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Matchmaking Chronicles #4
The Make-Believe Widow
Widower James Ludlow, Earl of Rotherham, attends a house party in search of a mother for his two daughters, and his primary requirement is that he doesn’t fall in love. Having already given that emotion to his former wife without reciprocation, he prefers a mutually beneficial arrangement without sentimentality. However, he meets a charming widow with seemingly wonderful maternal instincts, and he can’t ignore the sparks between them. Perhaps a little passion wouldn’t be so unwelcome…
Everyone thinks Charlotte Dunthorpe is a widow, but she’s only pretending to be. When her dear friend invites her to a matchmaking house party that isn’t only for the purposes of marriage, Charlotte is tempted to indulge in a short liaison. Instead, the dashing and kind-hearted Rotherham offers her the chance for the family she always wanted. She must refuse or risk exposing her devastating secrets and ensuring the absolute ruin of all that she holds dear.
Everyone thinks Charlotte Dunthorpe is a widow, but she’s only pretending to be. When her dear friend invites her to a matchmaking house party that isn’t only for the purposes of marriage, Charlotte is tempted to indulge in a short liaison. Instead, the dashing and kind-hearted Rotherham offers her the chance for the family she always wanted. She must refuse or risk exposing her devastating secrets and ensuring the absolute ruin of all that she holds dear.
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 20, 2023
About the author
Darcy Burke
149 books2,195 followersDarcy Burke is the USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, emotional historical and contemporary romance. Darcy wrote her first book at age 11, a happily ever after about a swan addicted to magic and the female swan who loved him, with exceedingly poor illustrations. Join her Reader Club at http://www.darcyburke.com/readerclub.
A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. Her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.
A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. Her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
March 1, 2024
James Ludlow, Earl of Rotherham, is at a house party to find a wife and mother for his children. He meets with a widow, and there are sparks between them. James thinks Charlotte is a widow, but she’s only pretending to be. She is tempted to indulge herself with the Earl. He offers her the chance of marriage - but she has secrets!
Oh my, I loved this story. I couldn't put it down. 5☆
Oh my, I loved this story. I couldn't put it down. 5☆
September 11, 2024
⭐⭐💫
2½ stars.
➕ What I liked :
Some little parts in the beginning of the story were a little interesting.
Somewhat “older” heroine (30) 👍
Interesting side characters.
Experienced heroine.
➖ What I disliked:
Underwhelming.
The romance/romantic-build up was unconvincing.
The chemistry was unconvincing and lacked spark.
No real connection between the main characters.
Underdeveloped and flat/uninteresting main characters.
Very predictable ending.
Some parts are too rushed... while others dragged.
Too much dialogue that was just random conversations… just boring stuff and not even any real banter etc.
The character description/visual appearance for the heroine was a little bit on the vague side.
The character description/visual appearance for the hero is a little better and more detailed… but also formulaic.
(The hero is tall... muscular/”fit”/athletic… and very handsome.)
Too much secrecy.
(Heroine kept her secret to herself for too long and kept on lying for too long.)
August 16, 2023
This was a sweet and fun read with a couple looking for a fresh start at love after painful losses in their pasts.
Roth and Charlotte were delightful together. Their time together was filled with lighthearted banter and passionate chemistry between the two of them.
The only thing keeping me from giving The Make- Believe Widow a higher rating is that it felt rushed even for a novella.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Roth and Charlotte were delightful together. Their time together was filled with lighthearted banter and passionate chemistry between the two of them.
The only thing keeping me from giving The Make- Believe Widow a higher rating is that it felt rushed even for a novella.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 23, 2023
Five years after his wife’s passing, James Ludlow, the Earl of Rotherham, has decided to attend his friend’s house party to try to find a wife who can be a good mother to his two young daughters. Since the love he bestowed upon his late wife was wholly one-sided, he’s determined to leave the emotion out of his next marriage, but when he meets a charming widow who seems to be everything he’s looking for, he struggles to ignore the connection between them. Soon Roth begins to wonder if a temporary liaison would be such a bad idea.
Charlotte Dunthorpe presents herself as a widow, but she isn’t truly. But when her friend invites her to a matchmaking house party that isn’t necessarily only for the purposes of marriage, Charlotte decides to go see what it’s like. Instead, Roth offers her everything she’s dreamed of but doesn’t think she can have, leaving her with no choice but to refuse in order to protect her potentially devastating secrets.
I’m not really sure why, but I’ve been unable to finish a book since mid-May and haven’t felt like writing reviews or scrolling through bookstagram, much less posting content. This is the first book I’ve managed to finish in over a month despite starting at least five. It was only a novella, but at least it’s something. I’m not sure what’s going on with me exactly, but I’m enjoying the mental health break and cutting back on forcing myself to read in every spare bit of time, though I feel awfully about how I’m failing my ARC providers at the moment. But I am working on it.
Thankfully, this was a light-hearted read with very little conflict. It was a little low on steam for what I was expecting, but it was charming, and Roth and Charlotte were easy to root for. I enjoyed the maturity of their relationship and communication, as well as the fact that this story was not set in London for once.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Charlotte Dunthorpe presents herself as a widow, but she isn’t truly. But when her friend invites her to a matchmaking house party that isn’t necessarily only for the purposes of marriage, Charlotte decides to go see what it’s like. Instead, Roth offers her everything she’s dreamed of but doesn’t think she can have, leaving her with no choice but to refuse in order to protect her potentially devastating secrets.
I’m not really sure why, but I’ve been unable to finish a book since mid-May and haven’t felt like writing reviews or scrolling through bookstagram, much less posting content. This is the first book I’ve managed to finish in over a month despite starting at least five. It was only a novella, but at least it’s something. I’m not sure what’s going on with me exactly, but I’m enjoying the mental health break and cutting back on forcing myself to read in every spare bit of time, though I feel awfully about how I’m failing my ARC providers at the moment. But I am working on it.
Thankfully, this was a light-hearted read with very little conflict. It was a little low on steam for what I was expecting, but it was charming, and Roth and Charlotte were easy to root for. I enjoyed the maturity of their relationship and communication, as well as the fact that this story was not set in London for once.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
July 25, 2023
‘Widower James Ludlow, Earl of Rotherham, attends a house party in search of a mother for his two daughters, and his primary requirement is that he doesn’t fall in love. Having already given that emotion to his former wife without reciprocation, he prefers a mutually beneficial arrangement without sentimentality. However, he meets a charming widow with seemingly wonderful maternal instincts, and he can’t ignore the sparks between them. Perhaps a little passion wouldn’t be so unwelcome…
Everyone thinks Charlotte Dunthorpe is a widow, but she’s only pretending to be. When her dear friend invites her to a matchmaking house party that isn’t only for the purposes of marriage, Charlotte is tempted to indulge in a short liaison. Instead, the dashing and kind-hearted Rotherham offers her the chance for the family she always wanted. She must refuse or risk exposing her devastating secrets and ensuring the absolute ruin of all that she holds dear.’
______________________________
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars.
The Make-Believe Widow by Darcy Burke is the fourth book in the Matchmaking Chronicles, which is a series of historical romance novellas based on an annual matchmaking houseparty.
I was falling behind on my book goal for the year and having a hard time getting in front of it so I was looking for something quick to read. This novella came at the perfect time and helped give me a little motivation. I didn’t feel super invested in the main characters, but I did like them both and the story was low on angst and conflict. Plus I liked that Charlotte wasn’t a member of the ton
This is a good series to read if you’re looking for something quick and light-hearted to read. Plus you can also read these novellas in any order or as stand-alones. I more prefer this author’s full length books, but her novellas are also good because even though they are short, they don’t ever feel rushed and jumbled like many novellas do. Looking forward to seeing what series Dary Burke has coming up next!
_____
I would like to thank the author, Darcy Burke, for sharing an eARC of her book, The Make-Believe Widow with me. This is my honest review.
Everyone thinks Charlotte Dunthorpe is a widow, but she’s only pretending to be. When her dear friend invites her to a matchmaking house party that isn’t only for the purposes of marriage, Charlotte is tempted to indulge in a short liaison. Instead, the dashing and kind-hearted Rotherham offers her the chance for the family she always wanted. She must refuse or risk exposing her devastating secrets and ensuring the absolute ruin of all that she holds dear.’
______________________________
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars.
The Make-Believe Widow by Darcy Burke is the fourth book in the Matchmaking Chronicles, which is a series of historical romance novellas based on an annual matchmaking houseparty.
I was falling behind on my book goal for the year and having a hard time getting in front of it so I was looking for something quick to read. This novella came at the perfect time and helped give me a little motivation. I didn’t feel super invested in the main characters, but I did like them both and the story was low on angst and conflict. Plus I liked that Charlotte wasn’t a member of the ton
This is a good series to read if you’re looking for something quick and light-hearted to read. Plus you can also read these novellas in any order or as stand-alones. I more prefer this author’s full length books, but her novellas are also good because even though they are short, they don’t ever feel rushed and jumbled like many novellas do. Looking forward to seeing what series Dary Burke has coming up next!
_____
I would like to thank the author, Darcy Burke, for sharing an eARC of her book, The Make-Believe Widow with me. This is my honest review.
February 7, 2024
Another great book in this series. Roth was hurt in the past and has decided to not marry for love again. Charlotte has a secret that marriage would expose so she is looking for a romp but nothing forever. So of course they fall in love. Another not 20 year old virgin so I appreciate that again.
July 23, 2023
Unfortunately, DNF at like 50%
I just cannot. Two dimensional characters, no real connection, just dialoges after dialogues, no passion or anything really to between the MC's.
I just cannot. Two dimensional characters, no real connection, just dialoges after dialogues, no passion or anything really to between the MC's.
August 3, 2023
Darcy Burke is masterful at telling a tender and true romance. Who better for a second chance romance than a never married widow? Charlotte has spent the last 10 years living as a widow, when truthfully she has never been wed. When she meets Roth at a house party she knows they can never have anything lasting, not with her lie hanging over her head, but their connection is too strong to ignore. The story unfolds in a torrid affair, truths revealed and trusts lost & regained. Charlotte is a kind, generous & selfless woman who was dealt a raw deal but she also has an undeniable strength to rebuild. Roth, was denied love and thereby is a little fragile but he is good & kind to a fault. Together they work through their own misgivings and stregthen each other in a beautiful way. The highlight of the story is their eventful evening at the inn, showing ow well suited they truly are. A lovely story!
July 22, 2023
Charlotte and Roth burn up the pages together in this gripping second-chance romance.
I just loved the idea of a house party where men and women got together to either find a partner in marriage or a partner for just right now. Charlotte wanted a diversion for a moment, while Roth wanted something a lot more permanent. Their instant, strong attraction quickly overrode any logic and reason that wanted to drive a wedge between them.
Charlotte had tried to make the best of a situation fraught with heartbreak, secrecy, and fear of discovery. But unless she managed to find a way to overcome this, anything in her life would be temporary. Meeting Roth made her dream of what could be, if her circumstances were different. I liked both characters. Roth was confident, kind, and supportive. In Roth’s presence, Charlotte forgot her feelings of not quite fitting in at the party. She was compassionate, kind, and had a generous heart.
The author captured the sizzling chemistry between them perfectly. Every moment between them were so electrically charged, I basically held my breath whenever they got close to each other. And it’s this experience that tempered some of the scenes at the end that I found a bit too sweet.
The villain’s motivations were a bit vague, other than he was obviously a sad excuse of a human being.
I can highly recommend this book and the series if you like historical romance and second chances. Each book stands well on its own.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 17, 2023
The widower & the masquerading widow!
An engagingly touching, in the moment, romance unfurls into full bloom as Roth and Charlotte, navigate a path destined for the sweeping, all binding, love they secretly crave. If only they can open up their hearts and peel back their quickly diminishing, yet well guarded, walls.
Burke cleverly swept me up in the longing, smouldering undercurrent of want, the dampening down of attraction fused with this warring need to act on their sparking desire and evident connection, under an undulating cloud of fear that lingered overhead. A, heartbreakingly hindered by their past relationships shaped, cloud, where you can feel the uncertainty swirling between Roth and Charlotte and the tension that builds, so delightfully, as they yearn for more in the keen want to be able to trust their feelings.
It was so easy to become caught up in the fact these two -such kindhearted, been slapped with a raw deal, soulmates - deserved to find their illusive resounding happiness.
Forming the basis for this fun, absorbing meander through the difficulty of reading signals, the fear of falling fast without the assurance the cascading intense feelings are reciprocated, as the tension grew, fueled by this desperation and instinct to run matched with a desire to give into the magnetic pull of intimacy and the comfortable closeness...so delicious in its sweetness...bubbling between them.
I'm really enjoying this series of matchmaking-come-affair-seeking houseparty novellas.
A great novella that packs a heartpoundingly entangling, passion building, punch!
~I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own~
An engagingly touching, in the moment, romance unfurls into full bloom as Roth and Charlotte, navigate a path destined for the sweeping, all binding, love they secretly crave. If only they can open up their hearts and peel back their quickly diminishing, yet well guarded, walls.
Burke cleverly swept me up in the longing, smouldering undercurrent of want, the dampening down of attraction fused with this warring need to act on their sparking desire and evident connection, under an undulating cloud of fear that lingered overhead. A, heartbreakingly hindered by their past relationships shaped, cloud, where you can feel the uncertainty swirling between Roth and Charlotte and the tension that builds, so delightfully, as they yearn for more in the keen want to be able to trust their feelings.
It was so easy to become caught up in the fact these two -such kindhearted, been slapped with a raw deal, soulmates - deserved to find their illusive resounding happiness.
Forming the basis for this fun, absorbing meander through the difficulty of reading signals, the fear of falling fast without the assurance the cascading intense feelings are reciprocated, as the tension grew, fueled by this desperation and instinct to run matched with a desire to give into the magnetic pull of intimacy and the comfortable closeness...so delicious in its sweetness...bubbling between them.
I'm really enjoying this series of matchmaking-come-affair-seeking houseparty novellas.
A great novella that packs a heartpoundingly entangling, passion building, punch!
~I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own~
November 29, 2023
This is the fourth book in the charming Matchmaking Chronicles, although none of the books are connected, so reads as a stand alone. Miss Charlotte Harnessmaker was forced to flee her home after her fiancée died shortly before their wedding and his cousin threatened to force her to become his mistress. She remade herself into a widow, Charlotte Dunthorpe, who helps young women learn to become excellent maidservants. Along the way she befriended Lady Cecilia Cosford, who invited her to a house party that she and her husband are giving. The goal is for the attendants to make liaisons, either temporary or marriage. Charlotte just wants to visit her friend.
James Ludlow, ninth Earl of Rotherham, known to his friend as Roth, has come to find a mother for his two daughters. He is not looking for love, as his wife had confessed on her deathbed that she lied when she told him that she loved him. While he had been smitten, she had been coerced by her parents to marry for the title, not the man she really loved. Roth and Charlotte are immediately attracted to each other, but he is fighting the attraction and she is living a lie. They seem to agree on a temporary liaison during the house party, but as the party draws to a close, what will they do?
Charming characters and a look into what a house party of the period was like. This was an enjoyable quick read. I read an ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
James Ludlow, ninth Earl of Rotherham, known to his friend as Roth, has come to find a mother for his two daughters. He is not looking for love, as his wife had confessed on her deathbed that she lied when she told him that she loved him. While he had been smitten, she had been coerced by her parents to marry for the title, not the man she really loved. Roth and Charlotte are immediately attracted to each other, but he is fighting the attraction and she is living a lie. They seem to agree on a temporary liaison during the house party, but as the party draws to a close, what will they do?
Charming characters and a look into what a house party of the period was like. This was an enjoyable quick read. I read an ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
July 19, 2023
Widower James Ludlow, Earl of Rotherham, attends a house party held by Lord & Lady Cosford hoping to find a mother for his two daughters. He would prefer a mutually beneficial arrangement without sentimentality as he loved his late wife but without reciprocation. However, he meets a charming widow with seemingly wonderful maternal instincts, and he can’t ignore the sparks between them. Charlotte Dunthorpe is a widow but she’s only pretending to be. When her dear friend invites her to a matchmaking house party that isn’t only for the purposes of marriage, Charlotte is tempted to indulge in a short liaison. Instead, the dashing and kind-hearted Roth offers her the chance for the family she always wanted.
The fourth book in the series but it’s easily read on its own, a very well written delightful romance. I loved both Roth & Charlotte both have secrets & both have been hurt but can they learn to trust & to give their hearts. The chemistry between the couple sizzles & they constantly gravitate to each other at the house party. They begin an affair but both realise their feelings are deepening then the villain enters & things go belly up. I loved this heart warming romance & was routing for both Roth & Charlotte & loved their journey to a HEA
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The fourth book in the series but it’s easily read on its own, a very well written delightful romance. I loved both Roth & Charlotte both have secrets & both have been hurt but can they learn to trust & to give their hearts. The chemistry between the couple sizzles & they constantly gravitate to each other at the house party. They begin an affair but both realise their feelings are deepening then the villain enters & things go belly up. I loved this heart warming romance & was routing for both Roth & Charlotte & loved their journey to a HEA
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 5, 2023
Widower James Ludlow, Earl of Rotherham, attends a house party in search of a mother for his two daughters, and his primary requirement is that he doesn’t fall in love. Charlotte Dunthorpe is pretending to be a widow, and she can’t be tempted by Rotherham because exposing her secrets will ensure the ruin of all that she holds dear.
I get such a kick out of these novellas. Maybe it’s the forced proximity or the throwing over of the idea of straitlaced Georgians. Good tension and a cute couple and very low stakes.
I received an arc from NetGalley
I get such a kick out of these novellas. Maybe it’s the forced proximity or the throwing over of the idea of straitlaced Georgians. Good tension and a cute couple and very low stakes.
I received an arc from NetGalley
July 11, 2023
You wouldn't believe how fast I downloaded and read this ARC when I saw it. I so love Miss Burke's works. It never fails to tickle our heart bones (does that exist?) This one especially is very heart-warming and more modern even though it's a regency romance. Miss Burke is definitely an auto-buy author for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Zealous Quill Press for this ARC in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion. #TheMakeBelieveWidow #NetGalley #ZealousQuillPress #DarcyBurke
Disclaimer: My book reviews are based on my own personal reading experience. I do not make reviews to influence other folks to read or not read them. If it mentally, emotionally, and morally wrecked or moved me, it will be an automatic 5 ⭐ for me. Yes, it takes so little to make me happy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Zealous Quill Press for this ARC in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion. #TheMakeBelieveWidow #NetGalley #ZealousQuillPress #DarcyBurke
Disclaimer: My book reviews are based on my own personal reading experience. I do not make reviews to influence other folks to read or not read them. If it mentally, emotionally, and morally wrecked or moved me, it will be an automatic 5 ⭐ for me. Yes, it takes so little to make me happy.
July 25, 2023
I have been reading Darcy Burke since 2015 and this is my 51st book by her. I really enjoy her writing and her stories.
I enjoyed reading Roth and Charlotte's story. They seemed like a very likable couple. It was a cute story. I was also a very quick read but she was still able to get some depth in the characters.
I enjoyed reading Roth and Charlotte's story. They seemed like a very likable couple. It was a cute story. I was also a very quick read but she was still able to get some depth in the characters.
July 28, 2023
This was a lighthearted read about two people looking for a second chance at love❤️
I'm always down to read a historical romance, and this did not disappoint Roth and Charlotte came through with good banter and all-around cuteness 😍
Thank you, Netgalley, and the publisher for providing me with this e-arc
I'm always down to read a historical romance, and this did not disappoint Roth and Charlotte came through with good banter and all-around cuteness 😍
Thank you, Netgalley, and the publisher for providing me with this e-arc
Read
July 5, 2023Caught between what they want and what they need, Charlotte and James navigate secrets, misunderstandings, and their own insecurities to earn their happily-ever-after. This quick read is frothy fun with heart.
August 8, 2023
The story had a rocky and slow beginning, but as it progresses, there are some enjoyable moments.
At the end, I didn't connect with the characters, but I think that it's more a ME situation.
At the end, I didn't connect with the characters, but I think that it's more a ME situation.
September 14, 2023
Engaging and interesting, this romance unfolds even with hidden truths, that you know will come out eventually. The interaction and caring that this couple share is heartwarming, making for a wonderful HEA.
September 1, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.
This is a nice little addition to the series, featuring a love story developing around the house party hosted by the Earl and Countess of Cosford.
Charlotte Dunthorpe is friends with the Countess; a mature woman nearing 30 styling herself as a widow for the past many years. She is truly an unmarried spinster, alone in the world, hiding her identity to escape an untenable and potentially threatening situation in her home village, when she was left alone and unprotected following the death of her fiance. She had made a good life for herself in her new home, with new ties and relationships, including helping other young women to learn skills and make their way to better lives for themselves. She was recently invited to the house party by her friend Cecelia, and hoped to have a good time renewing their friendship. Despite her friend's matchmaking intentions, she knows to engage in a relationship and to seek a marriage would expose her lies.
James Ludlow, the Earl of Rotherham, is a handsome widower who is in search of a new wife, to be a mother to his young daughter, and provide him with an heir. But what he does not want is love; having already given his heart away to his dead wife, only to have it shattered when he found out that she never loved him back. He did not expect to find a burning desire for the beautiful widow. But like a moth to a flame, James cannot stay away from Charlotte, and they decide to engage in an affair. But her past comes back haunt her and her lies are forced into the open, threatening their tenuous relationship.
I quite enjoyed this second chance at love story, and the story line was interesting, showing the vulnerability of women at the time to the threats and manipulations of men, especially if they are alone. I appreciated the story of how vulnerable and scared Charlotte must have felt when she was threatened as a young woman, alone, and how when she made a new life for herself, she took it upon herself to do what she can to help other women and keep them from falling into a similar situation. But my heart was saddened by how alone she must have felt, hiding her true self and story, and thinking she would never find love/companionship or have a family.
3.5 stars out of 5
This is a nice little addition to the series, featuring a love story developing around the house party hosted by the Earl and Countess of Cosford.
Charlotte Dunthorpe is friends with the Countess; a mature woman nearing 30 styling herself as a widow for the past many years. She is truly an unmarried spinster, alone in the world, hiding her identity to escape an untenable and potentially threatening situation in her home village, when she was left alone and unprotected following the death of her fiance. She had made a good life for herself in her new home, with new ties and relationships, including helping other young women to learn skills and make their way to better lives for themselves. She was recently invited to the house party by her friend Cecelia, and hoped to have a good time renewing their friendship. Despite her friend's matchmaking intentions, she knows to engage in a relationship and to seek a marriage would expose her lies.
James Ludlow, the Earl of Rotherham, is a handsome widower who is in search of a new wife, to be a mother to his young daughter, and provide him with an heir. But what he does not want is love; having already given his heart away to his dead wife, only to have it shattered when he found out that she never loved him back. He did not expect to find a burning desire for the beautiful widow. But like a moth to a flame, James cannot stay away from Charlotte, and they decide to engage in an affair. But her past comes back haunt her and her lies are forced into the open, threatening their tenuous relationship.
I quite enjoyed this second chance at love story, and the story line was interesting, showing the vulnerability of women at the time to the threats and manipulations of men, especially if they are alone. I appreciated the story of how vulnerable and scared Charlotte must have felt when she was threatened as a young woman, alone, and how when she made a new life for herself, she took it upon herself to do what she can to help other women and keep them from falling into a similar situation. But my heart was saddened by how alone she must have felt, hiding her true self and story, and thinking she would never find love/companionship or have a family.
3.5 stars out of 5
July 19, 2023
What a great way to end this wonderful series. Darcy has given us another quick read full of mystery, compassion, secrets and past betrayal. James, the Earl of Rotherham , known to his friends by Roth had what he thought was a good marriage till his wife tells him on her death bed she never loved him but was forced to wed by her parents. He was shocked and beyond hurt. They had two lovely daughters together and if not a passionate marriage, a good one he thought. It’s been five years since then and his daughters, Violet, 9 and Rosamund, 6 without a mother. His mother helped as much as she could but had her own life. It was time he found a woman to be a mother to his daughter and a companion for him and maybe give him a son. He will not give his heart to another woman again. Which is why he is at a matchmaking party given by his best friends, Lord and Lady Cosford. Charlotte Dunthorpe is not sure why she came to her friend's house party. She doesn’t really fit in with any of the ton. She is the daughter of an Inn keeper and has lived quietly for the last ten years after her husband died. She teaches young girls how to work as housemaids so they can earn a living. As this is a matchmaking party and she knows she can’t marry anyone with her secrets, yet she hopes she might have a short liaison with a gentleman. When these two met for the first time both are overwhelmed by how they are instantly attractive to each other!! Ah, the best laid plans don’t always go as planned. Neither Roth nor Charlotte can deny the feelings between them. What will happen when secrets are learned, past fears and betrayal come back? Will an evil force come between them and win? Ah so many questions and you can find all the answers in the book. Grab a copy and lose yourself in a wonderful story with lots of passion and laughter too, it's great. Ladies we all dream of a man like Roth in our lives hopefully you found yours. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. I will be rereading this series over and over again; they are that good. All the books can be read alone but much better read in order. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
July 18, 2023
James Ludlow, Earl of Rotherham, Violet and Rosamund daughters, Widow of five years has decided it is time to remarry. He does not want a love match due to his wife's proclaiming she never wanted to marry him and her father forced her to since she was in love with someone else. Now he just wants a companion who can help raise his daughters and possibly give him a son.
Charlotte Dunthorpe ne Harnessmaker, lives as a widow after her fiancee died from an infectious wound. Using the thousand pounds to set up a house she trains other women in her same situation with not family to rely on. She and her housekeeper Mrs. Atherton train them to be housemaid, ladies maids, and housekeepers.
Cecilia, Lady Cosford, husband John, friends to both Ratherham and Charlotte, are throwing a house party for twenty friends to allow short or long term liaison or to remarry.
Lord Sleaford, Cousin Sidney Prewitt, was bethrothed to Charlotte before he died. Sleaford is vile, nasty, and mean.
A conversational landscapes starts a chain of events that surprise and horrify Charlotte. She is trying to keep her secret so that no one can harm her or her training endever. However, Roth is the surprise she least counted on. To find someone she can possibly be herself and share her secret, only to learn she can't. Roth on the otherhand, is finding that the instant attraction he has with her is scary and fears he will wind up the same as with his deceased wife.
So come join in the fun at the house party. Play games, enjoy contests, and walks, talks, and dancing. Find out how these to meet, do they become friends or lovers? Does her secret get revealed at the party? If not where? What does Sleaford do to Charlotte? How does everyone react? What does Roth do in the end? What does Charlotte do?
Such a drama of events unfold that will have you on the edge of your seat reading to the end to find out. Great character depth gives this an easy read and have you finishing before you know it.
Charlotte Dunthorpe ne Harnessmaker, lives as a widow after her fiancee died from an infectious wound. Using the thousand pounds to set up a house she trains other women in her same situation with not family to rely on. She and her housekeeper Mrs. Atherton train them to be housemaid, ladies maids, and housekeepers.
Cecilia, Lady Cosford, husband John, friends to both Ratherham and Charlotte, are throwing a house party for twenty friends to allow short or long term liaison or to remarry.
Lord Sleaford, Cousin Sidney Prewitt, was bethrothed to Charlotte before he died. Sleaford is vile, nasty, and mean.
A conversational landscapes starts a chain of events that surprise and horrify Charlotte. She is trying to keep her secret so that no one can harm her or her training endever. However, Roth is the surprise she least counted on. To find someone she can possibly be herself and share her secret, only to learn she can't. Roth on the otherhand, is finding that the instant attraction he has with her is scary and fears he will wind up the same as with his deceased wife.
So come join in the fun at the house party. Play games, enjoy contests, and walks, talks, and dancing. Find out how these to meet, do they become friends or lovers? Does her secret get revealed at the party? If not where? What does Sleaford do to Charlotte? How does everyone react? What does Roth do in the end? What does Charlotte do?
Such a drama of events unfold that will have you on the edge of your seat reading to the end to find out. Great character depth gives this an easy read and have you finishing before you know it.
July 17, 2023
The Make-Believe Widow by Darcy Burke
Matchmaking Chronicles #4
Returning to the Cosford’s house party where matches are often made, we meet an earl who desires a mother for his daughters but prefers never to fall in love again love again and a make-believe widow afraid her secret will come out and thus believes she must remain unwed.
What I liked:
* Charlotte: innkeeper’s daughter, had big dreams, trains young women to become maids, good friend to the Cosfords, dreamed of having a husband and family in the past, is afraid to share her past and that would be required if she were to ever marry
* James: Earl of Rotherham, widow, father of two young girls, seeking a wife, prefers a marriage without love, has trust issues, caring, kind, makes a mistake that nearly costs him future happiness
* The Cosfords: matchmakers who hold house parties to help men and women find partners forever or just for a while, love one another deeply and want that for their friends as well
* The games and entertainment at the party
* The honest communication between James and Charlotte – most of the time
* That Charlotte was open about what she did and did not want
* The time Charlotte and James spent at the Oak and Ash Inn
* The backstories of Charlotte and James and how they were impacted by them
* That both main characters had good parents and happy childhoods
* The conversational landscapes ;)
* Wondering if there will be another book in the series
What I didn’t like:
* Cousin Sleaford the Sleazy – he was the focal point of my dislike in this book
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review
4-5 Stars
Matchmaking Chronicles #4
Returning to the Cosford’s house party where matches are often made, we meet an earl who desires a mother for his daughters but prefers never to fall in love again love again and a make-believe widow afraid her secret will come out and thus believes she must remain unwed.
What I liked:
* Charlotte: innkeeper’s daughter, had big dreams, trains young women to become maids, good friend to the Cosfords, dreamed of having a husband and family in the past, is afraid to share her past and that would be required if she were to ever marry
* James: Earl of Rotherham, widow, father of two young girls, seeking a wife, prefers a marriage without love, has trust issues, caring, kind, makes a mistake that nearly costs him future happiness
* The Cosfords: matchmakers who hold house parties to help men and women find partners forever or just for a while, love one another deeply and want that for their friends as well
* The games and entertainment at the party
* The honest communication between James and Charlotte – most of the time
* That Charlotte was open about what she did and did not want
* The time Charlotte and James spent at the Oak and Ash Inn
* The backstories of Charlotte and James and how they were impacted by them
* That both main characters had good parents and happy childhoods
* The conversational landscapes ;)
* Wondering if there will be another book in the series
What I didn’t like:
* Cousin Sleaford the Sleazy – he was the focal point of my dislike in this book
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review
4-5 Stars
August 10, 2023
I really enjoyed this longer novella story that takes place at a house party. The host couple have invited their friends who are unmarried to give them the opportunity of maybe making a match. Countess Cecilia Cosford invites her good friend Charlotte Dunthrope, a widow of long standing. This is an interesting story of two people who meet by chance and make a strong connection but with very different goals in mind.
Charlotte's original bethrothed died just days before the final reading of their bans. She was heartbroken and worried she could be with child so the took the money Simon her fiancé left her for her support, and relocated with a new name. Before she left town Simon's cousin Viscount Sleaford tried to force her to be his mistress. Now Charlotte is a widow who helps young women with no connections train for domestic service so they can support themselves. When her good friend Cecilia invites her to the matchmaking event she thinks she might indulge in a short term fling. Charlotte has no plans to remarry, or marry at all, as she is afraid her secret would get out. When she meets James Ludlow, the Earl of Rotherham they have an instant connection.
Roth is looking for a mother for his two girls but not a love match. He loved his first wife but she broke his heart when she confessed on her death bed she had never loved him. She loved another and her parents forced her to wed him because of his title. The more time Roth and Charlotte spend together the more they like each other until the inevitable happens and they fall in love. Then her secret comes out.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Charlotte's original bethrothed died just days before the final reading of their bans. She was heartbroken and worried she could be with child so the took the money Simon her fiancé left her for her support, and relocated with a new name. Before she left town Simon's cousin Viscount Sleaford tried to force her to be his mistress. Now Charlotte is a widow who helps young women with no connections train for domestic service so they can support themselves. When her good friend Cecilia invites her to the matchmaking event she thinks she might indulge in a short term fling. Charlotte has no plans to remarry, or marry at all, as she is afraid her secret would get out. When she meets James Ludlow, the Earl of Rotherham they have an instant connection.
Roth is looking for a mother for his two girls but not a love match. He loved his first wife but she broke his heart when she confessed on her death bed she had never loved him. She loved another and her parents forced her to wed him because of his title. The more time Roth and Charlotte spend together the more they like each other until the inevitable happens and they fall in love. Then her secret comes out.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 14, 2024
In " Die unechte Witwe (Chroniken der Ehestiftung 5) " nimmt Charlotte Dunthorpe die Einladung ihrer Freundin Cecilia Cosford an, an deren Hausparty teilzunehmen, auch mit dem Wissen, das es zu Eheanbahnungen oder kurze Liaisonen führen kann.
Ersteres ist für Charlotte ausgeschlossen, auch wenn sie offiziell als Witwe das könnte, gibt es ein brisantes Geheimnis um ihr Leben, das Charlotte davon abhält. Bis sie auf Roth, den Earl of Rotherham trifft und Wünsche auftreten, die nicht sein dürfen. Oder etwa doch?
James Ludlow, der Earl of Rotherham ist seit Jahren Witwer und möchte nun erneut die Ehe eingehen, da seine kleinen Töchtern eine Mutter benötigen.
Deswegen nimmt Roth, wie er von Freunden genannt wird, die Möglichkeit einer Hausparty bei den Cosforts war und hofft eine passende Gattin zu finden. Dazu ist seiner Meinung nach keine Liebe zueinander wichtig, diese könnte eher hinderlich sein. Bis er auf die vermeintliche Witwe Charlotte Dunthorpe trifft und ihn die Gefühle für sie nur so zufliegen. Und was nun?
Kann es für Charlotte und Roth unter diesen Voraussetzungen überhaupt eine Chance für ihre Gefühle geben? Oder steht ihrem Glück zuviel im Weg?
Die Story lässt sich leicht und flüssig lesen, bleibt dabei abwechslungsreich sowie spannungsgeladen. Man darf mit Charlotte und Roth mitfiebern und die verschiedesten Emotionen erleben. Es gibt einiges zum schmunzeln bis herzhaft zu lachen, so manche mitfühlende, tragische wie auch brisante Momente und die ein oder andere Träne zu vergießen.
Ich konnte das Buch nicht mehr aus der Hand legen, da ich erfahren wollte, ob es für beide ein Happy End gab.
Das Buch bekommt von mir eine Lese / Kaufempfehlung und 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sterne.
Ersteres ist für Charlotte ausgeschlossen, auch wenn sie offiziell als Witwe das könnte, gibt es ein brisantes Geheimnis um ihr Leben, das Charlotte davon abhält. Bis sie auf Roth, den Earl of Rotherham trifft und Wünsche auftreten, die nicht sein dürfen. Oder etwa doch?
James Ludlow, der Earl of Rotherham ist seit Jahren Witwer und möchte nun erneut die Ehe eingehen, da seine kleinen Töchtern eine Mutter benötigen.
Deswegen nimmt Roth, wie er von Freunden genannt wird, die Möglichkeit einer Hausparty bei den Cosforts war und hofft eine passende Gattin zu finden. Dazu ist seiner Meinung nach keine Liebe zueinander wichtig, diese könnte eher hinderlich sein. Bis er auf die vermeintliche Witwe Charlotte Dunthorpe trifft und ihn die Gefühle für sie nur so zufliegen. Und was nun?
Kann es für Charlotte und Roth unter diesen Voraussetzungen überhaupt eine Chance für ihre Gefühle geben? Oder steht ihrem Glück zuviel im Weg?
Die Story lässt sich leicht und flüssig lesen, bleibt dabei abwechslungsreich sowie spannungsgeladen. Man darf mit Charlotte und Roth mitfiebern und die verschiedesten Emotionen erleben. Es gibt einiges zum schmunzeln bis herzhaft zu lachen, so manche mitfühlende, tragische wie auch brisante Momente und die ein oder andere Träne zu vergießen.
Ich konnte das Buch nicht mehr aus der Hand legen, da ich erfahren wollte, ob es für beide ein Happy End gab.
Das Buch bekommt von mir eine Lese / Kaufempfehlung und 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sterne.
July 9, 2023
The Make-Believe Wife. So I have to tell you that I totally love Roth’s Character. The man is a single lady’s I candy of passionate bed time desires and sexual dreams. You heard me. This man knows how to take care of a woman.
Yes ladies, Charlotte couldn’t just pass up this gift that has walked into her life. I think that her dear friend, Cecilia had Roth already picked out for Charlotte at the party. As you can tell already, Roth is my favorite character and his valet Dyer. Roth’s love interest, Charlotte is a wonderful character for him and the book. Charlotte has her strong intellect and her will to survive among the cruelties of the world.
My interpretation is that Charlotte believes that Roth is that one surprising gift to have for just one moment in time. This leads me to believe that their story was impressively written. The love that grows in the story. You could feel that progression through the narrative and dialogue. The narrative was so easy to read.
This gave me the opportunity to just enjoy the characters as they navigate through the story searching for that happiness that they truly deserve. The writing is so superb. I think that I’ve already stated that, but I felt that it was worth addressing again. The descriptions of details surrounding the characters as well as other parts of the story felt so real. The plot was great.
It’s one of the many things that has the reader becoming more engaged with the book. The love story certainly held my interest. I give this book two snaps and a twist of delight. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Yes ladies, Charlotte couldn’t just pass up this gift that has walked into her life. I think that her dear friend, Cecilia had Roth already picked out for Charlotte at the party. As you can tell already, Roth is my favorite character and his valet Dyer. Roth’s love interest, Charlotte is a wonderful character for him and the book. Charlotte has her strong intellect and her will to survive among the cruelties of the world.
My interpretation is that Charlotte believes that Roth is that one surprising gift to have for just one moment in time. This leads me to believe that their story was impressively written. The love that grows in the story. You could feel that progression through the narrative and dialogue. The narrative was so easy to read.
This gave me the opportunity to just enjoy the characters as they navigate through the story searching for that happiness that they truly deserve. The writing is so superb. I think that I’ve already stated that, but I felt that it was worth addressing again. The descriptions of details surrounding the characters as well as other parts of the story felt so real. The plot was great.
It’s one of the many things that has the reader becoming more engaged with the book. The love story certainly held my interest. I give this book two snaps and a twist of delight. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2023
James, the Earl of Rotherham attends a house=party designed to bring couples together, be it either for a quick affair or seeking to wed. Roth, as he is called by friends, is seeking a spouse, being a widower he feels after 5 years have passed since he lost his wife he needs to find a mother for his 2 young daughters. When Roth meets Charlotte he immediately feels a strong pull between them, the air practically crackles with electricity every time she comes near him. Charlotte on the other hand is not seeking to marry again, even though she does feel the strong attraction between the two. Charlotte has secrets, the first being she is not really a widow, and she can not marry, for to do so she would have to confess her secrets and this she can not do. They decide to embark on a fleeting affair, one that will only last until the end of the house party, but when the time comes they extend their time together for two more days, Charlotte accompanying Roth to an inn where he is to meet friends to travel to another party. Arriving at the inn Roth encounters on of his party has arrived early, when Charlotte sees who he is referring to she almost runs away for Roth's friend is her worse enemy, the one man who can destroy everything Charlotte has built in the last 10 years and ruin her completely.
I enjoyed Charlotte and Roth's story, it was a quick, fun read with all the bits of place and time you would expect in a regency romance. I recommend for a quick, light read on a sunny afternoon.
Thank you to Darcy Burke and to Net Galley for the free ARC, I am leaving my honest review in return.
I enjoyed Charlotte and Roth's story, it was a quick, fun read with all the bits of place and time you would expect in a regency romance. I recommend for a quick, light read on a sunny afternoon.
Thank you to Darcy Burke and to Net Galley for the free ARC, I am leaving my honest review in return.
July 5, 2023
This is a novella full of desire and longing while a lie told ten years ago comes back to haunt the heroine.
Both James Ludlow, Earl of Rotherham, and Mrs. Charlotte Dunthrope are invited to a house party by a mutual friend. Each is looking for different things. Roth is looking for a mother for his young daughters, and Charlotte longs for a torrid affair.
Charlotte has spent the last ten years carving out a new life for herself after an unimaginable tragedy and vows never to marry. She cannot risk anyone finding out about her shocking secret, although she has never felt such desire as she does for Roth.
They let their passion rule them at the house party, and Roth doesn't want their time together to end, so he invites Charlotte to travel with him to an inn where he is to meet friends for a hunting party. Unfortunately, the one person Charlotte never wanted to see again is the first one to arrive at the inn. Lord Sleaford has never forgiven Charlotte for what she's done and reveals her secret past to Roth. Roth reacts badly to being lied to, and Charlotte runs away, heartbroken and fearing Roth would never want to see her again.
This is a quick and easy read, and Ms. Burke keeps the plot moving forward without any other outside distractions. The sizzling attraction between Roth and Charlotte is explored, and this is not a clean read for those who prefer no sex in their books. After a few more twists and turns and a lot of angst, Roth and Charlotte finally get their happy ending.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy, and all opinions are my own.
Both James Ludlow, Earl of Rotherham, and Mrs. Charlotte Dunthrope are invited to a house party by a mutual friend. Each is looking for different things. Roth is looking for a mother for his young daughters, and Charlotte longs for a torrid affair.
Charlotte has spent the last ten years carving out a new life for herself after an unimaginable tragedy and vows never to marry. She cannot risk anyone finding out about her shocking secret, although she has never felt such desire as she does for Roth.
They let their passion rule them at the house party, and Roth doesn't want their time together to end, so he invites Charlotte to travel with him to an inn where he is to meet friends for a hunting party. Unfortunately, the one person Charlotte never wanted to see again is the first one to arrive at the inn. Lord Sleaford has never forgiven Charlotte for what she's done and reveals her secret past to Roth. Roth reacts badly to being lied to, and Charlotte runs away, heartbroken and fearing Roth would never want to see her again.
This is a quick and easy read, and Ms. Burke keeps the plot moving forward without any other outside distractions. The sizzling attraction between Roth and Charlotte is explored, and this is not a clean read for those who prefer no sex in their books. After a few more twists and turns and a lot of angst, Roth and Charlotte finally get their happy ending.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy, and all opinions are my own.
July 13, 2023
Thank you, NetGalley, for the book.
The Earl of Rotherham is searching for a wife since his daughters require a mother's affection. Charlotte Dunthorpe, a fictitious widow, attends her friends' matchmaking house party with no intention of marriage. Their meeting at the party ignites something between them, but will Roth still think Charlotte would be the finest countess after learning the truth about Charlotte's past and why she became a fictitious widow?
I absolutely love this story since both main characters are walking green flags. They respected each other during their early encounter, even though they had already felt a spark towards each other. It is nothing like other romance stories, where the characters basically jump onto each other, making out right after their first meeting. This is definitely the type of slow-burn romance that I enjoy reading, and I could definitely feel the intensity between them. They understood that they had their own purposes for coming to the party, yet they could not set themselves apart from each other. Their pasts hindered them from being truthful about their feelings.
There is a villain in the story, yet the plot does not focus on it, as I believe the main villains are Roth and Charlotte themselves. My theory is that their hesitance and doubt are the barriers to their relationship. Therefore, the characters in the story are not very significant except for the friends, Cecilia and her husband, who host the matchmaking party.
Overall, this is a great romance book for those who enjoy light-hearted reading. I obviously enjoyed my experience reading this book.
The Earl of Rotherham is searching for a wife since his daughters require a mother's affection. Charlotte Dunthorpe, a fictitious widow, attends her friends' matchmaking house party with no intention of marriage. Their meeting at the party ignites something between them, but will Roth still think Charlotte would be the finest countess after learning the truth about Charlotte's past and why she became a fictitious widow?
I absolutely love this story since both main characters are walking green flags. They respected each other during their early encounter, even though they had already felt a spark towards each other. It is nothing like other romance stories, where the characters basically jump onto each other, making out right after their first meeting. This is definitely the type of slow-burn romance that I enjoy reading, and I could definitely feel the intensity between them. They understood that they had their own purposes for coming to the party, yet they could not set themselves apart from each other. Their pasts hindered them from being truthful about their feelings.
There is a villain in the story, yet the plot does not focus on it, as I believe the main villains are Roth and Charlotte themselves. My theory is that their hesitance and doubt are the barriers to their relationship. Therefore, the characters in the story are not very significant except for the friends, Cecilia and her husband, who host the matchmaking party.
Overall, this is a great romance book for those who enjoy light-hearted reading. I obviously enjoyed my experience reading this book.
July 20, 2023
Such a sweet story! How can I get my own invite to one of these matchmaking house parties, I wonder? ;) (We'll just conveniently forget that they 1) took place many decades ago, and 2) are fictional. Don't try to get me bogged down in details--or reality--please!)
Charlotte and Roth had amazing chemistry, but their respective histories made them both reject romance. Charlotte is the titular "make-believe widow" and hiding from her past--marriage, especially to an earl, is potentially problematic--and Roth *thought* he'd married for love the first time only to be betrayed in the end. His (absolutely adorable) daughters could really use a mother figure, though, which is why he accepts the Cosfords' invite even though most of the people at the party claim to not be looking for matrimonial matches.
We're on book 4 of successful, house party-influenced matrimonial matches, though, so... ;)
As always, Ms Burke did a great job of showing readers just how impossible it would be for her hero and heroine to be together...just before giving them a horrible black moment and then letting them finally figure out how to be together. It's a tried and true formula and it works--and somehow makes the obligatory epilogue all the more sweeter <3
But, seriously--where's my party invite, Cecilia?
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Charlotte and Roth had amazing chemistry, but their respective histories made them both reject romance. Charlotte is the titular "make-believe widow" and hiding from her past--marriage, especially to an earl, is potentially problematic--and Roth *thought* he'd married for love the first time only to be betrayed in the end. His (absolutely adorable) daughters could really use a mother figure, though, which is why he accepts the Cosfords' invite even though most of the people at the party claim to not be looking for matrimonial matches.
We're on book 4 of successful, house party-influenced matrimonial matches, though, so... ;)
As always, Ms Burke did a great job of showing readers just how impossible it would be for her hero and heroine to be together...just before giving them a horrible black moment and then letting them finally figure out how to be together. It's a tried and true formula and it works--and somehow makes the obligatory epilogue all the more sweeter <3
But, seriously--where's my party invite, Cecilia?
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
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