Member Reviews
I enjoyed reading this book. I loved the support system that Abraham had- great friends and great family. I loved getting to know him and I also loved his relationship with Chiara’s brother. Every interaction between those two was adorable. I will say that Chiara herself wasn’t my favorite person. She seemed like such a selfish person- the only one she was nice to was her brother. She did mellow out and start acting more kindly towards the end though. I thought it was interesting how the book was wrapped up- it was pretty believable. They didn’t have EVERYTHING turn out perfectly. They both had to make some sacrifices to be together.
I am so glad the Jamison brothers get to tell their stories as well. I loved getting to know them in Phoebe's book and enjoyed getting to know them better in Abraham's story. He and Chiara are both interesting characters. It was fun seeing how they connected and how their relationship evolved. I wasn't a big fan of Chiara in the beginning, but she grew and changed and I found I liked her quite a bit. Chiara and Abraham really complimented each other and their love was sweet. I love the Jamison family and how close they are. They are a big part of the story and such a wonderful support system. I'm anxious for the other brothers' stories.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley and this is my honest review.
I read Forever Pheobe in 2020, and I remember hoping that this would turn into a series and Chalon Linton would write books about each of Pheobe's brothers. They each popped off the page. I forgot about them, but I saw Chiara's Choice listed on NetGalley and knew I had to check it out. I didn't even put it together that the leading male character, Abraham, was one of Pheobe's brothers. But once I realized it, I was so happy.
I enjoyed the dynamic of this duo. Chiara is a wealthy girl. Her dowry is impressive, but both her father and mother seem to try to use Chiara whenever possible. She has had little affection from her mother and less from her father. When she meets people, she has developed methods to get what she wants from them as they are nearly always trying to use her also. Only as soon as she meets Abraham, his nature suggests he might be someone she is interested in knowing more deeply.
Abraham is the most serious of Pheobe's brothers, excluding Gregory. He's honest and no-nonsense. But he's floundering a bit because he can't figure out what he wants to do with his life, his profession. As a second son, there is no inheritance for him. He has to make his own way in the world and earn his own living. He isn't interested in the church or law, nor the military. That leaves very few options for him. And as such, he has nothing to offer Chiara. And he certainly isn't aiming to marry her for her money. Chiara attempts to use the manipulation games she's created and used on others, but Abraham sees straight through her ruse and refuses to play along.
Normally, books set in this time are against a particular path for a couple. That is because this path typically leads to scandal. But I liked that Chalon Linton presented it in this case in a way that the reader could root for success where we normally would root for failure. Anytime you can put a spin on something that isn't usually done in a way that still causes you to root for the characters is a bonus. I'm being vague on purpose, but that's the best I can do without spoiling things.
Chiara's Choice was very enjoyable, and I read it quickly. I was happy to root for Chiara and Abraham. And I liked that their relationship, journey, and choices weren't typical in my experience with this genre. I couldn't help hoping they succeeded. And I am still dying to read at least Peter's story. I don't know how things will play with Gregory since he is already in love, and it seems a good portion of his story is already written. Chiara's Choice gets 4 Stars. Have you read Chiara's Choice? What did you think? Let me know!
Chiara and Abraham are two very opposite in temperament characters! They have some misunderstandings along the development of their relationship, but especially at the beginning that definitely sets the tone for how they perceive and act towards each other for a while. Their walls start to crumble along the way as they truly start to see each other for who they are.
Chiara has a very strong personality, which after being told how to act and what to do and having everything expected to be a certain way, she takes control of her life in the only way she has been able to. Which creates some humorous moments for sure. And some awkward ones as well. Mostly awkward for Abraham. ;-)
I liked seeing more of their pasts unfold which brought more understanding for me as a reader as well as for these two characters. But there are still some misunderstandings and hurts that come. I really liked both of these two characters' siblings. They were such a fun and great addition to the storyline.
Throw in a mother that you will not like but will cheer over something in regards to her later on in the story and the cast of characters and their activities/outings will pull you into this story.
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I like Chiara's spunkiness. She has such a fiery personality that she uses to manipulate circumstances around her to her benefit. She tries to use this on Abraham and he surprises her.
Abraham is determined to not be manipulated by Chiara and avoids her as much as he can. I love how he sticks strongly to his beliefs, but also that he can see when he needs to not be so strict in them.
I love how it is an apology that gets them moving from enemies to friends. I also love how once they become friends they still struggle sometimes and they have to learn to communicate and trust each other.
Thanks to Covenant Communications and Netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
As the daughter of an Italian baron, Chiara Madero’s family is determined that she will be able to secure an advantageous match. When she travels to England with her mother, she meets Mr. Abraham Jamison, a second son with little social standing, is not what her family expects for her. However, Chiara thoroughly enjoys his company and he, soon finds himself drawn to her. What follows is a romance between two people who must fight to convince Chiara’s family, that Abraham is a man worthy of her.
An enjoyable romance between two very different characters. I loved Chiara’s feisty manner and her desire to be her own person. I also enjoyed how Abraham is able to stand up for himself and his feelings for Chiara. His family’s support resonated and helped shape his character. A sweet read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Historical romance with a twist
I enjoyed Chiara's Choice. I confess that I found it a bit hard to get hooked but once I did, I couldn't put it down. The heroine seems to be a real brat but once you get to know her, you can really see her motivation. You then realize how limited she, as the daughter of an Italian baron and an heiress, really was in controlling her life and the real cry for help behind her behavior. Our hero is a very proper gentleman who hates to be manipulated. As a second son, his prospects are limited and he can't afford to woo the heroine, so there's a bit of a enemy to lover theme.
Thank you to the publisher who lent me a time limited e-arc via netgalley with no obligation. This review is optional and my own opinion.
Be prepared to go through a gamut of emotions. I enjoy Chalon Linton’s books whether she’s writing contemporary or historical romance stories. This opposites attract, enemies to lovers romance starts out with a fiery Italian baron’s daughter who enjoys pushing her suitors’ buttons. She meets her match though in a gentleman who will not be manipulated. As they frequently meet, the sparks fly, but is there more to this Italian diva than meets the eye?
It took me a while to like Chiara Madero. She appears pushy, demanding, and a bit mischievous. When Abraham Jamison refuses to dance with her, the challenge is on. Used to having men fall at her feet, Abraham is definitely a formidable opponent. Her controlling family wants her to only marry a titled English gentleman. Yet, there’s something about this second son and his adorable family that Chiara can’t resist. As the story progresses, we find out why Chiara is the way she is. Underneath all that bravado, is a woman desperate for real love and control of her fate. I increasingly gained sympathy for her after seeing how she was treated by her parents.
Abraham is practical, steady, & unsure of what he wants to do in life. He doesn’t want to join the military or clergy like most second sons so, he’s a little lost. One thing he’s not is a pushover, and there’s no way he’s falling for Chiara’s machinations. He’s also very knowledgeable and enjoys teaching others. He takes Chiara’s little brother under his wing and enjoys helping him learn English. The two make a bargain though which later comes back to haunt him.
Chiara has a habit of murmuring her true feelings in Italian and lucky for Abraham, he can fluently speak it. He gains insights into her true personality this way and really comes to care for her. But, what happens when Chiara learns the truth? With all the obstacles between them, can these two opposites possibly have a future together?
Both Chiara and Abraham made mistakes and needed to grow and change. While they’re both so different, they complimented each other. I enjoyed the way they finally find the courage to go after what they want.
I loved the Jamison family. Where Chiara’s family is cold and controlling, the Jamisons are just the opposite. They’re supportive, kind, and enjoy teasing and having fun together. I can’t wait to read the rest of the brothers’ stories!
This is definitely a unique, slow burn romance with a few twists and surprises along the way, but the ending is so worth it! It’s a standalone, but has ties to two previous books, Forever Phoebe & Escape to Everly Manor. If you enjoy clean, Regency romances, you might like this book. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Chalon Linton for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Chiara’s Choice coming out August 8, 2023. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Chiara Madero is the only daughter of an Italian baron. She is all that is beauty and charm. But she has a fiery temperament and sharp tongue when confronted. Her personality has no bearing when it comes to her family who want her to secure a match equal to their status. She must away to the London Ton to find a wealthy, titled husband.
Mr. Abraham Jamison is not the firstborn son and has dallied away in choosing an occupation. Nevertheless, his honest and straightforward nature immediately alerts Chiara’s attention. He is unsuitable for a woman of her station, but she can’t resist seeking out him out. Abraham sees through her stubborn personality, yet after waging a battle of wits, an unexpected friendship forms between them.
Abraham’s wish is to become a man worthy of her. But when faced with her family’s determination, he and Chiara must face their feelings and find the strength to defy a stubborn obstacle: Chiara’s mother.
Overall, I really liked this story. I thought Chiara’s Italian background offered something new to the usual English Georgian Era stories. It was a sweet book and I enjoyed the writing. There were a couple plot points that I quite didn’t understand. I missed the part where Chiara didn’t know that Abraham could speak Italian. I thought that was why she spoke to him in Italian. So when she got mad about him tricking her, it was a little confusing. I think it’s a little rude to speak to someone in a language you know they don’t understand and I’m not sure why she would tell him her true feelings if she thought he didn’t understand her. So I didn’t really like that misunderstanding plot. Abraham and Chiara were at times both stubborn and wrong in their behavior. But I enjoyed most of it.
I would recommend this to anyone who likes sweet Regency stories!
Sigh. Another adorable regency romance to add to my shelf. The cover, the story, all of it.
If you like A Fine Gentleman by Sarah M Eden, feisty heroines, stoic and solid heroes, horse races, adorable younger brothers, opposites attract, regency romance and sweet endings that take you on a bit of a journey, I would highly recommend this one.
Chiara's Choice by Chalon Linton
This is one of my favorite reads of this year and definitely my favorite book by this author! I loved Chiara. She is a strong fiery Italian female. And Abraham is an improved humble version of Mr. Darcy. Seriously such a sweet romance with such a great ending. I definitely recommend this book!
#ChiarasChoice #NetGalley
Chiara is the daughter of an Italian Baron. She comes to England with her mother in order to find a suitable husband. Good set up so far. She has a younger half brother who she takes responsibility for since he is her father's son rather than her mother's. She doesn't have a lot of choices in her life,
Abraham is a younger son and he does not know what he wants in life. He sees Chiara as snobby and unfeeling.
Together they get to know each other a little more. He understands Italian and she is unaware so he gets insights into who she is because of the things she says to herself.
Her younger brother struggles with English, so Abraham teaches him as long as he doesn't tell Chiara.
The two of them finally see past their own prejudices and find what they are looking for and it may not be what they thought it was.
I love this story about an unlikely pair who are just seeking to find what eludes them. It is well written with good tension and humor. The situations they find themselves in ring true and feel like they might have really happened.
I received an eARC through NetGalley and this is my honest review
CHIARA'S CHOICE by Chalon Linton
Have you read Forever Phoebe? If you haven’t, it's still on sale on kindle for a $1.99 as of this writing.
Phoebe is one of the Jamison siblings. It was nice to revisit with her and Everly in Chiara's Choice. Abraham Jamison was the quiet brother but full of conviction. His first meeting with Chiara didn't turn out well since she was stubborn and self-absorbed. I didn't like Chiara at first and then I wasn't pleased with Abraham because he lied about his fluency in Italian. This slow burn romance focused more on the protagonists character development which was nice. I also enjoyed the relationship among the Jamison family. They were so fun and were not shy in showing their care for each other.
I can't wait to read more books in this series.
Rating : ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pub date : 08 Aug 2023
Thank you Covenant Communications and #netgalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
I loved Chiara's Choice so much! It seems crazy to me that I almost quit reading it after the first chapter. I was initially turned off by Chiara's forthright and brash nature. Thankfully, I gave it another chapter and quickly fell in love with Chiara. I am grateful the author didn't spend more than one chapter before giving us a peak into Chiara's motives. I'm not sure I could have kept going otherwise and then I would have missed such a good book. There was so much I loved, but I particularly loved Abraham. I always love a quiet hero. Overall, this is a solid Regency romance that I believe anyone would enjoy.
Chiara's Choice was written by one of my favorite authors, Chalon Linton. She has a way of writing such relatable characters that you remember for a long time. Chiara's Choice is part of the Everly Series that features the Jamison family. I've loved the previous two books, Escape to Everly Manor and Forever Phoebe. This third book is a fantastic addition to the series.
Chiara Madero is the daughter of an Italian Baron looking for the perfect man her parents want her to marry. This lady is full of spice and doesn't want to head into a loveless marriage like her parents. Here she is in the London Marriage Mart and isn't very impressed with what she is seeing.
Abraham Jamison is a wonderful and perfect gentleman but not a first son. He has nothing to offer a baron's daughter. When these two people meet they clash and fireworks ensue. If you are looking for an enemies-to-lovers trope, you are reading the right book. There are moments when you get frustrated with both Chiara and Abraham. Chiara is very much in control until readers find out that she feels exactly the opposite. I grew to like her more and more as the story went on. Abraham also gained courage and strength as he spent more time with Chiara.
Chiara's Choice is a love story about two people that fight hard for their love. They both are up against societal expectations and need the bravery to stand up for themselves. Just know that there is a surprising "Happily Ever After" that will make readers smile. I'm excited to see what happens in the next Everly Series book.
Chiara’s Choice was an interesting book. The two main characters are such opposites. They perfectly balanced each other out. Though it took quite some time for them to realize it.
Chiara is a headstrong girl who wants to be noticed and heard. She wants to be in control of her destiny. As the daughter of an Italian baron her parents send her England to make a good connection. She has learned growing up that the only way she gets her way is through throwing fits and by manipulation. This doesn’t go over so well with Abraham. He is attracted to her but not about to be manipulated by her. In response to her attempts he gives her quite a set down. Thus begins the enemies to more situation.
This was an enjoyable book, although it is a very slow burn romance. If you enjoy enemies to lovers and forbidden romance tropes you will likely enjoy this book.
Chiara’s is very controlling with Abraham in the beginning and he does not appreciate her manipulation. She is Italian and slips into Italian to say her feelings thinking no one speaks Italian. However, Abraham does but he doesn’t tell her that. Abraham meets Chiara’s brother who is having trouble speaking English so Abraham agrees to teach him but Chiara cannot know. Chiara is still determined to be with Abraham even though he rejected her manipulative dance before but then he rejects her again. At this point, you feel bad for her. They end up apologizing to each other and start anew. They become friends and everything seems good Except for the fact he doesn’t tell her he speaks Italian, what will happen when she finds out?
My first read from this author, and I loved it! Chiara is very controlling and manipulative at first but learns to be vulnerable and trust. Abraham is determined not to be controlled and ends up being like Chiara before realizing his mistakes. I loved how they both learned from their mistakes! Chiara’s family situation is horrible. I really liked Abraham and Chiara’s relationship, I don’t think I’ve read a couple quite like them. I especially liked the end which I know I haven’t read that event in a book before. I’m sure there are some but it’s a first for me. Overall great read and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Chiara Madero takes Abraham Jamison’s world by storm as she follows none of the English societal conventions that are expected of young women. Could it be because she is newly arrived from Italy or is it simply her way of doing things? I found Abraham’s declaration to be refreshing when he tells Chiara at their first meeting that she should look elsewhere if she wishes to marry someone with money and a title. Navigating their relationship had its ups and downs but I enjoyed seeing how they worked through the tough spots.
Abraham’s family is so supportive of him. They have given him time and space to choose his career and also his marriage prospects. I love that his sister Phoebe is a diehard matchmaker and does everything she can to see Chiara and Abraham have their relationship succeed. I also think that Abraham and Chiara have a wonderful and true friend in Lord Landon. I hope we get to read his story in the future.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
There were so many things I enjoyed about this book. It has a grump/sunshine...even an enemies to more vibe going on. Abraham does not like his buttons pushed and Chiara knows all the right ones to push to drive him crazy. It also has a hint of forced proximity, definitely off-limits romance and so much happening in between all of those!
'Chiara prided herself on her ability to get what she wanted. Her father's will dominated the majority of her life, thus she took opportunity where she could to gain control.'
'"It will be awkward when you next meet. Miss Madero will most likely avoid you."
"One can hope." Abraham mumbled softly.'
I loved the character arcs and growth from our two main characters. Both grow in very different ways and I loved watching it all come together. I loved seeing the Jamison family and their sweet relationships with one another. They are such a fun family to read about. Chiara's family relationships are quite opposite, but her connection with Mattias is adorable.
'She could not quantify what the Jamisons shared, but deep down she knew whatever it was, she wanted a part of it.'
I felt a full range of emotions in this book (I do love a book that can give me all of the feels).
There were some plot twists I did not see coming (I love a book that surprises me).
And by the ending I was SO HAPPY how things tied up!
If you love lots of character growth, historical romance, regency romance, self discovery and self improvement I think you would love this book!
Chiara's Choice by Chalon Linton will be available August 8, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content: controlling family relationships, self discovery/improvement, kisses only.
This was such a new and unique plot! I loved it! You’ll follow Chiara Madero, a daughter of a Italian baron who has been forced by her father to snag a wealthy man of status in England.
Abraham Jamison is a good man from a good family but it not the oldest nor does he even know what he wants to specialize in.
These two help each other have the courage to make the hard choices in life we all have gone through. Their friendship was very endearing and sweet.
I highly recommend this one!
What I loved:
-grumpy sunshine at the beginning
-swoony moments and longing
-dual perspective
-witty banter
Thank you to covenant communications, netgalley, and the author for this early copy to read and review!