Winning the Gentleman

WINNING THE GENTLEMAN by KRISTI ANN HUNTER is a delightful romantic novel which takes place near Newmarket in 1817. In it we come across Aaron Whitworth, the illegitimate son of the Marquis of Lindbury and his aristocratic friends that we met in Vying For The Viscount, but the book can easily be read as a standalone. We also meet the vivacious Sophia Fitzroy and her brother Jonas who, together with their beautiful horse Rhiannon, on which Sophia has been eking out a living performing trick riding, escape the circus. There is a misunderstanding and Aaron ends up with a female jockey which causes an uproar amongst the élite of the racing world.
I love the whole Newmarket and horsey scene, the colourful characters, the humour, friendships and of course the romance. It is great to see the social scene in Britain in the early 1800's.
There is a strong Christian message of forgiveness and freedom in Christ together with the importance of putting the past behind one and moving forward in life. I like to see the different characters being restored when they see themselves through God's eyes.
There is a great deal of action and intrigue and it is altogether a lovely read.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers, The opinions in this review are completely my own.

I have read several of Kristi Ann Hunter’s books. My favorite of hers include The Hawthorne House series. Winning the Gentleman is the second book in The Hearts on the Heath series and is becoming another favorite series of mine. This story is set in England, September of 1817. Aaron Whitworth, manager of stables belonging to both Lord Farnsworth and Lord Stildon, has just fired his jockey. Ordinarily it wouldn’t be too much of a problem to just find another one. However, Lord Farnsworth, Oliver, the clueless heir to the Earl of Trenting, has just accepted a challenge and now has no jockey to ride in the challenge. Aaron, miffed at his friend and boss, goes into town to try to find a jockey for a race set to be in just a few days. While in town, Aaron comes across a traveling circus. He sees a horse show where the girl rider is doing tricks unlike anything he has ever seen. He wants to meet the trainer of this amazing horse. He sees a man taking care of the Andalusian and thinks him to be the horse’s trainer. Aaron decides, in a moment of desperation, that he will ask the trainer to be his jockey. When he sends a message to the horse trainer offering a job, who shows up the next day is not who Aaron thought he had hired! Enter Sophia Fitzroy. She is desperate to get out of the circus and start her own riding school. She realizes that this job just might be her chance to earn money and start afresh with her brother, Jonas. She knows that the gentleman who offered the job thinks that he is giving it to the man he saw caring for the horse. However, SHE is actually the trainer! Sophia shows up at the racetrack to take Aaron up on his offer and the chaos begins! Aaron tells Sophia that it is out of the question that a WOMAN be a jockey in any race. Afterall, horseracing is a gentleman’s sport and Sophia is definitely not a man! She pleads her case and Aaron reluctantly agrees a trial period. No one at the stables or in town, including Aaron himself, is happy about this arrangement. It is unseemly for a woman to have anything to do with racing a horse! Aaron’s decision to keep her on could cost him his job and reputation. However, he feels duty bound to let her race and then hopefully find her a more appropriate job somewhere else. Aaron refuses to let Sophia wiggle her way into his life and heart. After all, he has enough friends and likes his safe and orderly life. Sophia is everything opposite of what Aaron thinks that he wants. But perhaps there is room in his heart after all for this very unconventional lady. Both Aaron and Sophia are hiding something. Will the revelations of these secrets destroy them and those they love? Will Aaron finally let go of his past and find a future with Sophia? I truly enjoyed this often-lighthearted book. Courage, forgiveness, love, and redemption were themes woven skillfully throughout the book. The characters were very well developed, and I enjoyed watching the interactions between all of them. The historical detail was vivid and interesting. I learned quite a bit about equestrianism. I enjoyed watching Sophia come out of her shell. She seems to know what she wants- to open a riding school- and is willing to work hard to obtain her dream. But how do you do that when you have no real job, no money, and are a woman in 1800’s England? Aaron was a bit more of a multifaceted character. He wants to do the right thing, is willing to work hard, but his past seems to always be holding him back from truly being able to live life in the present. He also seems to have a bit of a martyr complex and sometimes I found that annoying. I know that he is struggling over how his past has apparently mangled his future (in his eyes), but sometimes the pity party that he had for himself was a bit too much. Also, it was challenging trying to remember what name and peerage title went with what person and what estate they owned. I found myself having to write them down so I wouldn’t get confused. However, none of this did detracted from my enjoyment of this book. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Hunter’s books in this series. Perhaps a book about Jonas or Miss Hancock? That would be delightful! I thank NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers for the ARC of this book. All opinions within this review are my own.

This book. It prompted me to read back through all of the earlier books because so many characters make appearances. But Aaron's story is absolutely perfect. He's got issues from being the illegetimate yet recognized son of the aristocracy, leaving him in a hazy position where he doesn't belong anywhere. Yet he has friends who won't allow him to remain on the fringes. Then one of thos friends accepts a match race that could undo everything Aaron has worked to build. The heroine is equally wonderful and unaccepted. An Irish trick horse rider she just wants to find a place where she can recreate her father's horse school and allow her twin brother to heal. When their worlds collide, Aaron and Sophia him to confront their fears and rediscover what they really want. It's a wonderful story, one that I thoroughly enjoyed.

A Gentleman plagued by his illegitimacy and a circus performer find common ground in their love for horses

Winning the Gentleman is book #2 in the Hearts of the Heath series but can be read as a standalone.

Sophia and her twin brother Jonas lived and worked in the circus since their father died, and they lost his horse training business.

Aaron was the illegitimate son of a marquis and lived in the fringe of society, working as the manager of two of his titled school friends' racing stables.

When one of his friends agreed to a racing match without consulting him, he found himself in trouble, as he had just fired the only jockey available for showing up to work drunk.

Desperate for someone to run the race, he searched around a fair in Newmarket and offered the job to the circus horse trainer.

But Aaron ended up hiring someone else than who he had intended. Instead of the man he saw tending to the horses, he got himself the man's sister.

The whole hiring and keeping of Sophia as Aaron's jockey was a little confusing, but it kind of worked out in the end.

The romance was sweet. I enjoyed the couple's slow-burn connection and how they grew to love each other despite their many differences. My heart went to them whenever they struggled for acceptance.

The side characters were lovely. They brought a little family drama and a sense of friendship to the story.

I'm looking forward to reading the next installment in the series, as I'm intrigued by Sophia's brother's low-key attitude and curious to see how it will clash with the bigger-than-life personality of Harriet.

Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

*This review will be posted on https://lureviewsbooks.com on 04/2021*

This was an enjoyable and entertaining read filled with equestrian flair! Aaron Whitworth was an easy to like, man of few words! It was humorous to see him paired with a chatterbox like Sophia. These characters really tug at the heartstrings! Each had a unique history of hardship and loss that made it easy to understand their challenges and appreciate their growth throughout the story. Plenty of previous characters make appearances which is always fun! This book kept me rooting for these characters until the final pages!

Once again another win by kristi ann hunter!! At first I wasn't sure how I to this book I would be with all the horse details, but it very quickly sucked me in! I loved the romance between Aaron and Sophie and getting to see him open up. And I loved getting to visit with characters of earlier books and get to see what they were up to! I so hope Harriet is book 3 and Aaron's brother is book 4!!!!

Winning the gentleman is a fabulous Regency by Kristi Ann Hunter. Although this is Aaron and Sophia's story, I was delighted to visit with characters from Kristi's other books. Winning the Gentleman has witty dialogue and gorgeous settings. Sophia is delightful and I loved how Aaron grew throughout the book. Throw in horses and snarky aristocrats for a perfectly delightful book.
So brew a pot of Irish breakfast tea to go along with your raspberry scones. settle in and enjoy the ride!

I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley.com with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

Winning the Gentleman provides humor and heartwarming moments fans of Regency romance will enjoy.

This is Hunter’s best yet. And I admit I may have said the same for Vying for the Viscount, but hey, I can’t help it if she just gets better and better.

If you’ve read A Defense of Honor or Vying for the Viscount (or better yet, both), you may have been just as intrigued by Aaron as I was. Knowing he was the hero of Winning the Gentleman filled me with anticipation. And that paid off the moment I read the first line.

Aaron is not your typical hero. He’s basically a loner with friends. Except for Oliver and Graham, he handles these relationships with reluctance and distance. Until a rambling horsewoman with fiery red head steps into his life.

Cue complications.

As Sophia begins to push Aaron out of his comfort zone, you see the side of Aaron he tries to hide and deny. Hunter does such a great job developing their relationship and using their distinct personalities to not only provide realistic conflict but also propel these characters through a delightful arc.

In addition to plenty of moments of humor, several propelled by awkwardness and Sophia’s tendency to blurt out her thoughts, there’s also a profound message about our identity in Christ and living our lives by God’s standards.

I’m going to stop while I’m ahead or I’ll take a page from Sophia and begin rambling on and on because I loved this book so much.

Let’s just say that Winning the Gentleman is a beautiful romance Regency fans don’t want to miss.

(Note: Review goes live on the blog April 16.)

Winning the Gentleman , by Kristi Ann Hunter, is a tale set in the countryside of England in the early 1800's. Aaron Whitworth is working hard managing the care and the racing of his wealthy friends/clients horses. His latest task is to find a jockey to race in a challenge his friend Oliver has accepted. After Aaron hires a horse tainer at a traveling circus, he is surprised to discover that this trainer is not a man, but rather a woman!

Sophia Fitzroy has been looking for a means to escape her life traveling with the circus, so there is no way she is passing up on the job offer that has come her way. Aaron has no idea what to do with a woman jockey, especially one who wears pants under her riding skirts to make racing the horse much easier!

This is a fun tale to follow, as both Aaron and Sophia learn how to handle the great differences in their personalities. Hang on to see the grand conclusion to this tale!

It was time for another change up! So I headed back to Regency romances and of course I’m going to read the one that involves horses - lol! This is the second book in Kristi Ann Hunter’s Hearts on the Heath series. It comes out in about a month...

And I liked this one even better than Vying for the Viscount. Aaron and Sophia were such complex characters & so unique for the genre! I really liked them. And I loved the change up from the usual Lord and Lady characters that typically dominate the Regency genre.

Also, I have to say, having a female jockey in a Regency context was such a fun avenue to take! And yes, it creates exactly as much scandal as you’re probably thinking it would, which provides plenty of scope for both drama and humour! I laughed out loud multiple times!

This is definitely a fun read, but it has some depth too, these characters have some genuine struggles and I definitely learned something from it. So pick it up if you’re looking for a light read that’s not fluff.

Oh, and if you’ve read her others, there’s plenty of fun cameo returns from previous characters 😊

Thanks @bethanyhousefiction and @netgalley for the ARC. I was only required to provide an honest review in return - and here it is! 😊

***HAPPY TO RECOMMEND***
England, Sept 1817, Aaron Whitworth and Sophia Fitzroy are forced to work together when he accidentally hires her as a jockey. "Either God thought Aaron needed another lesson in perseverance, or the world wanted him to remember his proper place - or rather his lack of one."
Sophia is a talented rider, but she longs for more than the life of a circus performer. "Pressing her mouth into a stern line, Sophia adjusted her hold on the reins until they were taut enough to create a proper connection with her horse and pasted a smile on her face. One more show. One more evening. Then they would make their escape, running into the dark to find a new life that suited them all."
I particularly enjoyed Sophia's twin brother, Jonas, who was strong and wise, keeping them grounded in God's word, even when times were difficult or seemed hopeless. I do hope he gets his own story. "It's going to be all right, Soph. God promised to never fail us nor forsake us." He gave a twisted grin and a one-sided shrug. "Since Israel got that promise, besmirched though it was, what we're doing isn't going to send Him running."
Aaron is very reclusive and has built a protective shell around his heart. As I read "Was he getting lazy about keeping the parts of his life separate, or were people simply hammering their way in?" a jackhammer was literally hammering outside in my driveway. Ha!
The support system Aaron finds actually surrounds him is touching: "There were varied qualities of clothing, varied levels of stable grime, and an absurd conglomeration of pasts that never should have brought them together, yet here they were. With him."
Tea Quote: "Moving around the small space, shucking the trappings of polite society, and making himself a truly awful cup of tea, Aaron's muscles relaxed one by one." (smile)
The love story of Aaron and Sophia is very sweet and the setting of horses and stables in England is a lovely backdrop.
I am happy to recommend "Winning the Gentleman" with thanks to the publisher for a gifted copy. All opinions are mine alone without expectation or compensation.

Also posted to Christian Book, B&N, pinterest, my blog, & Goodreads. Amazon & Kobo will have to wait until release date.

Aaron Whitworth has little but his honor and pride to recommend him. From a young age, when his father acknowledged him and sent him off to gain a proper education, Aaron has endured the smirks, glares, and turned shoulders from London’s polite society. He doesn’t blame them.

But in Newmarket, he builds a life for himself as a stable manager. First for his school chum Oliver and then for the new Lord Stildon. When Oliver’s rash decision leaves Aaron scheduled for a challenge race with no jockey to ride the horse, Aaron makes a rash decision.

A decision he’ll come to regret when the horse trainer he thought he hired turns out to be nothing more than a wisp of a young lady. If he refuses to stand by his contract, he will have broken his word as a gentleman. If he allows her to ride, all his hard work to build a reputation for himself as a horse trainer will crumble at his feet.

Sophia Fitzroy wants nothing more than to escape the circus act she and her twin Jonas joined two years earlier. After a near-fatal fall, Jonas needs time to recover and Sophia hates performing in front of crowds. Despite her brother’s words of assurance that God will make a way, Sophia decides to take matters into her own hands.

When a gentleman requests the ‘horse trainer’ ride as his jockey for one month, Sophia knows the man thinks Jonas trains the horses in their circus act. With the help of a fellow performer, Sophia signs the contract instead.

The wages the gentleman offers will help her a Jonas get back on their feet again and make their dream of opening a riding school a reality. Sophia can only pray the man will honor his word. When she shows up on Newmarket Heath to ride in the challenge race, she never expects her life to change forever.

Why I Loved This Book

Kristi Ann Hunter created two of my favorite characters in her second installment in the Hearts on the Heath series. Readers who’ve read Vying for the Viscount will already know Aaron and parts of his tangled past. The talkative Sophia and her brother Jonas bring a new element to Hunter’s cast of characters.

Unlike heroines from many Regency-period romances, Sophia comes from the lower gentry class of Ireland. For five years she and her brother have struggled to make their own way in the world and stay together. And for five years things have gotten worse and worse. Only their faith in God has kept hope alive. And sometimes Sophia wonders how much hope she has remaining.

Although part of a series, readers can easily start with this book (but why not read the first one?). Characters from Hunter’s other series, Haven Manor and Hawthorne House. If you love clean, heartwarming Regency romances, Winning the Gentleman is a sure bet.

4 stars ✨

Okay first of all - the cameos!! I loved seeing so many familiar faces from previous Hunter works. It may be a tad confusing to whoever hasn't read those book yet, but it made my heart happy coming across each character!

What a fun equestrian story! We have a circus rider turned jockey who is *gasps* a woman - what a scandal that causes in Newmarket. Sophia and Aaron were so fun to watch together. My one teeny complaint is that their story together doesn't start until at least a quarter of the way into the book, due to set ups and backstory and all that, and then they've already come to an emotional climax halfway through... leaving the reader (ahem... me) feeling like there isn't a point to keep going (you definitely should - there's more coming your way!).

But Aaron... I didn't know what to think of him first. He's awkward (adorably so). He's a man of frustratingly few words (poor Sophia, rambling on to fill silence Aaron so desperately craves!). And he's not, under any conditions, allowing a woman jockey his horse (okay, that may be reconsidered...possibly).

All in all, a delightful romp in a coming-out-of-regency era. (oh, the addition of the bicycle! It's so fun seeing characters from her Hawethorne series changing with the times!) Definitely recommend reading - be prepared to laugh. A lot.

Bet Aaron Whitworth didn't see that coming!

There is something endearing about a character who compartmentalizes their life... I think it shows vulnerability as well as the capability to love, but with boundaries. Still, compartmentalization also shows pride. And pride precedes the fall :x or maybe the loss of someone you hold dear. Good thing Aaron is surrounded by people who truly love him and won't let him lose a precious gift. That ending was angsty, though. And I can only be compensated for it with a book about Lord Rigsby :)

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Sophie was unique and refreshing heroin. And the perfect match for Aaron!

An absolutely delightful story from Kristi Ann Hunter! Winning the Gentleman kept me smiling and invested in the story, characters, and setting. I loved Sophia’s character, and although it took me a bit to truly appreciate Aaron, he’s wonderfully written and perfectly romantic. Readers will love seeing characters cross over from Hunter’s other series, and I’m so excited to continue reading about the continuing adventures on the Heath. Fans of Regency romance don’t want to miss Winning the Gentleman! 4.5/5 stars

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

I really enjoyed this book! Once again, we enter the world of horses in the early nineteenth century England, continuing with several characters from the first novel in this series. I liked learning more about Aaron and seeing him get his own story! It is great to read how Sophia pushes him to come out of his shell and brings out his personality a bit more and more. I liked seeing their relationship develop in a realistic manner and how the author gave them time to grow individually before strengthening their romantic relationship. It was great to read about some of the characters from Kristi’s other series! I loved seeing them all together in several scenes. The spiritual themes of finding identity in Christ and resting in His perfect plan are relatable and wonderfully woven in the story. I’m excited to read the next book and look forward to more great reads by this author! Highly recommended!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Having ridden horses since I was little, I always enjoy the inclusion of horseback riding history in historical romance novels! Many people assume that women were quite content to sit "aside" in a sidesaddle, never wear trousers to be more comfortable, and allow the men to have all the fun in racing their prize horses. I loved that Kristi Ann Hunter took this opportunity to set the record straight. We not only learn more about the obstacles women faced if they wanted to succeed in the racing business, but also that even just riding horses in general came with its own set of struggles. The hero is an illegitimate son, facing his own societal hurdles, and so we also learn about how that sort of things was handled in society. I liked how the author didn't gloss over that distinction in life, not just from the perspective of fitting in, but also from the internal struggles the hero battled every day, not knowing where he fit in. Very eye opening and much appreciated.

Aaron Whitworth has grown up knowing many struggles - being illegitimate was just the first and most well known of them all. Not wanting to take handouts from his father, he has made a living as a stable manager, and he keeps his circle of friends small so as not to taint others with his presence. He knows who he is and, most importantly, what he is to society, and nothing he will ever do can change that. The most important things to him are his job, his friends, and his horses, and there is absolutely no room for a meddling woman. Enter Sophia Fitzroy, who threatens to upend all of that. He thought she was the male jockey he hired, but when she shows up very much a female, he is fit to be tied. Now he must decide if her dreams and livelihood are worth more than his reputation. Can he jeopardize everything he has worked for to bring her happiness? As they get to know each other, that becomes a harder question to answer.

I adored Sophia, with her babbling nervousness and her perseverance in spite of the treatment she received from others. She had to overcome so much ridicule and abuse to get where she did, and Aaron certainly didn't make it easy for her. Sophia's parents had died, leaving her and her twin brother on their own, trying to make ends meet. They moved from Ireland to escape one bad job, only to move into another that resulted in Sophia's brother to become seriously injured. With her skills in riding, she could be really successful, if not for the fact that she was a woman. Once she saw an opportunity to work for Aaron, she jumped at it, and only later realized the consequences of her actions, not only on herself, but also on him. She endeared herself to me quickly, as she very conscious of her actions from that point on and often put others before herself. Aaron was an enigma, rarely speaking and very sparse with his praise towards Sophia. I was frustrated that he didn't make more of an effort to be kind, although I understood why he kept his distance. As the book progressed, he became more and more endearing to me, and the lengths he went to make Sophia happy brought tears to my eyes. Their journey was long and difficult, but in the end, it was well worth the effort.

This was the second book in the series, and so now I need to go back and read the first. There is no doubt in my mind that it will be a fantastic read!

Winning the Gentleman by Kristi Ann Hunter is the second book in her Hearts on the Heath series, but is also a stand alone novel. The story introduces our chatty heroine, Sophia Fitzroy, who is a circus performer turned horse jockey from Ireland, and Aaron Whitworth, our very complicated quiet hero who runs a horse stable. Their interaction together is priceless. I smiled, reflected on God’s goodness, and my heart was touched as I read their story.

The secondary characters brought depth to the novel in their interaction with the main characters. I recognized many from other novels by Hunter. After I finished reading I could not help but wonder when I will see them again, and if they will be in the third book in this series.

This story brought me joy! Kristi Hunter magically weaves romance, humor, friendship and horsemanship into an amazing Regency story while gently reminding us that our God is a God who loves to redeem things. This is a theme that I always need to remember.

I can highly recommend Winning the Gentleman by Kristi Ann Hunter.
I was given the book through the publisher and not required to write a positive review.

#BookReview: WINNING THE GENTLEMAN by Kristi Ann Hunter

I was interested in Aaron Whitworth’s story from book one of the Heart and Heath series. I am glad that this second book is about him. He is the illegitimate son of a Marquis so his life is different and he is not well accepted in society. He likes to rely on himself and doesn't really ask favors from his close friends. Well, until he meets Sophia. I admire how she handles her horse as well as her confidence. It’s so funny how the Lord puts together two people who are polar opposites. One is comfortable with very few words and the other can talk a mile a minute. Their witty conversations are fun or should I say interactions since Aaron barely says anything.

I enjoyed Sophia and Jonas’ relationship and how they had split their father’s legacy. It seems fitting to their individual personality. I’m delighted that Aaron and Lord Rigsby are closer now. It seems like he has a plan but to be revealed in upcoming books.

It had a really good start, dragged on a little bit but the pace picked up again somewhere in the middle. I like the second half of the book better. So many insightful and inspiring words and more exciting events. So keep on reading. But most of all, I enjoyed the development in their faith in God. Sophia and Aaron’s journey led them to discover their purpose in life and what it means to pursue your goal. 4 stars

Thank you to @bethanyhouse and #netgalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

I liked reading books that are based on a true story. This one is loosely based on a woman who was a jockey when it was not popular to be. While it is common in books for men to be surprised when a women wants to do something outside society's dictates, I found this story to be a good look at one woman's struggle to fight for doing what she was good at.

I am absolutely loving this series. Book one was delightful and book two was even better. Can't wait to read the rest of the stories about these fascinating characters.

I did not officially read this to review on my blog. but we will be adding it to our church library!

If you like the slight enemy's that possibly could become more tropes and witty banter than this book is for you.
Though this book is apart of a series it can be read as a stand alone.

We start with Aaron Whitworth finding himself in need of a jockey and stumbles upon a traveling circles where he witnesses an act with a women who moves gracefully on a horse. So like any man in a period piece he assumes that the trainer for this horse is male and decided to hire him.

Sophia Fitzroy knows that being a women and working with horses isn't common. So when she decides to take the job to be a jockey she knows she has to prove herself to those that doubt her, including the man who hired her.

A story that starts with lies, actually reveals some truths for both Aaron and Sophia. Dreams become within reach and perceptions of others get shattered. This sweet historical romance shows how we should not judge one another based on status and to trust one another. It also teaches the lessons of trusting in Gods plans and timing. While this book has reference to God and scripture it doesn't heavily rely on it. I feel that anyone can read this book no matter your beliefs.

Overall I enjoyed this book. I loved the humor and flow of the story. The romance that builds sees realistic and not far fetched,

After reading about him in two different series, I am thrilled to finally learn more about Aaron. He is a unique person. He's illegitimate and uses that as a cloak at times to protect himself. Other times he brandishes it like a sword. Just when he thinks he has found his place in the world that he can control and understand, things get turned on their head. In desperate need of a jockey, he hires the trainer of a circus performer, not realizing that the circus performer IS the trainer...and it's a woman.

I loved that Sophia and her brother were always there for each other. Jonas is wise and has a funny sense of humor. He always brightened things up when he appeared in the story and I hope we'll see him again in future books.

Characters from the Hawthorne House series and the Haven in the Manor series were prominent in this book and I loved it. Aaron has some wonderful friends and it was amazing seeing them come around him in support, disregarding what society might think.

I have loved EVERY Kristi Ann Hunter book I've read and this was no exception. Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

"Winning the Gentleman" is a Christian historical romance set in 1817 in Newmarket, England. It's the second book in the series. You don't need to read the previous novels to understand this one, though characters from her previous novels do appear in this story.

The main characters were interesting, complex, and reacted realistically to events. Aaron felt like he couldn't marry due to his "illegitimate" (though grudgingly acknowledged by his father) status making his social position questionable. He wanted to be a man of his word, though, so backed Sophia even though she tricked him into a contract making her a jockey. She didn't really want to be a jockey, just make enough of a name for herself that women would want to hire her to teach them advanced riding (dressage). Both come to appreciate the other person's strengths and grow as people. Aaron's friends help him to realize that he's made his own place in society.

There was some praying, and Sophia learned to trust God more with her future plans. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable historical romance.

This is the second installment in the Hearts on the Heath series and this book was ever bit as good as the first book. This series is so uplifting and amazing, a must read. Aaron Whitworth was introduced to us in the first book of this series and so I couldn’t wait to read his story in this book.

The story takes place in Newmarket, England in 1817. Stable manager Aaron Whitworth must find a jockey so he can enter the next horse race. But then Sophia Fitzroy a well-known horseback rider and trainer arrives and gives Aaron a run for his money. Aaron is not your typical hero and he struggles with the relationships in his life, and Sophia seems to push him out of his comfort zone, and at the same time she supports him, which is a huge self-esteem builder for Aaron. As the story unfolds you will be flying through the pages. This story has all the feels and you will find yourself cheering for Aaron to find his path and for Sophia making the most of her life.

The twists at the end of the story was my absolute favorite part. Readers of regency romance will absolutely love this story, this is a phenomenal story. Thank you Kristi Ann Hunter for this fantastic series, I loved it.

Oh how I love these books and the people in them. This is a continuation of Aaron, one of my favorites. Aristocrat born, but illegitimate, educated yet outcast. With some of the most loyal aristocrat friends. He is the stable master for two of them and in desperate need of a jockey when he inadvertently hires a girl from a circus for the job. The uproar and problems from this as well as responsibility to Sophia, the girl make for another engrossing story. Both struggling to know whom they are amongst the pressure of the society people and what and whom are acceptable, folded in with the best of friends and support. Another lovely and touching story that is hard to put down.
I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#WinningtheGentleman #NetGalley

It’s always a delight to open a new Kristi Ann Hunter book and immerse myself in a delicious new historical romance tale. I know I’m in for a rollicking great time with loads of wit, humor, and fun. Winning the Gentleman is filled with old friends from previous books and new friends and experiences. I was so glad that Aaron Whitworth got his own story, and what a story it was! Hunter is a master at getting her characters into strange predicaments and then finding humorous and creative ways of resolving them. When Aaron finds himself accidentally hiring a female as a jockey for his racehorses, he gets more than he bargains for. Sophia Fitzroy is spunky, courageous, and a talented horsewoman. Aaron is a self-deprecating, honorable man trying to take control of his circumstances. What could go wrong?

“His life had become a crazy mess of unpredictability.”

This is the second book in Hunter’s Hearts on the Heath series, and I’m enjoying the series so much. I’m going to have a hard time waiting for the next tale. I recommend this book to those who enjoy historical Regency stories. It’s definitely bound for my keeper shelf. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own.

#WinningTheGentleman #Netgalley

What a great read! Sophie and her twin brother Jonas, have been nomads, since their parents died. They were left destitute, only keeping the horses their father gave them. The two work for a traveling circus and have little income to live on, or a chance to change their lifestyles.
Aaron, is a stable master for two earls, looking for a jockey to ride in a race. Aaron believes he has found the right one and offers him a job; only to find a feisty female with red hair to match. Aaron doesn't know what to do with her and tries to retract the job offer.
This book was one that pulled at my heart strings, I loved it.

Kristi Ann Hunter had such a talent for writing lovable, believable, endearing characters! The witty banter between friends of differing social standing is the best! I was so happy that Aaron Witworth got his own story. And I love Sophia - she is a spit fire determined lady who has a hard time keeping her words in. Such a great counterpart to the quiet, closed off Aaron. This book is a wonderful story about overcoming your past, forgetting your perceived short comings, and throwing yourself into your future full of faith. I love that Kristi puts the Bible in her stories, and shows her characters faith and trust in God. It’s a great reminder!

Highly recommend this book to anyone who loves clean historical romance Christian fiction. Kristi’s books are best enjoyed in order, as all the characters are interconnected and make appearances in the other books. But they can also be read as stand alones, there will just be spoilers such as who ends up with who etc.

Special thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the advanced copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way biased.

For those who have been long-time Kristi Ann Hunter fans, Aaron’s story has arrived!! We first met him in A Defense of Honor, and he had a larger role in Vying for the Viscount, so I was thrilled he finally gets the leading role in Winning the Gentleman.

And oh, boy does he have a time of it! It starts with a wager and a fired jockey then takes you to a circus and the hiring of a new jockey…a very memorable one.
Despite his illegitimacy, Aaron is a gentleman through and through. While he prefers to avoid them, he understands the workings of the ton and the repercussions of the impetuous decisions of some of his friends. He is also a man of his word when it comes to agreements.

When he meets Sophia, he’s both suspicious and entranced. The woman can talk (which just adds Hunter’s characteristic humor), but she also knows her horses (more so than many of the men who own them).

The romance between Aaron and Sophia is set at the perfect pace, their somewhat opposite personalities made for some delightful (and a few frustrating) scenes, some fictional friends from previous books make cameos, and the history of horse racing in Newmarket is well-researched. Hunter once again delivers an enjoyable regency romance that is hard to put down.


Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Aaron Whitworth has long accepted his place in society as the illegitimate -but acknowledged- son of a Marquis. Educated alongside the aristocracy, he's made lifelong friends (whom he sometimes wrongly assumes he shouldn't ask anything of). He's also earned a great deal of respect along the way, but he still carries some pretty serious burdens emotionally that perhaps he shouldn't.

Sophia Fitzroy and her twin brother Jonas's situation has been precarious since their father died. When he has an accident that renders him unable to sit or stand for long periods of time, their dreams of a riding school are put aside to find a means of survival. When Aaron is in need of a jockey, he unwittingly hires Sophia and serious hijinks (and love, of course!) follow.

This is the second book in the author's Hearts on the Heath series, and a solid offering.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

I love it when historical fiction books teach me things. Who knew all that it took to be a jockey? Not me. The plight of women jokey's in history is interesting. People can be cruel and Sophia didn't have an easy time of it.

The romance is sweet. There were times I would have loved to hit Aaron upside the head and tell him to stop his overthinking.

Kristi Ann Hunter remains a favorite Christian author. I love her writing. I love her characters. She always entertains me while spinning a good tale.

Source: I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

I can't give a proper review without gushing over Sophia. She was my favorite and perrrrfect for Aaron! Not just how she chattered his ear off when she was nervous but also how her honesty took him by surprise. Though she is keeping a secret from him, she never pretends to be anything but herself. Aaron, on the other hand, is sure he has always been himself, while actually, he protects himself through the compartments he puts every aspect of his life, including his closest friends, and by living under the shadows of other people's actions. So, yes, I enjoyed seeing his worldview shaken :) I can't wait for book three!

Winning the Gentleman by Kristi Ann Hunter

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
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Story Notes

Kristi Ann Hunter returns us to the world of Newmarket horse racing to dive into the life of Aaron Whitworth and his opportunity to finally fall in love.

I have really loved getting to know Aaron in the past books by Ms. Hunter. He has provided some excellent one-liners that leave me laughing and scrambling to find paper and pen to write them down. I was so very glad to see that Ms. Hunter was now going to turn her pen to writing his story and helping him find love. Aaron has prided himself on being the best trainer possible, while also being the first to acknowledge his less-than-ideal parentage. The illegitimate son of an aristocrat, he has many burdens to carry, even if his father has publicly acknowledged him. But thanks to some kind and helpful friends, he has become a sought after stable manager and the current trainer for the Earl of Trenting. Oliver, Lord Farnsworth, is a bit clueless when it come to horse racing and has inadvertently entered himself in an off-track race against a ruthless peer. Problem is, he has no jockey currently in residence available to ride. Aaron sets out to find the needed jockey and finds himself unexpectedly in attendance at a trick horse show. Impressed by the performance of the horses featured, Aaron makes an offer, sight unseen, to hire the person who trained the horses as his new temporary jocket. Little did he suspect that he was hiring a female trainer/rider. Sophia Fitzroy is a highly skilled rider and trainer who is currently working any job necessary to ensure she and her twin brother have room and board until his back injury heals. Taking Aaron up on his offer of jockey was a bit underhanded but she didn't lie and therefore determines to hold him to the bargain. She is sure to cause a stir and knows he is taking a chance on her by agreeing. They make a pact to allow her to jockey until she loses or a month is up - whichever comes first. It will be the most interesting and challenging month of their lives and will change their lives in both good and bad ways. They will also find themselves facing the possibility of love if they are willing to reach out for it. I really enjoyed the story and the exchange of conversation. The secondary character of Harriet really added a lot to the story with her joie de vive and devil-may-care attitude. The romance between Aaron and Sophia was really well done and I loved how different it was from other stories by Ms. Hunter. This story was unique in its telling and it was very clear that all aspects were well researched. I also liked the strong faith elements that were included. The subject of a person's worth was handled expertly and without pulling punches. My only wish would have been to have a bit more humor included in the story but as Sophia and Aaron were more serious people, it stood to reason that this book would be more on the serious side. I will certainly be recommending this book to others in the hope they will have as much fun reading it as I did. I'm very much looking forward to the next in this wonderful series.

I received this temporary complimentary E-book from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley in order to provide a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

I’ve always been a big fan of Kristi Ann Hunter books, and I have to say this is definitely one of my favorites!
The first book in this “Hearts on the Heath” series was wonderful, but this one… It surpassed my expectations!! Maybe it has to do with the characters, I totally fell in love with both the hero and the heroine. And the hero, Aaron Witworth, well… he has long deserved his own story, since we’ve known him a few books back, always the loyal friend, and not only he deserved his own story but especially his Happily Ever After. And Sophie was the perfect character for him. Can you imagine a guy who introduces himself as “Hello, I’m illegitimate”? Wouldn’t he shock you, but at the same time you’d admire him because he pretends he doesn’t have a care in the world about everyone else’s opinion? The word “pretends” is quite important here. It tugged at my heart how Aaron has suffered for so many years for being the illegimate eldest son of a wealthy Earl, who has forced society to accept him, and even though he gave him a decent education, it was not out of love, but out of setting an example of making oneself responsible for his sins. In doing this, Aaron’s father has hurt him more than making him belong. Because love and understanding is what has always been lacking in their almost non existent relationship. But fortunately Aaron has had great friends from school who have always supported him, especially Oliver and Graham. And then Hudson, and Trent. He’s not accustomed to people loving him, other than his best friends, and he’s almost immune to deathly glances and vile gossips around him. He’s made a decent life for himself. He manages two important stables and has a decent income, an apartment in London… His life is stable, that is, until he’s desperate to hire a new jockey and finds that he “mistakenly” offered the job to a horse trainer, who turns out to be a woman! Sophie Fitzroy and her twin brother Jonas have spent the last five years of being orphans making ends meet to survive and stay together. Not without their share of grief and rejection. They have traveled from Ireland to England with their horses, and join a traveling circus, but they still dream to find a place to belong. But that is harder after Jonas is injured and can’t ride anymore. So when a mysterious offer arrives to the horse trainer of the circus, asking to be a jockey, Sophia can’t help herself and accepts, even knowing her employer thinks the “horse trainer” by the name of Fitzroy is her twin. So this is the start of a wonderful and complex adventure as Aaron finds he can’t deny Sophia a chance to race. But will the Newmarket society accept a woman in a race? Will Sophia prove them that she may accomplish what only men have done until now? Aaron has resigned himself to a bachelor life. But Sophia ignites in him a desire for so much more. Can he overcome his firm stance that he can’t offer anything to a woman other than a life of society rejection? Will his friends prove him wrong and will he let his heart a chance to have a say for once in his life?
I loved everything about this book. The plot was very engaging, it never dragged. But what I loved most was the depth of the characters. I was happy to revisit with previous characters, but Aaron and Sophia were the most special. They both had a sad past full of grief and loss, and I was rooting so much for them to finally get theirhappy ending. They so much deserved it. I loved the traits each of the main characters presented: Aaron was strong, determined, yet so vulnerable, even if only on the inside, and loyal to the core. He was kind and compassionate, and yes, brooding (I love brooding heroes). My heart ached because of his internal pain and battles so much; he needed a big and loving hug. Sophia was also strong and determined, passionate, and a dreamer. She was more optimistic and so loving of what is hers (her brother, her horse), selfless to the core. They both had some character growth in the story, especially Aaron. There’s a strong faith inspiring message about learning to trust God and let Him guide your life. There’s also the redemption and forgiveness theme. Rigsby, Aaron’s legitimate half brother, plays an important part in this. I loved that part. And I loved the part Aaron’s growing circle of friends play in the story, their strong bond, their loyalty, their true affection and generosity in seeing to what the other friend needs.
I’m not very experienced about horses, but it was all so vividly described that I found I could almost smell the hay in the stable or hear the horses hooves as they ran or galloped! Very exciting!
This is definitely a story I immensely enjoyed and I vividly recommend! Can’t wait for the next one in the series! I’m hoping Jonas or Rigsby’s story will come out soon. Both secondary characters I loved and admired. There’s serious drama and a bit of intrigue in the story, but at the same time there’s wit, humor and banter, and a lightheartedness that made the story so enjoyable and more endearing.
I received a complimentary copy from the Publisher but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

Aaron is a sweetheart who needs love, I love seeing when a hero is not so sure he's the hero of the story and doesn't think he should have love.

Sophia is surprisingly a VERY FAVORITE! She's not sickly feminist; she knows what she can do.

The fact that there was once a woman who was a jockey much like Sophia made reading this book even more enjoyable,

As much as I loved "Winning the Gentleman" it was inconsistent in the romance I thought... Or maybe Aaron wasn't as I expected from having not seen his point of view before now. I just did not think he would have given into the kisses without being more sure of a relationship. Just a thought and otherwise I loved "Winning the Gentleman" and cannot wait for the third book!

Warnings: 16/18+ due to mentions of the sins of a father.

I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e/copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

I feel like a large portion of girls, myself included, went through at least a small horse obsession phase. Mine was short lived but that little part of me got excited about the fact that this series centers around horses!
After absolutely loving Vying for the Viscount I was intrigued by Aaron and eager to get his story. He was definitely a bit of a hard nut to crack but when you spend the better part of three decades carefully constructing walls around yourself and your emotions it’s a rather long process to knock them down. Despite those walls he was someone who cared deeply for those in his inner circle (that kept growing much to his chagrin) and would do anything to help them. He had a dry wit that made a few appearances and made me smile each time, selfishly I wanted more of that. It was also entertaining the way he moved from frustration with Sophia, to respect and admiration, to love, even though it took him awhile to realize he’d crossed to that last one.
Sophia for her part was great as well. She was the feisty can-do type without being too independent to accept help. She was a dreamer but not the lost in the clouds type and her habit of rambling when nervous was entertaining.
I enjoyed the romance between Aaron and Sophia but the greedy side of me wanted a little more on page romantic scenes. But what we did get was sweet and I liked them together!
Sophia’s twin, Jonas, surprised me with the way he kinda stole the show when he was in a scene and I loved him, I would definitely read a story about him if the author felt so inclined (hint hint). Aaron’s half brother Rigsby was also a pleasant surprise and definitely could be the hero of his own story! There were lots of appearances of old friends from the author’s other books, Trent Hawthorne being my favorite of course, and it was fun to see how their lives were progressing.
So while this didn’t surpass book one for me it was still an enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to the next installment in this series!

Winning the Gentleman was a delightful read. I’ve always like Kristi Ann Hunter’s books, but this series focusing on equestrian pursuits alongside the beautiful themes of belonging, thankfulness, making your way in the world and discovering what things have priority in life made this novel nearly impossible to put down.

It’s always a bit difficult for me to put myself back in time and consider that so many choices were denied to women simply because they were woman. So Sophia’s story was a fascinating tale. She wasn’t a woman out to demand her rights, but a woman out to do something that she loved (and was skilled at) that allowed her to care for those she felt responsible for. I loved Sophia’s willingness to push hard for a desire, to step back to consider the impact of her choices on another and to adapt to the expectations of society as far as she was able without giving up on her own goals. I also appreciated how Aaron was a man of honor keeping his word even when he’d clearly been misled.

Be sure to read Vying for the Viscount first, where you will be introduced to Aaron and a whole cast of characters that show up in Sophia’s story. I’m now eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.

I received a free digital galley of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

This book is a showstopper! I was hooked right from the beginning with the Author’s note… I guarantee you if you read the author’s note you will start feeling all the feels and wont be able to put this book down.
I’m usually a fan of misfit/outcast characters. I enjoy the character arc that comes with them. I knew Aaron’s story was going to be amazing after getting to know him in Vying for the Viscount. He is perfectly paired with Sohpia-a misfit herself from the circus hoping to find and make a better life. One of my favorite things about Kristi’s writing are her side characters. In addition to the amazing main characters, there are several side characters I’m hoping will get their stories in this series as it grows.

The Christian fiction elements of this book are amazing. It wasn’t too much that I felt like I’m reading directly from the bible, but enough to get hopeful feelings that always accompany this genre. There are several passages that were so inspirational that I was moved to tears.

My absolute favorite parts of this book were the racing scenes. I felt the suspense, the worry and the elation or deflation. I loved the turmoil these characters had to overcome to rise above the critics. I loved the heart and soul that came through the pages of this book! All around I highly recommend this book!

Another great book by Kristi. I love how she brings in characters from her previous series as well and they are such wonderful and supportive of Aaron.

Aaron is hard nut to crack but that makes the softness you see in him even more surprising and sweet.

Sophia is a strong character and I love her spirit and spunk.

If you love historical romance I am sure you will enjoy this book.

A copy of this book was given to me through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Hunter always writes unique story-lines with characters we fall in love with. However, this story was especially unique with the main characters a female circus performer turned jockey and a man born on the wrong side of the blanket.

Aaron Whitworth was a fan favorite from his previous appearances, but this book can be read as a standalone. The situation of Aaron’s birth was far more common than it should have been, and it was interesting to see the child’s point of view in this situation. On the outside Aaron is very quiet and standoffish, but there is an endearing quality about him.

Sophia Fitzroy has had to spend the last few years taking care of herself and her injured twin brother. Her situation has made her more independent and determined. I liked how she was such a strong female lead and different from the typical aristocrat.

I really like that this book was different from any other book I’ve read from this time period. And I’ve read a lot of books from this time! If you’ve read previous books by Hunter, be on the lookout for some fun cameos in this one.

Aaron is the stable manager for two wealthy noblemen who also consider him friends while Sophia is the former headliner in a travelling circus. Aaron has a veneer of respectability because of his marquis father while Sophia is an orphan forced to leave the land she loves.

Aaron is taciturn, Sophia is talkative. On the surface, they seem to have nothing in common but the effect they have on each other is marvelous.

Winning the Gentleman is a sweet story of overcoming challenges while accepting your place in the world. Both Sophia and Aaron had to learn they had a place in their society that had nothing to do with the one people tied to ascribe to them.

These two characters were great for each other as they were both trying to do the best they could with the circumstances they had been given.  It was fun seeing the unflappable Aaron losing his head over the fiery Sophia.

Readers will be reminded that God doesn't ascribe positions to is based on the position we hold in society. All of us are dear to Him and He has a place in His kingdom for all of us, if we'll accept Him as Lord and Savior.

Winning the Gentleman continues the Hearts on the Heath series but can be read as a standalone. As with many Kristi Ann Hunter books there are several crossover characters. I received an advanced reader's copy from the publishers through NetGalley; a positive review was not required.

Life has not been kind to Sophia Fitzroy. She and her twin brother grew up in Ireland watching their horse training father at work. But their father's early death and their subsequent other troubles left Sophia and Jonas with few life choices. Now in their early 20s, the duo are working with a circus in England just to be able to eat.

Aaron Whitworth has lived on the edges of society his whole life. Though he is illegitimate, he has been recognized by his father and is therefore a gentleman. But he takes pride in his work managing two different stables near Newmarket, as it gives him a chance to stand on his own feet and earn his own accomplishments.

When circumstances force Aaron to look for a replacement jockey for a quickly-approaching race, he takes a look at what the passing circus has to offer. He makes a desperate written offer of employment to "the redheaded horse trainer," unintentionally hiring Sophia. Is Aaron crazy for agreeing to let a woman run as a jockey?

Sophia is driven to prove herself and earn both respect and income for a better future. Talkative and determined, she makes friends among Aaron's acquaintances, though she feels every inch a poor circus performer. What will happen when the races begin?

I loved how the quiet desperation and social ostracism of these two drew them together. They could understand one another on an intuitive level. Both characters had needs that the other could fill, which made me as a reader cheer hard for them. A slight complaint about this book is that there were so many characters from the author's previous books, ones I have not read, which made Aaron's social circle somewhat confusing to follow. I appreciated the way faith and healing was woven in, and any horse lover will be thrilled at the amount of scenes pertaining to riding or caring for these animals.

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.

Winning the Gentleman is a good book by Kristi Ann Hunter set in early 19th century England when everyone was referred to by their titles and the use of first names was not greatly used. At first, I had a hard time following because it had been a while since I had read a period piece. Once I made a list of each person’s full names and titles, then I could follow along much easier.
The author had done her research as far as life in that era. Her character Sophia Fitzroy is a delightful young maiden with a twin brother. She has learned how to cope with little to no money and the circumstances that life brings her. She jumps at the opportunity to earn a month’s wages at the proposal that Aaron Whitworth puts forth even if it is far-fetched for that period, a woman jockey. Sophia does love horses and working with them as does Aaron. How they learn to cope with the rules of society are lessons learned throughout the book.
I do recommend this regency book and it proved to be a wonderful read, once I was able to keep the characters identified.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. #WinningTheGentleman #KristiAnnHunter

Aaron and Sophia's story is one tinged with sadness for the things they have lost. And, yet, it is still infused with hope and a touch of humor.

If you have read Vying for the Viscount, you may recall Aaron as Hudson's stable manager. Despite being the older son of a Lord, Aaron's illegitimate birth relegated him to the role of a Nobody. And even worse, his father held him up as an example of the consequences of sin to his heir. Crazy, isn't it? I greatly admired Aaron's strong work ethic and how he always acted like a gentleman despite the way others felt about him. Honor was his greatest asset and he wore it well.

Sophia was a lovely sprite of a woman who, along with her twin, had been struggling to survive after the death of their parents. Her skills with horses, both as a trainer and a rider, were incredible! When Sophia had hope of a job, even though it meant racing horses, something she had never done before, she didn't give up. Her love and care for her twin were very sweet and touched my heart. Quite the opposite of Aaron, she had a propensity of babbling when she was nervous which could be quite humorous!

I enjoyed the horse racing aspects quite a bit. Hearing about how the horses were trained on the heath and how there were even rules about who could train when. It was quite interesting.

While the second book of the Hearts on the Heath series, this story could stand alone and also tied together characters from several other series by Kristi Ann Hunter. I know this after having fallen in love with Trent and Adelaide. I had a feeling their story had been told already and after a brief search, I found they are featured in An Uncommon Courtship from the Hawthorne House series.

If you enjoy historical fiction with a strong faith element, I recommend reading Winning the Gentleman's Heart.

"She doesn't understand love doesn't demand what it wants. Instead it will sacrifice itself to give the other person what they need."

What a true pleasure it has been to burrow into Aaron Whitworth's life and get to know this gentleman of few words but honorable, loyal, dependable, and admirable heart. Kristi Ann Hunter's recreation of the Newmarket society that revolves around horses and racing is realistic, stunning, and quite wonderful. Sophia is a delightfully unique woman in the Regency era England looking for a place in the world where stability, love, and acceptance will embrace her. Their conversations are witty, clever, and fun and their romance is incredibly sweet and innocent. There are even some surprises thrown into the plot that deepen Aaron's character and make him more lovable. I loved catching up with Aaron's aristocratic friends who cross over from the author's previous series (Trent/Adelaide from Hawthorne House, Graham/Kit from Haven Manor) as well as Oliver/Rebecca from Vying for the Viscount. The banter, camaraderie, respect, and love the friends share add to the heart-warming environment that Aaron tries to ignore and escape but can't.

If you enjoy historical romance, you will absolutely love this book and series. I can't wait for the next book!
I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley and Interviews & Reviews and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.

I’ve yet to read a book by Kristi Ann Hunter that I didn’t enjoy and this one certainly isn’t the exception! Full of horses, humor, misunderstandings, romance, and a few well-meaning friends, this story was everything I’ve come to expect and then some! If you’re a fan of Regency romance, I would always highly recommend any of Ms. Hunter’s tales!
As always, I was drawn in straightaway and didn’t want to put the book down until the very end - even then, I would’ve happily kept reading, if there had been more pages. Isn’t it funny how good books always seem just a touch too short? One of my very favorite things about all of Ms. Hunter’s books is the humor always lurking. Prior to hers, I’d never read a Regency novel that made me laugh out loud. And now I can’t go back! To me, that humor just makes the characters all the more real and relatable.
I know Aaron is from a previous book, but I honestly don’t remember him prior to this series. I really enjoyed him as Hudson’s stable-manager-turned-friend in Vying for the Viscount and was very curious to see where his story would lead. Him accidentally hiring a female jockey and then dealing with the aftermath never even crossed my mind! But it suited him perfectly. As does Sofia, whom I loved! She is chatty, quirky, and kind. Her determination to hold on to her dreams at times seemed a little foolish, but I can also understand not wanting to lose the hope you’ve clung to for so long. I really enjoyed watching each of their stories play out and merge into one.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book if you enjoy Regency era romance!

*My thanks to the publisher for my copy of this book! I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise, and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.

Kristie Ann Hunter is a joy to read. Her writing takes me on a journey to another time and place, and I love every moment of it. The characters she creates are some of the most unique, eccentric and completely lovable. I could not wait to get my hands on this book. Having read the first book in the series, I was already in love with most of the characters. That being said, this can easily be read as a stand alone novel as well. I Couldn’t wait to learn more about Aaron. His loyalty and the love between him and his friends is unlike any other. Being born as a different class than his friends he sees himself in a certain light. I enjoyed watching his friends push his boundaries and frustrate him to no end. Sophia is perfect for him, but neither of them know that yet. Sophia is sweet and charming and isn’t afraid to step up to a challenge. But she also has some secrets of her own. In a world where your birth determines your value, can the two of them find a place where they belong?

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. Hunter kept me turning the pages, and I couldn’t wait to see what might happen next. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Winning the Gentleman is the second book in Kristi Ann Hunter’s Hearts on the Heath series. Can a situation that began on false assumption lead to a happily ever after for everyone involved?

Aaron Whitworth is an illegitimate son, a title he’s leaned on to make the gentry uncomfortable. He loves working with horses, but when his employer and friend makes an unwise wager, he’s put in an impossible situation.

Sophia Fitzroy wants to train horses and riders, but for now must support her injured brother by performing shows in a circus. Until she seizes an opportunity to become a jockey when a stranger assumes her twin is the real horse trainer.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story! I’ve been highly anticipating Aaron’s story since Vying for the Viscount and it was excellent. And Sophia was wonderful. I loved her character. The ending dragged a bit, but otherwise, this was a phenomenal story that I couldn’t put down.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.

A redemptive tale of finding the strength and grace to be just who you are, right where you are. I love when hard circumstances come together for good. Sophia has had a hard time of getting by since the death of her parents. All she wants is to work with horses and teach others to ride well. Aaron knows what it is like to be shunned and deal with being invited but never really welcomed. I love the friendship that develops between these two unlikely souls and then ensuing romance that blossoms. It was fun to read about a female jockey during this time period and some of the potential fallout. It held my interest partly because the subject matter has not been overdone and I was curious where it would go. That being said, it is Kristi Hunter and the woman knows how to write captivating stories that hold your attention from the first to the last. Characters are well developed; story lines are consistent and move along at just the right pace. The return of previously known characters was an added bonus. Highly recommended. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own, freely given.

I enjoyed this second installment in Kristi Ann Hunter's new series. There were a few of the normal issues with American terms and mannerisms imported into 19th century Britain. The one which stood out the most her was the way the characters ate: with only a fork in the American manner, instead of using a knife and fork, as would have been the norm in polite British society at this time.

However, that was my only real niggle with the story. Otherwise, it was a great story with an unsual setting. I liked the Irish heroine, and the walk on roles by the protaganists of previous stories by this author.

Thanks to Bethany House for allowing me to read a galley of this title. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed herein are my own

This was my first book by Kristi Ann Hunter. I had reservations about reading a book that was part of a series without starting at the beginning, but this was the book available so I jumped in. I did feel like I was missing some information occasionally and had trouble keeping track of the secondary characters, but I am most upset that I missed the development of Aaron that surely must have happened in the previous novels. I absolutely adored this story and I feel like I missed part of it so, while I am glad I didn't put off reading it any longer, I am simultaneously upset to think I might have missed some of it.

I loved both Aaron and Sophia, but it was Aaron who most spoke to me. The author did an excellent job of pulling me in and making me feel the anguish that he lived with daily as he struggled to find his place in the world. While it could have been trite, it felt real, I felt his pain. I didn't blame him or roll my eyes when he inevitably pushed Sophia away, but hurt along with him.

I am not generally a reader who wants to go on an emotional rollercoaster when I read a book, but this one was enjoyable. The characters, including the supporting cast, brought humor, romance, excitement, sadness, trauma, and a dozen other emotions often within the same chapter. They were supportive and steadfast, the kind of people you want to spend your time with. I look forward to reading the rest of the series both those that came before and those still to come.

I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Winning the Gentleman was such a fun book to read! I loved both of the main characters, Aaron and Sophia. They were such a good match. The historical aspect of the rarity of a woman horse racing also contributed to the fun of the book. If you enjoy historical romantic fiction, then you should read this book.

What a fun adventure I felt that I was on while reading this one. To have a woman come on the scene to race this man’s horses was well played out. I really enjoyed watching her devotion to her brother and concern for him. She’s a woman of integrity that comes out of the background of working for the circus. If she can hold onto her horse through the stunts she has to pull in the program for the circus, she can hold on through a race. This is the second book in a series by this author. I’ve read both of them and really enjoyed them.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.


***Also posted on CBD, B&N

This book has a different storyline than most that I’ve read set in this time period.

Sophia Fitzroy loves horses and is an excellent horse trainer/rider, but this was not an accepted role for ladies in the year 1817. Aaron Whitworth desperately needs a jockey for an important upcoming race. He sees Sophia ride, but at the time he hires her, is not aware that she’s a woman. However, they come to an agreement that Sophia will ride in the race. That decision leads to difficult, turbulent times for both Sophia and Aaron. Their relationship had moved from friendship to romance, but several obstacles still stood in the way of their happiness.

Sophia and Aaron both find themselves being judged by society because they were not in the right “class” and deemed by society as being “less than”. I loved the way Aaron’s friends, who moved in the highest levels of society, refused to accept that classification for both Sophia and Aaron and counted them as equals and friends. It’s an interesting story that has a theme of grace and faith.

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