nunca escribe a un hombre que no sea de su familia...
Pero un día Marlow, el nuevo ayuda de cámara de su hermano, encuentra una de esas cartas y las envía a Marhs. Así Miranda empieza a intercambiar cartas con el duque real, y a descubrir como es en realidad ese personaje que ella se había imaginado durante tantos años. Por otra parte Miranda y Marlow empiezan a estrechar lazos, para horror de ella empieza a sentir una atracción muy poco apropiada para una dama.
Para desesperación de Miranda los dos únicos hombres por los que estaría dispuesta a dejarse cortejar están fuera de su alcance, uno es un criado y el otro un duque que lleva nueve años desaparecido, aunque parece que esta decidido a reaparecer en sociedad, así que quizás aún hay una pequeña esperanza.
Mientras Miranda tiene estos problemas sentimentales, en su casa hay un misterio, hay alguien que esta vendiendo secretos a Napoleon, urge encontrar a los espías.
Miranda es la típica protagonista algo torpe, o que hace algo inapropiado y que tiene la mala suerte de que Marlow o Marhs estén presentes para ser espectadores de sus meteduras de pata, lo que hace que haya escenas muy divertidas.
En resumen, es una historia ingeniosa, romántica, con momentos divertidos, de intriga y malentendidos.
Espero que Libros de Seda publiquen toda la serie.
La puntuación en realidad es 4,5, no le doy 5 estrellas porque la parte de la trama de los espías, a veces parecía que cojeaba un poco. No acabe de entender porque espiaban en casa de Miranda y la resolución quedo un poco de lado.
Ha sido una grata sorpresa descubrir a esta autora.
Esta novela esta clasificada como romántica histórica inspiracional, lo que quiere decir que en la trama hace bastante referencia a Dios y a la religión cristiana. La verdad es que si la sinopsis no me hubiera llamado tanto no me hubiera planteado leerla, mis prejuiciosos me hacían pensar que me iba a encontrar una novela moralista y mojigata, nada que ver con lo que me he encontrado, si hace bastante referencias a Dios: "voy a rezar", "para tranquilizarme voy a leer la Biblia", "si Dios quiere", etc, etc... me ha resultado un poco raro, no estoy acostumbrada pero no molesta para nada. Eso si, es un romance blanco, nada de escenas de cama, a lo sumo un par de besos, pero eso no quita que entre los protagonistas exista mucha química.
Me ha gustado mucho, la novela esta escrita con un fino humor que hace que te la leas con una sonrisa perpetúa. La narración es muy fluida lo que hace que sea muy fácil su lectura y entretenida. Si la hubiera leído en verano en un día me la hubiera terminado de leer.
Miranda es adorable, su madre se ha empeñado en enseñarle que una dama nunca pierde la compostura, cosa muy difícil para ella porque esconde mucha pasión dentro suyo. Para calmar sus frustraciones escribe cartas al mejor amigo de su hermano, Marhs, que por lo que le ha contado de su hermano intuye que nunca la criticaría y compartiría sus frustraciones, naturalmente esas cartas nunca llega a mandarlas, una dama soltera nunca escribe a un hombre que no sea de su familia...
Pero un día Marlow, el nuevo ayuda de cámara de su hermano, encuentra una de esas cartas y las envía a Marhs. Así Miranda empieza a intercambiar cartas con el duque real, y a descubrir como es en realidad ese personaje que ella se había imaginado durante tantos años. Por otra parte Miranda y Marlow empiezan a estrechar lazos, para horror de ella empieza a sentir una atracción muy poco apropiada para una dama.
Para desesperación de Miranda los dos únicos hombres por los que estaría dispuesta a dejarse cortejar están fuera de su alcance, uno es un criado y el otro un duque que lleva nueve años desaparecido, aunque parece que esta decidido a reaparecer en sociedad, así que quizás aún hay una pequeña esperanza.
Mientras Miranda tiene estos problemas sentimentales, en su casa hay un misterio, hay alguien que esta vendiendo secretos a Napoleon, urge encontrar a los espías.
Miranda es la típica protagonista algo torpe, o que hace algo inapropiado y que tiene la mala suerte de que Marlow o Marhs estén presentes para ser espectadores de sus meteduras de pata, lo que hace que haya escenas muy divertidas.
En resumen, es una historia ingeniosa, romántica, con momentos divertidos, de intriga y malentendidos.
Espero que Libros de Seda publiquen toda la serie.
La puntuación en realidad es 4,5, no le doy 5 estrellas porque la parte de la trama de los espías, a veces parecía que cojeaba un poco. No acabe de entender porque espiaban en casa de Miranda y la resolución quedo un poco de lado.
Ha sido una grata sorpresa descubrir a esta autora.
September 6, 2015
Dear Reader,
From eight-year-old Mirandas' cheesecake landing in the dirt, to the exploding tomatoes - no, even farther than that - through the entertaining acknowledgements, "A Noble Masquerade" held me captivated! Riveted. Laughing. In suspense & yelling at various characters. Enchanted.
Only once before have I read an author's debut novel and couldn't believe it was their first venture into the world of publication. Kriti's novel is jam-packed. Armed. Overflowing. Oozing with genius and talent. It's been awhile since I have read a book so fast simply because I could.not.put.it.down! I had to keep going and reach the climax (even while not wanting it to end). I read by the time clock at work, waiting for my shift; I read while I walked to my car after my shift. Constant intrigue and suspenseful developments of the mystery, with parties and history woven throughout, were delightfully balanced. Everything was revealed with perfect taste and timing- always either surprising me, or gratifying my suspicions. (So many times after I read one of the many -but never repetitive- punch or cliff-hanger lines, I would glance into the middle distance and quietly say "Well done, Kristi." I was so proud to be reading such a brilliant and witty masterpiece! Haha!) I felt completely in tune with the setting and plot, and drawn more and more to the characters, page by page. As a lover of written words, the theme of letters and journal-like correspondence was a brilliant ingredient and added novelty and depth to Hunter's characters.
I can't say enough about how wonderful this book was or how eager I am for book two. Reading this was like watching a movie. I could vividly see every facial expression and feel every silent implication as scene transferred to scene. Some of my favorite moments -mainly for the hilarious narration- were those including Miranda's brothers, Griffith and Trent, as well as Colin- Marshlands buddy. (I made several collages for my mental images of the characters faces that have been shared to my pinterest board here: https://www.pinterest.com/readwithali...). Ryland and Miranda were seriously one of the best fictional couples ever.
Movie makers- you had better hurry up and get writing this screenplay, and do it right! Everything about this masquerade (and it truly was one! from plot to characters, this title was symbolic.) was noble and epic.
If you enjoy it even half as much as I love it, you will be more than satisfied. One of the most fabulous releases of 2015.
Exhilarated,
Alice
p.s. I could go on and on about the plot and characters, but...a lady never reveals the outcome of a recommended novel.
From eight-year-old Mirandas' cheesecake landing in the dirt, to the exploding tomatoes - no, even farther than that - through the entertaining acknowledgements, "A Noble Masquerade" held me captivated! Riveted. Laughing. In suspense & yelling at various characters. Enchanted.
Only once before have I read an author's debut novel and couldn't believe it was their first venture into the world of publication. Kriti's novel is jam-packed. Armed. Overflowing. Oozing with genius and talent. It's been awhile since I have read a book so fast simply because I could.not.put.it.down! I had to keep going and reach the climax (even while not wanting it to end). I read by the time clock at work, waiting for my shift; I read while I walked to my car after my shift. Constant intrigue and suspenseful developments of the mystery, with parties and history woven throughout, were delightfully balanced. Everything was revealed with perfect taste and timing- always either surprising me, or gratifying my suspicions. (So many times after I read one of the many -but never repetitive- punch or cliff-hanger lines, I would glance into the middle distance and quietly say "Well done, Kristi." I was so proud to be reading such a brilliant and witty masterpiece! Haha!) I felt completely in tune with the setting and plot, and drawn more and more to the characters, page by page. As a lover of written words, the theme of letters and journal-like correspondence was a brilliant ingredient and added novelty and depth to Hunter's characters.
I can't say enough about how wonderful this book was or how eager I am for book two. Reading this was like watching a movie. I could vividly see every facial expression and feel every silent implication as scene transferred to scene. Some of my favorite moments -mainly for the hilarious narration- were those including Miranda's brothers, Griffith and Trent, as well as Colin- Marshlands buddy. (I made several collages for my mental images of the characters faces that have been shared to my pinterest board here: https://www.pinterest.com/readwithali...). Ryland and Miranda were seriously one of the best fictional couples ever.
Movie makers- you had better hurry up and get writing this screenplay, and do it right! Everything about this masquerade (and it truly was one! from plot to characters, this title was symbolic.) was noble and epic.
If you enjoy it even half as much as I love it, you will be more than satisfied. One of the most fabulous releases of 2015.
Exhilarated,
Alice
p.s. I could go on and on about the plot and characters, but...a lady never reveals the outcome of a recommended novel.
May 1, 2017
A quickie review!
A Noble Masquerade was just an all-around fun read. I loved the light mystery and the two main characters, Miranda and Ryland. I also loved the relationship between Miranda and her brothers - they were very worried about her honor, but sometimes a bit clueless as well, and the scenes between them were humorous.
The scenario is a bit contrived, but I still found myself enchanted by it - especially the first part when a certain duke is masquerading as a valet. Sometimes Miranda actions were a bit hard to believe, but there were also times that she made me chuckle. I love how she kept "mother-isms" in her head when she felt compelled to act in a manner less than ladylike- which was more often than she would prefer. And even though I did not like her sister, Georgiana, I'm willing to see if I can get behind her character, since book two tells her story.
A Noble Masquerade is a light, easy Regency, with the subplot of spying for the Crown, and all of the ramifications of that, to keep a bit of tension in the story. If you're looking for a super serious read, save this one for a day that you need something airy and fun. I'm always pleased when I enjoy a new-to-me author, and even more so when it is by a debut author. I'm glad to see that there are two more books in this series yet to be released.
A Noble Masquerade was just an all-around fun read. I loved the light mystery and the two main characters, Miranda and Ryland. I also loved the relationship between Miranda and her brothers - they were very worried about her honor, but sometimes a bit clueless as well, and the scenes between them were humorous.
The scenario is a bit contrived, but I still found myself enchanted by it - especially the first part when a certain duke is masquerading as a valet. Sometimes Miranda actions were a bit hard to believe, but there were also times that she made me chuckle. I love how she kept "mother-isms" in her head when she felt compelled to act in a manner less than ladylike- which was more often than she would prefer. And even though I did not like her sister, Georgiana, I'm willing to see if I can get behind her character, since book two tells her story.
A Noble Masquerade is a light, easy Regency, with the subplot of spying for the Crown, and all of the ramifications of that, to keep a bit of tension in the story. If you're looking for a super serious read, save this one for a day that you need something airy and fun. I'm always pleased when I enjoy a new-to-me author, and even more so when it is by a debut author. I'm glad to see that there are two more books in this series yet to be released.
April 17, 2018
This book is just - wow - so good!
Miranda : A Lady who trys very hard to cover her true emotions with lady like behaviour. So she expresses her feelings on paper to her brother's best friend. As soon as her brother gets a new valet adventure starts for Miranda and she must decide who she really loves. Even after her trust in men is broken can she learn to love again or must she become a spinster?
Ryland : A man who is trying to protect his country. How long can he keep his secret? How will he ever explain his position to Miranda? Who is behind his attempted murder? Ryland has been through many life and death experiences, but when Miranda's life is threatened can he protect her or does she trust him anymore?
This book was suggested to me by Staci. I loved this book so much! I was expecting an average read, but I enjoyed this book so much more than I ever thought I would! Thank you Staci!!
I compared myself to Miranda so many times while I read it! I understand her so well because I'm just like her! I write to express my feelings! I hide my true self while in public so others think I'm normal, but inside I am an emotional person! I just connected to Miranda so deeply I was sad when the book ended.
Thanks again Staci! It was such a great read! Wish I was allowed to give it a ten star marking! *sigh*
Miranda : A Lady who trys very hard to cover her true emotions with lady like behaviour. So she expresses her feelings on paper to her brother's best friend. As soon as her brother gets a new valet adventure starts for Miranda and she must decide who she really loves. Even after her trust in men is broken can she learn to love again or must she become a spinster?
Ryland : A man who is trying to protect his country. How long can he keep his secret? How will he ever explain his position to Miranda? Who is behind his attempted murder? Ryland has been through many life and death experiences, but when Miranda's life is threatened can he protect her or does she trust him anymore?
This book was suggested to me by Staci. I loved this book so much! I was expecting an average read, but I enjoyed this book so much more than I ever thought I would! Thank you Staci!!
I compared myself to Miranda so many times while I read it! I understand her so well because I'm just like her! I write to express my feelings! I hide my true self while in public so others think I'm normal, but inside I am an emotional person! I just connected to Miranda so deeply I was sad when the book ended.
Thanks again Staci! It was such a great read! Wish I was allowed to give it a ten star marking! *sigh*
January 2, 2018
A Noble Masquerade was really, really good! I am pleasantly surprised by how much I liked it (I am always hesitant to start a Regency England book) and it was much better than the novella.
Lady Miranda pours out her heart in letters to her brother’s friend, the Duke of Marshington, which act as a form of journal entries and are never, ever meant to be read. When one is accidentally posted and finds its way into the duke’s hands (and he replies!), a correspondence of sorts begins, and no one is more surprised or mad than Miranda when she finds out who he really is!
The letter finding was like a worst nightmare coming to life- can you imagine?! Miranda was mortified (who wouldn't be) but she faced the problem and eventually gave the letter poster, Ryland, a piece of her mind- good for her, ha! Ryland and Miranda were great main characters and the main highlight of the novel.
The book was a light read with a lot of funny moments and camaraderie between Miranda and her brothers. There was a lot of action and a small mystery as well, mixed in with all the regular Regency balls, teas and parties.
I had a lot of fun reading this! Definitely will be reading the next books in this series!
Lady Miranda pours out her heart in letters to her brother’s friend, the Duke of Marshington, which act as a form of journal entries and are never, ever meant to be read. When one is accidentally posted and finds its way into the duke’s hands (and he replies!), a correspondence of sorts begins, and no one is more surprised or mad than Miranda when she finds out who he really is!
The letter finding was like a worst nightmare coming to life- can you imagine?! Miranda was mortified (who wouldn't be) but she faced the problem and eventually gave the letter poster, Ryland, a piece of her mind- good for her, ha! Ryland and Miranda were great main characters and the main highlight of the novel.
The book was a light read with a lot of funny moments and camaraderie between Miranda and her brothers. There was a lot of action and a small mystery as well, mixed in with all the regular Regency balls, teas and parties.
I had a lot of fun reading this! Definitely will be reading the next books in this series!
March 14, 2021
I really enjoyed the book. It starts off with the Heroine writing her thoughts and feelings out to a friend of her brothers in letters that are never to be sent. The friend years later is a spy for the crown. It was a fun book that tells the story of how the relationship develops and a bit of mystery is involved.
March 9, 2023
SO FUNNY.
June 23, 2023
4.5⭐
I absolutely loved this and had sooo much fun reading it 🥰
I absolutely loved this and had sooo much fun reading it 🥰
June 7, 2020
This book started out wonderfully! I loved the idea of the heroine, Lady Miranda, writing letters to her brother's friend for twelve years, but never mailing them. Then one day, her brother's valet "accidentally" mailed a discarded letter, and Lady Miranda received a reply from the duke. The entire farce of who the valet REALLY WAS was a neat twist to the story. For the first half of this book, I felt like I was reading a four-star novel.
As soon as the Duke of Marshington reappeared for the London season and the big secret was revealed, the story fell flat. It literally crashed for me! At this point, the romance should have been amplified, but instead, the hero and heroine engaged in a cat-and-mouse chase that lasted far too long. Their spark disappeared. The romance fizzled. It seemed like they were about to put each other in the friend zone. What happened to their chemistry? Throw in a scheming, silly sister and a traitorous cousin and what was once a promising romantic story turned into a boring, tedious tale of intrigue. The kidnapping?!!!! I loathe kidnapping scenes! Make it stop!
The Christian element appeared far too late in the story and seemed to have been thrown in as an afterthought. I think characters should be depicted as Christian or religious from the beginning of the story if that's who the reader should believe they are. Disappointing and frustrating! I knew this was a clean romance, but there wasn't even a kiss until the end of the book and it was blandly described. This book needed less drama and more witty dialogue/romance.
As soon as the Duke of Marshington reappeared for the London season and the big secret was revealed, the story fell flat. It literally crashed for me! At this point, the romance should have been amplified, but instead, the hero and heroine engaged in a cat-and-mouse chase that lasted far too long. Their spark disappeared. The romance fizzled. It seemed like they were about to put each other in the friend zone. What happened to their chemistry? Throw in a scheming, silly sister and a traitorous cousin and what was once a promising romantic story turned into a boring, tedious tale of intrigue. The kidnapping?!!!! I loathe kidnapping scenes! Make it stop!
The Christian element appeared far too late in the story and seemed to have been thrown in as an afterthought. I think characters should be depicted as Christian or religious from the beginning of the story if that's who the reader should believe they are. Disappointing and frustrating! I knew this was a clean romance, but there wasn't even a kiss until the end of the book and it was blandly described. This book needed less drama and more witty dialogue/romance.
March 25, 2016
I ended up really enjoying this one. I thought it was a little wordy in parts, but overall an enjoyable story. It's my first book by Ms Hunter, but it left me wanting to read more from her.
Lady Miranda Hawthorne was a fun heroine to read about. I liked that the story did not play out how I thought it would, had a few twists along the way that kept things interesting. My favorite parts were the scenes with Miranda and Ryland together. I thought it was a little slow when they were apart, but not enough to lessen my enjoyment. And to be fair, I had a lot of other things going on while reading this so that may have affected my reading a bit. I thought it was a good addition to the Regency genre. I think fans of the genre will enjoy it.
Content:
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild
Religious: Mild
Source: Review copy, somewhere between Netgalley and my kindle I couldn't find my copy so I ended up buying it through Amazon.
Lady Miranda Hawthorne was a fun heroine to read about. I liked that the story did not play out how I thought it would, had a few twists along the way that kept things interesting. My favorite parts were the scenes with Miranda and Ryland together. I thought it was a little slow when they were apart, but not enough to lessen my enjoyment. And to be fair, I had a lot of other things going on while reading this so that may have affected my reading a bit. I thought it was a good addition to the Regency genre. I think fans of the genre will enjoy it.
Content:
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild
Religious: Mild
Source: Review copy, somewhere between Netgalley and my kindle I couldn't find my copy so I ended up buying it through Amazon.
August 20, 2016
This book was so delightful! ^_^ Fresh, intriguing, and romantic - a worthy Regency novel! At the end, there was a little much kissing for my preference; but overall I loved it! I'm so excited to read the next book in this series, An Elegant Facade!
June 19, 2023
I don't care for the romance genre (and won't admit that I enjoy it sometimes), but this was so good. I loved it. The two main characters were hilarious and precious. I also loved the faith content. 5/5 stars.
July 26, 2024
I loved this book! Just as good the third time around. The entire series is good, but this is my favorite.
July 17, 2023
I may or may not have binge read this entire book in one sitting until late🫣🥱.
It. Was. So. Good. Totally deserving of all the hype!
Ok so, quick backstory. I really, REALLY wanted to watch the Netflix show Bridgerton. Like REALLY badly. Those Instagram aesthetic reels and aesthetic Pinterest boards really hyped it up for me, ya know? However, I literally got five minutes into Bridgerton season one, episode one when I came to the conclusion it was DEFINITELY not for me (Please do not watch it, the explicit sexual content was BAD). But something absolutely wonderful about my Father God, is that when there is something of the world that I “miss out” on, He always provides something delightfully similar yet beautifully unique that is of Him to fill the gap🥰. The Hawthorne House series is clearly the beautiful alternative God provided for me.
A Noble Masquerade was so good. I don’t know why it took me so long to get to it. I guess I’m always wary when I see books by a new author, and oddly enough I never seemed too interested in the synopsis of this book, despite all the raving reviews of my virtual bibliophile friends. So, to the back burner it went until recently.
This book literally has all the vibes I was expecting from Bridgerton, but better! Because God’s at the heart of this story/romance, and because it’s clean!
So let’s (finally) break down everything I LOVED about this book, and why it earned a rare five star rating from this Christian bibliophile🥰:
💌 The message. The message centered around a young lady named Miranda whose romantic life is not going exactly the way she planned. The message of trusting in God’s timing and that God has the perfect person for you is beautiful and a perfect reminder that when the timing is right, romance will come. I also loved how Ryland was the perfect guy for Miranda, but he was also far from perfect. Working through challenges in relationships is a natural part of reality and it was not sugarcoated in this book.
💌 The plot. Delightfully engaging!! I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next. I will admit, however, that because I’ve binge read this book in one night, I definitely skimmed over some parts of the mystery towards the end. But that was largely due to my exhaustion and desire to see the resolution to the romance.
💌 The romance. The romantic plot and vibe of the book reminded me a bit of the Netflix movie To All The Boys I Loved Before and *my idea of* Bridgerton. I love the plot device of writing letters to a guy and never sending them but then accidentally one gets sent out. That plus the regency vibes made for an immaculate romantic plot.
💌 The characters. It’s been said before and I’ll repeat it again, the sibling dynamics in this novel are awesome! I LOVE overprotective brothers, and Griffith and Trent were the PERFECT ones! Each of the Hawthornes were so adorable and each interaction felt raw and real. In fact, all of the characters felt so realistic. I loved them all! (Except for Georgina, but I heard she has a redemptive arc in the next book so I suppose I’ll forgive her.)
All in all, A Noble Masquerade had all the 5-star qualities I look for in a book. I really enjoyed it! And I look forward to continuing with the series🥰.
It. Was. So. Good. Totally deserving of all the hype!
Ok so, quick backstory. I really, REALLY wanted to watch the Netflix show Bridgerton. Like REALLY badly. Those Instagram aesthetic reels and aesthetic Pinterest boards really hyped it up for me, ya know? However, I literally got five minutes into Bridgerton season one, episode one when I came to the conclusion it was DEFINITELY not for me (Please do not watch it, the explicit sexual content was BAD). But something absolutely wonderful about my Father God, is that when there is something of the world that I “miss out” on, He always provides something delightfully similar yet beautifully unique that is of Him to fill the gap🥰. The Hawthorne House series is clearly the beautiful alternative God provided for me.
A Noble Masquerade was so good. I don’t know why it took me so long to get to it. I guess I’m always wary when I see books by a new author, and oddly enough I never seemed too interested in the synopsis of this book, despite all the raving reviews of my virtual bibliophile friends. So, to the back burner it went until recently.
This book literally has all the vibes I was expecting from Bridgerton, but better! Because God’s at the heart of this story/romance, and because it’s clean!
So let’s (finally) break down everything I LOVED about this book, and why it earned a rare five star rating from this Christian bibliophile🥰:
💌 The message. The message centered around a young lady named Miranda whose romantic life is not going exactly the way she planned. The message of trusting in God’s timing and that God has the perfect person for you is beautiful and a perfect reminder that when the timing is right, romance will come. I also loved how Ryland was the perfect guy for Miranda, but he was also far from perfect. Working through challenges in relationships is a natural part of reality and it was not sugarcoated in this book.
💌 The plot. Delightfully engaging!! I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next. I will admit, however, that because I’ve binge read this book in one night, I definitely skimmed over some parts of the mystery towards the end. But that was largely due to my exhaustion and desire to see the resolution to the romance.
💌 The romance. The romantic plot and vibe of the book reminded me a bit of the Netflix movie To All The Boys I Loved Before and *my idea of* Bridgerton. I love the plot device of writing letters to a guy and never sending them but then accidentally one gets sent out. That plus the regency vibes made for an immaculate romantic plot.
💌 The characters. It’s been said before and I’ll repeat it again, the sibling dynamics in this novel are awesome! I LOVE overprotective brothers, and Griffith and Trent were the PERFECT ones! Each of the Hawthornes were so adorable and each interaction felt raw and real. In fact, all of the characters felt so realistic. I loved them all! (Except for Georgina, but I heard she has a redemptive arc in the next book so I suppose I’ll forgive her.)
All in all, A Noble Masquerade had all the 5-star qualities I look for in a book. I really enjoyed it! And I look forward to continuing with the series🥰.
October 7, 2017
I loved Miranda's enthusiasm and spirit! She reminds me of my own four year old- busting full of life and feelings. I could relate to Miranda's mother who is trying her best to teach her daughters the proper behavior for ladies... but I'm just hoping for good manners ;) I liked the angle that the letters brought to the story, where even though Miranda felt compelled to suppress her emotions as a lady, she found an outlet to release them. It was good to see part of the story through Marlow's eyes and the intrigue and mystery he was caught up in. I thought it was interesting that Miranda's discovery of hidden secrets made her fight all the more against what would have seemed like her dreams coming true. There is plenty of action in between the drawing room scenes that made the pace of the book swift, and I was surprised at how much the author was able to fit into one book! There is great chemistry between Miranda and Marlow, and complex family dynamics also come into play with Miranda's relationship with her vain sister and corrective mother, both whom she loves but are wearing on her. It was great to have Amelia from the prequel novella present as her friend and staunch supporter. I can't wait to read the rest of the books in this Regency series!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
September 3, 2015
A new author to me and boy was it fun!! Miranda is a hot mess. This girl is trying to be a lady in Regency England, but every ounce of her energy is about to burst through the ladylike facade. As she tries to help the man she loves, comedy, romance and intrigue abound.
Totally fun story. The characters were engaging, the plot moved along and God was throughout the story line. (The cover is ABSOLUTELY gorgeous too). I would say that this falls into the mystery/rom-com category. I hope you pick up a copy!! You won't regret it.
Thank you, Bethany House, for giving me a copy of this fabulous book. As always, this is my honest opinion. Here's to many more!!
Totally fun story. The characters were engaging, the plot moved along and God was throughout the story line. (The cover is ABSOLUTELY gorgeous too). I would say that this falls into the mystery/rom-com category. I hope you pick up a copy!! You won't regret it.
Thank you, Bethany House, for giving me a copy of this fabulous book. As always, this is my honest opinion. Here's to many more!!
January 4, 2016
Delightful debut!
A Noble Masquerade is about Miranda, a noble woman trying to be a lady although it doesn't always suit her personality and Ryland, a duke with a lot of intrigue about him. The way the two meet is incredibly cute. The light comedy moments are sprinkled throughout this novel. There is also a mystery, however, I didn't find that to be a strong part of the novel. Miranda and Ryland's characters are what made this novel a success.
I look forward to reading more by Kristi Ann Hunter!
A Noble Masquerade is about Miranda, a noble woman trying to be a lady although it doesn't always suit her personality and Ryland, a duke with a lot of intrigue about him. The way the two meet is incredibly cute. The light comedy moments are sprinkled throughout this novel. There is also a mystery, however, I didn't find that to be a strong part of the novel. Miranda and Ryland's characters are what made this novel a success.
I look forward to reading more by Kristi Ann Hunter!
May 12, 2017
This is my first read by Kristi Ann Hunter and definitely won't be my last. Filled with adventure, humor, mystery, and romance, I could not put it down. Definitely a great start to a series, making me want to pick up book 2 (and go back to the prequel novella I have on my Kindle.).
With a great mix of mystery and humor, Hunter's plot and characters are incredibly well done. Lady Miranda is in her fourth season and still has no husband. Offers have been made but none for love. She rebels against societal restraints and her mother's constant "ladies don't do that" attempts. She vents her frustrations and displeasure in letters to a "mystery man." Marsh the hero of the story is definitely "swoon worthy" and a man of mystery. The minor characters add just the right touch in a typical melodramatic fashion.
Hunter's descriptions of the English countryside and homes made me feel like I was right there in the midst of the Georgian settings. Definitely would recommend this book to readers who love regency writing that includes romance, humor, and a hint of mystery.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "I think anyone, nobility included, can find hidden talents within themselves when it is required to accomplish their goals."
"He must have realized that sometimes the truth was just the truth, no mater how harsh it might seem."
....she wanted to seek God. If that involved giving up her dream and expectations....did she have enough faith to see it through."
"One should take every opportunity presented. The unexpected ones are sometimes the most meaningful."
With a great mix of mystery and humor, Hunter's plot and characters are incredibly well done. Lady Miranda is in her fourth season and still has no husband. Offers have been made but none for love. She rebels against societal restraints and her mother's constant "ladies don't do that" attempts. She vents her frustrations and displeasure in letters to a "mystery man." Marsh the hero of the story is definitely "swoon worthy" and a man of mystery. The minor characters add just the right touch in a typical melodramatic fashion.
Hunter's descriptions of the English countryside and homes made me feel like I was right there in the midst of the Georgian settings. Definitely would recommend this book to readers who love regency writing that includes romance, humor, and a hint of mystery.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "I think anyone, nobility included, can find hidden talents within themselves when it is required to accomplish their goals."
"He must have realized that sometimes the truth was just the truth, no mater how harsh it might seem."
....she wanted to seek God. If that involved giving up her dream and expectations....did she have enough faith to see it through."
"One should take every opportunity presented. The unexpected ones are sometimes the most meaningful."
November 22, 2017
My sister was the one who told me about this book. When I read the summary (the one above), I was a little bit confused. So, I was hesitant to read it. After I thought about it for a little bit, I finally understood (kinda) what the story was about.
Then, I started reading it and…guess what? I could not stop reading it! It was so good!
Miranda was an absolutely awesome main character. Marlow was even cooler! So were all of the other side characters. The only one who I didn’t like as much was Georgiana. (Even so, I am still excited to read the book about her, An Elegant Facade. Also, I am currently reading An Uncommon Courtship, the one about Trent.) I really liked Trent and Griffith. There was one scene with them that I just loved! It seemed like something my brothers would do! I laughed so hard!
I love the cover! It is amazing! Everything about it is great! I am definitely giving it 5 stars!
Also, you can guess what rating I am going to give the book! 5 stars to you, A Noble Masquerade! This is one of my favorite books, and I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone who likes an adventure and romance story!
Title: A Noble Masquerade
Author: Kristi Ann Hunter
Author’s Website: http://www.kristiannhunter.com/
Reading Resolution: #12
This review is written in my own opinions and words.
Then, I started reading it and…guess what? I could not stop reading it! It was so good!
Miranda was an absolutely awesome main character. Marlow was even cooler! So were all of the other side characters. The only one who I didn’t like as much was Georgiana. (Even so, I am still excited to read the book about her, An Elegant Facade. Also, I am currently reading An Uncommon Courtship, the one about Trent.) I really liked Trent and Griffith. There was one scene with them that I just loved! It seemed like something my brothers would do! I laughed so hard!
I love the cover! It is amazing! Everything about it is great! I am definitely giving it 5 stars!
Also, you can guess what rating I am going to give the book! 5 stars to you, A Noble Masquerade! This is one of my favorite books, and I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone who likes an adventure and romance story!
Title: A Noble Masquerade
Author: Kristi Ann Hunter
Author’s Website: http://www.kristiannhunter.com/
Reading Resolution: #12
This review is written in my own opinions and words.
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