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The Perfect Regency #2
The Perfect Spinster
Alternate cover edition can be found here
FIRMLY UPON THE SHELF...
Miss Olivia Redfield labors under no misapprehension that anything other than spinsterhood lies in her future. Not for lack of dowry, or breeding, or education, but because of one tiny flaw.... one might even call it... a curse. Removed from society for this ill-fated defect, she’s resigned herself to caring for others in a somewhat dreary existence. Until, that is, she falls for the charming but unattainable, Lord Kingsley.
TOO MUCH TIME ON HIS HANDS...
Gabriel Fellowes, Earl of Kingsley is doing a favor for a friend by overseeing the dangerous–– but promising––mine on the border of Viscount Hallowell’s property. With time to spare, he finds himself irresistibly intrigued by the viscount’s daughter, Miss Olivia Redfield, and delights himself in their mutual provocation. In no position to promise more than a dalliance, but unable to stay away, Gabriel takes the unprecedented step of befriending a woman.
IS FRIENDSHIP EVEN POSSIBLE...?
Their flirtatious attachment threatens to erupt in passion, but duty and honor forbid anything more. Will love be defeated when tragedy strikes, or can Olivia and Gabriel overcome Society’s dictates and put the notion of Olivia’s curse to rest once and for all?
FIRMLY UPON THE SHELF...
Miss Olivia Redfield labors under no misapprehension that anything other than spinsterhood lies in her future. Not for lack of dowry, or breeding, or education, but because of one tiny flaw.... one might even call it... a curse. Removed from society for this ill-fated defect, she’s resigned herself to caring for others in a somewhat dreary existence. Until, that is, she falls for the charming but unattainable, Lord Kingsley.
TOO MUCH TIME ON HIS HANDS...
Gabriel Fellowes, Earl of Kingsley is doing a favor for a friend by overseeing the dangerous–– but promising––mine on the border of Viscount Hallowell’s property. With time to spare, he finds himself irresistibly intrigued by the viscount’s daughter, Miss Olivia Redfield, and delights himself in their mutual provocation. In no position to promise more than a dalliance, but unable to stay away, Gabriel takes the unprecedented step of befriending a woman.
IS FRIENDSHIP EVEN POSSIBLE...?
Their flirtatious attachment threatens to erupt in passion, but duty and honor forbid anything more. Will love be defeated when tragedy strikes, or can Olivia and Gabriel overcome Society’s dictates and put the notion of Olivia’s curse to rest once and for all?
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2019
About the author
Annabelle Anders
91 books1,294 followersMarried to the same man for over 25 years, I am a mother to three children and two Miniature Wiener dogs.
After owning a business and experiencing considerable success, my husband and I got caught in the financial crisis and lost everything in 2008; our business, our home, even our car.
At this point, I put my B.A. in Poly Sci to use and took work as a waitress and bartender (Insert irony). Unwilling to give up on a professional life, I simultaneously went back to college and obtained a degree in Energy Management.
And then the energy market dropped off.
And then my dog died.
I can only be grateful for this series of unfortunate events, for, with nothing to lose and completely demoralized, I sat down and began to write the romance novels which had until then, existed only my imagination.
After publishing over twenty novels now, with one having been nominated for RWA’s Distinguished ™RITA Award in 2019, I am happy to tell you that I have finally found my place in life.
Thank you so much for being a part of my journey!
To find out more about my books, and also to download a free novella, get all the info at my website!
www.annabelleanders.com
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER: https://www.annabelleanders.com/newsl...
FOLLOW ME ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Annabelle-Ande...
AND FACEBOOK: :https://www.facebook.com/Annabelle.An...
AND BOOKBUB: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/annab...
After owning a business and experiencing considerable success, my husband and I got caught in the financial crisis and lost everything in 2008; our business, our home, even our car.
At this point, I put my B.A. in Poly Sci to use and took work as a waitress and bartender (Insert irony). Unwilling to give up on a professional life, I simultaneously went back to college and obtained a degree in Energy Management.
And then the energy market dropped off.
And then my dog died.
I can only be grateful for this series of unfortunate events, for, with nothing to lose and completely demoralized, I sat down and began to write the romance novels which had until then, existed only my imagination.
After publishing over twenty novels now, with one having been nominated for RWA’s Distinguished ™RITA Award in 2019, I am happy to tell you that I have finally found my place in life.
Thank you so much for being a part of my journey!
To find out more about my books, and also to download a free novella, get all the info at my website!
www.annabelleanders.com
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER: https://www.annabelleanders.com/newsl...
FOLLOW ME ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Annabelle-Ande...
AND FACEBOOK: :https://www.facebook.com/Annabelle.An...
AND BOOKBUB: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/annab...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
August 1, 2019
What can I say? I loved writing these characters. This story is all about unconditional love and acceptance, not despite a person's imperfections, but partly because of them. These are the characters I most identify with. Perfection is only an illusion. The true perfection is found in those who love us for our flaws...
July 30, 2019
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
A wonderfully touching and thought provoking book.
Olivia has beautiful eyes though one glides and she is ridiculed , teased and feared because of it .
Even her parents disown her to a certain extent, and believe she is cursed.
Gabriel is a player ,a cad ,and a rake .
Befriending Olivia who he teased as a child, the two slowly realise feelings are becoming deeper ,at some point this has to end , he’s already betrothed and she doesn’t know.
Such a moving story that brought me to tears many times , both in sadness and joy .
Annabelle constantly blows my mind , as every subsequent book of hers seems to be better than the last .
I Loved these characters and it was so nice to visit with some old ones too .
Highly recommended!
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
A wonderfully touching and thought provoking book.
Olivia has beautiful eyes though one glides and she is ridiculed , teased and feared because of it .
Even her parents disown her to a certain extent, and believe she is cursed.
Gabriel is a player ,a cad ,and a rake .
Befriending Olivia who he teased as a child, the two slowly realise feelings are becoming deeper ,at some point this has to end , he’s already betrothed and she doesn’t know.
Such a moving story that brought me to tears many times , both in sadness and joy .
Annabelle constantly blows my mind , as every subsequent book of hers seems to be better than the last .
I Loved these characters and it was so nice to visit with some old ones too .
Highly recommended!
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
May 9, 2022
The hero was an insensitive jerk who failed to tell the heroine he was engaged. The heroine was all too happy to have her feelings and honor stomped on because she “loved” him.
The story and romance was lost because of the lack of honesty and transparency on both the MC parts.
The story and romance was lost because of the lack of honesty and transparency on both the MC parts.
August 1, 2019
Mrs Annabelle Anders is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors so far.
I do love her writing style, I’m unable to analyze it and say why but I’m always immediately sucked in the storyline, unable to put it down.
It is only because of a short night the day before I was unable to finish it in one sitting.
Mrs Anders once again crafted more than fleshy characters, they have their flaws, their make errors but it is the reason they are so vivid.
Miss Olivia Redfield is an heroine as I love them, she was not been rendered bitter by her life circumstances, she is still a kind and compassionate woman. Despite being shunned and disparaged by those who should have protected her, she stayed true to her loving nature. Because of a slight squint, she is ostracized from polite society, worse, she had been removed from her father’s house to not cause “further embarrassment”, and is constantly told she is cursed and the cause of many misfortune.
My heart arched for her, she grew up believing everything was because of her, that she has no right to happiness.
All her hopes and dreams had been trashed because she was declared damaged goods by her kin. Her sole allie now far away, married, leaving her at the mercy of her doubts and unkind family.
She has been depreciated for so long, that it had been engrained in her. Why she is ready to sell herself short to the first and only man offering for her hand, feeling she deserves no better.
When Gabriel Fellowes wants to give her belief in herself, playing hot and cold with her, only reassure her she is not worth much.
The Earl Of Kingsley has been warned to not come closer to his friend’s sister-in-law. But he feels in his guts a pull, he can’t shake his mind to stay away from her. Even when he knows it is wrong, being betrothed for years does not excuse him to pursue a path he knows will bring only heartaches.
He is well aware of why it is wrong, yet, he drowns in her eyes, the ones she thinks are proof of her being cursed.
He kept telling himself at the same time he must avoid her as he has a promise to fulfill but he senses he is linked to her by much more than lust, or a sizzling chemistry.
He is an honorable man, he tried and failed. Time and distance will not diminish his attraction toward Olivia. But he is locked in a predicament of his own doing.
Mrs Annabelle Anders leaded Olivia and Gabriel in a merry chase with aplenty of heartbreaks while also cheering them to find their right path.
A five stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author, but I had already purchased my own copy. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
I do love her writing style, I’m unable to analyze it and say why but I’m always immediately sucked in the storyline, unable to put it down.
It is only because of a short night the day before I was unable to finish it in one sitting.
Mrs Anders once again crafted more than fleshy characters, they have their flaws, their make errors but it is the reason they are so vivid.
Miss Olivia Redfield is an heroine as I love them, she was not been rendered bitter by her life circumstances, she is still a kind and compassionate woman. Despite being shunned and disparaged by those who should have protected her, she stayed true to her loving nature. Because of a slight squint, she is ostracized from polite society, worse, she had been removed from her father’s house to not cause “further embarrassment”, and is constantly told she is cursed and the cause of many misfortune.
My heart arched for her, she grew up believing everything was because of her, that she has no right to happiness.
All her hopes and dreams had been trashed because she was declared damaged goods by her kin. Her sole allie now far away, married, leaving her at the mercy of her doubts and unkind family.
She has been depreciated for so long, that it had been engrained in her. Why she is ready to sell herself short to the first and only man offering for her hand, feeling she deserves no better.
When Gabriel Fellowes wants to give her belief in herself, playing hot and cold with her, only reassure her she is not worth much.
The Earl Of Kingsley has been warned to not come closer to his friend’s sister-in-law. But he feels in his guts a pull, he can’t shake his mind to stay away from her. Even when he knows it is wrong, being betrothed for years does not excuse him to pursue a path he knows will bring only heartaches.
He is well aware of why it is wrong, yet, he drowns in her eyes, the ones she thinks are proof of her being cursed.
He kept telling himself at the same time he must avoid her as he has a promise to fulfill but he senses he is linked to her by much more than lust, or a sizzling chemistry.
He is an honorable man, he tried and failed. Time and distance will not diminish his attraction toward Olivia. But he is locked in a predicament of his own doing.
Mrs Annabelle Anders leaded Olivia and Gabriel in a merry chase with aplenty of heartbreaks while also cheering them to find their right path.
A five stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author, but I had already purchased my own copy. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
July 27, 2019
The Perfect Spinster by Annabelle Anders
I loved this book so much it is one I will read again and again! I literally laughed out loud reading the first chapter!!! I won’t spoil it for you but, I know you will laugh out loud too! What a great opening to this
beautifully written tragic to hea emotional story! I loved and had great empathy for the main character Olivia, who was so beautiful and kind however, was subjected to unbelievable cruelty by her own parents and society all because she had been born with a lazy eye.
The pages will fly through this action packed storyline that brings to light the damaging effects of society’s ignorant superstitious stigma of calling someone cursed and blame them for everything that goes wrong in the community. In addition to the impact of being subjected to cruel ridicule, and social unacceptance, can weigh on even the strongest of people! Gabriel was a perfect balm to Olivia’s plight with his witty playful teasing of her and the slow burn romantic feelings that ignited between them.
I highly recommend this book. It would be a better read if you haven’t read book one The Perfect Debutant, only because the first book has spoilers for this story. Even if you have read the first book this is still a fantastic read!
Happy Reading!
I loved this book so much it is one I will read again and again! I literally laughed out loud reading the first chapter!!! I won’t spoil it for you but, I know you will laugh out loud too! What a great opening to this
beautifully written tragic to hea emotional story! I loved and had great empathy for the main character Olivia, who was so beautiful and kind however, was subjected to unbelievable cruelty by her own parents and society all because she had been born with a lazy eye.
The pages will fly through this action packed storyline that brings to light the damaging effects of society’s ignorant superstitious stigma of calling someone cursed and blame them for everything that goes wrong in the community. In addition to the impact of being subjected to cruel ridicule, and social unacceptance, can weigh on even the strongest of people! Gabriel was a perfect balm to Olivia’s plight with his witty playful teasing of her and the slow burn romantic feelings that ignited between them.
I highly recommend this book. It would be a better read if you haven’t read book one The Perfect Debutant, only because the first book has spoilers for this story. Even if you have read the first book this is still a fantastic read!
Happy Reading!
October 10, 2019
A cruel childhood nickname, a family ashamed of her “flaw” and all Miss Olivia Redfield wants to do is retire to the country to live out her life as a spinster. Which is exactly her plan after her sister’s wedding. At least it was until an ill-fated chance encounter with the creator of that cruel childhood nickname.
The last person Gabriel Fellowes, Earl of Kingsley, expected to encounter was the girl from his childhood who he dubbed with a terrible nickname. Even more unexpected is the beautiful woman she has become.
What a powerful story written by the gifted Annabelle Anders! For every girl who was ever taunted and teased this is the perfect story of hope and love.
The last person Gabriel Fellowes, Earl of Kingsley, expected to encounter was the girl from his childhood who he dubbed with a terrible nickname. Even more unexpected is the beautiful woman she has become.
What a powerful story written by the gifted Annabelle Anders! For every girl who was ever taunted and teased this is the perfect story of hope and love.
November 16, 2022
The H treated her badly more than once, but after her parent's poor treatment, she accepted it as normal. He's attracted to her, knows she's lonely and that she cares for him. But as he's betrothed to a nice lady, he leaves her anyway. The cad! But her sister comes to her rescue, and the H decides to grow up. I loved that the ladies are the real heroes in this story.
August 1, 2019
Historical romances are a guilty pleasure read of mine, I’m always happy to dive into more. However, I find I often stick to the same authors. I’ve been trying to branch out and read more recently, and after my first Annabelle Anders read, Lady At Last, I realised she’s another author to add to my historical romance authors list.
Although The Perfect Spinster is the second book in The Not So Saintly Sisters series, it works perfectly fine as a standalone novel. There are references made to other characters and things that happened in the past, but they’re explained in such a way that you can read The Perfect Spinster without having first read The Perfect Debutante. I will admit, I do now wish to go and read The Perfect Debutante. This has nothing to do with a lack of understanding, it’s simply a case of how much I enjoyed this one and the fact I want more.
With The Perfect Spinster, I was sucked in from the very first page. There are so many feelings to be experienced throughout this one, resulting in me making cooing happy noises whenever something adorable happened. Honestly, I do not have the words to explain how strong the chemistry was in this one, how cute the characters were together, and how much I loved them. The chemistry was strong from the start, and with everything that happened I fell deeper in love.
It wasn’t just the romance between the two that was wonderful – although that certainly had me devouring this one – it was also the story. There are plenty of things experienced throughout the story, plenty of events that leave you sucked into the story. It’s the best kind of gripping and I could not put it down.
There is no doubt The Perfect Spinster has left me desperate to read more Annabelle Anders in the future. In fact, two books in and she’s already high up on my favourite historical romance authors list.
Although The Perfect Spinster is the second book in The Not So Saintly Sisters series, it works perfectly fine as a standalone novel. There are references made to other characters and things that happened in the past, but they’re explained in such a way that you can read The Perfect Spinster without having first read The Perfect Debutante. I will admit, I do now wish to go and read The Perfect Debutante. This has nothing to do with a lack of understanding, it’s simply a case of how much I enjoyed this one and the fact I want more.
With The Perfect Spinster, I was sucked in from the very first page. There are so many feelings to be experienced throughout this one, resulting in me making cooing happy noises whenever something adorable happened. Honestly, I do not have the words to explain how strong the chemistry was in this one, how cute the characters were together, and how much I loved them. The chemistry was strong from the start, and with everything that happened I fell deeper in love.
It wasn’t just the romance between the two that was wonderful – although that certainly had me devouring this one – it was also the story. There are plenty of things experienced throughout the story, plenty of events that leave you sucked into the story. It’s the best kind of gripping and I could not put it down.
There is no doubt The Perfect Spinster has left me desperate to read more Annabelle Anders in the future. In fact, two books in and she’s already high up on my favourite historical romance authors list.
August 13, 2023
What developed between Olivia and Gabriel was part friendship, part flirtation. I liked that Gabriel’s entire focus was not on simply romancing Olivia. He was a man with responsibilities of overseeing a mine as well as fulfilling his duties. I really connected with his character because he saw the treatment that Olivia endured and was upset by it as well as chagrined that he ever had a part to play in her unhappiness. There was also a true friendship between him and Olivia, which she absolutely deserved. There were parts where what took place between Olivia and Gabriel didn’t sit well with me because of his commitments but it all worked out in the end. The Perfect Spinster was a perfect blending of slow burn romance, friendship, and tragedy to make this book both a memorable and swoon-worthy read!
This review is based on a complimentary book I received from Aurora Publicity. It is an honest and voluntary review. The complimentary receipt of it in no way affected my review or rating.
This review is based on a complimentary book I received from Aurora Publicity. It is an honest and voluntary review. The complimentary receipt of it in no way affected my review or rating.
November 25, 2019
My favorites are when the heroine isn't perfect, and these perfect books hit that just right for me. The hero sees beyond her physical flaw and this makes him extra lovable...
September 8, 2019
3/5 stars.
Sweet, slow-burn romance between a Wallflower with a minor defect and a handsome rake. I enjoyed the story up until the point when we moved from romance to melo-drama. I've realized I have a severe case of allergy to high strung drama and theatrics.
Otherwise, an enjoyable quick read!
Sweet, slow-burn romance between a Wallflower with a minor defect and a handsome rake. I enjoyed the story up until the point when we moved from romance to melo-drama. I've realized I have a severe case of allergy to high strung drama and theatrics.
Otherwise, an enjoyable quick read!
Read
November 28, 2022didnt buy the sudden change the hero had.
August 8, 2019
Disappointed in the hero
I wanted to like this book. But I just could not like the hero in this story. Teasing are not being cruel to someone about their differences is not funny. Not in the least.
I could have forgiven him doing it as a child or an adolescent but when he continued to use that derogatory term towards the heroine I had to quit reading the book. Tormenting someone is not OK for any reason what so ever and if you think it's OK to T someone about something knowing that it hurts then terribly then you are no kind of hero to me.
I wanted to like this book. But I just could not like the hero in this story. Teasing are not being cruel to someone about their differences is not funny. Not in the least.
I could have forgiven him doing it as a child or an adolescent but when he continued to use that derogatory term towards the heroine I had to quit reading the book. Tormenting someone is not OK for any reason what so ever and if you think it's OK to T someone about something knowing that it hurts then terribly then you are no kind of hero to me.
May 12, 2022
I sooooooo wanted to love this! Spinster heroine with a lazy eye and abusive family, and a rakish hero who insulted her as a kid, saddling her with a cruel nickname. Then he does a random pivot and suddenly her eyes are “his favorite in all the world.” I spent too much of this books rolling my own eyes at the protagonists and wondering what the hell they thought they were doing. She is a bit too much a doormat, he is a bit too much a jerk. Plus I HATE all love triangles. Sigh.
July 31, 2019
Miss Olivia Redfield sister of Louella from ‘The Perfect Debutante’, labours under no misapprehension that anything other than spinsterhood lies in her future. Not for lack of dowry, or breeding, or education, but because of one tiny flaw one might even call it a curse, she’s resigned herself to caring for others in a somewhat dreary existence. Until, that is, she falls for the charming but unattainable, Lord Kingsley.
Gabriel Fellowes, Earl of Kingsley is doing a favour for his best friend Cameron by overseeing the dangerous gold mine on the border of Viscount Hallowell’s property. With time to spare, he finds himself irresistibly intrigued by the viscount’s eldest daughter, Olivia, and delights himself in their mutual provocation. Their flirtatious attachment threatens to erupt in passion, but duty and honour forbid anything more.
Well she’s done it yet again! Each time I read one of the author's books I wonder if it will be up to the high, high standard of her previous books & each time it is. Another lovely read, this is the second book in the series & yes it could be read on its own but characters & events do overlap. I laughed at squatting in bushes, I cried several times, I was angry at Olivia’s despicable parents & very happy how everything was resolved. I’m curious to know if Crestwood & Eliza meet again & if so the outcome. I loved Gabriel & Olivia & how their relationship developed with its ups & downs. The pace flow effortlessly & the pages just flew by. I’d highly recommend this book & all the author’s other books
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Gabriel Fellowes, Earl of Kingsley is doing a favour for his best friend Cameron by overseeing the dangerous gold mine on the border of Viscount Hallowell’s property. With time to spare, he finds himself irresistibly intrigued by the viscount’s eldest daughter, Olivia, and delights himself in their mutual provocation. Their flirtatious attachment threatens to erupt in passion, but duty and honour forbid anything more.
Well she’s done it yet again! Each time I read one of the author's books I wonder if it will be up to the high, high standard of her previous books & each time it is. Another lovely read, this is the second book in the series & yes it could be read on its own but characters & events do overlap. I laughed at squatting in bushes, I cried several times, I was angry at Olivia’s despicable parents & very happy how everything was resolved. I’m curious to know if Crestwood & Eliza meet again & if so the outcome. I loved Gabriel & Olivia & how their relationship developed with its ups & downs. The pace flow effortlessly & the pages just flew by. I’d highly recommend this book & all the author’s other books
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 30, 2019
Having been isolated from society by her parents because of a cosmetic defect, Miss Olivia Redfield is a sheltered spinster. She's totally focused on caring for others until she meets Gabriel Fellowes, Lord Kingsley. Gabriel is overseeing the mine on Olivia's father's land for his friend and her new brother-in-law. Gabriel has nothing to offer, having been betrothed for ages himself, but he and Olivia form an unlikely friendship. When their attachment threatens to escalate to more, Olivia distances herself from a rather distraught Gabriel. When tragedy strikes at the mine, it may be enough to put things into perspective and keep these two together or push them apart for good.
This book was beautifully deep and emotional and it was great to see Olivia finally learn to believe in herself. However, the pacing was slow and it took almost too long for Gabriel to step up and make things right for me to be totally interested and fully engaged. That said, I still enjoyed the story, the characters, and the writing and will continue with the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book was beautifully deep and emotional and it was great to see Olivia finally learn to believe in herself. However, the pacing was slow and it took almost too long for Gabriel to step up and make things right for me to be totally interested and fully engaged. That said, I still enjoyed the story, the characters, and the writing and will continue with the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 27, 2019
AHHHH, another compelling romantic tale by Annabelle Anders. I enjoy her writing because it always leaves me feeling hopeful in humanity and romantically fulfilled.
Olivia, has been taunted for her lazy eye all her life. Cast out by her own mother and father who feel she and her eye are a curse. Gabriel, Lord Kingsley helped to start the teasing by calling Olivia “Lazy Eyed Livvy”.
They meet years later and are drawn to each other but “no gentleman of any worth will make a respectable offer to a cockeyed gel” and how can he when he has been betrothed since birth. They go on a journey of friendship, tragedy, and romance that you don’t want to miss!
I was given an ARC of this book and chose to post a review.
Olivia, has been taunted for her lazy eye all her life. Cast out by her own mother and father who feel she and her eye are a curse. Gabriel, Lord Kingsley helped to start the teasing by calling Olivia “Lazy Eyed Livvy”.
They meet years later and are drawn to each other but “no gentleman of any worth will make a respectable offer to a cockeyed gel” and how can he when he has been betrothed since birth. They go on a journey of friendship, tragedy, and romance that you don’t want to miss!
I was given an ARC of this book and chose to post a review.
July 26, 2019
What a good story! I loved the main characters of Olivia and Gabriel, Lord Kingsley. I really felt for Olivia, due to an affliction, she was shunned by her parents, Society at large and some of the villagers. She had such a kind heart and helped those in need. I could have shaken her parents until their teeth rattled! Gabriel was very protective of Olivia but was bound by deathbed promises. Although Olivia and Gabriel felt a strong connection to each other, there were seemly insurmountable problems in their path. They became very good friends. There are a few different elements to this story, there’s the gold mine, which plays a significant part and also the happenings at the house party. This was such a good read with a few heartfelt moments.
July 27, 2019
Beauty really is only skin deep. It takes a pure heart to see much more than what's at the surface.
I loved this book and for once I completely related to the heroine. Olivia had a flaw.... one that showed. When I was younger I had allergies that resulted in rashes on my arms and legs. Gym class was a nightmare having to wear a tee shirt and shorts. Everyone staring, some afraid to come near me, and others that made fun had me crying myself to sleep. I instantly related to her hurt and pain.
Olivia had beautiful eyes, it was just that one would wander when she was nervous. A flaw that may have been corrected in her youth, if her parents had cared more for her well-being than how it looked upon society. Her father considered it a curse. She was stashed away in a small cottage at the edge of their property and she felt as though she'd live her life out as a spinster.
Gabriel was a boy from her childhood that made fun of her eye but when he came upon her as a grown woman saw her in a totally different light. He promised friendship, but wanted more. He couldn't because he was betrothed for a very long time to a woman he promised his father on his deathbed he would marry. A series of family deaths in his fiance's family prolonged their wedding for several years and after meeting Olivia, he was torn between what his heart wanted and living up to his promise to his father.
It was a beautiful story, one that twists and pulls at your heart. As each chapter passed, I hoped Olivia would find happiness, just as she deserved after a lifetime of being shunned by her parents.
My favorite paragraph in the book was:
People consisted of so much more than their appearance or their position in life. The quiet ones seemed to hide the most. Like very deep water, the surface rarely moved despite turmoil far beneath.
I think this summed up her book perfectly and gives much more insight than a historical romance story. I was gifted with an ARC and wanted to leave a review.
I loved this book and for once I completely related to the heroine. Olivia had a flaw.... one that showed. When I was younger I had allergies that resulted in rashes on my arms and legs. Gym class was a nightmare having to wear a tee shirt and shorts. Everyone staring, some afraid to come near me, and others that made fun had me crying myself to sleep. I instantly related to her hurt and pain.
Olivia had beautiful eyes, it was just that one would wander when she was nervous. A flaw that may have been corrected in her youth, if her parents had cared more for her well-being than how it looked upon society. Her father considered it a curse. She was stashed away in a small cottage at the edge of their property and she felt as though she'd live her life out as a spinster.
Gabriel was a boy from her childhood that made fun of her eye but when he came upon her as a grown woman saw her in a totally different light. He promised friendship, but wanted more. He couldn't because he was betrothed for a very long time to a woman he promised his father on his deathbed he would marry. A series of family deaths in his fiance's family prolonged their wedding for several years and after meeting Olivia, he was torn between what his heart wanted and living up to his promise to his father.
It was a beautiful story, one that twists and pulls at your heart. As each chapter passed, I hoped Olivia would find happiness, just as she deserved after a lifetime of being shunned by her parents.
My favorite paragraph in the book was:
People consisted of so much more than their appearance or their position in life. The quiet ones seemed to hide the most. Like very deep water, the surface rarely moved despite turmoil far beneath.
I think this summed up her book perfectly and gives much more insight than a historical romance story. I was gifted with an ARC and wanted to leave a review.
August 3, 2019
A very unique and awkward meeting starts off this whirlwind romance that won’t go off without a couple of surprising hiccups. They tried to tell themselves that this was just friendship, but the connection between them is so powerful that nothing will keep them from each other. I was on pins and needles waiting for them to finally give in to the attraction fully because it leaps off the pages. When tragedy strikes it brings them together, but there is still one obstacle that stands in their way back in London.
I loved that this story covers a year because you really get a sense of how strong their love is. The added storyline with his sister was one I didn’t expect and what followed showed everyone what was between them. The ending was perfect for these two and the scene in the bed made me love him even more.
Olivia doesn’t let her eye define her or society rules control her. I loved her right away because of how much she cared about others. She had a way of say “my lord” that made it sound like the biggest insult when she was mad. I loved when she told her parents off and how she came to realize the curse wasn’t real.
Gabriel would marry her in a heartbeat if he hadn’t made a promise to his father about who he would marry. He’ll make you fall in love with him once you realize why he use to tease her and how he always manages to say the wrong thing around her. It took him long enough to realize he wasn’t to blame for the tragedy and he could have who he wanted. It’s also so cute when he says her name differently.
These two deserved an amazing story and they got it!
Copy provided for an honest and voluntary review
I loved that this story covers a year because you really get a sense of how strong their love is. The added storyline with his sister was one I didn’t expect and what followed showed everyone what was between them. The ending was perfect for these two and the scene in the bed made me love him even more.
Olivia doesn’t let her eye define her or society rules control her. I loved her right away because of how much she cared about others. She had a way of say “my lord” that made it sound like the biggest insult when she was mad. I loved when she told her parents off and how she came to realize the curse wasn’t real.
Gabriel would marry her in a heartbeat if he hadn’t made a promise to his father about who he would marry. He’ll make you fall in love with him once you realize why he use to tease her and how he always manages to say the wrong thing around her. It took him long enough to realize he wasn’t to blame for the tragedy and he could have who he wanted. It’s also so cute when he says her name differently.
These two deserved an amazing story and they got it!
Copy provided for an honest and voluntary review
August 3, 2019
The Perfect Spinster is the second book in the Not So Saintly Sisters. As always, this author delivers a great story with a wonderful message. The message that it is not about how we look on the outside but what is inside that people should love. Olivia Redfield is shunned by her family and neighbors due to a “defect.” She accepted the fact that she would be a spinster until she meets Gabriel again at her sister’s wedding. Gabriel offered to oversee his friends mine while his friend took his new wife on a wedding trip. Gabriel was such a sweet hero. He didn’t see her “defect”, he saw her as a person, but he had been betrothed since childhood to a daughter of a family friend. He had promised his father on his death bed he would marry Victoria. He was worried about the miners and upset with how Olivia’s parents treated her. Olivia was such a giving, caring person but worried that she was cursed as people said. They made such a good couple. Will Gabriel be able to get out of his arranged marriage? Can Olivia overcome the pettiness of other people? This was such a touching story and I loved every minute of it. I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 22, 2019
Another wonderful book by Annabelle Anders! This is one of my favorite reads this summer. There's enough action , romance and superstion from the mindset of the time to keep the reader engrossed in its pages to find out it's conclusion in the end . It centers on the relationship between Olivia Redfield and Gabriel Fellows. She , the eldest daughter of a Viscount has a flaw , that makes her different from all society misses. He , the Earl of Kingsley, has known her since they were children and a was not a nice person toward her then. Follow along as the friendship grows to something neither expects , but prior agreements made in his youth , put a stop to what they want . Did i mention the gold mine? No? Ahhhh, the backdrop of their budding relationship from friends to lovers....let the pages turn !Annabelle Anders
July 24, 2019
Wow, she has done it again. Ms Anders like to write about, what the world thinks is imperfect people. They are beautiful, charming and perfect in all their ways but are the ones the ton want to disregard. In this one she tackles the idea that a beautiful young lady with a lazy eye is cursed and should be relegated to the country on her own and forgotten about. And then there’s the gentleman who is quiet and reserved who could see past her imperfection but as a young man didn’t know how to deal with it. This is the story about how they find their happy ever after and what a romantic story it is. I also liked the hints that marriage in our HEA stories is not as easy as we are all lead to believe. These stories are different and emotional and Ms Anders knows just how to handle them with care and grace. I received this as an ARC and was very happy to review it.
July 22, 2019
A curse, really!! Olivia has been teased and hurt by so many people but remains strong. Gabriel was one of the ones doing the teasing. What do they say about a boy teasing a girl? Through a chance meeting, he realizes there was more to Olivia than she is given credit for. You could hate Gabriel but he is so lovable, loyal and sweet that you can't. Olivia and Gabriel tell a story that will charm and enchant you to the end. There are so many dynamics to this book that you just don't want to see it end.
July 31, 2019
Book 2 in the Not So Saintly Sisters book is a 5 star read. The story extends about a year, and is Olivia’s story. Olivia is cast aside by her father due to her strabismus (lazy eye) and has been living her life away from her family’s estate home in a cottage on the family property. Lord Kingsley knew Olivia when they were children and made fun of her, but he always liked her. A chance meeting on a garden during her sister’s wedding ball has Gabriel quite curious about her, but is shocked to find out she is Luella’s sister. Post wedding places Gabriel in close proximity to Olivia and sparks fly, there is the matter of Gabriel being betrothed! This is a great regency read; I love how confident Olivia grew.
July 22, 2019
Amazing love story about Olivia and Lord Kingsley. I'm so happy to see Olivia get the happy ever after that she deserved after being rejected by her parents for her lazy eye who believe that her eye was the devil's eye and a curse. I can't wait to see if Eliza will also get her happy ever after too.
July 28, 2019
This story is about Olivia and Gabriel. Olivia had a drifting eye and she was always told she was flawed and no man of any worth would want her as his wife. From Gabriel calling Olivia Lazy-eyed Libby to Lovely-eyed Libby they become friends. Even though Gabriel was not free to marry her, he was attracted to her. You will fall in love with this book from the first chapter.
Annabelle Anders is a great writer and you will enjoy her writing style.
Annabelle Anders is a great writer and you will enjoy her writing style.
August 3, 2019
When the writer knows what they are talking about, an honest review is simple. The writing pulls at your heart...makes you want to fight for love, and will make you not want to put the book down!!! I cant get enough of the characters. The emotion that you can feel through each page. Love that makes your heart want to...re-read
July 25, 2019
Well written, heartfelt story about Olivia, a spinster that has been poorly treated by her parents, and Gabriel, Earl of Kingsley, a gentleman tied to a promise he made to his dying father. These two are meant for each other, but can they ever have their HEA? Highly recommend this very entertaining story and hoping there will be more in this series.
August 5, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. I love Gabriel and Olivia. My first book by this author, and it won't be the last. I didn't want it to end. This is a book that I will enjoy reading again and again. 5 stars but would get more if I could.
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