Although this Regency wasn't my favorite of Sarah E. Ladd's, I still reveled in my visit of the beauty of the moors and the gothicy nuance of Hollythorne House.

Charlotte Prior is an impulsive, rash, hot-tempered heroine—one who never did endear herself to me. However, as long as she did to hero, Anthony Welbourne, that's all that matters.

Anthony is everything a woman could ask for...stalwart, kind, courageous, and easy on the eyes. Although romantically involved four years prior, they separated without rancor until business circumstances reunite them. Danger lurks around every corner and I'll confess to skimming a bit. I guess I like a few romantic, glamorous balls thrown in to my Regency reading. lol

A beautifully descriptive novel that can be read as a stand-alone—be sure to include In the Shelter of Hollythorne House on your wishlist!

*I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley via Thomas Nelson and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*

“She loved him. She did, and the idea of it was intoxicating—of a love that would challenge time and endure war itself.”

I absolutely love Sarah E. Ladd’s books! In the Shelter of Hollythorne House is another brilliantly written Regency romance that takes place on the Yorkshire moors. It’s a romantic, suspenseful, second chance love story that immediately captured my attention. The characters were endearing yet complex and I found myself yearning to know what would happen next and hoping for a happy ending.

One of the many reasons I loved this book was because the hero reminded me a bit of Aiden Turner’s Poldark. Like that hero, Anthony Welbourne leaves the woman he loves to go off to war. With several obstacles between them, neither expects to see the other again. When he returns, he takes up a position with a band of men who perform dangerous missions for hire.

Despite her love for Anthony, Charlotte Grey agrees to her father’s wishes to marry a wealthy man and now has a little seven month old boy. When her cruel, conniving husband unexpectedly dies, she finds herself in a precarious situation with her husband’s uncle wanting her son. Fearing for her and her son’s safety, she tries to flee to her childhood home, Hollythorne House, but before she can get away, she’s forced to take two guards with her. In a twist of fate, Anthony happens to be one of the guards.

What was once imagined as a happy reunion is marred by the painful years in between. Both Anthony and Charlotte have suffered and been scarred by the past. However, the feelings they once had come back full force as they interact on a daily basis. As they slowly become reacquainted, they face imminent danger from those who would harm Charlotte’s son, the sole heir to her husband’s estate.

I loved the slow build, second chance romance. There’s such delicious tension as Charlotte and Anthony try to reconnect. I enjoyed Charlotte’s desire to be independent and her fierce protection of Henry. I loved watching Anthony with the little boy as well. I loved the way both of their pasts were carefully unraveled throughout the story. The suspense was intense as it slowly builds. Charlotte doesn’t know whom to trust, especially as she becomes aware she has something someone wants in addition to Henry. With some surprising twists and turns, the mystery kept me quickly turning the pages as it builds to an exciting conclusion.

Highly recommend this clean, heartfelt, romantic suspense to Regency romance & mystery fans. Though it’s the second book in the Houses of Yorkshire series, each book is meant to be read as a standalone. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given. 4 1/2 stars!

This is my first Sarah E Ladd book and after having so many recommend her books to me I am so glad I took them up on this book!

I instantly fell in love with the imagery throughout this book. It is rich in detail and her writing is smooth and quick paced...something I'm looking for in all romantic suspense books.

'He was a thief-taker--dark and enigmatic. She was a widow and a mother intent upon independence and autonomy.'

Second chance romance will always and forevermore be a favorite trope for me and I loved experiencing Anthony and Charlotte's romance throughout the pages.

'...she was finding it difficult to know how to act. He was a hired watchman, but her heart was determined to remember him quite differently.'

There are so many things working against Anthony and Charlotte--even sometimes themselves. There is a lot of character growth, rebuilding and emotional healing happening within the pages of this book and the author does a marvelous job and bringing things full circle. I loved the suspense, plot twists and the trying to figure things out before they were revealed!

If you love romantic suspense I would definitely add this to your TBR and get to it ASAP! I am equally as excited to be adding this author to my list of books to watch out for. I can't wait to see what she writes next!

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

Content/Trigger: death, abuse, war injuries, kidnapping, mild suspense, second chance romance, betrayal, friendship, kisses and great character arcs.

Charlotte's marriage was bad enough that she's glad when her husband dies of an apoplexy. Unfortunately, she soon realises that his death has merely changed her problems, not removed them. Henry, her seven-month-old son, is threatened from several directions, and she decides that her best plan is to retreat to her childhood home, Hollythorne House, which had been her dowry and was now hers. But her overbearing brother-in-law insists on her taking a guard to protect them - and probably to keep an eye on them for him - and things get still more complicated when one of the guards turns out to be the only man she's ever loved. As danger looms, can they determine who the real threat is in time to escape? And can the broken threads of their relationship ever be repaired?

This might be my favourite book by the author to date. Something about the relationship between Charlotte and Anthony really touched me, though I can't put my finger on what. I particularly enjoyed watching trust gradually grow between them, even as other things started to fall apart. I appreciated the interesting mix of characters, from pleasant to troubled to mysterious to thoroughly unpleasant - they definitely kept things interesting. The suspense side of things was also done really well overall (though a couple of things about the cottage scene felt a little bit 'off'), with the feeling of impending doom but no clear idea who was presenting the real danger. The setting was a nice touch too - a moor has the potential to be an intriguing place. All in all, a good read, though I might have liked to see a bit more of a 'faith' thread included.

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

A story of second chances, recovery from past pain and injury and trauma, and following your gut.

He went to war and she did what she thought was best, but quickly learned it was a mistake.
He is hired to protect her and they are back where they grew up, but will all that has happened since they parted, how will they work together?

A fun read, had my attention the whole time!

In the Shelter of Hollythorne House by Sarah E. Ladd is a wonderful story of second chances. Charlotte finds herself in a precarious situation as a new widow who needs protection. When Anthony walked away all those years ago, he never thought he would see Charlotte again, much less spend day after day with her as her protector. Set against the backdrop of the moors and moody weather, the two of them find out that things are not always as they seem. Sometimes you really do have to trust and stand for what is right, regardless of the cost. I loved seeing their friendship bloom despite everything and as old feelings refused to be doused, the way they were explored and kindled was just perfect.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

I am convinced I need more Sarah Ladd books in my life.

In the Shelter of Hollythorne House was such a great book! It was the perfect mix of second chance romance, a little forced proximity, mystery, suspense, plot twists you don't see coming, bad guys that deserve a facer, and lovable good guys.

I loved how Charlotte stood up for herself and took back some control of her life upon becoming a widow, and how she didn't just crumble and bow to her brother-in-law's demands. I also loved how patient and loving Anthony was towards her. They seriously were the cutest together!

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the early copy; all thoughts are my own :)

This book was not for me. Young woman married cruel older man, has a child, then the husband dies. She is left in the are of her brother-in-law who quickly boots her out of her home and sends her back to her family home (wher no family lives any more) This has been done before over and over again

A second chance to say the words...

Anthony Welbourne left to join the military at nineteen, without speaking of his feelings for Charlotte. Charlotte's life went on and she married of her rank and had a son. Years later, Anthony is back, an action adventure sort (think Poldark) and is a watcher, finding out what really went down. This time around, will they finally say the words, even though she is only just a widow and there is suspense to behad over his death.
Recommend.
4.5

In The Shelter of Hollythorne House by Sarah E. Ladd is a lovely Regency story.

Charlotte Grey and Anthony Welbourne met and fell in love, but their feuding families made it impossible. When Anthony went away to fight a war in America, Charlotte married Roland Pryor. Who turns out to be cruel and keeps her almost as a prisoner. When Roland dies, Charlotte see this as a chance to find freedom for herself and her young son Henry.

When Charlotte's brother in law hires two security men to protect her and his presumed heir, Charlotte is surprised to find Anthony as one of these men. Anthony is just as surprised, not realizing Charlotte had married.

There is mystery and intrigue throughout the story. Miss Ladd writes good clean romance with deep character development. If you love Regency period stories, this one is for you.

I received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher, through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own

A second chance romance with quite a gothic feel set on the moors of Yorkshire. It is also full of danger, mystery, deception and peril just to add some spice to the romance. The character's are likeable and interesting and the resolving of feeling between them was well developed and the mystery was good too. All in all an entertaining read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This was an enjoyable second chance Regency romance with a bit of intrigue included. The main characters – Charlotte and Anthony – were likeable to a certain extent, but I had a bit of trouble with the whole thing because it was very slow. It seemed like the hero and heroine spent a lot of time thinking about stuff, when some of it could have been left out. I can’t really figure out how Charlotte went from not trusting any man (including Anthony) to confiding in him and trusting him so quickly. All that said, it was still an enjoyable read. 3.5 stars

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

Charlotte Grey and Anthony Welbourne were in love. Their families are the bitterest of enemies so they met out on the moors, away from prying eyes. When Anthony purchased a commission in the army at his dead father’s bequest, he walked away from Charlotte, and towards the American Wars.
Meanwhile Charlotte has married Roland Prior, on the surface charming, underneath a controlling abusive husband. Roland was a dodgy mill owner who it turns out hasn’t paid his workers. His workers are after satisfaction.
Four years later Roland dies from apoplexy. Charlotte’s relief is short lived. Her brother-in-law Silas will have control of Henry her seven month old son, although Charlotte retains guardianship.
However she now owns Hollythorne House, the place on Blight Moor she grew up in. The very next morning she leaves for Hollythorne House and Yorkshire, with its memory of her secret love, and of happier times, accompanied by two of Walstead’s Watchmen. Silas has insisted upon them accompanying her due to the unrest with the mill workers, and fears of Henry being kidnapped. One of the guards is Anthony, who’s now working for William Walstead.
What follows is a tale of deceit, incredible bravery, friendships betrayed, and love.
Charlotte shows her true mettle as she faces hardship, learning to do the tasks any housewife knows about but she’s never had to confront, all the while refusing to accept help from Anthony, refusing to give him any reason to have a hold over her, refusing to face the attraction she feels for him.

There must be something wrong with me. The book had all the buzzwords i love, second chance, betrayal, and a lovestory that was very sweet. It had fierce and strong Main characters. But it felt a little bit too bland for me.
Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion

Atmospheric, almost gothic mystery, set in Regency times.

Charlotte Grey and Anthony Welbourne were in love. Their families are the bitterest of enemies so they met out on the moors, away from prying eyes. When Anthony purchased a commission in the army at his dead father’s bequest, he walked away from Charlotte, and towards the American Wars.
Meanwhile Charlotte has married Roland Prior, on the surface charming, underneath a controlling abusive husband. Roland was a dodgy mill owner who it turns out hasn’t paid his workers. His workers are after satisfaction.
Four years later Roland dies from apoplexy. Charlotte’s relief is short lived. Her brother-in-law Silas will have control of Henry her seven month old son, although Charlotte retains guardianship.
However she now owns Hollythorne House, the place on Blight Moor she grew up in. The very next morning she leaves for Hollythorne House and Yorkshire, with its memory of her secret love, and of happier times, accompanied by two of Walstead’s Watchmen. Silas has insisted upon them accompanying her due to the unrest with the mill workers, and fears of Henry being kidnapped. One of the guards is Anthony, who’s now working for William Walstead.
What follows is a tale of deceit, incredible bravery, friendships betrayed, and love.
Charlotte shows her true mettle as she faces hardship, learning to do the tasks any housewife knows about but she’s never had to confront, all the while refusing to accept help from Anthony, refusing to give him any reason to have a hold over her, refusing to face the attraction she feels for him.
An enthralling second chance romance.

A Thomas Nelson ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)

This book is a beautiful blend of Regency perfection. Take equal parts lost love, old ancesteral home, wounded widow, and a mystery that could destroy the hope of a future and you have a story I couldn't walk away from. Add in secrets and love and it was perfect on so many levels. I have long been a fan of Sarah Ladd's atmospheric words that transport me to Jane Austen's England and In the Shelter of Hollythorne House is exhibit A for why.Do yourself a favor and pick up this book. You won't be disappointed.

* Book Blurb : A young widow faces an uncertain future . . . until an unexpected encounter with her first love gives her heart a second chance in this Regency romance set on the Yorkshire Moors. England, 1817 —Charlotte Grey thought she had seen the last of Anthony Welbourne. Knowing her father would never consent to his only daughter marrying a man he deemed beneath their family’s station, Charlotte bid her final farewell to Anthony and vowed never to turn back. Instead, she honored her father’s wishes by marrying the wealthy Roland Prior. Determined to put his love for Charlotte in the past, Anthony chose to immerse himself in a life full of meaning—first as a soldier fighting a war overseas, then as a member of William Walstead’s watchmen, a rugged band of men dispatched to deal with perilous situations. Fearless and persistent, he makes it his life’s focus to fight for those who can’t fight for themselves. When Charlotte’s husband dies unexpectedly, she quickly realizes how blind she’d been to his nefarious ambitions and how many people he’d angered on his relentless quest for wealth. To protect her infant son, Henry, from those who wish him harm, she and the baby flee to Hollythorne House, her childhood home. There Charlotte comes face-to-face with her former love, who has been sent as one of the hired watchman to protect her and Henry until the details of her late husband’s estate are settled. Anthony’s presence brings back feelings she never expected to have again, and she struggles to trust his intentions. Are the watchmen really looking after Charlotte as they claim—or are they looking to make trouble for Roland’s estate and heir? Despite the constant reminders of their past, Anthony must remain focused on the task he was hired to do. But when new threats emerge and the past collides with the present, both must decide what they are willing to risk for the chance to right old wrongs and carve out a new future . . . together.*

If you like Julie Klassen or Abigail Wilson you'll love this gothic regency. I enjoyed Charlotte's character arc and discovering how strong she is and the new woman she becomes. I also enjoyed Charlotte and Anthony's romance; they had a lot to work through of their past together. Reading about adults who aren't acting selfishly is so refreshing, And there was actually a good amount of mystery and intrigue that had me guessing. I really enjoyed this whole book. 4,5 stars

“In the Shelter of Hollythorne House” is filled with past secrets, present perils, and future potential. Charlotte and Anthony are separated by a family feud and their life decisions. When life throws them back together again, the reader walks with them through danger, mystery, deceptions, and peril. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The reader meets several intriguing characters and gets to enjoy seeing them grow and adapt to the ever changing circumstances of life. The element of mystery in the book is intriguing and I was not totally able to predict the end, even right up to the end. I recommend this book to readers, wholeheartedly. I would really like to read more about these characters, because I enjoyed this glimpse into their lives.

I requested and received a copy of this book for review. The words and thoughts expressed here are wholly my own.

3.75/5⭐️

Set in 1817 on the Yorkshire Moors, a young Charlotte Grey meets and falls for Anthony Welbourne who must leave to become a soldier. She then agrees to marry a wealthy man that her father has chosen who turns out to be cruel and controlling. At her husband’s death, their infant Henry becomes his heir, and his uncle wants to take him to raise for his future role. Charlotte refuses and takes Henry back to her childhood home, Hollythorne House, which she inherited from her father, and where she must learn how to stand on her own as its mistress.

Her husband left behind ill-gotten gains and angry unpaid villagers, some who have made threats against Charlotte/Henry. Anthony, who has returned injured from the war, is hired to guard Hollythorne from danger and discovering Charlotte there, realizes that he still loves her.

This was a quick, easy read. I found it a bit lacking on some of the character development (felt I was thrown in without enough background), and the writing felt a little simplistic. But overall, an OK read.

My thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for providing the free early arc of In the Shelter of Hollythorne House for review. The opinions are strictly my own.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Sarah E Ladd for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for In the Shelter of Hollythorne House coming out July 11, 2023. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

England, 1817.

Charlotte Grey left her home, thinking she had seen the last of Anthony Welbourne. Her father would never consent to her marrying a man he deemed beneath their family’s station. Charlotte bid her final farewell to Anthony and honored her father’s wishes by marrying the wealthy Roland Prior.

Determined to put his love for Charlotte in the past, Anthony Welbourne chose to better himself. He became a soldier fighting a war overseas, then he joined William Walstead’s watchmen. As a watchman, he puts himself in dangerous, perilous situations. Fearless and persistent, he vows to protect those who can’t fight for themselves.

When Roland Prior dies suddenly, Charlotte quickly realizes how blind she’d been to his evil ambitions and how many people he’d angered on his relentless quest for wealth. To protect her infant son, Henry, from those who wish them harm, she and the baby flee to the house she grew up in, Hollythorne House. Charlotte comes face to face with her former love, who has been sent as one of the hired watchman to protect her and Henry until legal matters are settled.

Anthony’s presence brings back feelings she never expected to feel again, and she struggles to trust Anthony’s intentions. Despite the consistent reminders of their past, Anthony must stay focused on the task he was hired to do. But when new danger arises, and the past collides with the present, both must decide what they are willing to risk for the chance to forgive and carve out a new future . . . together.

Sarah E Ladd is one of my favorite authors. Sometimes I don’t like Second Chance romances, but this was such a sweet story. I loved this book and the characters! It reminded me a little of Jane Austen’s Persuasion. I thought Anthony and Charlotte were solid characters with a lot of emotions from the past. I love when Regency era women have more opportunities like being able to have their home. There was some action and danger, but they worked together.

I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys sweet Regency romances!