This is the sweetest of Mimi's books. It had such a good feel about it. I think it is one of her shorter books. I so worried how she would create a hero out of Neville. He is a man with a brain injury and I worried he wouldn't be done justice. She did a great job with him. His goodness shown through but also his intellect and abilities. I loved reading their romance. This is a stand alone sorta. Lots of other characters are in this from the first three books. You might be lost at first so it's best if you just give yourself the gift of reading the whole series before you read this one. This is a sweet proper romance with some sweet kisses.

For the last of her Parish Orphans of Devon series, Mimi Matthews (A Convenient Fiction) gives us the story of Neville and Clara- a sweet romance and story of bravery and love overcoming fear and the restrictions that we place on ourselves. We've known Neville for the entire series- a gentle, quiet man who's childhood accident was, in many ways, the catalyst to the four friends becoming who they are today. Neville's head injury left him with difficulties speaking sometimes, and his self-consciousness over how he must appear to outsiders led him to a retiring life focused more on spending time with animals rather than people. He's seen his friends meet their matches and has begun to wonder if he can have more in life when he meets Clara. A ladies companion, Clara wants more out of her life- she wants knowledge and learning and to be useful. Her goal is to be her brother's assistant when he's finished at Cambridge.

A Winter Companion spoke to me in a lot of ways, and touched me in ways other books haven't. As a sufferer from TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) myself, I had an easy time identifying with Neville. His frustrations and difficulties when he would lose words or drift off and lose time were things I experience myself- and Matthews does a wonderful job of sensitively and naturally showing readers what Neville deals with every day. He begins to want more than what he has, but isn't sure he can reach for it. What if he fails? Is it better to stay safe and at home, not risking anything, but not being completely content? Clara also shines as a woman trying to fit the mold that circumstances and society tell her she needs to fill: an invisible companion who has no dreams of a larger life using her intellect. Life has taught her not to expect anything: no help from family, no friends, no romance, and no dreams.

Neville and Clara become the right people in the right place at the right time for each other, and Matthews did a lovely job of slowly and naturally growing their romance and their confidence in themselves. There were no murderers to catch here, no evil villains to overcome. Instead, Neville and Clara have to overcome something even harder: their own fears and to decide if love is enough to try to dream new dreams, and if love itself can open new doors to new dreams even grander than they might have imagined alone.

Although book 4 in a series, A Winter Companion can also be a stand alone book. Readers who've enjoyed the rest of the series will get to see Justin, Alex, and Tom again, and happily close the circle on the friends and their happily ever afters, but new readers won't feel lost among the characters. This was a sensitive and lovely book, and a definite must read.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was so excited to get this because she tells the most wonderful romantic tales!
This was quite different from her others in the sense that, Mr Cross is a different man than the rest. Physically he’s big and beautifully handsome and probably the kindest of the four men, but he’s suffered a brain injury. Neville ended up being one of my favorites of the men. I swooned over his looks and kindness. The story was wonderful.
I really enjoyed the fact that none of the “couples” could keep their hands off each other. It was so sweet.
Things I loved:
• The chemistry
• The romance
• Their love of animals and books
• Neville and his letter
• The Christmas parts
I just preordered Gentleman Jim! ♥️

This was a NETGALLEY gift and I already purchased this book on Amazon weeks ago and all opinions are my own.

When you pick up a Mimi Matthews book, I always know it will be good. It started out a bit rough as I couldn't connect with the characters. However, I stuck it out as I know her books are always good. I am glad I did, as this book did not disappoint. Matthews books always have loveable characters that have flaws; which makes them more real. I love that she doesn't write the typical sterotypes; and she creates unique storys that haven't already been told.

What a perfect end to this series! (This book also can stand alone quite well). I've really enjoyed Mimi Matthews's writing and this series. She writes such endearing, interesting characters who don't feel stereotypical at all. Neville and Clara were both fabulous, and it was especially great to see inside Neville's head and realize what goes on beneath the surface with him. I enjoyed the way Matthews showed how honorable and kind (and swoony!) Neville was while also showing his battle with his insecurities. And I really appreciated the way both Neville and Clara saw the other person in a way no one else in their lives had taken the time to do. I don't want to give away too detailed of a spoiler, but Clara's low point late in the book was so heartbreaking to me! I loved how the rest of the story unfolded after that, though. I'd recommend this series to anyone who likes sweet historical romance and, especially, is looking for interesting historical details that don't overtake the characters, characters who feel realistic, heroines who respect themselves, and heroes who treat them well.

And here I was, thinking the third book would be my favorite of the Orphans series – I was mistaken! This takes a place among my favorites of Mimi’s books. A veritable giant of a man who treats animals kindly and is pretty to look at, and a studious, determined, progressive Victorian lady protagonist who just wants to catalog flora and fauna? I was so in. And interestingly enough, the afterword was one of the best parts of the book?

I’m not sure if I remarked upon it in my review of the last book, A Convenient Fiction, but Mimi has consistently gone above and beyond in inclusion, to feature progressive heroines and out-of-the-ordinary heroes (a scarred war hero, a morally-gray-at-times lawyer, a traumatized gambler), and tackling ableism and similar issues in male characters of her most recent books. In Fiction, we first met Laura’s brother, who is wheelchair-bound after a bad illness. Neville, the male lead of this book, we’ve seen and heard a bit from; he suffered a bad fall and head injury, from which he didn’t recover completely in terms of brain trauma, and it left him with a speech impediment that comes and goes.

I am so incredibly impressed with Mimi’s ability to give us fulfilling, swoon-worthy romances that nevertheless address serious societal issues and a full range of humanity in her romantic leads. I'm sad to see this series end.

Her scholarship and compassion bleed off the page, and I love it. Her afterwords always rush to explain a real moment in history or Victorian trend she’s presented in the book, and I learn so much even as I’m enjoying a cute romance, it’s awesome. For example, in this book our lead Clara conducts a “shadow-studying” of her brother’s Cambridge courses, a cultural phenomenon where young women were sent back copies of notes and other learning material from their male relatives’ programs – and which her hard-earned wages pay for. I had never heard of this, and was delighted to hear of it. Clara herself, a heavy reader and devoted student, was simply a brilliant protagonist, relatable to modern times and yet set with this plausible, true-to-history situation. So well done.

I appreciated Mimi’s remarks on dealing with a traumatic brain injury of her own, and how this influenced writing Neville, who is utterly sweet and charming; her disclaimer that every injury, reaction, treatment, and subsequent experience is different really covered her bases and as a result, Neville’s sometime-difficulties as a plot point never felt offensive. Clara is a compassionate counterpart who never babies him or makes it weird, and their relationship felt genuine.

Overall, this was just…a fantastic book all around. Another enthusiastic recommendation from me!

Each time I read a book by Mimi Matthews, I learn something about human nature that is both refreshing and comforting. Yes, she includes the negative in her stories too, like greed, arrogance, and ignorance. However, she also includes things like compassion, courage, and strength. What I loved most about this story was the lesson of overcoming fear and putting others ahead of yourself. It was rewarding to read about characters who had a difficult past, found each other, and overcame their insecurities to better their lives. Very moving and a great way to wrap up this series.

In a world where any infirmity, no matter how small, is looked upon with scorn and as a sign of stupidity, Neville Cross felt very isolated. After experiencing a head injury as a child, he has trouble concentrating for long periods of time, and his speech is stilted in a way that makes smooth conversation difficult. There's nothing wrong with his intelligence though, and it has become increasingly frustrating that he can't win the confidence of others beyond his close friends. He begins to see a future, though, when he meets Clara Hartwright during his family's Christmas celebration. Clara works as a companion, having been thrown into spinsterhood after a youthful indiscretion. Now in a life of penitence, constantly making up for the strain she has put on her mother and brother, she sends most of her earnings to her family. Meeting Neville is a breath of fresh air for her, because he doesn't judge her for her station, and his way of speech is no both in the slightest. Soon they begin spending more time together, but it won't last, for once Christmas passes, Clara will be gone, and Neville will be left alone once again.

Neville was a character who really tugged at my heart from the first meeting. It's awful how something as simple as a difference in speech can cause someone to be looked at as inferior or stupid, even if they are nothing of the kind. Neville loved animals, took care of them, and when he saw sadness in Clara, he wanted to do everything he could to make her happy. Hesitant at first, expecting her to treat him as poorly as others had, he became more confident as she began to return his affections. It was heartbreaking when Neville realized that he was trapped on the estate by society and his own fear of them, and so they had no future together. Clara loved Neville, saw only the good in him, and she let him go when she had to. But it was so painful for her, because she truly loved him and knew he loved her. Thankfully, as in most romance books that I read, there is a happy ending. The journey to get there is an emotional one but well worth it.

Mimi Matthews is an author to watch for anyone who wants an emotionally charged romance. It was a warm and welcoming read.

This was such a lovely romance. Sweet and believable, the main characters are well fleshed out. I love the way the author weaves history into the narrative to tell the story of a woman who longs for more than she is born to and a many who is so much more interesting that the typical “rake” of most period romances. I read the entire thing in an evening.

*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*

If you need me, I’ll be in a pile of mush over here. I knew from the previous Parrish Orphans book that I would love Neville and I was not wrong. I honestly don’t think Matthews can write a hero that I don’t love, but Neville is special guys. You HAVE to meet him for yourself. That being said, I can’t believe the series is over. What am I going to do now? Need. More. Books.

What a great conclusion to the series!

I must confess I underestimated Neville in the first book. I didn't think he'd have a story of his own and get a chance to play the hero, but I'm so glad he did.

With each book in the series, we've seen the role Neville plays in the group and especially to Justin. His accident has affected his speech and he's not confident in social situations. He's much more at easy with animals, who understand his kindness and don't expect anything from him.

Clara is a companion to an old lady, and she comes to Devon for the Winter holiday. She's been through a scandal and doesn't want to draw attention to herself but, at the same time, Clara has ambitions and is a strong person.

It's Neville's kindness toward animals that first attracts Clara to him, and in turn, her radiant personality (despite her social situation) attracts him to her. They are so different but so perfect for each other.

I don't want to give spoilers, but when he comes to her rescue... *SWOON* What a scene!

I loved the ending and I love knowing there will be some novellas and site stories on other characters.

Amazing series and book! Read these in order, you won't be disappointed.

I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Clara Hartwright tried ever so hard to fade into the background as a good lady’s companion should. She avoided poetry and anything that could be thought to spark her romantic tendencies to life. Until a very serious and silent man makes her want to be seen. Neville Cross doesn’t talk if he can help it and even when he does - it is a struggle. After the accident that caused his speech to be ruined, he has not dreamed or thought about what he might want. Until a young woman comes for the holiday.

This was such an earnest love story very much in the style of Jane Austen. Neville is a good and kind person who is much more at home with animals because they do not care what he sounds like. (Essentially he has a speech impediment due to a traumatic brain injury.) And when Clara comes to stay for the holiday season she makes him actually want more than the quiet life he had built.

Clara made one mistake in her youth and it destroyed not only her dreams but the expectations of her family and she has been paying for it ever since. While this is a fascinating storyline - it never felt like the stakes were that high? Honestly, her brother and mother sound like pieces of work but mostly weren’t really characters at all.

I do love the additions of the sweet scenes with the animals, the romantic setting of the Devon coast and as with all Mimi Mathews stories - well researched and highly appropriate historical moments. There were wonderful and sweet kisses but there are no bedroom scenes and it is low on the steam meter. It did make me curious to read about the other books in the series and have added those to my list.

Clara Hartwright's main goal as a lady's companion is to make sure no one takes notice of her and she uses her spare time to study the notes her brother sends her from school. Neville Cross is more at ease with animals than people, but the new lady's companion makes him long to say the right things. Their paths do not seem to be going the same way, but love may change both of their paths.

As a newcomer to this series, I really enjoyed this book. Neville's struggles to speak and his tendency to isolate himself because it was easier were really touching. He longs to make a difference but his own insecurities keep him from making the decision.

It was a little bit harder to like Clara. She keeps to herself and came across as distant. Her desire for scientific knowledge drives her to work to help pay for her brother's education. She has a specific future in mind and love has no place there. The attraction between her and Neville was apparent from the start but they both do not see a future together unless something changes.

This was well-written and makes me eager to start at the beginning to learn more about the rest of the "Parish Orphans."

The Winter Companion is part of a series of books about a group of orphanage boys, now grown and finding love. This latest novel features Neville, who is an unusual character in historical romance in that as a youth he suffered a serious head injury, and because of it has grown up somewhat reclusive and hidden from the world. The heroine is also interesting in that she is an impoverished ladies companion who works to keep her brother at university, with the goal of someday being his secretary. Clara yearns for her own education and shadows her brother via lecture packages he mails her. The h/h meet when Clara must accompany her employer to the home in which Neville is both family and staff, and they bond over their love of animals.

While the characters are interesting, the romance never quite came together for me, despite how much Ms. Matthews tried to draw the threads together for me. It is recommended as a gentle, sweet romance.

I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Netgalley but all opinions provided are my own.

Oh, Neville 😍😍😍

As always with Ms. Matthews books, I waited until I would have a completely uninterrupted day before I started reading as I know that once I start, I won't stop. And, as always, it was true.

Neville's story was well worth the wait. I've been dying to get inside his head since his appearance in the first book of this series and it was so much better than I thought it would be.

It was amazing to see all of the orphans together and to witness their bond first hand and how they interact with each other and with their wives.

Alex remains my favourite but I think that Neville and Clara's story was a perfect way to finish the series. Cannot wait for Mimi's next book!

Be still, my heart! Neville gets a chance to show us why his friends love him so much and have stood by him, through thick and thin. Clara gets the chance to see this as well, and despite her determination to protect her heart and guard her mouth, she can’t help herself from opening up to Neville. Neville is not a simpleton; he is a man. A kind, compassionate, and strong man who sees Clara for the woman she is. A delightful culmination of the Parish Orphans and the women who showed them how to love and live again. I could not have asked for a happier ending. While Neville and Clara’s story can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, it is so much more sweet and fulfilling when all the stories are understood as woven together.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and all opinions expressed are solely my own.

While reading this series I felt I was transported back in time. I finished this installment in one day as I did not want to stop reading. I love the tone and style of writing style: well-paced, unrushed, and sufficiently descriptive I felt I was standing in the off, watching the action unfold.
All four parish orphans are united in Devon for the holidays, but this is Neville's much deserved story.
Neville avoids people due to his speech impediment, but he and Clara grow close in their mutual interest and love of animals. Clara is a strong and pragmatic young woman; revisited by her past, she proves her mettle.
I read a free advance copy; the thoughts expressed are my own.

3.5 stars

After thoroughly enjoying Mimi Matthew’s The Matrimonial Advertisement a couple of weeks ago I was really looking forward to seeing how things worked out for the group of four orphans in the final book of the series. The Winter Companion offers a stirring romance centered on Neville Cross—a groom/reluctantly-aspiring steward who has difficulty communicating verbally since a horrific childhood accident—and companion/aspiring scientist’s assistant Clara Hartwright, who accompanies her employer to the abbey where Neville lives on a Christmas visit.

This emotional romance hits you right in the heart, partly because both Neville and Clara are admirable people who struggle between following what they perceive is their duty and their dreams, and partly because they see something beautiful/worthy (and fall-in-loveable) in the other that almost everyone else misses.

This unconventional romance isn’t afraid to tackle the topics that many other historicals won’t. Because of Neville’s speech difficulties others perceive him as being mentally deficient, “simple,” and/or not capable of having/not desiring a life like the people judging him have. Despite her initial attraction to him, even Clara has to come to terms with her misjudgment when she’s confronted with the fact that Neville isn’t quite the Galahad figure she’s made him out to be.

And as a companion who’s been undervalued and under-appreciated in her work and her own family, Clara’s also used to being ignored and misunderstood. She has dreams of pursuing an education and a career as a respected scientist’s assistant, not that anyone but Neville is willing to consider that.

Matthews beautifully builds common ground between Neville and Clara, even if the overall romance feels a little thinner than I would have liked. While I understand the many factors that reduce/limit their time together, and appreciate Matthew’s attention to historical detail and accuracy, I still feel like their relationship is a bit rushed.

But overall, this heartwarming story is a sweet conclusion to the series and also packs a punch: Neville’s actions at the end, the way that he takes charge of his own life and dreams, is really lovely. I’ll be coming back for more Matthews’s romances.


I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Netgalley but all opinions provided are my own.

I enjoyed this love story so much I finished it in one sitting! The setting was well-researched and the main characters given very real struggles. I got flashes of Little Women while reading about the dilemmas of the period, the costume details, and the thrill of the intense Devon weather! The married couples have a bit of smugness about them, but this is balanced by the vein of sadness from living through trauma that they all quietly honor. I did have a bit of trouble sorting out who was whom in the first few chapters, since I hadn't read any of the series before, but after giving up on these background couples, the central plot could shine on its own: two hesitant lovers finding the courage to outgrow their self-made prisons and risk their hearts for love. And Clara and Neville succeeded splendidly! A wonderful, uplifting story of overlooked lives given center stage. Highly recommend for a happy-ending read.

“«I don’t need things to be different. And I certainly don’t need you to be different. I love you exactly as you are.»” (Clara to Neville, quote from ARC)

4.5 stars.
This is such a lovely, beautifully written historical novel about a wounded hero, afflicted by a seldom fictionalized condition, and the heroine whom he befriends and falls head over heels in love with.
Neville is such a delight to read, his blond good looks and big size playing with his “flaws” and insecurities, making him both sexy and adorably vulnerable. A teddy bear with compassion and kindness, the strength of a giant and the sense of honor of Galahad.
Mimi Matthews’ characterization of a male character suffering the lingering effects of a traumatic brain injury is realistic, convincing and thorough. Never does the author forget her hero is living daily with this condition. What an amazing insight into its effects in speech, intellection and thought processes, language and attention! And the feelings of anxiety, inferiority, shame and inadequacy it brings.
Neville is also attractive in a modern way because of the wild ponies’s cause. The same happens with Clara, the heroine, and her intellectual curiosity and hunger for knowledge.
The author’s prose is great too, clear, concise, painting in brisk strokes and short sentences the enchanted landscapes of Devon or the slow, tentative meeting of two guarded souls.
“The Winter Companion” (Perfectly Proper Press) was my favorite of the series and I’ve enjoyed meeting again the characters from the previous stories and hope to read about other characters, such as Teddy.

An enjoyable, light, romantic historical fiction read. I've read others in the series, first attracted by Mimi's knowledge of Victorian costume. This was up to the same high standard as the rest but made more poignant by her drawing on her own and a friend's traumatic brain injuries and consequent symptoms including expressive dysphasia, and possibly petit mal absences. It was ambitious to have a romantic hero with a significant physical disability and she worked the situation really well and explains in the epilogue.
Individuals with physical and mental disabilities are all too often invisible in historical fiction which must be very difficult and disempowering for the many many readers who also experience them. Congratulations Mimi.
I'd normally award it 4 but because of the theme it's a 5

An unbiased review for a book provided by Netgalley