I loved this book and am so excited that it is only book one in the series! This is a Regency romance set in London and the surrounding area. If you are part of the elite class the prospect of becoming an unwed mother in this timeframe is sure to cast the woman out of society and doom her and her child to a life of poverty.. A decade ago Kit set out to change this for a hand-full of women and children.

This is a complex story that delves into all of the elements that polite society put upon its members. I thoroughly enjoyed every page. I really appreciated that the author allowed the reader to look at the situation from all angles. It really should be on your to read list if you enjoy the Regency time period.

A Defense of Honor by Kristi Ann Hunter is the first book in a new series of Christian regency romance.

Many years ago, Kit and her friends decided to start an orphanage, in a hidden country estate, for the abandoned, illegitimate children of the nobility. Business takes her to London, and she runs into Lord Graham. He is searching for his sister and begins to follow Kit because he believes she might hold the answer. Can Kit keep the children hidden?

Kristi Ann Hunter is one of my favorite authors, and I jumped on the chance to read this book. It didn’t disappoint. The romance was a lot of fun, especially because of all the secrets to unravel and the suspense and misunderstandings that brought. Not that I would find it particularly fun to live through, but it was interesting to watch and see what would happen next. I also liked the characters themselves, because many of them had memorable personalities, and I enjoyed watching the way that they grew into better people.

This book was very enjoyable to read, and since I already read the rest of the series, let me say that I loved all of those books as well. It is a good series with cute romances, quirky characters, some humor, and historical cultural details fitted seamlessly into the story. I highly recommend it.

I received a complementary copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for sharing them.

Set in 1816 England. Christian Historical Romance

Characters who are people you would like to know. This held my interest right from the beginning. Graham (Lord Wharton) is at a party for London's society when he spies a girl behind some of the potted shrubbery. Her hand darts out to grab some of the pastry off the tray of a passing servant. Hooked!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and 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.”
#ADefenseOfHonor #KristiAnnHunter #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #NetGalley

Okay, emotional rating here! This atmospheric story checked so many boxes for me that I really wanted to jump right into the second book without delay. The romance is so sweet and feels so genuine, and I loved how Kit’s inner conflict unfolds bit by bit over the story. Masterful drawing of the emotional issues in that! I was also impressed of how both Kit and Graham act like adults with each of the issues that come up and I loved how they are able to both spark each other to draw closer to God...so sweet. The stories of the children Kit is looking out for really caught my heart early on and Hunter did a great job of portraying each one clearly even with limited page time.

I was grateful for having read the prequel about Margaretta and Nash first because it made it easier to figure out what was going on at Haven Manor and move forward with the story.

Thanks to the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required. However, I listened to the finished copy as an audio from my library and the narrator also receives five stars for her narration.

A Defense of Honor is the first book in Hunter's Havon Manor series and a wonderful historical read. It took me a little bit to get into the story, but it wasn't long before I grew to love the characters.



I found it fascinating how Kit found herself in the situation she was in...and a little sad, too, that things went the way they did. I loved how she helped so many children, even if some of her actions to help them weren't the best.



All in all, A Defense of Honor was very good and I recommend it!



*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.*

A Defense of Honor is a delightful Victorian romance that I very much enjoyed reading. The story is full of love, Faith, good and hard times with great characters, a well written plot and an ending that left my heart warm and a big grin on my face.

Kristi Ann Hunter’s newest book, A Return of Devotion, is the second story in the Haven Manor series, yet there is also a novella which precedes the series entitled A Search for Refuge. This latest book though follows the life of Daphne Blakemoor who lives in Marlborough, England. After an unexpected interruption hits her life, Daphne tries to pick up the remaining pieces of her world while doing her best not to hurt those around her.

Daphne never imagined her life would be what it is at present. Memories of secrets and scandal beckon to her at every moment of the day, and all she can do to prevent these feelings is to try and hide her shame. She never wants to relive the past; therefore, she does her best to help others—in an effort to heal and cover her mistakes. Daphne knows her agenda cannot last forever, but she vows to do what she can each and every day. Her biggest fear is that one day someone will uncover one of her greatest and most precious parts of herself. However, with each passing day, she tries to shield and protect that particular chapter.

Lord Chemsford intends to make Haven Manor his refuge from the bitter world. He is now the Marquis, and while residing at the manor, he hopes to complete his business dealings, since living in London is not an option at the moment. As he enters his new home though, William is greeted by a very odd woman—a Mrs. Brightmoore. This so-called housekeeper does not seem to know her place, and William cannot figure her out. He knows she is hiding something, but what? And will he ever truly understand her? William does not want to dismiss her, but he cannot have a servant treat him as she does—only time will tell.

Hunter writes the most interesting books, because they are from the past. If you enjoy historical pieces—specifically regency—then you will love her books. I recommend checking out her other stories as well while also remembering to read the Haven Manor series. Happy reading!

*Check out my review of Kristi's book entitled An Elegant Facade.


This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the author for my copy.

I was excited for this new series by Kristi Ann Hunter and this first book was a great start! I liked the characters in this novel, as they are flawed and relatable but also forgiven and redeemed. The history was well researched and written with details that made it easy for me to envision the ballroom scenes and backdrop for the story. There were surprising twists and turns that keep me reading and engaged. I enjoyed this first book and look forward to the next one in the series!

I received an e-copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was a much anticipated read for me! I had read her Hawthorne House series and loved it!! (well, I did have some qualms with one book Read my reviews here, here and here) So when I saw a new series coming out, I was super excited! I read the free prequel novella and then anxiously awaited the release of the first book. It did not disappoint!

First of all, I love the Regency turn period, and she did a great job with the opening, putting me right in the setting…except I knew how the novella had ended so I was quite intrigued to see what Kit was doing back in a ballroom. That first scene between her and Wharton, one of the best in the book!

So that brings me to secondly, the characters! I loved each of them, including all the children. Jess has got to be a favorite, but I’m anxious to know the continuation of sweet Daphne’s story as well. Oh my, one of my favorite parts though was about Lord Eversly and Blake! I wanna see the continuation of that story! So, if I had to pick just one character…I couldn’t.

Lastly, I come to the story arch and the spiritual depth of the book. Wow, so good! One thing Mrs. Hunter has a knack for is creating a really great story that carries you along and then in the last third of the book, the spiritual lessons that the characters learn and their experiences are just impressive. This is by far one of the best. Highly recommend this book.

I will make the disclaimer that the main theme of this book is illegitimate children and the fact that their parents (well, specifically fathers) are rascals in society. There are absolutely no inappropriate details, so my rating is still 5 Stars!

*Disclaimer: I received an electronic copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you for this opportunity!

A Defense of Honor is a wonderful Historical Christian Fiction. I felt that this author painted the scenes really well. The main character was formerly of high society and the intermingling involved in higher society was written well. Unfortunately, the actives behind the scene were penned most likely accurately and quite saddening. She leaves the high society life and turns her life to be one of purpose in helping those in need of help. She is looked at as one of their mothers and her role, as well as the other 2 women helping, are one of inspiration in a needed place. I really enjoyed this read and look forward to reading more from this author.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

This novel is a Christian Historical Romance set in England in 1816. Kristi Ann Hunter is one of my favorite Christian authors. This book has a different theme than most books. It concerns children born to the aristocrats out of wedlock. In that era it was a most shameful situation that could ruin a lady's chance of ever marrying. Often times the man may already be married. The characters in this novel are well formed and Ms. Hunter does an excellent job in portraying the children and the parents. A most interesting read......I was given a complimentary copy from the publisher via netgalley. I am happy to leave a review.

A Defense of Honor by Kristi Ann Hunter is book 1 in the Haven Manor series. This book is richly detailed and brings the historical setting to life. While set in 1816 London, the book deals with a difficult topic that is quite relevant still today. Ms. Hunter proves herself a student of history, and I think that the historical setting was the most fascinating part of the book for me. This book is a promising start to this new series and I can't wait to read the next book in this series! I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

In my opinion, Kristi Ann Hunter can do no wrong. If she writes it, I am going to read it, and love it!! I appreciated that this, her first book in the Haven Manor Series, wasn't just the typical love story. It dealt with heavier issues, illegitimate children, assault, and how people back in the day treated others who had been through both. I thought it was heartbreaking that the children would be looked down upon and have bad things done to them, and really poor lives just because they were born out of wedlock. They were innocent, and yet had to suffer. It was something I hadn't thought of before. I loved that the lead male character felt the tug from God and not just listened but put it into action and worked to do something with his life to help others. I think it's a timely message that we all need to put into action. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series and anything Ms. Hunter writes!

At the outset, I anticipated relating to Kit, her journey to being an empowered woman, but I found myself more in sync with the gentle and principled aristocrat Graham. The story centers around fallen women and their babies. Kit’s story is more intense and complicated than I anticipated and the healing journey she goes on throughout A defense of honor by Kristi Ann Hunter, is both encouraging and interesting. I loved the ending, it was so realistic and yet hopeful! I am relieved and excited that this book starts a series! I look forward to spending time with this great cast of characters! This is highly recommended and five out of five for me!

Graham, Lord Wharton, is bored with life in London society...until he meets a mysterious woman in a green dress who has slipped away from a couple thugs pursuing her and hidden by the houseplants in a fancy ballroom. Even though he is able to provide the woman assistance, Kit seems determined to evade him as well. When the sister of Graham's best friend disappears, Graham journeys to the countryside to search for her. He is surprised to see Kit again, living on a farm estate with two other women and a dozen children who don't seem to belong to any of them. Intrigued by the unusual circumstances, Graham can't resist trying to find out just how Kit is connected to the missing woman, and just why such a beautiful woman has turned her back on London society.

This book was an interesting look at the fates of compromised aristocratic women and their illegitimate children. The plot of the novel was unique, and Graham was a sympathetic hero. On the other hand, the number of coincidental meetings early on in the book felt contrived, and the requisite misunderstanding at the end to force the hero and heroine apart was not my favorite. Over all, I enjoyed this book, but I did find myself skimming at parts when I was more interested in finding out what was going to happen next than what was happening at the current moment.

Title: A Defense of Honor

Author: Kristi Ann Hunter

Series: Haven Manor, #1

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Era: 1810s (Regency)

Setting: England, London and countryside

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers

Source: from the publisher in exchange for honest review

Overall Rating: 5/5 stars

A Defense of Honor by Kristi Ann Hunter

WHOA! If you thought Hawthorne House was good, get ready for something even more fantastic! Hunter’s Haven Manor series looks to be the most fantastic thing she – or any other author – has come out with in a while!

Let’s just get right into things before I start fangirling.

PLOT: 5/5
*incoherent screaming*

OH MY GOODNESS! This plot is so amazing that it makes all the other amazing plots ashamed of their lack of amazing!

I don’t want to give spoilers, so I won’t go into it much. I couldn’t put it down! It was paced perfectly, it was entertaining, it made sense …

When a book doesn’t have a ton of issues (none that I can remember), there’s often not a lot to say. However, I was so, so pleased!

CHARACTERS: 5/5
THE CHARACTERS WERE AMAZING! :D I got so into Kit’s mind that I forgot the difference between right and wrong. xD So yep. Kudos to the author; I think I’ve got a book hangover.

Both Kit and Graham were excellent characters! I’m so excited to read an update about their lives in the next books. ;)

Other amazing characters who I loved to death: Daphne, Aaron & Oliver, Jess, Priscilla … they’re all so much fun!

Basically, all the characters were amazing! I cannot put into words how excited I am to see them again in the next book!

SETTING: 5/5
As far as I could tell, there were no major inaccuracies in the book and the setting was well-portrayed.

There are some very unconventional characters, especially for the era, but Hunter pulls it off perfectly. No complaints!

WRITING: 5/5
I LOVE HUNTER’S WRITING STYLE!!! It is basically the best, most amusing third person limited I have ever had the honor to read!

*jumps up and down while waiting for the next book*

CONTENT: 3/5
Language: n/a

Violence: n/a

Sexual: lots of talk about unwed mothers and their illegitimate children; handled super well. A couple kisses, none too detailed. Mentions of evil men, philanderers, etc. A story about a woman being seduced by a man is told in minor detail though nothing about the actual sex is mentioned.

Other: talk about childbirth, pregnancy, and nursing

3/5. Not recommended for readers under 14. A story about a home for illegitimate children & women who help couldn’t have been handled with more taste.

OVERALL: 5/5
I can’t tell you how much I love this story. I ADORE A DEFENSE OF HONOR! Please let the time until the next book comes out go quickly because other I WILL DIE.

~Kellyn Roth

This really was a great story and I loved seeing lit and her way of helping even if her way of insuring cooperation wasn’t the best way.

I loved graham....maybe more that griff.....but maybe as much as Trent and ryland....it would be very hard d to pick my absolute favorite 

I received this book from Netgalley for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

https://booksnbaubles.com/a-defense-of-honor-by-kristi-ann-hunter/

An important story, beautifully told. Touching and relevant to today. The characters will creep into your heart and you will think of them long after you've finished reading the story. It shines a light through the lens of history on an important issue and theme.

I enjoyed getting to know Graham and Kit. They are unique, well-written characters that won’t soon leave your imagination. Graham has a fun sense of humor and a playful endearing quality that draws you in and makes you want to linger. Kit is more serious. She is determined and practical. She needs a little encouragement to let down her hair and laugh. Graham is just the man for the job.

Haven Manor is a hidden gem. A safe place of refuge for those who the elite of society has deemed unworthy, and has cast aside. Kristy Ann Hunter has given us a new series of Regency-era stories to enjoy. New characters to meet and a fresh look at an often hidden side of the Regency era.

While this story deals with the delicate subject matter of the seemingly rampant indiscretions of the nobility and elite class in Regency London, it is handled with grace and points toward the importance of trusting God.

With dynamic, original characters and a vivid setting, this delightful story is sure to not only entertain but to also leaves the reader with something to think about beyond the story itself. I give this story 4.5 stars and I eagerly anticipate the next stories in this new series.

(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)

A Defense of Honor, by Kristi Ann Hunter, is a new series of Regency fiction that I am sure you will love, especially if you are a fan! Kristi explores interesting topics, such as blackmail (in the name of God) and illegitimate children. Set in a time when unmarried women found themselves pregnant and out in the streets, this novel does a wonderful job of showing how it was for these women.

I received this book from Netgallery in exchange for a review of my honest opinion.




We meet the main characters, Kit and Lord Wharton, when Wharton sees Kit hiding behind a plant at a ball. Curious about her, Wharton goes to speak to her and enters into a lively and short conversation. From there, the two find their lives becoming more and more intertwined when the sister of Wharton's best friend disappears and he sets out to find her.

What Wharton finds is that Kit is the head of a household of women and children who have been abandoned by their fathers and lovers due to an unexpected, out-of-wedlock pregnancy. Kit has a way of making those fathers and lovers pay for the keeping of the women and children. He finds their hideaway home, deep into the countryside, and learns the drive and determination of Kit to keep the children safe at all costs.

Kit's hardness to Lord Wharton is overcome when she realizes that he is as determined to help the children as she is. Kit finds that she is drawn to this kind and gentle nobleman. The rest you are going to have to read for yourself!

The author does a beautiful job of creating characters that we love, even when they do things they shouldn't. We find ourselves forgiving, and then wondering if we should be forgiving those in our life who have done us wrong. Kristi draws us into the story by playing with our emotions toward the wonderful children and women in her care, the delightful insights they learn about each other and the details of farm life that Kit has learned to do since leaving her own noble background.

I enjoyed the book, and plan to read the next in the series. I want to see what happens between Kit and Lord Wharton and what becomes of some other characters I am intrigued by.