Member Reviews
Loved it! Loved it! Loved it! It’s always a treat to read a work of Sarah Eden, especially when it’s a tale of the Lancaster’s!
Arabella was raised by her horrible aunt an uncle after her parents die. She has also felt a special bond since childhood with the Earl of Lampton and his family. They loved her as their own but was unable to live with them due to her aunt and uncle. The elder Earl died before he could negotiate for her to come to the estate. He left her a gold necklace with a bead on it which is very special to her. After many years the Dowager Countess of Lampton hires her to be a companion and now she is where she has always wanted to be. Only now she doesn't know if she is to be treated as a family member or a servant. Mr. Linus Lancaster has come back from the war with a scarred face and sisters who are intent on finding him a wife. Mr. Lancaster goes to a house party to keep his brother in law from hurting the flamboyant and annoying present Earl of Lampton. When Linus walks into the house, he sees Arabella in the shadow and wants to know more about her. When Arabella sees him, she thinks he is the most beautiful man she has ever seen. When they get to know each other, they realize that they are similar in feeling like they belong no where. As they get closer, they feel an attraction. She is afraid of being hurt, he doesn't know how to court her. When she is worried, she walks for miles and he finds her and courts her. The matchmaking of his sister's was successful but not in the way they thought. I loved this story of love and patience. There is so much more to this story but you have to read it. I received this book from Net Galley and Covenant Communications for a honest review and no compensation otherwise,
I very much enjoyed this latest installment of the Lancaster family books. I also enjoyed the meeting of the Lancaster and Jonquil worlds. It was fun to see the characters from both families interact.
Sarah Eden has her Lancaster books roughly follow the Greek myths of the main characters. I was curious as to how she would do so with Linus’s story, and I thought it was creative how she did.
I enjoyed learning more about Lucas jonquil through Arabella’s and Mater’s recollections. It was also fun to see the secondary characters of Artemis and Charlie be developed. I’m excited to read their story(or stories) in the future.
This is a stand-alone book.
3.5 stars. Loving Lieutenant Lancaster is a charming, sweet and clean Regency romance by Sarah Eden, a well-known author in the clean romance genre who usually gives her main characters personal issues that make her novels a little deeper than the norm for this genre.
Arabella is a sweet but previously emotionally abused young woman who’s been taken in by the Jonquil family (from one of Eden's longtime series) as a companion to their elderly mother. Linus Lancaster (from Eden's other multi-book series) is a former Navy lieutenant who’s haunted by the death of his older brother eleven years ago, unhappy about being the family heir, and a little at loose ends. Arabella feels like she needs to act like a servant at the Jonquil home, despite everyone's inclusiveness. And Linus ... isn't sure how to treat her, but he knows he's interested in this quietly attractive woman. Meanwhile other people are trying to pull Arabella and Linus in different directions, relationship-wise.
Fans of Sarah Eden will rejoice in her bringing together the two families she’s been writing about for several years. It’s quite the house party at the Jonquil mansion! All the excitement and drama with secondary characters is fun if you're familiar with them from the prior books, but it will lose some of its resonance if you're a new reader to the two series that come together here. Unless you're invested in the characters already, this one is just a little bland. The main plot with Linus and Arabella is rather slight on its own, so I'd advise reading at least some of the prior books (especially Seeking Persephone and Friends and Foes, the first books in these two series) before jumping into this one.
There are a couple of key subplots with some of the secondary characters left open at the end of this book, so it'll be interesting to see what happens next with them in future books.
I was late to the Jonquil party and I'm late to the Lancaster party too, but it's not because I didn't want to join in on all the fun. So when I saw this on NetGalley I wanted to request it, but knowing it was #4 in a series I was hesitant because I thought I'd be lost. I asked a good GR friend, if she thought I'd be too confused jumping in by reading book #4 and she said no, the author does a good job of reminding the reader who the other characters are. So, I requested the book, was approved and happily jumped into this book that meshes a lot of the Lancaster sisters and the Jonquil brothers.
I loved this story even though at first I had a little trouble remembering who was married to whom. I know I said I loved Crispin when I read The Kiss of a Stranger, but now I love Linus too! Who couldn't love this thoughtful, gentle, funny man?
Arabella Hampton, Linus Lancaster, and Charlie Jonquil all feel, to a degree, that they don't fit in with their families but in different ways, and for different reasons. All have experienced the loss of at least one parent at a young age, and they've all recently had changes that they're trying to adjust to. All of them are trying to find their place in the new stage of their lives. As Arabella told Linus "Life is far more difficult when one is forced onto a path not of one's choosing."
Arabella is now Mater's companion, and she's not sure what her place is, as she's not really a servant, but she's also not family, although she's known them since she went to live with her Uncle and Aunt when she was very young. I felt for Arabella so much with her cruel Uncle and Aunt. A lot of Regency/Victorian stories have these poor people who are taken in to be cared for by terrible relatives and these are hers. I never understand why they take in the orphaned children if they're going to treat them so cruelly, AND they're flesh and blood! Thank goodness these people didn't have children of their own.
Linus Lancaster has recently retired from the Navy and isn't quite sure what to do with himself. He doesn't look forward to becoming a landowner and all the responsibility it entails, being the second son he didn't think the duty would ever be his. He also still mourns the loss of his older brother, Evander, even though it's been eleven years since his death, and wants to avoid the memories their estate holds. He goes to Mater's house party to keep Adam, the Dangerous Duke, from killing Lord Lampton (Philip Jonquil), or letting Adam do something to upset his wife, Persephone.
Charlie Jonquil's a little of a side story but it does involve Arabella and Linus. Charlie, the youngest Jonquil, is home from University and doesn't know what he wants to study or where he fits in with the rest of his accomplished brothers. He and Linus strike up a friendship and Linus takes him back to his estate in Shropshire.
This was such a delightful read. These two families together with all their different personalities kept me thoroughly entertained. Adam who can and does say whatever he feels, Philip the outlandish Lord who irritates Adam on purpose, Linus' matchmaking sisters--Athena and Artemis, and of course Mater. No wonder everyone wants to be a part of this family. I loved the humor that's there from the first chapter. There's so much love in this story--Arabella's love for the Jonquil family, Mater and her love for Arabella, Linus showing love and care to Caroline and Oliver, and understanding and a listening ear to Charlie. This is such a heartwarming story and sure to be one of my favorite books.
Thanks to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for allowing me to read and review this book.
Thank you net galley for the advance reader copy of the novel. I love this author and the book did not disappoint.
This story has many characters from previous novels. The youngest lancaster brother, Linus, falls in love with Arabella who is a friend to the jonquil family. A tender and sweet romance, I enjoyed the pull of character emotions in this work. This novel may be confusing at first if you have not read previous works-- just for character connections.
I hope that there is a work with Charlie jonquil and Artemis Lancaster in it!
I will recommend this author and novel and can't wait to see what Sarah Eden publishes next!
I absolutely love the Lancaster family! This series as well as the Jonquil family are go to reads for me. I love that the author has continued on with the different family members and letting us readers keep having fabulous books to read. My favorite part is that previous characters are still showing up in each subsequent book. I've grown connected to these characters and it makes me so happy to see that their lives are still continuing on and that they're happy. I know they're fictional. But I still love them!
I really enjoyed Linus' story. It was a sweet love story with many insecurities on different characters' parts. They had learning and healing to experience. There were plenty of humorous moments throughout this book. I loved all the moments with Adam, or the Dangerous Duke! He and Persephone have been some of my favorite characters in the Lancaster family series. So if you're like me and a fan of Adam's, then be prepared for many humorous moments with him. He's his same old dangerous self.
I think if anyone hasn't read the previous books, they should still be fine reading these books as stand alone novels. The author has done a great job of writing each book that way. But I will say that for optimal enjoyment of knowing who all the characters are, read all the books. Which means, lots of awesome reading ahead of you...hours of fabulous entertainment. But if you don't have that time and really just want to jump in, that will work too. But be warned, you'll probably want to know the back story of all these characters ;-)
Content: Clean
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own. I also listened to the audiobook through Deseret Bookshelf. The narrator was fabulous!
Happy Reading!!!
I have recently stumbled upon the wonderful stories of Sarah M. Eden and have thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself into her world. Loving Lieutenant Lancaster is no exception, in fact it may even be my favourite of the series.
The author has found a way to truly write sweet stories which manage to be romantic but tasteful without being boring or typical at all, particularly difficult to do in this genre I feel. So often I find a novel in the Regency Romance category either over the top romantic and hard to take serious or sadly, a bit boring.
This story engages you from the start and there is a good amount of depth and suspense balanced with humour and romance. Lieutenant Lancaster (Linus) and Arabella share a connection nearly right away and develop a light-hearted teasing and humorous banter between themselves which is fun to read. They both are setting out into new chapters in their lives and somewhat struggling to know their place in the world around them amidst this change. There is an attraction between the two of them, however both find themselves doubting a relationships chances and struggle with seeing a future with each other, each for different reasons. The supporting characters are all so gorgeous, amusing and kind and help both Linus and Arabella with the guidance and support they need to live the life they deserve.
*Thanks to Author, Netgalley and Publisher for ARC*
This is a beautiful story from Sarah M Eden!
And I love that it mixes two families, the Jonquil’s and the Lancaster’s. I have read stories from both families and the characters are always so endearing. I like that Sarah portraits very real characters, with flaws, fears, insecurities, even selfishness at times. It makes it more relatable. But there’s always kindness and compassion behind the hero/heroine, the issue of forgiveness, loving oneself and finding true love.
I like how she describes the details of the era, it really transported me.
Linus and Arabella make the perfect match but things aren’t so easy. Arabella feels she’s not socially adequate for him. And Linus is overwhelmed by being the new manager of his estate and fitting his brother’s shoes while still grieving his loss. Will they find their happily ever after? Hope you’ll decide to find out!
The secondary characters are also interesting. I’m hoping Charlie and Artemis will get their story soon. The interaction with the children is so cute. There are so many scenes where you can laugh out loud at their antics.
I totally recommend this book to anyone, young and adult. It was such an enjoyable read!
I received a copy of this book from Covenant Communications via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
As excited as I was to dive into a book where the Jonquils and the Lancasters collide, I could not anticipate the awesomeness that would ensue when you but Philip Lancaster and Adam Boyce in the same location, for an extended period of time. I have this image of Sarah Eden sitting at her computer drumming her fingers together with a conniving, but smug look on her face, at the prospect of writing such scenes. They did not disappoint, they were fantastic and quite hilarious.
The beautiful thing about Sarah Eden, is the seamless way she combines both the humor and the deeper beautiful messages of love, and trust, and family. Of acceptance and fear, and a need to belong. Each emotion is potent and makes the words on the page become more than just a story, but a connection.
Sarah has taken us on a journey with these two families for so long, it was nothing but delightful to get to see them collide.
4.5 Stars
Orphaned as a child, Arabella Hampton was the unwanted and unloved charge of a cruel aunt and neglectful uncle. The only light in her young life was the kindness of the Jonquil family, and she clung to the childish dream of someday living with them at Lampton Park. Now, years later Arabella is to be the lady’s companion to the dowager countess Mater. Lieutenant Linus Lancaster has retired from the navy and is not looking for love, especially when he finds himself entangled in his sisters’ scheme to trap him into finding a wife at a house party at Lampton Park. Yet amid the festivities, he’s impossibly drawn to the dowager’s quiet companion, Arabella. Their regard for each other is undeniable, but they are haunted by their pasts. A lovely romance of two people finding each other & helping each other with their insecurities. Whilst this novel could be read on its own it links the Lancaster & Jonquil families, I enjoyed 'catching up’ with characters from previous books & especially loved Oliver & Caroline. The characters are very well portrayed & the paced of the story is consistent all the way through, there are no fireworks just a very well written charming romance
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A charming historical romance with an authentic feel, Loving Lieutenant Lancaster is a rollercoaster ride of emotion and love. Each character is beautifully fleshed out, with deep intricate backgrounds and personality. That being said, they also come with a lot of baggage, the kind that spurs the story while giving the reader second-hand anxiety.
The only letdown is the conclusion. For such a driving story and powerful characters, the ending was rather anticlimactic. That aside, the story is gripping and will keep the reader interested until the end.
For those who are new to the Lancaster family, this is a sweet read about a lonely sailor and a sweet overlooked young lady. Linus has a hard time being back on dry land, especially since his sisters are grown. Unused to being without duties to attend to, he accepts an invitation to house party with the expressed purpose of keeping his brother in law from fighting the host. When he meets Arabella, his focus changes.
For those, like myself, who have read the rest of the series this is a dream come true! Adam and Philip at the same house party? Definitely an entertaining read! I love these families. I didn't want to put it down. My 16 year old picked it up as soon as I finished and didn't want to stop for dinner. Yes, these books are predictable, but so cute! This will definitely go back into my to read stack.
A truly lovely story. It could be read as a stand-alone, but it may prove difficult with so many characters swirling around. The author does an excellent job of providing just enough backstory on everyone, but I know I enjoyed this more because I’d read the Lancaster series.
The heroine and hero are very likable and relateable, though I never felt their conflicts were dire. But that’s ok. This was a very smooth, easy love story that was thoroughly delightful.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Very much in love with hey sweetie if books. The author is great at introducing new characters into hey already watched families. I did find myself slightly bored with the similar fashion of her books, but I was happy with the characters and the ending.
Oh my, I cannot begin to tell you how much I loved this book. A house party with the Lampton family was a bonus! I loved the dangerous duke and the dandy Lord Lampton! Linus struggles to find his place in the family and wonders about a certain young lady. This book was a delight to read. I connected with Linus and loved his character. I can’t wait to read Sarah Eden’s next book.
London - 1816
Linus Lancaster, age 24, is a brother-in-law to Adam, the Duke of Kielder and has obeyed the Duke’s summons to their club. Linus has just finished his service in the Royal Navy and is now retired. Also summoned by the Duke is his other brother-in-law, Harry Windover. They have been summoned because one of Linus’s four sisters and Adams wife, Persephone, have accepted an invitation to a two-week house party in Nottinghamshire. The invitation includes Linus, and Harry and his wife have been invited as well. Their hostess is the Dowager Countess of Lampton and her son, Earl Lampton, who irritates Adam very much.
Arabella Hampton, age 23, has lived with her mean aunt and uncle since she was 7-years-old. That was when her parents died and her uncle took her in. Now, her aunt has told her she is to have a job as the companion to the Dowager Countess of Lampton. They are part of the Jonquil family. The deceased Earl Lampton was very kind to Arabella when she was a young, orphaned child and she has never forgotten him.
Shortly after settling in with the Dowager, the house party begins and the place is filled with lots of adults and children. Many are siblings and some are neighbors. Arabella and Linus meet and after a few short chats, find they are attracted to one another and share the same sense of humor.
We follow the interaction between the siblings and their friends. Linus is very patient with the younger children and quite helpful when they become ill when a fever makes several people sick.
This is a nice, clean story. I have read other books of the Lancaster Family series and enjoyed them very much. However, I found this book to drag and become almost boring. This is very disappointing because I am a huge fan of Sarah M. Eden and eagerly await each of her novels. I’m sure this is just a one-off for me and I will remain a fan of this author.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Young Linus Lancaster has retired from the navy, but finds himself adrift. He attends a house party with his sisters and their husbands, never expecting his eye to be caught by a quiet companion.
Having loved every moment of the Lancaster sisters’ romances, I was very much looking forward to the lone brother of the siblings. He made brief appearances in the previous books and it was lovely to see him shine here. He is honorable, torn by the loss of his brother years before, and an all around good guy.
The heroine of the story is Miss Arabella Hampton, who has been an outcast her whole life. As companion in the Jonquil family, she hopes she is finally a part of the family she loves. Her sweet nature makes her instantly lovable, and I was hanging on every word as I followed the journey she and Linus had to love.
I would recommend the previous books in both The Lancaster Family series and The Jonquil series to fully appreciate this book, since it binds the two series together beautifully.
Slow Building Sweet Romance.
Two lonely people, who think of themselves as misfits are drawn to each other. Arabella’s insecurity comes from her childhood upbringing with an uncle and his wife who do not want her; whilst Linus, a second son, struggles to find his way in his late brother’s shoes. You can see that these two are perfect for each and you root for them to be together. Whilst this book is one in a series it can be read as a standalone.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I am a huge fan of Sarah Eden's writing and have yet to be disappointed by any of her books. She has written several books with a familial cast of characters and I love each book that tells me more of the stories of the other characters in the family.
Arabella Hampton was an orphan who lived under the care of her aunt and uncle who were neglectful, at best, and cruel at worst. She was not shown the least bit of love or kindness by the only two remaining members of her family. As a child, she was treated warmly by the residents of Lampton Park, the Jonquil family, especially by the earl himself. She had dreamed of being a part of the Jonquil family but when the earl passed away suddenly, she was left alone with her horrible family. Now, as a lady in her early 20s, she became the lady's companion for the Dowager herself. The dowager had planned a house party now that her son, Philip, and his bride were to live in the manor and she would be moving to the smaller dowager residence.
Lieutenant Linus Lancaster had been a navy man but was now retired and being the only surviving male member of his family, was returning to his family estate to take over the management and affairs of it. Before doing so, he had been invited to a house party at Lampton Park. While there, he met a beautiful young woman who always seemed to hide in the shadows. As he spent time with her and learned who she was, he began to develop fond feelings towards her. He had never felt like this towards any woman before. While his sisters were determined to play matchmaker for him, he was content to spend time with Miss Arabella Hampton. She made him feel peace and he was able to voice some of the tragedy he had experienced in his life; something he had never been able to do before.
While I won't give away the ending, suffice it to say that there is a happy ending. Sarah Eden is able to weave such a beautiful story with characters who have depth and layers that contribute to such a wonderful tale. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoyed reading a true romance that is clean and without foul language to distract from the story. I was given a complimentary copy of this book and offer a review willingly and without any reservations.