Member Reviews
Reminded me a bit of Pride and Prejudice I really liked it.It took me a bit to pick u the authors stride but once I did I really enjoyed her story. She painted a pictured with very vivid character, I would recommend this for any Pride and Prejudice fans.
Thanks for providing a review copy, I was not able to read this one. So I will not be leaving a review on social media at this time.
3.5 Stars
A MOST NOBLE HEIR is a sweet story about a man who is torn between the desire to finally know his father and his original plans, which includes the one he loves. Moments of faith are woven through the story as he struggles to come to terms with his future and what exactly that future will hold. The characters are easily likable and the setting makes for a perfect backdrop for this story. An overall enjoyable read!
This story took a little bit of time to grow on me. I liked the beginning, but it didn't necessarily pull me in or make me want to find out how these characters' story would unfold. The characters were all likable and the plot worked, there just was something missing. However, the story did improve and the characters grew on me. I especially adored Hannah's aunt. I enjoyed seeing such a strong clash between the upper and lower classes and how Nolan had to navigate between the two as he moves from a lowly stable hand to a titled aristocrat. Even stronger was his struggle with his faith and with finding a way to hold on to the love he desired against all that opposed it. For those who love drama and danger, there is plenty of that in the second half of the book with a climatic ending that resolves sweetly. All the loose ends were tied up nicely, maybe a little too nicely for my taste.
In the end, was it what I wished for? A story that started slow, but finished well with plenty of twists and a sweet romance, making for a satisfying and uplifting story overall.
Content: Some adult subject matter and situations, but clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Litfuse Publicity, which did not require a positive review nor affect it in any way.
The story’s pace is more measured than what I usually read, but within a few pages, I found the author’s rhythm and this, along with the smooth writing style, made the book easy to read. I was never certain how the events would untangle so that all three people would be rewarded with a happy future, which kept me turning pages. If you like a well-told story about people adapting and thriving under trying circumstances, paired with an engaging romance, pick up a copy of A MOST NOBLE HEIR for a most enjoyable read.
See the full review at AllAboutRomance.com using the link below.
In terms of story line, plot, and how it’s written I was really impressed. I loved how it was inspired by the author’s (Susan) own ancestors that were servants like Nolan and Hannah were. And of course I love reading a good historical book about rags to riches, and I am definitely a sucker for hierarchy, diplomats and aristocrats.
I loved how Nolan and Hannah kept their relationship pure before marriage, his respect for Hannah being the biggest motivation to keep his distance.
I absolutely loved how they both desired to keep themselves for marriage. But then when Nolan was suddenly the future Earl to the very estate where they worked, and his father, Edward, suddenly forbid Nolan from speaking to servants – and in particular any romantic relationships he may have – well, suddenly Nolan gave Hannah the kiss he thought might never happen otherwise. And then they decided to elope. Which I found rather frustrating, actually. I guess I’m too practical. Maybe my heart was just too much into this story. I guess I would have preferred a smoother transition into marriage for them. I guess I just really liked these characters. Although that is one of the main plots of the book – how their eloping really robbed them of so many special moments and seasons for them (which really means the author did a spectacular job of making me like this couple). But then on the other hand, Edward would never have excepted Hannah as Nolan’s bride, even though he had once loved – and married – Nolan’s mother who was a servant. Nolan was actually the legitimate son of the Earl, but when Nolan’s mother was intimidated by Edward’s father, she ran away, had the baby, died in child birth, and Edward was told that the baby died as well.
So here, history was repeating itself, Edward not excepting his son’s love for a servant, when he himself was still very much in love with his wife who had passed on more than twenty years prior. And she too was a servant.
Did you follow all of that?
This story was a great depiction of forgiveness, redemption, love. And eventually Nolan and Edward became the son and father that they both desired to be. And that was proven pretty well when Nolan’s life was endanger. You see, the former heir was non to happy about Nolan’s appearance into Edward’s life. The long lost son comes in, becomes heir to everything… you can imagine this guy was non too happy. But I’ll let you read the book to find out more on that.
If I had just one piece of constructive criticism it would be to be just a bit more vague in the honeymoon scene. It certainly wasn’t indecent, but still I think it could have left just a little more to the imagination. That’s just my opinion.
I give this book a 4 out 5.
I received this book complimentary from the publisher, thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Susan Anne Mason's A Most Noble Heir is a delightful book with lovely characters. Nolan Price, a stable hand, discovers his father is the Earl of Stainsby. This throws all of his plans to marry scullery maid Hannah and settling in as farmers in jeopardy. I enjoyed the plot twists woven into the story. The settings are lovely I honestly wouldn't mind if Ms. Mason would write a sequel. So grab a cup of Black Assam tea and settle back with a tray of biscuits for a great read!
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley.com with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
Another good read from one of the best Christian historical authors out there, although I felt this book was a bit more far fetched then some so it wasn't my favorite of her works but the story flowed well and was enjoyable enough.
Title: A Most noble Heir
Author: Susan Anne Mason
Pages: 360
Genre: Christian Historical fiction, Christian Historical Romance
Rating: 3 stars
Imagine spending your whole life thinking your one person only to discover as an adult you’re another person. That is what happens to Nolan Price the main character in A Most Noble Heir. Growing up he was a stable hand but on his mother's death bed he learns two shocking things one she isn't his mother and two he is the son of the Earl of Stainsby. To top it off he is the oldest son and true heir.
But this bit of news also comes with a price one Nolan doesn't know if he can pay. He'll have to give up the woman he loves Hannah Burnham who as a maid is below his station. But a choice that Nolan makes has dire consequences for more than one person.
A most Noble Heir was the first book that I've read by Susan Anne Mason for some reason I couldn't get into her series but I did enjoy this one. I guess it was the slight regency setting. I do enjoy reading books set in the regency period. Thanks Jane Austen.
To me the book starting on the slow side but picked up by chapter eight. The character development of all the characters show just how much they all grew and changed, most of them for the better. As of right now the book is a stand alone novel. I may now go back and read her first series.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading Regency fiction and historical fiction. As well as stand alone novels.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Nolan goes from stable boy to aristocracy, and is determined to marry his sweetheart who is also a servant. This Christian Historical romance has twists and turns, frustration and danger. As you'd expect things are not at all smooth for them. Very entertaining with bouts of tension, lessons in love and forgiveness. Love that cover!
#AmostNobleHeir #NetGalley
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher from the Baker Publishing Group, Bethany - Netgalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
My Reviews:
Goodreads
Amazon
Google Plus
Twitter
Pinterest
Book Fun
This novel has an fascinating premise and gives a great glimpse into the divide between social classes in 1880s England. I thought the plot was interesting and contained surprises and twists that kept my attention. I did not like Nolan and Hannah’s relationship as much as I think I should have; despite giving them some leeway for the circumstances, I still found their actions too immature to allow me to like their romance. Nonetheless, I truly did enjoy the book as there are many remarkable characters—the spunky nature of Aunt Iris is one of my favorites of the book. I recommend this novel and look forward to more by this author.
I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers/NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Well, this book was something of a rollercoaster. Not an emotional rollercoaster, it’s not one of those novels which relies on non-stop action, drama or peril to play on the emotions of readers. What I mean by a rollercoaster is how my opinion of the book changed. There were points when I was not sure if I’d like it: and when I really did not like the protagonist, Nolan Price: but I was enthralled and very satisfied by the end.
It needs to be stated from the start this this is not a typical Historical Romance because *spoiler alert* the protagonists get married very early on, but circumstances seem determined to keep them apart. Nor is does it fil the mould of a lot of other Victorian Inspirational novels. Some have called it a ‘rags to riches’ story, and I would say at the heart of it is a story about broken families coming together and healing.
What I came to enjoy about it the most was the emotional development of the character, particularly Edward, the Earl of Stainsby, ostensible the ‘villain’ of the piece. Now, I must confess that in some stories I have found myself sympathizing with and even quietly rooting for the villain, especially when he or she does not seem especially villainous or has not done anything too heinous.
I believe I saw Edward, fundamentally, as a man wronged and that was what made him the way he was. Although I could understand Nolan’s love and loyalty for the women who raised him, I don’t think her actions were ever adequately explained, and I do think she was partly responsible for the pain that made Edward such an ‘ogre’. Probably, because of that, I sympathized with him at times more than Nolan, who seemed very single minded in pursuit of his goals and ambitions and not above using emotional blackmail to bring them about.
Perhaps Edward was like that too, but I don’t know, I found myself to be more forgiving of him: and I do like the way he started to change under the influence of the wonderful Duchess Iris. An amazing character, reminiscent of the uncompromisingly blunt Lady Violet from Downton Abbey. All the major characters must face their own weaknesses and shortcomings to make things right though, which provides some good balance.
I had a couple of minor gripes: one of them with the inevitable Americanisms (words like ‘gotten’ which crept in) although I would say there were fewer of them in this novel than in others I have read. Also, some of Nolan’s attitudes seemed conspicuously anachronistic- for example, he deplored hunting and seemed to entirely eschew alcohol. At one point, when offered a drink of wine he said something about not drinking ‘spirits’- which might be a valid position, but wine is not a ‘spirit’ because it’s not distilled. It’s not the first time I’ve seen alcoholic beverages wrongly referred to as ‘spirits’, and it’s just kinda annoying.
Overall, A Noble Heir was a nice simple story, and a good option for someone looking for something a bit different in the Historical Fiction/British Fiction Genre.
I requested the title from Netgalley, and was not required to write a review, or a positive one. All opinions expressed are my own.
This standalone story was a real joy to read. Nolan and Hannah are excellent characters and held my attention easily. The added interest of having it set in a real English manor home, based very loosely on an incident in the author’s family tree, lent it an extra authenticity that I really liked. I also liked the whole upstairs/downstairs feel to the story, as Nolan and Hannah are somewhat caught between classes in a very class-driven society.
Nolan’s not a perfect character, but he’s one who is obviously trying to do the right thing, whether that means building a relationship with his father or not. He doesn’t know how to love well at first; he does his best to be honest; he tries to do the right thing regardless of his feelings. Seeing Nolan’s emotional growth as a character through the story was one of my favorite things.
Hannah could get on my nerves a few times. I didn’t like how she tried to consider worldly advantages a few times and didn’t fight for her man in quite the way I hoped she would. And yet I understood her as a character and why she didn’t take the steps I wanted her to. But all that didn’t keep me from rooting for her to get her family together and be honored as the heir’s wife the way she ought to be.
Two characters really stood out to me. I LOVED Iris. She was such an unconventional breath of fresh air to the story and really added a lot of interest. And then Edward was a very complicated fellow himself...caught between being the bad guy and yet not content with it, either. I love it when side characters jump off the pages.
I’d recommend this for 16+ because there is some frank talk about marriage duties and honeymoons and birth. Nothing graphic, though.
Thanks to the publisher for a free review copy. A favorable review was not required.
A Most Noble Heir starts out at an intense moment and it just gets better and better. I really enjoyed this one. To take a storyline that seems predictable and then make it different was great!. And to be reading this when the Royal Wedding news is all over the place was excellent timing and an added bonus. I was drawn in by the title and not disappointed by this read. Check it out.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I have never read anything by Susan and now I’m not so sure why I waited so long. I really enjoyed this book.
What wonderful twists and turns this story takes. I loved Nolan’s determination and strength. My heart broke for Hannah and her desire to be with Nolan but her struggle with his new station was so hard for her.
Edward (Nolan’s father) even had my sympathy even though he is rough around the edges and wants to hold to tradition.
Overall, a very engaging read that I highly recommend.
A copy of this book was given to me through Netgalley.com. All opinions are my own.
I quickly became engrossed in these characters lives, so engrossed I did not want to put the book down. Nolan and Hannah begin the story as a couple in love planning a future together, but their plans are challenged when a secret is revealed in a death-bed confession. It was finding out how this revelation was going to affect them that kept me immersed.
I easily fell in love with Nolan and Hannah as a couple. Nolan will do anything to make Hannah happy, I liked that he would ask for her input before making decisions, and he granted her wishes even when it pained him to do so. He has longed to know his father for years, but is willing to sacrifice that chance for Hannah. They both have good hearts and deserve happiness, but they face so many obstacles along the way you wonder if a happy ending if possible.
Aside from loving Nolan and Hannah there were many other great characters that added to this story, but there are two in particular the stand out for me. Aunt Iris who was not the type of woman you would expect for her standing in society, but she was just what all these characters needed. Edward is probably the character that I saw the biggest change in. At the beginning he annoyed me, manipulating Nolan for his own benefit and having no compassion for anyone else’s feelings. I was especially frustrated with his actions when he was the one person that should have been understanding towards Nolan’s feelings after having been in a very similar situation once. He needed someone to stand up to him (and I cheered when Nolan did just that), but over the course of time he changes and becomes a character I wanted around.
This story took me through many emotions, I was elated when things were going well, hurt for them when things weren’t, and afraid of what might happen next at other times. There was one part of the story where I literally yelled out loud ‘NO that can’t happen’. I appreciated how I could see growth in each character. The theme I took away from the story with is that with God as the center of your life you can handle anything. This is the first book that I have read by Ms. Mason but I will be looking to pick up others by her, I enjoyed her writing style and appreciated how she was able to get me to care about these characters. (I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are my honest opinion and completely my own.)
Susan Ann Mason tells a beautifully gut-wrenching story in A Most Noble Heir. I’ll admit to skepticism before reading the novel given that I did not particularly enjoy A Worthy Heart, but I was pleasantly surprised. While slightly predictable, the story is well-told and believable. I appreciated that the various struggles and arguments between characters stemmed from real problems, not contrived misunderstandings with simple solutions. While Hannah was a bit unrealistically perfect, the rest of the characters were complex and well-developed. Perhaps A Worthy Heart was an aberration, and Mason deserves the adoring fans she has accumulated after all.
A Most Noble Heir by Susan Anne Mason is a sweet historical romance on what can happen when history repeats itself.
When stable hand Noble Price unexpectedly finds out that the man he works for, the Earl of Stainsby, is his father, he quickly marries the love of his life, Hannah Burnham, fearing that his father will not allow him to marry beneath his class. What he finds out is that history repeated itself, for the Earl had done the same thing. And just like the Earl's father, Noble's father is determined to annul their marriage.
There was a great deal of miscommunication between the main characters in this book. In fact, most of the problems in their relationship came about because they didn't take the time to talk to each other. While the intrigue of who the threatening messages were from was very obvious from the start, it did add a bit of suspense to the book.
I did like the growth in character of the Earl for he struck me as someone who would never pray and yet he seemed to change the most. Aunt Iris was a hoot and a very likeable character. Noble and Hannah took their time but eventually realized that God at the centre of a relationship would keep it intact.
A most noble book to read indeed!
Book provided courtesy of Baker Publishing and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
MY REVIEW
Wow! Talk about a page-turner! A Most Noble Heir is awesome! I could not put this one down! Nolan Price is such an interesting character with a bit of growing up and maturing to do and I love watching him (well, in this case, reading) do it. Nolan has quite the emotional adventure through this, as well as a real-life one full of plot twists and turns, perils and challenges.
Hannah is adorable and there is a certain character that sort of steals the show a bit, but I won't spoil anything for you, but I loved this book so much!
What a story!
I could clearly picture each character and I think I would cast Colin Firth as Lord Stainsby.
Susan Anne Mason is a Canadian author and I have been a fan of her writing since I read the Courage To Dream Series. Just like those, I lost quite a bit of sleep reading "just one more chapter" which turned into about "five more".
When I saw the cover of this novel, I just had to read it. A Noble Heir is a fascinating look at the divisions in society and one man's attempt to navigate them. Nolan Price lives a quiet life as a stable hand. His love, Hannah, is just as humble, working as a kitchen maid. Together, they dream of a life together, never realizing that Nolan is about to enter the heights of society as the newly claimed son of the Earl of Stainsby. A life of privilege which comes with unimaginable costs. The Earl is a difficult father, determined to remake Nolan into something else than he is.
Plenty of questions will keep readers engaged. Will Nolan ever be allowed to keep his love? Or will society rules drive them apart? Hannah goes through the unimaginable (I so hate to have spoilers here) and suffice to say, she flees. Plenty of heart-break ensures, leaving Hannah and Nolan deciding what truly matters. I was provided a copy from NetGalley. My thoughts are my own and I am not required to leave a good review. 4/5 stars.
Who doesn't love a story about a man who will do anything to make the woman he loves happy? This story is exactly that. Nolan is everything the title of this book makes him out to be, a noble heir. Some men in his position would have jumped at the chance to become rich, no matter that it would mean leaving their girlfriend behind. But Nolan? He went straight to Hannah's side and asked for her opinion. Each step of the way, in fact, he was quick to ask her before making unnecessary decisions, and I found that so endearing. He wasn't afraid to tell his father that he would leave his inheritance and the estate if it meant harming his true love. But then you see this little part of him - the part who is longing for a father, longing for approval. You have to read in between the lines a little bit to see it, but it's there.
Aside from Hannah and Nolan's love story were two characters that really caught my attention. The first is Edward. His character surprised me throughout the whole book and I found that I didn't really know his character at all (in a good way). I had placed judgment on his hard heart way too soon, and found myself smiling as his character continued to grow. There is one scene that really touched my heart - without giving too much away, I will say that he does something annually to memorialize Nolan's mother and it just really got to me. To see a sensitive man under the façade he carried was such a treat.
The other character that caught me by complete surprise was Iris. Oh my goodness this woman was a wonderful character - smart, witty, charming, and not afraid to speak up. Her personality blended perfectly with Hannah, Nolan and Edward. She is almost like an eccentric relative that you just adore being around. I hope that perhaps we can see a background story on her in the future!
Bottom line is this book is fun, enjoyable, and even mysterious. The ending caught me by complete surprise, and my heart stopped beating for a moment while I kept reading through the pages to see the outcome. I invite you to be swept away in the pages, and let your mind be captivated. I promise you will enjoy it! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.