The second book in the Matchmaker series, To Capture His Heart may be read as a stand alone but reading the first book in the series, The Matchmaker’s Lonely Heart, will only enhance your enjoyment of this one. Both are terrific.

Eva is one of three cousins in Victorian England who swell spoken ladies but not shrinking violet’s. Determined to stand on her own two feet, Eva becomes an accomplished photographer, suffragette and a young woman who speaks her mind. When the three cousins encounter a grisly murder (see book 1), they also meet two of London’s highly regarded Detective Inspectors. Nathaniel Winston has been intrigued by Eva when they first meet and she ends up taking a crime scene photos on the aforementioned grisly murder….something unheard of for a genteel Victorian lady.

While Eva and Nathan’s journey begins in book 1, it is the focus of book 2. Nathan’s mother wants him to join her and his 4 sisters at their annual , ten day summer house party for charity. Of course, she’s invited some eligible young ladies in the hope that Nathan will finally marry. In desperation to stave off any marriage-minded ladies, Nathan blurts out that he’s already formed an interest in Eva….of course his mother immediately invites her to be a house party guest and photographer for the festivities. Now, Nathan only has to convince Eva that they act smitten with each other to keep up the façade….or is it truly a only pretend? Intrigue, murder and stolen kisses make the house party fun, dangerous and life altering.

tl;dr
Romance and mystery are mostly balanced (with romance pulling into the lead just a bit), in a very satisfying story with two likable leads.

About
Eva Caldwell has worked hard to make a name for herself as a photographer, and her skill has not gone unnoticed - she's even called upon to photograph crime scenes when the need arises. The work is good, and the company, a certain Detective Nathan Winston, is even better. So when Detective Winston asks her to pose as his beloved for a week, she's thrilled. But a criminal from one of Nathan's past cases has arrived seeking revenge, and Eva isn't sure what's more difficult - solving the case, or keeping her true affections for Nathan in hiding.

Thoughts
I love a fake romance trope, and I love a romance where the characters are honest with each other. I know these sound like opposing ideas, but Nancy Campbell Allen has somehow managed to make both of these ideas come to the table in an extremely satisfying way. The two leads are very easy to cheer for. Eva is smart, complex, and empathetic. Nathan is thoughtful, clever, and modest. The two of them feel SO very meant for each other, and their chemistry feels very natural.

Supporting cast are all interesting, with Sammy being an easy favorite. I often approach books about "strong female lead" types with trepidation, because they so often fall into the "not like other girls" trope as well. I am pleased that this is not the case here, with several women of varying natures and distinct personalities. There are definitely a couple catty types, but they are presented as an outlier. Nathan's mother, in particular, is a delight.

The mystery unfolds at a quick pace, and I absolutely ate it up. This is definitely more a read-along mystery, rather than a solve-along, but the reveal felt like it was reasonably hinted at, and the twists all made sense.

This book is a spinoff of another one. While the previous book isn't necessary reading, newcomers do have a little bit of catching up to do, and the first few chapters are packed with a lot of information to be learned in a short amount of time. Once you catch up, though, it's very smooth reading from there. I had a great time, and I will definitely be seeking out the author's other works.

I admit I am a junkie for Nancy Allen Campbell's books. I love her fairy tale steam punk series, and I love this new series.
We first met Eva in The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart. She is a photographer, a woman assured of herself, living with her Aunt and one cousin now as another cousin was just married. She has done some work for the police department and has worked with Nathan Winston many times over the past year.

Nathan is a gentleman, who desired an occupation. His family supports this but also wants to see him married. And Eva keeps catching his eye!

So, throw in a house party, a felon who wants revenge for his family's incarceration, mean girls, intrigue and the recipe for success is created.

This is a fun read, well written, with likeable and unlikeable characters! You root for the good, and the bad may surprise you!

My oh my… this was so cute and wholesome. It took me a while to get into the setting and the story. (I haven’t read „The Matchmaker’s Lonely Heart“ which is book 1 in the series) But I instantly fell in love with Nathaniel Winston! Eva was such a great character and they had amazing chemistry. I love a good houseparty trope and his family was just chef’s kiss!

If you love friends-to-lovers, simping, fake dating regency style and a little investigation YOU HAVE TO READ THIS.

Eva is a well known photographer and often works alongside the detectives Michael Baker and Nathan Winston. When Nathan approaches her to come with him to his mother’s week-long dinner party, she agrees out of friendship. But friendship soon turns into more…

#netgalley

"To Capture His Heart" was a very enjoyable book. It's been a while since I read such a good a 19th-century romance!

Coming after "The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart", this second book follows characters that were introduced in the first book of the series. Eva and Nathan, a photographer and detective, have known each other for a while thanks to their work, which sometimes overlap, but they've never dared show their feelings to the other.

On the occasion of a house party organised by Nathan's mother, both protagonists get to know each other better - indeed, they've had many meaningful dialogues, which was appreciable as it really shows why both characters are well suited to each other. I also particularly enjoyed that all characters were well-developed, including secondary characters such as Nathan's sister. And our two protagonists had real depth and were not two-dimensional, as they had, for instance, days when they woke up irritable or became grumpy because of lack of sleep...

The romance was enjoyable, well-written, and took most of the book, while the intrigue (following the one that began in the previous book with Mr Toole) was interesting and a welcome addition to this house-party based book. It added a bit of spice and mystery!

Lastly, I appreciated understanding more of late 19th-century customs, habits, the increased independence of women... And it was especially interesting to learn how they made photographies at the time!

Overall, a great 19th-century romance that I would recommend.

*I received a free eARC and this is my honest opinion*

This was a fun, engaging, escapist historical romantic suspense that leans farther toward "romance" than "suspense" in its genre distinction--unlike the first book in this series. I am a previous fan of Allen's writing and this series in particular, and thoroughly enjoyed the chance to explore Eva's love story. Eva, Sammy, and Nathan were all wonderful characters, the side characters all felt distinct and interesting, and I enjoyed the romance setup (a multi-day house party) quite a bit. However--I cannot help but compare the "suspense" elements to the excellently plotted and paced first book (The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart), and herein lies my mild disappointment with this book overall. I should preface these criticisms with the fact that I DID thoroughly enjoy the book, I just did not love it.

The mystery/suspense element felt entirely removed from the overarching plot of the novel for the bulk of the story, and this disconnect is especially felt in the first half. The reader is not introduced to the villain and his crimes immediately (as in the first book) but is instead Nathan info-dumps his history with Toole in a lengthy internal monologue several chapters into the book after the romantic set-up has already been established. For the majority of the story, Toole does not feel like an urgent threat because the reader is told--not shown--his crimes, and we are never given a clear picture of his motivations beyond "revenge". Right up until the final confrontation at the end (particularly with the way the suspense plot wraps up), Toole never feels like a fully-fledged character, which in turn makes the suspense elements feel ham-fisted and out of place. The catty interpersonal dramas between female characters felt far more high-stakes than the actual murder and intrigue, and the bulk of the build-up to Toole (beyond his one(?) actual crime before the climax) simply involves repeated mentions that Nathan has increased security. In the first book in this series, Radcliffe and his dastardly deeds are a constant presence throughout, so the two "halves" of the story feel seamless. Here, it felt like the reader had to be constantly reminded through dialogue about Toole's looming threat because he wasn't actually present in the story enough to feel threatening. The final confrontation with Toole also feels absolutely hand-waved, and he remains non-threatening, non-lethal, and non-essential right up until the end.

I will be continuing on with this series simply because the first book was so phenomenal--and I desperately want to see Charlotte's story! I just could not help but feel a little bit letd0wn by this entry.

Thank you to NetGalley for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book is the second in the Proper Romance Victorian Series by Nancy Campbell Allen. I liked the first one, but really enjoyed this one about Eva Caldwell and Nathan Winston, the handsome Detective Inspector. He has been enthralled with her from the beginning. She knows her heart is involved but doesn’t want to be hurt again. They work together from time to time as she photographs crime scenes, as he investigates those crimes.
Things change when Nathan’s mother plans her annual house party for charity and matchmaking. He tries to tell his mother he is in love with someone so she will not require his attendance. His mother isn’t persuaded to let him stay home but keeps asking details about this woman he describes. He is unintentionally describing Eva and he knows he is in trouble when his mother wants to extend an invitation. Like all house parties with single people, there is attraction, jealousy, fun, and some intrigue. Nathan is highly sought after, and he uses his attraction to Eva to deflect attention from his single state. This story is sweet, smart, and mysterious. Your mind is always working to figure out the different people and their motives and actions. It was a fun read that kept me thinking about it at times I was doing other things. It is a clean, sweet romance that will make you smile, while providing some intrigue and mystery to add to the fun. I will read this book again and again.

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

I love a Victorian setting almost as much as I love a good house party, throw in a fake relationship trope and what more could a girl want? This was a fun mash up of a lot of my favorite things and I enjoyed the cheerful wit and candor of these characters. The mystery thread becomes more prominent as the plot progresses, as did the romance! I enjoyed the setting of the house party and thought it provided a fun backdrop of a variety of activities for the characters as the reader untangles the mystery and watches their romance blossom. There were admittedly a few surprises that I didn’t see coming and the conclusion was thrilling and dangerous! I enjoyed this Victorian Romance!

Review posted via GoodReads.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4748471922
Eva Caldwell is a popular photographer. She occasionally assists the police by stepping in for their crime scene photographer. Detective Nathan Winston is drawn to Eva and has worked with her in the past. When he accidentally let it slip to his mother that he admires Eva, she decides to set the two up as a match. Nathans's mother is now throwing a 10-day party and matchmaking event. Best of all she hires Eva to photograph the event. Eva and Nathan join forces and pretend to be courting for the duration of the party but when Nathan's enemies are after them, the fake relationship could turn into more.

I loved this novel! It reminded me of the tv series 'Miss Scarlet and the Duke'. I love a good historical fiction that includes the love interests working together. I would absolutely recommend this book to family and friends.

This series is so fun. I really enjoyed the first book and this one was no different. Eva and Nathan are a super cute couple who like each other from the start. they were both so insecure in their feelings and I loved the way he was patient with her, The only thing I didn't love about their relationship was how we just jump into it with no backstory. Even in the first book, nothing is specifically mentioned about their attraction to one another. But other than that they were great together and I loved the building of their relationship, even if it was a little quick.

The villian was interesting and I wish that story could have been explored a little more too. But all around I felt the premise was believable and it kept my interest for the whole book. There is a little bit of suspense, yet nothing overdone. This is a fun, not too serious, quick read, which I will find myself re-reading again and again. Loved it I can't wait for the next installment. I will recommend this to my friends, for sure!

I received a copy from Netgalley for my honest review of the book.

4 stars

Very clean story but there's a fizz of passion just from touching hands. A thriller when a villain is stalking the hero, heroine and young companion. I didn't guess the baddie so that says something.

A quick delightful read. My only negative was I didn't think the head of the police force in Victorian times would have been called Director.. Wikipedia tells me https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_Metropolitan_Police that Commisioner and Superintendent sounds a better name.

I enjoyed the writing and will look out for more of the author's work.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I received this ARC thanks to NetGalley. I absolutely loved this book. It combines by love of history, romance, and mystery. I loved the main characters and the plot was fun and fast-paced with the right combination of mystery and romance. If you love mysteries, historical novels, or romances you will want to read this book.

This was a solid second book in the Matchmakers series! I enjoyed the few glimpes I got of the characters from the first book. And it was wonderful to dive into Eva and Nathan's story. I loved the chemistry and banter their two characters had with each other. I was also happy to see that the author didnt use any misunderstandings between the two to further the story--they were always a team and always had each other's backs. Eva is such a strong loyal character. And they had some sweet kisses. The only thing that I struggled with at times was the pace of the story--it had some slow spots.

“"Continue saying such things to me and shall drop to one knee this very moment and profess my adoration." He meant it as a jest. Of course, he did.”

A house party, a thoughtful meddling mother, a chance to win over Eva’s heart and a criminal seeking revenge, what could possibly go wrong for Detective Nathan Winston?

To Capture His Heart was a fun sequel to The Matchmaker’s Lonely Heart. This book focus on Detective Nathan Winston, who we meet in the previous book. And his crush Eva Caldwell, a up and coming photographer. Nathan’s mother is doing a house party and Nathan doesn’t want to deal with some of the party goers advances and convinces Eva to come and pretend to be interested in each other. Which we all know how well that goes. Lol.

I did really enjoy getting to know Nathan and Eva better. They were so different from the main characters from the previous book. Nathan is charming, lighthearted and a dedicated work. Eva is calm and caring, but knows how to put someone in their place. Eva has been hurt in the past which does cause a small problem for Nathan. But he doesn’t let that stop him from showing/proving to Eva he loves her.

I think my only problem with this book was that I thought the person seeking revenge on Nathan would be more of a prominent part of the book and it was more of a subplot. Yes it all tied together nicely but I was expecting more. This made the book seem a little slow at first. It was still enjoyable once I got over the realization the book was gonna focus more on the house party and Nathan and Eva falling in loved.

This book can be read as a stand alone.

Thanks NetGalley and Shadow Mountain for the ARC. These thoughts and opinions are my own.

This was a fun and entertaining story. I loved all the characters from the get go. I found it so refreshing how open and up front Nathan was about his feelings for Eva because I hate it when the main plot line is a miscommunication of some sort and this did not have that. I always enjoy a good mystery, too. Most of the action happened near the end but it was worth the wait. All in all, a great book and I can’t wait to read Charlotte’s story.

To Capture His Heart fell flat in the romance and the crime/mystery. There was pretty much no plot. The story really was about a high society party with a bit of romance and a pretend crime/mystery sprinkled in. I heard more about the party and its events, how catty the women were, and the type of gossip and conversations than I cared for. I would have preferred to see more time with Eva and Nathan or more of a set up for the criminal. Instead we get party details and then the last 20 pages the “criminal mastermind” is defeated in the blink of an eye due to his careless mistakes. Nathan and Eva profess their love for each other and boom novel over.
Thanks NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for a review.

I really liked this one, even more than the first!

Eva and Nathan have known each other for some time, from their mutual friends and in a professional capacity. They feel an attraction but haven't done anything about it so far.

This all changes when Nathan asks Evan to come photograph his mother's house party and pretend to be courting him. The new dynamic is just what they both need to move their relationship to more.

I also liked the mystery they try to solve, the criminal mind and the others with nefarious intents, and the way these situations escalate while bring Eva and Nathan together.

Catching up with old characters was also a treat.

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

This was a fun read! I enjoyed the first book and I was excited to see that there was going to be another addition to the series. To Capture His Heart is the second book in Nancy Campbell Allen’s Matchmaker series.
This was such a sweet book to read! The characters are easy to read and connect with. I adored both Eva and Nathan. They both felt like complex characters, but I loved getting to know them. Eva was so strong but she was also weary of others. I loved seeing her strengths and reading about her falling for Nathan. Nathan was sweet, I adored his relationship with his family. He was trying so hard to protect those he cared for. It was cute to read about him falling for Eva and trying to protect her.
I enjoyed the blend of mystery with romance. I was on the edge of my seat trying to finish the book! Eve and Nathan were getting to know each other at the party all the while trying to stay safe. Nathan and Eva would have to come together as they face a criminal from Nathan’s past.
I liked this one even more than the first book. I loved the characters, the story, and the romance. The side characters were fun and I hope that Nathan’s sisters get their own books! I would definitely recommend this book, it can be read standalone but it is so much more fun to read in order. To Capture His Heart is a clean historical mystery romance.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.

TO CAPTURE HIS HEART by NANCY CAMPBELL ALLEN is a delightful historical thriller that is full of romance and suspense and with an exciting plot.
Starting with beautiful photograper Evangeline Caldwell and her young assistant Sammy White, handsome detective Nathan Winston, his four practically identical sisters and his mother Christine, and going on to the less savoury Blanche Parker and Mathilda Dilworth, there is an interesting array of characters.
Mrs Christine Winston arranges a ten day house party with allkinds of entertainment at her Seaside holiday home, inviting an interesting group of young people, as well as her two best friends The only way Nathan can face the ten days surounded by young ladies who are only too keen to change his bacherlor status is if he pretends that he and Eva are romantically involved. This charade, together with the news that the criminal, Bernard Toole, is in the area and is after his family, keeps him on his toes……
I highly recommend To Capture His Heart as a most enjoyable read.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Shadow Mountain Publishing. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

I love Nancy Campbell Allen and her books! To Capture His Heart was just as great as I expected. Nancy’s very good at writing romantic suspense. I couldn’t put it down until I knew what happened and until Eva and Nathan had their happily ever after.
Eva and Nathan were so cute together. I love when things happen that I did not expect and one surprise was the great communication between Eva and Nathan. It was refreshing. They didn’t exactly keep things from each other and if either of them thought to keep a secret, those didn’t last long because they’re both are overly observant.