This is a cute novella, but who's who was a little confusing at first, especially the 10 children. I have read some of Ella Quinn's books and some are in my TBR pile. If you have read the previous 2 of this series you will be fine. Patience, in her 30's, is the Dowager Countess of Worthington and lives with her step-son Matt, the current Earl and his wife. The household also includes her 4 children and his wife's 7 younger siblings.

Richard, Viscount Wolverton, was Patience's first love. As a young man, he went off to see the world and while he was gone her parents arranged her marriage to the now deceased Earl, not the best of husbands. Richard has never stopped loving her and is determined to marry her. Patience is worried about losing her children as Matt is their guardian. While the children want to stay together, they also want her to be happy. With Matt's help, they find a solution that's right for everyone.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me this ARC.

an ok read

Patience deservedo a second chance.Richard waited for her, he missed his first chance 20 years before but to know he loved her for so long... sigh. Love 2nd chances.

Patience was the Earl of Worthington Dowager Countess of Worthington was a second wife. Pae has now found a place for herself in society & is looking forward to her four daughters having their seasons, the eldest Lady Louisa is already a debutante. Patience is content with her lot & has no thoughts of passion & marriage, that is until a surprise encounter with her first love, Richard, Viscount Wolverton has suddenly made the impossible seem possible all over again

It seems like a lifetime ago that Richard, Viscount Wolverton, was halfway around the world, looking for adventure, while Patience, at her coming-out, was left with no choice but to take old Worthington’s hand. Richard never forgot the woman whose heart he yearned for and now that he’s back, he’s not going to let her slip away again
A novella that left me wishing it was longer. The chemistry between Richard & Patience was hot but she was torn between her first love & her daughters. Of course the Vivers & Carpenter children have to have their say & of course the all seeing Matt is so possessive of his & Grace’s huge family of siblings. I love the Worthington series & so glad that Patience found happiness

A sweet and passionate romance novella. I am so happy that Patience finally got to marry the love of her life, this was delightful to read.

A quick read in this installment. Brings to light another facet of how women were powerless in this era.