Member Reviews
This is the fourth book in the Season's series which I have been avidly following. I loved the previous books, I felt that this lacked the same oomph that I got from the previous three, but that made it no less entertaining.
The romance between the two leads was so tender and loving. Felicity and Asher genuinely loved each and wanted nothing more then to be able to be together but as with all historical romances there was something standing in the way o their happy ever after.
I liked where the story went and how this series finished, I am a little saddened that this is the end, I would have loved to see more stories in the series.
A Very enjoyable, romantic and thrilling romance that will keep the reader engaged.
I loved Felicity and Asher's story!!
Felicity barely made it out of her marriage with her life and now someone is blackmailing her. Asher has come to help the family in a financial matter, but when he learns that Felicity is in trouble, he stops at nothing to help her. Asher has been in love with Felicity for years, but because of their class difference, he knew that he couldn't pursue her. But he can do everything in his power to keep her safe.
This was a wonderful conclusion to Michaels' Seasons series and I'm excited to see what she comes up with next.
another great book by Jess Michaels, i have read all her books and they only get better, this story is aboutn Felicity who had a very bad marriage, and she has always loved Ashley, but because he was a servants son he never felt good enough for her, he returns after her family ask him to help out with a problem
but he has done well for himself through an education and is now a solicitor. He only returns to his childhood home to help with a financial issue, but when he realizes Felicity needs help because she is threatened, he’s he has to stay and help. but he has to be careful and he also has had feelings for her over the years was a lovely story and i will read it over and over
Will Felicity be able to trust Asher enough to share more than passion? And will Asher’s own secrets unravel all they’ve bui
I stuck with them all. Crazy, considering this series has been a bit up-and-down for me but here we are. Thankfully, Adored in Autumn was probably my favorite of the four and a nice wrap-up for the Seasons series, if a bit too neat.
If you're thinking about reading any of these books, I highly recommend reading them in order because they're all closely tied together.
Felicity is the main reason I loved this book more than the rest. She has this strong personality that you catch glimpses of but due to the events of the book, she hasn't been herself and it's hard not to root for her to succeed in clearing her name. After suffering at the hands of her late husband, you want Felicity to have her happy ending.
Honestly, I couldn't care less about Asher, her love interest. I liked that the book was a romance between classes since society and its rigid structure seem to always plan a role in historical romances and these stories shake things up a bit. But other than that, I thought he was an idiot for constantly putting himself down but going right ahead and hooking up with Felicity anyway.
The story picks up immediately after the ending of One Summer of Surrender, overlapping in that initial scene but from Felicity's perspective and following her family's attempt to preserve her murderous secret. I'm not sure how I feel about the actual plot because, on the one hand, the author ties in all the books' events together, bringing everything full circle which I kind of liked. But it also felt too neat, too perfect. Verdict's still out on that part.
All the tension in the middle was a bit lackluster. I predicted most of the final outcome near the beginning after having read the other three books. And the romance itself was alright, but not swoon-worthy. Some of the descriptions were downright cringe-worthy instead, and the entire relationship seemed based on a single moment. I get that they were friends before all that but the actual romance hinging on a kiss years before didn't quite work for me.
Now I wouldn't say that Michaels has an extraordinary writing style. I was neither impressed nor disappointed. It does flow quickly, though, which is nice. These are very quick reads which made me enjoy them more because I wasn't spending as much time looking at parts I didn't like for too long.
Would I recommend this book, this series? Maybe. They're quick and light but nothing truly amazing. I enjoyed them for what they were, average romances, and they'd be a good series to binge one after the other. If you want a heart-stopping, swoony romance, this isn't the one for you. Good, but not great.
This was an above average historical romance and I really appreciated how the author dealt with such a sensitive subject as domestic abuse. I felt the author was sensitive on the subject without going into the details too deeply and without being too depressing. Not to say that it isn't a very serious subject but when a person picks up this genre, they are not generally wanting to be depressed and saddened. It didn't overwhelm the book and the relationship by the MCs was sweet with lots of delicious tension. I don't generally like the old lost love storyline-especially it's hard for me to get into the concept of lost loves with years gone by. But it all made sense here and everything wrapped up so neatly at the end against all odds that it was incredibly sweet.
As always Jess Michaels hit this out of the park. It is her first M/M romance and I couldn't put it down. I love all Jess Michaels historicals and this one was no exception. I highly recommend this book.
I'm sad to see this series come to an end. But what a great story to end with. Asher and Felicity - torn apart by status years earlier are now reunited as he helps the gang solve Felicity's problems. I loved this story - the romance, the action, and a final resolution to the identity of Celia and Rosalinde's father! Jess Michaels did a fabulous job of writing a standalone story that also ties up the loose ends from the previous books and not at the expense of Felicity and Asher's story. Well done!
As always, this story is the perfect blend of steam and story and I highly recommend it for anyone who loves historical romance.
Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC via Netgalley.
Ehh.... this was pretty middle of the road for me.
What I liked:
- fairly entertaining read
- strong heroine, despite or because of her history as a victim of domestic abuse in her first marriage
What I didn't like:
- I didn't read any of the first 3 books, so I was a little confused as to who all the characters were. All those characters figure pretty prominently in this book, so I'd recommend reading the first three before you read this one.
- The foundation for the relationship seemed a little weak. It seemed largely based on one kiss when the heroine is 18 years old (though the relationship was backfilled a little as the book went on), and it made it hard for me to buy the rest of the heroine's ensuing actions.
- The "mystery" was no mystery and felt a little lame.
- The language was sometimes clunky, full of fragments, dramatic, and frequently overwrought. There is a LOT of staring, whispering, and eyes widening. Here's my favorite example: "He let out a soft sound of incredulity and pain, and suddenly he was moving. The beautiful, manly body unfolding from the seat across from her, darting to her side of the carriage. Arms folded around her, warmth that could only come from this man. She looked up into his face, his tormented, beautiful, perfect face, and saw how much he... he *loved* her... " It could have been a tender scene, but I admit to laughing out loud at that one.
Overall - this was a quick, mediocre, but somewhat entertaining read. I will most likely not be going back to read the first three in the series.
I have no idea how I've missed reading this author. I love the historical romance genre and thought I had a pretty solid foundation of authors that are must reads, but yeah, I left off the very talented Ms. Michaels. Saying that, as you can imagine, this was my first book and I loved it. So much emotion in here! Now I get to go back and read the first three books and fall for the other couples.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
The answers are finally revealed in the last of the season series. Felicity escaped a violent marriage and now her secrets could come back to ruin her entire family. Will the man who left her behind years ago, save her? Asher was nothing but a servant’s son but always loved Felicity now he is back as a solicitor to safe her will they get a chance to find happiness together? Great historical read, loved the characters as well as the story. Hooked from beginning to end. Loved it!
Adored in Autumn (Seasons Book 4) by Jess Michaels is another superb addition to her "Seasons" series. While it can read as a stand alone, Book 3 touches a bit on the heroine of "Adored in Autumn", Felicity, but not necessary to enjoy this story. This is however, the final installment of the "Seasons" series. I am a bit saddened to see it end.
This is the story of second chances, love and the ending of the hopeless feelings for Felicity, hopefully.
Viscountess Felicity Barbridge, a widow from an abusive marriage, barely escapes with her life, after making difficult choices. Asher Seyton, was her childhood crush, once a servant’s son, now he had elevated himself through hard work and education, and is now a respected solicitor. He never abandoned his childhood feelings for Felicity either.
A twist of fate brings them face to face once again, but will love be enough to overcome the dangers facing them? Or will all be lost to the danger that threatens to tear them apart, once again? A steamy, well written, fast paced story that will leave readers breathtaken.
Once again, Ms. Michaels has created a story that envelopes around her characters like a glove envelopes your hand, leaving a warm and cozy feeling. Albeit, I have to admit to being a bit frustrated with the prejudice of women and social class during this era, but that's the era they were born into.
Filled with forgiveness, redemption, inner strength, courage, blackmail, danger and a second chance at love and happiness. Readers will be drawn into "Adored in Autumn", from the first page to the last page. Ms. Michales has a way of pulling readers into her stories through her characters, descriptions of their surroundings and her observations of the obstacles in life. A powerful, compelling and emotionally charged story by a masterfull storyteller. Be swept away by "Adored in Autumn", you're be thrilled you did! Ms. Michaels brings the "Seasons" series, together with this final farewell to the seasons. Captivating, compelling, powerful and intriguing from beginning to end.
Fans of Regency Romance, steamy romance, and compelling but compassionate romance are sure to enjoy "Adored in Autumn".
Another hit by Jess Michaels! I adore her stories, for sure! She never fails to amaze me with her complexities of life and finding a HEA. Another not to miss Regency Romance! Bravo, Ms. Michaels! !
I received a complimentary copy.
*Do be aware, this is a hot, steamy, intensely passionate Regency Romance.*
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Hot/ steamy
Reviewed by: AprilR
'Adored in Autumn' by Jess Michaels is book is book four in the "Seasons" series. This is the story of Felicity and Asher. This book can be read alone but book three "One Summer of Surrender" did touch some on Felicity story. This book also ends this great series!
Felicity has been in an abusive relationship and is now trying to escape from it. But she is finding things are starting to catch back up to her. Asher was Felicity young girl crush and is now back into her life. Asher started off as a servant's son but with time, education and money he has brought himself up in the world. When Asher meets Felicity again he stays to try to solve her problems.
This was a nice second chance at love story with an additional story of surviving.
Another great book by Ms. Michaels!! "My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
Written with great finesse this love story deals with domestic abuse, forgiveness, lost love, making choices that change the lives of others, retribution, closure to the past and new beginnings. With a dramatic opening the reader will move quickly through this book in anticipation of how it will end for Felicity. With clear and vivid descriptions of the surroundings and era in which she lived, one will be drawn to the past and a time where women had no rights.
The author does a great job in Felicity's character and how she deals with her life and the past. There is just the right amount of courage and tentativeness to make her believable for the era the book was written about. I love how she matured and finally goes after what she wants. Scenes between her and Asher are particularly poignant leaving a lasting impression on this reader.
For the main male character Asher is perfect; humble, intelligent, caring and strong all in a gentle way. I like that his character is balanced in a less domineering manner as this would never work for Felicity due to her previous abusive marriage. This man understands that she can't be railroaded into things and needs to be able to make her own decisions. There are some times in the book that I wanted to shake him to not be so passive but they fit with the story and Felicity's needs.
The secondary characters are from the other three books to this series and it is great to see how they have evolved through time. Each of their stories will entice the reader to want to read the book with their story. I know that I have read the last two books of the series and I want to go back and read the first two books to get closure to this series for me.
I give this 4 stars for the authors ability to draw the reader into supporting Felicity and what occurred between her and her husband the Viscount.
Publisher's Description:
The final steamy chapter in the popular Seasons series from USA Today Bestselling Author Jess Michaels.
Viscountess Felicity Barbridge escaped a violent marriage with her life because she was willing to make desperate choices. Now those choices are back to haunt her, as is the object of her girlhood obsession, Asher Seyton.
Asher was never anything more than a servant’s son, but he’s elevated himself through an education and is now a respected solicitor. He only returns to his childhood home to help with a financial issue, but when he realizes Felicity is being threatened, he’s driven to stay and help. Even if he must now face all the feelings for her he tried to repress over the years.
Will Felicity be able to trust Asher enough to share more than passion? And will Asher’s own secrets unravel all they’ve built?
My Thoughts:
I have really enjoyed this series and am sorry to see it end.
Felicity and Asher's story is in this reader's opinion the best of this really good series. All of the characters are well developed and the storyline is a good one with just enough mystery to draw you in. We even get a surprise resolution to the mystery of Cecilia and Rosalinde's father near the end of this book. All of the character's being eventually drawn together as family.
This is not a standalone novel however and really needs to be read with the other books in the series in chronological order to be enjoyed at their utmost.
I would give this amazing ending to a very good series 4.5 of 5 stars for storyline and characterization and 4 of 5 flames for heat.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book to read and review.
This in no way affected my opinion.
"He kissed her because he loved her. And he had never stopped loving her for one moment in all the years they'd been apart. Even when he wanted to. Even when he tried."
FINAL DECISION: I love the cross-class story where the man is of the lower class. Here, there was a bit of angst, a bit of drama and I really liked that the characters knew the value of characters over title or privilege.
THE STORY: Felicity, Viscountess Barbridge, killed her abusive husband in self-defense. Now her secret is in the hands of her family's enemy. In order to track down the potential blackmailer, her brothers call in Asher Seyton, solicitor and financial advisor, to help with the financial investigation. Asher is the son of a servant and grew up with Felicity and her brother. Asher broke Felicity's heart when after a kiss, he left her. Now Felicity and Asher have to face their long ago feelings and the current threat on Felicity's future.
OPINION: I love books with cross-class romances -- especially ones where the man is of a lower class because it upends the normal trope. Here, Felicity is an aristocratic woman, the daughter of an earl and Asher is the son of her father's valet. The two were children together and friends (along with Felicity's two older brothers). As Felicity grew up, however, an attraction grew between Felicity and Asher. At her debut six years ago, the two had their first and last kiss as Asher left the next day. Felicity married the Viscount who beat and abused her. Now Asher has returned at Felicity brother's request because Felicity is in danger.
In the prior book in the series, an enemy of the family has found out that Felicity killed her abusive husband in self-defense. The potential blackmailer must be tracked down before the secret is revealed, ruining Felicity and her family. This plot moves the story along, but the center of this book is the romance between Felicity and Asher.
Felicity is a woman who has closed herself off after her horrible marriage. Fear, disappointment, lack of trust in herself and others dominate her life now. When Asher returns, Felicity begins to feel again and wonders if she can at least have a sexual relationship free from fear.
Asher and Felicity are good people who got torn apart by their class differences. Asher feels keenly the class differences. I thought this book did a really good job of showing that even if Felicity *thinks* that the two of them were always equal, Asher's reality was something different.
There is something very sweet and gentle about these characters together and yet their is definite heat in their relationship. I liked these characters quite a bit and the story is not dark or angst filled but rather is about two people working their way through past obstacles and finding a future together.
This is an enjoyable read and a fine conclusion to series as it wraps up the ongoing storylines and gives readers a look at all the characters coming together and solving the mysteries that have arisen.
WORTH MENTIONING: Everyone gets what they deserve in the end.
CONNECTED BOOKS: ADORED IN AUTUMN is the fourth and final book in the Seasons series. The romance in this book is self contained by there are continuing storylines that depend upon the prior books in the series.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley in order to provide a review. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.
A similar enjoyment that I receive from each series by Michaels' is how she weaves the characters together from book to book. All the past romances come together to rescue one of their own. In a cliffhanger from the last story we find Felicity Barbridge coming to the realization that her past may come back to hurt her and her siblings. Years of an abusive marriage come to a head when she must kill or be killed. She is able to hide her act of survival until a blackmailer's book of secrets is stolen and will soon be uncovered. Coming to the rescue after his services were requested to track down the culprit, is former servant to the family, Asher Seyton.
Along the way to rediscovered love between Asher and Felicity is the wrap up of all the loose ends from the former books. While I appreciated the focus on forgiveness and putting the blame where it should lie, some characters got off a little to easy, especially Felicity' s mother. The acceptance of what lives the Asher and Felicity were pushed into was a little too utopian in feel.
I enjoyed this but none were quite as good as An Affair in Winter (Seasons #1).