Although Hazel Stillman is of noble birth, her clubbed foot resulted in her family’s casting her aside from her youth. Her twin brother’s mismanagement and squandering of the family’s assets has made it necessary for Hazel to support herself by teaching arithmetic at a school for girls that’s rumored to be up for sale. Since advanced learning classes are not typical for young ladies, Hazel’s position and livelihood may be in jeopardy. Her predicament is a precarious one unless she marries and accepts her uncle Elliott’s generous dowry of fifty thousand pounds. Hazel feels insulted that her benefactor is offering this large sum as though a man needs to be bought to marry her. But she knows her prospects are few to none because of her physical deformity. So what is she to do?

Meanwhile, Hazel’s “cousin,” Duncan Penhale, is in a somewhat similar situation. He, though, is not of noble birth, but is of the working class. However, “Uncle Elliott” is also his benefactor and Duncan could inherit property that would greatly benefit him if he marries a genteel woman. Duncan is content living his current regimented life, but his employment arrangement has become distressing to him. His inheritance will remedy that situation, but marriage would be challenging for Duncan because he is not an ordinary man. He has difficulties understanding peoples’ expressions and emotions, he angers quickly, paces when he’s excited or anxious, doesn’t like to be touched, is socially awkward, lacks tact and is direct to the point of embarrassment. His peculiar behavior would be difficult for any woman to tolerate, but Hazel seems to have the ability to cope with Duncan’s various odd mannerisms. She’d met Duncan once and they’d corresponded for more than a year, enjoying number riddles that each would solve in their next letter. But could it be enough familiarity to justify a marriage? Uncle Elliott’s stipulation requires cohabitation for at least one year as a married couple. Could Duncan and Hazel live together for a year as husband and wife in order to collect their respective inheritances and then move on to pursue their individual endeavors thereafter, free and clear? Or will their uncle and aunt Amelia’s clever manipulation change both their lives in a way that neither one expected?

Love and Lavender is my favorite book thus far of 2021. It was an impeccable story that I read eagerly from cover to cover, including the acknowledgements. The characters were magnificently written and it was easy to form a bond with them. I especially appreciated Duncan’s character. Although his condition is not stated in the story it’s apparent that he’s autistic, which accounts for his quirkiness. I loved his character!! His bluntness and literal interpretations made me chuckle. Duncan says what ordinary people would like to say but dare not for propriety’s sake. And although Hazel was sometimes appalled by his directness, she admittedly found his natural candidness refreshing at times. Duncan displayed odd behavior, but he also possessed many admirable qualities. His solicitousness towards Hazel was endearing…. always helping her navigate stairs or making sure she had a proper boot made by a skilled cobbler to ensure her comfort.

Another aspect of the book that I found refreshing was the secondary characters. Although some “ordinary” people might be put off by Duncan, there were those who cherished and appreciated his intellect and companionship. A doctor acquaintance, Dr. Randall, became a consultant and advisor to him and was patient and kind. Delores, who worked in the pub downstairs and made sure he had a warm meal to take upstairs to eat after work and fish for his cat, Elizabeth. Harry, Hazel’s twin brother whose shift in character warmed my heart. His acceptance of and willingness to be entertained, intellectually stimulated and unwittingly insulted by Duncan made me smile. Other notable characters were Amelia, Uncle Elliott’s wife, who was a tremendous help to Hazel. Sophie, Hazel’s wise and loyal friend, and Mrs. Randall, the doctor’s wife who assisted Hazel with her endeavors while she lived in Lavender House in Ipswich. Truly, a great cast of characters that I grew to love and admire.

I could talk about this book FOREVER. While reading the acknowledgements I came across this statement from the author…

“This book was written during the most difficult period of my life…”

I don’t know what the author was going through when she wrote Love and Lavender, but I have been inspired by her ability to concoct such a fine story during a time of trial.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a story with a great setting, fabulously developed characters and a conclusion that will make your heart scream with joy.

The premise of this series is delightful. Siblings and cousins have the opportunity to immediately gain their inheritance pending an approved marriage and settling down by their uncle. His tactics are often manipulative but ultimately it's a great catalyst to their happily ever after's.
Hazel and Duncan strike up a bargain for a marriage of convenience in order to attain their inheritance. Between her physical disability and lack of prospects and his propensity for isolation, it seems like a match well made. The only stipulation is that they live together the first year of marriage.
While Duncan would not have been diagnosed as such in the period, he exhibits high functioning autistic behavior. His lack of filter was probably one of my favorite things and made me laugh a few times. My daughter has similar attributes and so it was very reminiscent of my life with her.
My only complaint is that both MC's had something large personally to "overcome" so it lacked a little bit of focus for me. That aside, I think that both were represented well.
For fans of audiobooks, it's narrated by Justine Eyre, who is a favorite for me. I love her voice for this time period and setting.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.

What book has surprised you recently? I love the Regency Romance genre and this book Love and Lavender surprised me by going in a completely different direction than most Regency Romance novels.

Hazel Stillman was born with a club foot and was sent off to school at an early age to never return home. What could a girl with a club foot with gentle birth, but no dowry expect? She discovers she is brilliant at mathematics and becomes a mathematics teacher at a girl’s school. Here her life would have remained if her Uncle had not bestowed on her a grand dowry if she will marry a man of gentle birth. She begins a correspondence with Duncan Penhale. Her Uncle has also bestowed the inheritance of a building on Duncan if he too finds someone of gentle birth to marry. Duncan is different than everyone else, today he would probably be diagnosed as autistic. He sees the world as very black and white. He has a great mind and loves to discuss a great many things including mathematical problems. Duncan and Hazel enjoy their correspondence until they decide that perhaps the best thing for their future would be a marriage of convenience where they both would be able to come into their inheritance. Can they stay together for one year? Will this marriage work out and will both be able to live their dreams?

I can’t express how much I loved this book. I read most of it in one night and couldn’t put it down. This book brought me to tears and it called to me. If you’ve every known or loved someone with Autism, Duncan’s story is very compelling. Autism has always existed, but people didn’t know what it was or how to deal with it during this time period. Duncan was lucky to have a father and a stepmother who loved him and taught him how to deal with his emotions and sensory issues. They also provided the schooling that he needed for his sharp mind. Hazel was his perfect foil with her own sharp mind. As a female engineer, it was wonderful to read a book where the female character not only likes math but excels at it. Her only limits are that there are no careers for women in math in the Regency period. Even finding a teaching position is hard. That’s why the inheritance would be a godsend where Hazel could buy her own school and stability.

Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite tropes in romance novels. Will Hazel and Duncan be able to make their marriage work? I loved both the plot and fantastic characters in this novel.

I also enjoyed that although Hazel didn’t attend church or have faith of her own, Duncan had a great faith. When Hazel attended church with Duncan for Christmas, she realized that Duncan’s church community accepted him for who he was and were a family to him.

Overall, Love and Lavender was a touching Regency Romance novel with a unique plot and great characters. I highly recommend it.

Book Source: Review Copy from Shadow Mountain Publishing for being a part of the Austenprose PR Book Tour. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Hazel Stillman was left with no illusions that she would ever marry. Born with a clubbed foot, she was hidden away from the world by her parents and abandoned to a girls’ school. She pours her energies into higher math and becomes a teacher, learning to find joy in scholarship instead of relationships. When her uncle Elliott presents her with an inheritance, she sees it as an opportunity to save her school from being sold. But the money comes with strings attached…the strings of marriage.

Duncan Penhale is a strange fellow. He likes everything to be orderly and exact, and he is candid in his dislike of things that are not. When he angers his employer with his intransigence on the points of punctuality and correct bookkeeping, he is in danger of losing his place. Strangely enough, his guardian’s brother has offered him a significant sum of money if he succeeds in marrying a gentlewoman. Duncan’s one hope of maintaining his life exactly as it is, is to shake up his life altogether.

Determined to gain their inheritances, Hazel and Duncan make a calculated plan to marry…and then never have anything to do with each other again. However, Uncle Elliott, appalled by their callous decisions, insists that they must live at the same residence for one year before they separate. Grudgingly, the two agree. As Hazel comes to know Duncan, with all his quirks, she begins to care for him deeply–but is it even possible for a man like him to fall in love? Hazel will settle for nothing less if she is to fully commit.

Duncan settles into a sense of normalcy with Hazel, the only person whose physical touch does not frighten and nauseate him. He depends on her to tell him what society thinks of his behaviors, and she depends on him to help her navigate the world with her lame leg. But for some reason, Hazel is still determined to abandon Duncan at the year’s end, and he has no idea what words she needs to hear in order to bridge the gap between them.

This unusual Regency deals with the topics of disability and autism. Hazel’s clubbed foot makes her an object of derision or pity in some people’s eyes, and at first she is horrified by Duncan’s casual allusions to her deformity. His comfortability with speaking about her disability, however, is a boon to Hazel, as he applies his significant mental energies to finding her the proper-fitting shoes to help her walk without pain. Duncan himself, with his overly literal ways, is an object of embarrassment to Hazel at first, but in time, her affection for him overshadows her annoyance at his lack of sensibility. The story also features a reconciliation between Hazel and her brother Harry, who finds his own romance in Rakes and Roses.

All in all, this was a delightful novel that explores a romance far from the cookie-cutter mold. Recommended.

I was invited by the publisher to read and review this novel for Netgalley.com. It was a true pleasure. The book, Love and Lavender caught my eye with its descriptive title and beautiful cover. This story was original, charming and engaging. Hazel and Duncan reminded me in a vague way of Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy...they were attracted to each other, but it took time and patience for them to figure this out. The story pulls you in from the very first pages and as you learn more about each character, you are pulled more deeply into the story. What I truly enjoyed was the character of Duncan. The author was respectful and mindful to describe how Duncan views the world and how he struggled to open himself up to his love for Hazel. I am going to read this book again, as the story so beautifully evolved, that I would like to experience it once again. I am going to read more from this author. Well done!

I love the Mayfield Family Proper Romance Series! Love and Lavender is no exception. What a unique love story using people considered outcasts in society as main characters with their challenges as they capitulate to Uncle Elliott’s marriage machinations. While choosing characters with obvious disabilities, Josi Kilpack develops the characters as relatable and they feel like they could be any of us. Love and Lavender adds depth to an excellent series!

3 1/2 rounded up.

Hazel was born with a clubbed foot. She knwws she probably will not marry because of it, so instead puts all her love into her students at her school. Duncan needs order and predicability in his life (sounds like he is on the Autism spectrum). He has an apartment and a cat and a job that he can tolerate.

When they each are offered a great inheritance if they marry and stay married for a year, they decide to go in together to do so. They figure one year is a short enough time, then they can go on their way and live the independent lives they each desire. After time feelings begin to change, though. And we get to go along on this story.

I thought overall the story is well told. I feel like we got to know each character very well. There were a few twists and turns that kept it fun and interesting and I finished the book feeling pretty good about it. It's clean, simple and an enjoyable read. I would allow my teenager to read this one.

Thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

A perfect example of why marriages of convenience are so enjoyable. Josi S. Kilpack can take two unlikely characters and creatively blend them into a believable love match. There is the perfect amount of tension, interest, and opportunity. Hazel is a strong woman, never mind the club foot that can so easily define her and her opportunities. Duncan is bluntly straightforward and needs a strong, confident woman who is not offended or put off by this. Both will capture your heart and keep you immersed in the story. I love how they overcome so many obstacles and find comfort and safety with one another. I highly recommend this unique, clean, love story. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

Haven’t read this author before, but now I will have to get the other books in the series. This story was written with so much knowledge about Hazel with a club foot and Duncan, who is autism. Duncan is so likable that you will want to protect him all through the story. Uncle Elliott makes a deal with Hazel and Duncan. They must live together for one year to receive their inheritance. He sees a potential in them that no one else can. It is emotional and often heartbreaking. The chemistry between Hazel and Duncan is so powerful that they each want to help each other. Love and Lavender is about a love match that you would never dream would happen. Josi S. Kilpack did a fantastic job of telling the story. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain publishing for an ARC ebook. All opinions are my own.

This book surprised me with it's unique characters that found a way into my heart with their unconventional love story.

I was intrigued by the premise of this story --two near strangers agree to marry and live together for one year in order to claim their inheritances. At first, this seems to be a ridiculous idea. They do not love each other and they do not want to love each other. They want to find financial independence in different cities. But agree to Uncle Elliott's terms to live together for one year.

Hazel is a fascinating character. Her life with a clubbed foot is difficult and I appreciated the insights into living with disabilities during this time period. I couldn't believe how much pain she endured on a daily basis! Her custom boot isn't even helpful until Duncan finds a skilled cobbler who can really create something useful. It made me really appreciate modern medicine and the conveniences we enjoy. Nowadays, a club foot can be surgically healed but Hazel had to live with it. I loved her thirst for knowledge and the joy she finds in teaching, especially in subjects like advanced mathematics. Her brilliant mind was such a lovely way to contrast her physical disability. It did not limit her from learning all she could and from sharing that knowledge. Some of my favorite scenes in the book are when she is teaching in her parlor school in Ipswich. Seeing how her teaching changes those girls' lives was beautiful! Hazel is a complex character -- surprisingly fearful about love and being worthy of love but also strong and willing to work hard to achieve her dreams. I loved seeing her transformation as she finds herself worthy of love and takes to leap of faith to have a life of joy and devotion with Duncan.

Duncan truly surprised me as a main character. At first, I wasn't sure how I felt about him. I was surprised to find him probably on the modern autism spectrum. He was awkward, overly direct, and just a bit off. How could this man be our hero? As the story progressed, I was fascinated by his journey. His life had been difficult and he had known tragedy and heartache with the death of his parents and guardian. He was teased and ridiculed for being different. And yet, he had a good education, worked hard in a career he enjoyed, and built routines that worked for him. And then he meets Hazel. I love how their relationship transforms Duncan! Certainly, he remains a bit odd. But we also see his intense loyalty and kindness. His directness also shows his compassion. And I loved the way they both share their love with each other as the book progresses.

I wasn't sure this love story would work for me. But it grew on me in beautiful ways as the story progressed. I loved the way Hazel and Duncan build each other up and bring out the best in each other. He encourages her in her teaching and loves to discuss and educate her on a variety of subjects. She helps him understand his reactions to physical touch and to build relationships with those around him. He is direct and she learns to understand him. She is scared and he helps her be brave. He believes in God and she isn't sure. But he doesn't judge her or ridicule her for her doubts. Together, they build faith and hope and joy. Even when they don't expect to. I love the final chapters of the book when Hazel is discussing her future with her friend Sophie. She doesn't think she can hope for a future with so much joy. And Sophie encourages her to trust and have faith. What a beautiful message!

Overall, a lovely and quirky romance. I enjoyed the setting and the simple household Hazel and Duncan set up. They are not overly wealthy but they are comfortable and happy. The characters are not typical but teach us beautiful lessons about the power of love, healing, joy, and trust..

Love and Lavender by Josi Kilpack is a rare gem. Unique is the best word to describe this lovely story. From the storyline to the characters to the love story itself, I can honestly say I’ve never read a book quite like this one. Hazel is a beautiful woman, but a woman who never believed marriage could be an option. She has spent the majority of her life away from her family — a family who got rid of her because of a deformity. Duncan is not your typical hero. He is not selfless. He is not smooth and savvy. He doesn’t make a girl swoon. But in his own way, he is seriously perfect for Hazel. And, as it turns out (shockingly so to Hazel), Hazel is just the woman Duncan needs. Is this the most passionate of love stories? Nope. Is it a genuine love story? Yep, totally. Love and Lavender is a beautiful illustration of real love — the kind you have to work at every single day. The kind of love that doesn’t seem like love on the surface, but if you take a step back and really examine the relationship it so clearly is authentic. My most favorite aspect of this slow-burn romance is just how different the relationship is between Hazel and Duncan. They are not your typical romantic couple … and I LOVE this! It’s so refreshing to read about a couple who is truly unique. They are both broken people who have some hurts, hurts that have made them a little prickly and different. But hurts that have also made them strong, independent, and capable people. People who are strong enough to be the partners each one needs — even though it takes them some time to realize this fact. I like this story because not only is it one I won’t soon forget, but because I feel I can relate to it. I’ve read a lot of romance stories in my day, and while I always enjoy them, relating to them is sometimes difficult. I’m not rich, stunningly gorgeous, poised, or perfect. I have defects and flaws. I’m definitely not the heroine in a romance novel. And, that’s the cool thing about this novel — neither is Hazel. She’s one of the realest characters I’ve ever read. And so is Duncan.

Love and Lavender is the first novel I’ve read by Josi Kilpack, but it will not be the last. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this story and its characters. I cannot recommend this story enough. If you are in the mood for a high-quality, well-written, engaging Historical Romance that’s truly a unique read, well, then Love and Lavender is the book for you.

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I was privileged enough to read Love and Lavender this past week. Normally it takes me a couple of days to read a book, but this book took me an entire week.
I had to keep putting it down. Honestly, Duncan’s character was a tough one to get use to. But as I continued to read, he became so endearing. And Hazel had so much to heal from that my heart hurt for her at times. This book is a great addition to the Mayfield series. Author, Josi Kilpack did a great job with really capturing the characters in a realistic form. I recommend this book. Give it a chance because it will capture your heart like it did mine.
-I was given an ARC to give it an honest review.

What a wonderful, well developed story about two very different people with different struggles. These characters leaped off the pages and kept a smile on my face. I couldn’t help but fall in love with this story.
It was a delight and different because they had to work extra hard against societal expectations of the time.
I really loved the cover, and the ending! I highly recommend it if you love regency clean romance. In case you’re wondering it can be read as a stand-alone.
An added bonus was how this author talked about lavender flowers and their beautiful color. Sharing with us the fragrance, the healing properties and how as a gift it often was a representation of purity, devotion and grace.
Thanks Shadow Mountain via Netgalley.
#LoveandLavender #NetGalley

I really enjoyed this historical romance especially since the characters were not perfect. Duncan has characteristics of the Autism spectrum (before they had any idea what it was) and Hazel has a club foot. Both have reservations about where their life will take them and neither believe that they will ever get married, that is until their Uncle Elliott sets up a "dowry" for each of them. However, they come up with the brilliant idea to marry each other (they really aren't cousins by blood) to collect their "dowry" so that they can each live their life how they see fit. What they don't expect is to fall in love with each other.

As I was reading this book and many of Duncan's traits, I knew that he had to be on the spectrum. He wouldn't look people in the eye, was very orderly, doesn't like to be touched, and heaven forbid if things are out of sync with how he likes them. But at the same time, he realizes that life with Hazel isn't so bad. He may not understand what it is like to fall in love, but at the same time, he does.

Hazel believes that she is inferior to her siblings because of her club foot. She is afraid any man that would marry her would just be in it for her dowry, which is a hefty sum. She is brilliant and a teacher and seeks to educate women and girls so that they can find better positions or just be better people all around. I admired that in her. What Hazel thinks that she wants and what she discovers are two different things.

I do love this series and getting to know all of the Mayfield family. While you don't have to read the books in order, it does help to understand some of the characters, mostly Elliott.

One of my favorite things about a Josi Kilpack Regency romance is that she writes about characters who aren't the "norm" for the period. Instead of reading about ladies and lords and their "perfect" lives, a real, raw, emotional story is developed from the lives of characters with physical or mental struggles, making the book easy to connect to in both heart and mind.

Hazel has a clubbed foot, which leads to many hardships throughout her life, while Duncan seems to be almost on the autism spectrum. From their first awkward meeting, I just knew something beautiful would develop and I cherished every progress they each made. I loved how they came up with the perfect solution to their dilemmas and enjoyed every interaction so very much.

Sweet and gentle is the overall feeling of the story despite their individual adversities, and it was lovely to immerse myself in their story. Wonderful characters and beautiful plot.

Content: mild romance

*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*

I loved the contrast of personalities between Hazel and Duncan. Their strengths and weaknesses complement and compensate each other in a lovely balance. The progression of their relationship also changed them both in good ways, and the improvement only increased the attachment and affection they share. It was fascinating to see the world, especially a different era, through Duncan's perspective, with what today's world would diagnose as on the autism spectrum. Hazel recognizes what is different about him, but also what is unique and extraordinary. A sweet and gentle love story that captured my interest and then my heart. I had tears as I read the final pages. Highly recommend!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Absolutely heartwarming and inspiring. Loved it! Will now read the entire series. Thank you author, publisher and netgalley for this arc in exchange of an honest review.

The final book in the Mayfield Family Romance was by far my favorite and most captivating of the four.
I didn't read the blurb before picking up the book. I only knew the author and the fact that I enjoyed the other three books in the series. Wow did I love everything about this book. From the unique characters--seriously, Ms. Kilpack hit it out the park with unique premise--to the way their relationship unfolded, I was there for it all. I stayed up late because I HAD to know how it would all end and if Duncan and Hazel would get an HEA.
Y'all, this book gives you all the feels, gives you insights to others who aren't like you, and connects you the way we all wish for. Love can conquer anything and that message was well received.
I can't wait to see what book Ms. Kilpack comes up with next.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. My review was not required nor influenced.

A beautiful story where our main characters struggle with handicaps that keep them from expecting to find marriage partners. Yet, uncle Elliot sees more for them than they see for themselves. They develop a tender relationship that they don't expect to move beyond friendship. I love watching this relationship grow. The strength of these characters and watching them discover what is really most important in their life is very moving. This is an intriguing series. I look forward to more.

I was really excited to read this book, with the heroine having a physical ailment and the hero being neurodivergent, I thought this would be a really interesting read. Unfortunately, I was just utterly disappointed by the romance. The chemistry between the two main characters was virtually nonexistent, with the hero showing absolutely no inclination towards her whatsoever beyond the fact that she is comfortable. Their relationship felt more familial than romantic, and by the time we reached the end of the book, I was so depressed for the heroine to wind up in such a loveless marriage. It was exactly what she didn't want. Sure, she said she loved him and they had a baby together, but I didn't believe it for one second. There was no passion, no emotion, just a partnership between two people. She gave up her dreams, she came back to him, there was no effort on his part to make the marriage work. Marriage and a baby do not a HEA make, and sadly, this book left me feeling down.