4.5 stars
This is a fun story idea. Searching for Shakespeare's papers together was an interesting way to spend time together and get to know one another. I liked the main characters. I loved that Miranda was so intellectual and that her parents were so supportive in her choices. Their family relationship was fun. They aren't just stodgy people who care nothing for anything beyond their academic pursuits. They are funny and spend life laughing together even though they are serious about academics. I loved that. This was a clear contrast to Robert and his family. His mother was pretty awful.
There is a lot of quoting Shakespeare through out the book but you don't have to know Shakespeare well to enjoy the book. I found it to be an enjoyable read.

No sex or language
Some violence
*I received a complimentary ARC through NetGalley and voluntarily chose to review it.

I love Miranda's character. She is so happy, fun, smart and genuinely good. Her parents are the same. Not at all like some families. Robert is titled but so deep in debt from his Father that he doesn't know if he can ever get out. When he receives a letter from M. Hatch about documents he might possibly be in possession of, he dismisses it first. Then things happen that make him reconsider, this just might be his ticket to paying off the back taxes and save his estate. He has no idea M. Hatch is actually Miranda and when he meets her it is instant chemistry. This story is part mystery, part adventure and beautiful romance. I loved it!

I truly enjoyed this book.
Contains spoilers.
Usually, books that have a hidden treasure are not my favorite kind. There is usually too much focus on the treasure or the story is manipulated for the benefit of the treasure being found. Not so in this case.
The heroine is a 26 year old scholar who is the daughter of a former governess and tradesman-turned-scholar. Her grandfather left a company to her father, but her father wanted to follow scholarly pursuits, so he sold the company for an obnoxious amount of money. They then lived a simple, but gentle life as part of the gentry. The heroine was raised as a young lady of quality, but chose to research and read Shakespeare and about his life. Her father was writing a book and she had already been published.
The hero inherited a marquessate that was over hundred thousand pounds in debt. He won't be able to offer a dowery for his younger sister, yet his mother insists on spending money they do not have. His mother has tried to get him to marry an heiress, repeatedly, but he doesn't want to marry for that reason. He needs to sell what ever he has to raise the money.
The hero meets the heroine when he is travelling to meet a scholar who had sent him a request for papers dated around the time of Shakespeare, because one of his ancestors was part owner in Shakespeare's theater. They met when she was walking on a country road and he was speeding along. He stopped when he realized how close he was to her and she was so mad. After verbally eviscerating him, she walked home across the fields. He was impressed with her fiery nature. A few hours later, he was very happy to see that she was the scholar he was to meet. Since the price of finding proof of Shakespeare signature would help him pay the interest on the mortgages, he was very interested in locating something and was very interested in having the heroine help him. The more they were together, the more they were attracted to each other.
What I liked about this story was the way the affection grew between the couple. I liked both characters very much. I liked how the story described their daily life and interaction with family members. It touched a little on society parties, but the focus was the growth of both parties. I would definitely add to my keeper shelf to read again and again. I would give this book 5 stars and a recommendation to read.

At times this novel felt more like a research paper on Shakespeare's writing than a story, but overall it was an interesting read with a clean story that can be enjoyed in a few hours or over the course of a few days depending on your reading speed!

Secret of the Sonnets started with the promise of a good ole fashioned mystery revolving around Shakespeare's works in a regency setting with a bit of a romance thrown in. If that was all that happened in this book, I would have given it five stars. The witty banter and descriptive styling of the author were really, really good.

However, somewhere around a third of the way into the book, the author seemed to throw in a variety of subplots that, instead of solidifying the plot or helping the protagonists along, took center stage and ended without any real satisfying resolution. What we were left with was little character development and, frankly, confusion as to why the two main characters seemed to fall in love.

I wish that more time was spent flushing out the quest to find the lost documents in a more active way, instead of making the main plot take place as an afterthought for this unique story idea.

"Secret of the Sonnets" is a romance set in 1812 in England. Miranda loves literature and is a scholar with ambitions of finding original documents written or signed by Shakespeare. Robert has inherited a crushing load of debt from his father and sees no way to pay back so much debt...especially as his family continues to spend his money so freely. They suggest he engage in a loveless marriage with an heiress, but he's intrigued by a letter from Miranda. She thinks he may have a document with Shakespeare's signature if he'll search for it. It'd sell for enough to help pay back his debts. Though they have different interests and backgrounds, they're attracted to each other.

The main characters were engaging and reacted realistically to events. Though they didn't share many interests, Robert started reading more to understand the quotes that Miranda and her father tossed around in their lively banter. She's terrified of horses but gamely allowed Robert to not only drive her around but even teach her a bit about driving his beloved horses. They supported each other during their adventurous search for the valuable Shakespeare signature. I cared about what happened to them and wanted them to marry. There was no bad language or sex scenes. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable historical romance.

Miranda Hatch is a scholar who has inherited her father’s love of Shakespeare. She is determined to find Shakespeare’s missing manuscripts and is willing to sacrifice to do so. Lord Robert Hamilton, a marquess, has inherited his father’s debt and is desperately trying to save himself and his family from financial ruin. When a clue Miranda stumbles upon brings them together, romance, mystery and danger ensue.

Secret of the Sonnets, written by Samantha Hastings, was a pleasant surprise! From the beginning, I was drawn into the story and cheering for our leading couple.

I loved the chemistry between Miranda and Robert. They had many swoon worthy moments including an impromptu dance. The side characters were just as delightful, especially dear Alice. Not knowing much about Shakespeare, I enjoyed the little tidbits of his history. Having the mystery focus on his works was a fun idea.

The one thing I found myself wanting a little more of was closure with the enemy. I understand why the author ended it how she did but who doesn’t want the bad guy to get what he deserves? Thankfully, our characters overcame this disappointment and so will I.

If you love regency, romance and mystery, this one is for you. I will definitely read this one again.

Thank you to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for an ARC copy. These thoughts and opinions are my own.

This was such an interesting story with a bluestocking protagonist, Miranda Hatch, and her love of Shakespeare’s writings. She is passionate about the Bard’s works and unearthing hidden clues to see if there may yet be more to be discovered. I always love reading about treasure hunts and this was extremely unique.

While Miranda is on the trail to learn more about Shakespeare’s sonnets, she is aided by an unlikely ally, Lord Robert Hamilton. He is the opposite of her in many respects. He is nobility; she is from the working class; he isn’t well read; Miranda’s life centers around literature; Robert needs money; Miranda is wealthy. The adage that opposites attract certainly applies to them. It was delightful to see them work together to overcome prejudices and obstacles.

There is a surprising twist and one that is is sure to intrigue those who love the sonnets of Shakespeare. I thought it was clever that Miranda and her father used quotes from Shakespeare’s works while they were talking. Much like we do at our house with our favorite movies. The opening lines from various sonnets was a nice addition to the book. I appreciate all of the research that Ms. Hastings had done for the book. I recommend reading this book if you enjoy historical romances and/or mysteries.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in the review are my own.

Miranda was fantastic! I love seeing a string, smart woman with parents who support her for who she is and that she makes no apologies for it. Having a hot guy like it too is even better!

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

Winkfield, England, 1812

Lord Robert Hamilton is drowning in debt after his father's death, so when M. (Miranda) Hatch’s letter arrives on his desk inquiring about obtaining correspondence that may have transpired between his great-great-grandfather and William Shakespeare, he puts it aside. He has no interest in the writing world.

He is beguiled by Miranda Hatch when they finally meet at her parent's home. He is surprised by her parents but most importantly, Miranda. She is an accomplished scholar and has no interest in marrying as is evident being six and twenty and a spinster. Lord Robert Hamilton is encouraged to look for possible correspondence because it could help him pay off his overwhelming debts.

Secrets of the Sonnets was a cute regency romance detailing the sonnets written by William Shakespeare’s wife, Anne Hathaway. I really liked Miranda and her parents were very supportive and loving towards their daughter who didn’t follow society’s norms as was expected of a woman, she was a scholar and loved the written word. I think this is what initially drew Robert towards Miranda, she didn't pretend who she wasn't, and he was attracted to her authenticity. This was a slow read for me, but I still enjoyed it nonetheless!

My gratitude to Netgalley and Covenant Communications. All opinions expressed are mine.

#SecretoftheSonnets #NetGalley
A book about Shakespeare's sonnets, I have to admit I haven't read any of Shakespeare's works. Miranda is fascinated with Shakespeare's sonnets and is determined to find the original papers. Ina time when a woman scholar was n I t seen in a man's world, Miranda published articles and wants to continue to write and publish.
Lord Marsworth, is trying to pay off the debt that is father chained him with, but is having a hard time paying off the debt. When he receives a letter asking for any letters his family might have with Shakespeare's signature and that someone is willing to pay handsomely for them, the search is on. This book is a little on the quirky side, family that spouts off jokes and quotes plays by Shakespeare'. Overall it was a well written story.

This is the second book by this author that I have read. This one was interesting, lots of Shakespeare references, which I honestly don't know, but it was fun. The heroine is older, a scholar of literature, mostly Shakespeare. She is surrounded by her parents who love to banter with her, especially her father. I loved their relationship!
Our hero is trying to save the estate his father left in ruins. His mother leaves much to be desired, but he does have a few fun sisters.
Can Shakespeare bring these two together, save his estate, and allow true love to bloom?
This was a fun read, a little predictable at times. The bad characters are definitely ones you do not like and you definitely choose who to cheer on!

Read it for the:
- references to William Shakespeare
- Scholar FMC/Sportsman MC dynamic
- Charming romance
- Mystery elements
- funny side characters
- overall light-hearted tone

Secret of the Sonnets is a regency romance that is a treat to English literature and sweet romance fans alike.

I was not expecting to have such a fun time reading this story. It had a little bit of everything- mystery, humor, romance, banter, and historical facts, but kept an overall light-hearted and entertaining tone.

What I loved most was the dynamics between the characters. The side characters added to the plot and added a certain realism to the book to keep it grounded. I loved the Hatch family and their conversations. Alice the maid also brought in some good laughs with her untimely interruptions and well-meaning comments.

The romance between Robert and Miranda was one I found unique in that they did not have many common interests - Miranda being a lady scholar from a low-class family with a fear of horses and Robert- being an avid sportsman and Marquess who didn't like to read. However, despite this fact, their romance was well-paced and entertaining to watch grow. They had the chemistry. They brought in the flirt. And they worked together.

I was intrigued by reading some of the research done by the author on William Shakespear and his sonnets. My inner literary nerd enjoyed the quotes sprinkled throughout the novel. The mystery element kept the plot fresh. But I will say the final resolution felt like it could have had something more.

Overall, this was a fun read and I look forward to reading more from this author.


*I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

I loved this book - the characters, the plot, and most of all the liberal use of Shakespeare quotes! This is such a unique spin on bluestockings and the Regency era and I enjoyed it immensely! I hope to read more from this author.


I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Interesting storyline that you don't come across all the time. The one area that seemed off was when the older lady tossed the Shakespeare paper in the fire. It read like they could have used the money, so why did she burn it.

When I saw the cover of this book I instantly wanted to read it. It is pure perfection. But how about the story? The main character was likable and I cheered her on. Miranda was bookish, funny and didn’t hesitate a moment before going on an adventure to find the lost manuscripts of the Bard. The pacing was good, the titbits about Shakespeare thrown here and there were interesting enough. Still, the characters felt two-dimensional to me. I didn’t really connect with any of them. The mood of the book was cheerful even when the characters were bruised, tied up and locked in a shed or on a brink of financial ruin. There is something like too much cheerfulness, I discovered, at times it was grating. Also, the final discovery… I am not sure, but it was a bit much. To sum up, the book was lighthearted and pleasing, but a little silly. If you don’t mind a little silliness and you like Shakespeare you may consider reading it.

I received "Secret of the Sonnets" from the publisher via NetGalley. I would like to thank the author and the publisher for providing me with the advance reader copy of the book.

Samantha Hastings' "Secret of the Sonnets" is an entertaining Regency romance with quite the unique premise: searching for obscure Shakespeare writings. At the time, being an intelligent woman was frowned upon; instead she was expected to marry young and produce offspring. Enter lovely heroine, Miranda Hatch, who loves books, fears horses, is highly intelligent and a spinster, to boot. Robert Hamilton, Marquess of Marsworth, lover of horses and indifferent to books, is nonetheless a perfect hero. Opposites attract, indeed!

Characters are well-developed, from the clueless Lady Hamilton to the snake Sir Antony Foakes. Banter is lively, clever, and witty; who knew one could carry on a conversation solely using lines from Shakespeare? Many of Shakespeare's works were required reading for me in school, much to my dismay. Now, this much-older reader can appreciate the Bard's wit and perception. The clever use of his quotes is on full display here and is quite effective. Hastings' research is comprehensive.

"Secret of the Sonnets" is finely written, well-edited and clean. Samantha Hastings is a new author for me, and I plan to read more of her works.

Thanks to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for an ARC of this engaging novel.

This is the first book I’ve read by this author and she quickly became an author I want to read more from. Secrets of the Singer was very well written and kept me engaged from page one all the way to the end.

This was a good book, but I just had a harder time getting into it. Secrets of the Sonnets is the first book that I have read by Samatha Hasting and it was fascinating. I did end up really enjoying the book once I got into it, but it was a slower start for me.
The characters were quirky and interesting. I love how Miranda spoke her mind. Her parents had raised a smart, outspoken young lady which was so different from most ladies at that time. Miranda was searching for her place, but I love how she never tried to change herself. It was cute to read about Miranda falling for Robert and seeing that maybe there was more to life than reading Shakespeare. Miranda had to work to get over the hurts of the past and trust people again.
Robert was just trying his best. He was trying to keep his family afloat. Poor Robert, I felt really bad for him. He didn't have the greatest relationship with his family and yet he was forced to shoulder the burden of caring for them. Robert was a sweetheart and it was fun to read about him connecting with Miranda. Robert had to learn how to reach for his own happiness.
The witty banter between the characters was one of my favorite things about this book. It made the book so fun to read. There were also hints of mystery and I was wondering how Robert and Miranda were going to end up together. The story was interesting but the beginning was a bit harder for me so that made the story drag a bit. But it did start to pick up as I kept on reading.
I just wish that Robert had a better relationship with his siblings. I love reading about siblings so I was a bit sad about that part. I adored Eugenia and Frederick, though, they were wonderful additions to the story.
Secrets of the Sonnets was an engaging read and I would recommend it to those who enjoy historical romance with a bit of adventure. I did enjoy the little tidbits that the author wove in about Shakespeare. Secrets of the Sonnets is a clean historical 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.

I enjoyed reading Secrets of the Sonnets and hope to read more like this by Samantha Hastings in the near future. Four stars.