THE CLOVERTON CHARADE by SARAH E LADD is an exciting Regecy romance novel that takes place in England, between Derbyshire and London.
Olivia Brannon, who has taken after her father and become an expert in antiquities, is delighted to be invited by Mrs Agnes Milton to a house party at Cloverton Hall in order to evaluate her private collection. This will be done in secret, as the elderly lady’s nephew, George Wainbridge has inherited her husband’s fortune, which is now practically non existant due to the money her husband spent on antiquiqities. George has invited the well known antique dealer, Lucas Avery, to assess his uncle’s vast treasure, many of the pieces acquired through Olivia’s father, in order to sell them and fill the Cloverton coffers.
It is interesting to see how the author describes the underlying goals of the characters, for example,Olivia wants to prove to her uncle Thomas, and the wold in general, that she is every bit as qualified as any man in the business, Lucas wants to improve his standing in the antiquites world after a scandal involving his father, and Mrs Milton wants to honour her husband’s memory. All of this takes place in the midst of a house party in which most of the guests are looking for advatageous liaisons……
Then the unthinkable happens…..
The idea of what is really important in life and what is counterfeit comes through clearly.
I cannot recomend this lovely read strongly enough.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review ae completely my own.

This was a very enjoyable read. The story was very interesting and I finished it in a day. The romance was perfectly done. I would highly recommend this book!

"Today was the day Olivia's entire life was going to change. It was the anticipation of something new-the anticipation of an adventure"
Olivia Brannon and Lucas Avery, whose father's were once partners in an antiquities business, reunite in this intriguing story of mystery and suspense. Olivia and Lucas, who are now antiquarians, are hired to make assessments of rare collections individually owned by the widow of Charlton Hall and the new heir to the estate. What evolves is a suspenseful game of charades and intrigue that will keep the reader engaged from beginning to end.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is a great read!
This story shows how difficult it was for women to use their talents outside of the home along with intriguing details of how a person’s priceless collections would be verified, recorded, and sold.
There is intrigue as the question becomes who is supplementing fake pottery for the real items.
The main characters are well formed and the storyline is great!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. My opinions are my own.

In this third installment of the Houses of Yorkshire series, the lovely Olivia Brannon's unconventional interest in antiquities, developed through her father's business, convinces her to accept an invitation that could change her future forever - the chance to evaluate a private collection housed at Cloverton Hall. She arrives to find that Lucas Avery, who was once an old friend but is now her adversary, has his own antiquities work at Cloverton that put her efforts at risk. When the two of them stumble upon a dangerous plot, they must decide whether to risk their future by working together to uncover the truth.

This book combines swoony romance, fascinating history, and fabulous character-building, all in one cozy mystery package. I highly recommend it!

Wanting to become THE antiques dealer she knows she is she accepts an appraisal that set forth a future that may not have the consequences she desires. He is trying to set free a reputation not of his making. Can they together solve the mystery?
I really liked this novel. it has a strong woman trying to make it in a mans world even up against her own uncle. Add. Little romance and you have a sure fire way to win over a crowd, or a reader.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with guidelines.

I always love the author's book and this one was no surprise in that department.

House parties are a common setting in Regency novels, but this one's different: the party provides the perfect excuse for Alicia and Lucas to perform their work. They have both been hired separately to evaluate collections of antiques that could prove pivotal for each own's businesses. Of course, they recognize each other and know what they're really there for, even if the other guests are ignorant of the true reasons.

I liked how this premise set up the perfect setting for Alicia and Lucas to spend time together, appreciate the other's talents, and develop a friendship that only grows. The antiquities and forgery aspects were truly interesting, as it was the way Alicia and Lucas discovered what was going on.

Highly recommend this one. You don't have to read the series in order but it adds to the enjoyment.

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

The Cloverton Charade by Sarah E. Ladd is a captivating, unconventional, tale set in Regency England. I really enjoyed the character Olivia and her ability to appraise antiques. While she is a woman and cannot fully walk in her expertise to support her family’s business, she can discretely help a wealthy widow. Olivia is poised and educated, but she is not a classically trained gentlewoman who can impress others at a house party. Thankfully, she is there a companion to the eccentric widow and finds an ally in Lucas. There is something amiss as Olivia and Lucas realize they are both there to appraise the same collection and not all the items are what they seem. Rather than turn against each other, I enjoyed watching them come together and complement one another. The mystery was well paced and while not completely unpredictable, it was well done and held my attention all the way through. I love the attention to dialogue and character development.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

What a sweet story and fun mystery! Maybe I didn't read the description well enough, because the mystery caught me off guard! But I ended up loving it! This book has a gentle pace, and a non-stress inducing conflict, which is just my style! Add in a strong female lead and a love story with an HEA, and you just have the whole sweet historical fiction romantic mystery package! Thank you to NetGalley for my arc! All opinions are my own!

This is a review for The Cloverton Charade by Sarah Ladd, and I received this copy for my review from NetGalley. I have been waiting for this book since I first heard it was coming out, as Sarah Ladd is one of my favorite authors, of whom I have all.her books! This book was so worth the wait, as I absolutely loved this story! It is set in the Regency era in Yorkshire, England, in 1810. The story begins with Olivia Brannon, the daughter of a very successful art dealer, whose father passes away, but who has taught Olivia the business, but sadly, upon her father's death, the business goes to her uncle who sees Olivia as more of a hired hand instead of letting her be a part of ongoing, successful business she should've inherited herself. She is allowed to help with the collection business, along with her friend Russell, but they both work for her uncle, who does not like to share the business with anyone!

Olivia is asked by the wife of one of her father's major collector clients, Mrs. Milton of Cloverton Hall to come and assess her husband's extensive collection, which she adores, because it is her one link to her beloved husband who has recently passed away. Since her husband has died, she needs to find out the collection's true monetary value quickly, so she goes to Olivia, whose father helped Mr. Milton purchase his collection. Olivia is thrilled that Mrs. Milton has come to her, but she is sworn to secrecy by Mrs. Milton, who invites Olivia, for appearance sake, to Cloverton Hall to secretly assess her husband's collection, which leads Olivia to get a glimpse into a life of luxury amongst the rich, but all isn't as it seems.

Since Mrs. Milton's husband has just died, and their nephew, George Wainbridge, will inherit Cloverton Hall, which is financially in trouble, so George also has ideas of selling his uncle's collection, which he doesn't care about in the slightest, but sees it only as a means to keep his estate running, but his aunt is standing in his way. George also needs to get the collection assessed to find out the value, so he hires the son of the arch rival of Olivia's father, Lucas Avery, who Olivia used to count as a close friend until their fathers, both art collectors and partners, had a falling out. Olivia was taught to avoid the Averys at all costs, but finds herself thrown together with Lucas at Cloverton Hall, both who are asked to asses its famous collection, but for two family rivals! Lucas and Olivia must decide to either stay enemies, or work together, but get caught up in a family feud that will lead them down a mysterious road of robbery, forgery and betrayal, but I won't spoil it!!!

This book engaged me from the first page, and was so well written, with amazing characters, and a plot that literally made me keep turning the pages because I was so engrossed! The ending led to a place that I least expected, and as I can't stand a book where I can figure out the plot, this book was awesome! It is right up there with the quality of books I have grown to love from this author! This regency era book is a very interesting and engaging art collection mystery that includes a hint of romance, and I loved it! So another 5 star book from Sarah Ladd, and I highly, highly recommend it!!!

This book was so great! Full of mystery and especially fascinating antiquities, it was absolutely intriguing and romantic and delightful. I loved how Olivia and Lucas knew each other at some point as young people and then met again in this charade that they had to play in order to meet their goals. Olivia is a woman with incredible intelligence and cleverness when it comes to understanding the world of antiquities at this time, but she is a woman. She's expected to live the life of a young lady and leave her dreams behind in order to marry well. Lucas is struggling to bring stability and growth to his late father's business in antiquities. They are both discreetly invited to help in assessing the renowned Cloverton Hall collection.
As they both discover that there are counterfeits amongst the real pieces, they don't know who they can trust and eventually have to depend on each other to solve the mystery. I just loved how they come to know each other better and fall in love, as they work together to figure out what is truly happening at Cloverton Hall. Both Olivia and Lucas are such genuine and deep characters that want to do what is right and good. This was a perfect romance and mystery!

I received a copy of this book from Netgally, and all opinions are my own.

Alicia and Lucas were the perfect rivals turned allies. I love that Alicia doesn't let others treat her as less in the business just because she's a woman. Sarah E Ladd did a great job making the book super entertaining and grabbing your attention from the very beginning. Such a fun book.

Olivia Brannon’s deepest desire is to become a respected purveyor of antiquities, or antiquarian. Like an archaeologist, she imagines visiting distant lands to find rare and valuable items to procure for her vast clientele. And she would then provide a good living for herself and Laura, her younger sister. Were this 2024, the obstacles would prove minimal to someone with talent, like the lovely Miss Brannon. But she lives in 1820s London. This is a man's occupation.

Sarah E. Ladd’s The Cloverton Charade is an entertaining Regency-era mystery romance with a study in the differences between the coming-of-age experiences of young men and women. The conflicts explored are more than mere fiction. Women had few avenues for their lives. Most young ladies did not have a career. The most they could anticipate for themselves is life as a mother and a wife. And there’s nothing wrong with that. But Olivia wanted to be like her mother who had the added advantage of joining her father, Edward Brannon, on trips to seek out antiquities. They traveled to China, India, and Egypt. But mother died from diphtheria on a sea voyage to Italy. As a result, Edward believed travel too much for delicate females, so his daughters have always lived in their small sphere of London.

But this didn't stop Olivia from dreaming of a different life. She grew up learning about the trade of dealing in antiquities. Her father had a partner, another antiquarian, Timothy Avery. Their wives and children were close as well. When they had a falling out, they severed the relationship and became rivals. Mr. Brannon secured the deal of helping wealthy Francis Milton obtain his massive Chinoiserie Collection for their estate, Cloverton Hall, decorative items that depicted Chinese and Japanese motifs. (The name Milton sounded familiar. Perhaps a nod to Milton in the North of Elizabeth Gaskell's North & South fame?)

When the story opens in the prologue, 14-year-old Olivia runs into 17-year-old Lucas Avery. They both see a beautiful vase Olivia's father obtained for the Miltons. This scene will play out once more later in the story like a biblical type-scene, an event that recurs and is expected to unfold in a certain manner. When he died, Edward Brannon left his business in the hands of Uncle Thomas. Thomas doesn’t have the same level of excitement and interest as now 22-year-old Olivia. For the most part, he leaves the business in the seemingly capable hands of his second-in-command, Russell Crane. Olivia tries to do more than function as an assistant, but Uncle Thomas despite recognizing her knowledge, says she is “not an agent of Brannon Antiquities.”

But widowed Mrs. Agnes Milton offers the opportunity for Olivia to step into action as an agent and flex her antiquarian skill set. (Mrs. Milton has no desire to engage Thomas' services.) Mrs. Milton asks Olivia to evaluate her personal collection of antiques. She sets up the one part of the charade of the story. Olivia will pose as Mrs. Milton's friend and companion at nephew George Wainbridge’s House Party. He and his sister Isabella have asked Mrs. Milton to host this welcome-to-our-lovely-estate party in Yorkshire.

Olivia resonates with Mrs. Milton's desire to find financial autonomy with the sale of her collection. After all, she wants financial autonomy and self-sufficiency, not just for herself, but also to care for her sister Laura, 16. They can get out from under stifling Uncle Thomas and live. Plus, she understands grief and the desire to hold on to objects that remind us of a loved one who has died. Despite her misgivings about the ruse, Olivia has always wanted to step into her father's shoes. She agrees to help, so Mrs. Milton in return provides her modiste to prepare Olivia to play the role so she can evaluate the collection without raising suspicion.

George Wainbridge, the Miltons' nephew, inherited Cloverton and its properties, including Windhurst Manor on the estate. As long as he allows Mrs. Milton to live out her days at Cloverton, George will keep Windhurst, the only property earning an income. But Cloverton needs financial assistance. (I found this great blog post here about money concerns as a man of wealth and property back then.) Just like Mrs. Milton, George needs an antiquarian to evaluate the Chinoiserie collection in secret. Through a mutual acquaintance, William Tate, Lucas Avery is invited to join George at the Cloverton House Party and evaluate the famous Milton Chinoiserie collection.

The stage is set. The charade begins. The single ladies arrive with their chaperones. The men arrive with their valets ready for dancing, sport, port, and leisure...at least I think they drank port. They drank something anyway. (Probably smoked cigars, too. I know William Tate used snuff, too. Not a great habit. Surprise, surprise, even ladies indulged in this activity.)

A mystery unfolds as two people in trade navigate a world of wealth and privilege where everyone wears a mask for self-preservation, for keeping up with societal expectations, …or for committing a crime.

I’ll leave it there. I wrote in my notes that the first time Lucas and Olivia finally talk after seeing each other at Cloverton Hall took what felt like forever, leading to much suspense. Ladd is so great at that. And her descriptive scene-writing activated the theater of my mind. I needed no help imagining this opulent estate with so many antiquities, as well as the natural beauty of Yorkshire surrounding Cloverton Hall. I wanted to be Olivia and stay in the Blue Room…mostly because blue is my favorite color. The fact that Mrs. Milton can just barge in at any time since it’s attached to her suite...hmm, not so much.

The Cloverton Charade is a story with a mask-and-mirror theme. Olivia has only heard tales of London Seasons and house parties. She has a chance to wear the mask and play the role of a woman of wealth. In her disguise, she stares in the mirror and sees a stranger. She looks at the others around her as mirrors. She start to see what she lacks. The young ladies see Olivia as a mirror: their competition. They think she’s looking for a wealthy husband. To the men, Olivia indeed is this enchanting stranger. She doesn’t behave like most young women. She doesn’t play an instrument or sing. She doesn’t sew nor does she have needlework. She doesn’t draw or paint. Jane Austen’s Elizabeth Bennet in Pride & Prejudice came to mind. Lady Catherine interrogates poor Elizabeth Bennet in front of everyone at dinner about her lack of education most gentlemen’s daughters receive from governesses or tutors.

Olivia can only take off the mask with Lucas Avery. They share a past, a love for antiquities, and so much more. She does have a heart-to-heart eventually with Miss Wainbridge and learns that everyone wears a mask in this world as a wealthy member of the ton. No one feels safe to live an authentic existence. True friendship is rare.

I enjoyed this third book in Ladd’s Houses of Yorkshire collection that can be read as a standalone novel. She is one of my favorite writers of historical fiction in that she is a fine storyteller and teaches history through story, while also including faith-based answers to problems that fit every era. Thank you to Thomas Nelson for allowing me to receive a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are completely my own.

Amazing read! Rivals to lovers. Two antiques specialists are at the same place to do the same job, without anyone else finding out their true intentions. The two will have to work together to solve the puzzle before time runs out. I loved this book and would absolutely recommend this book to anyone!!

This book was so good I had a hard time putting it down. This author doesn’t disappoint when it comes to capturing my attention and holding it. I recommend all her books, especially this one.

Wow! What a fantastic book! It has romance, intrigue, and a mystery! I was completely surprised by the perpetrators! The romance is sweet and a reminder that love can happen when you least expect it!

The cast of characters is brilliant! Tied for my favorite is Olivia and Lucas! I love them both! They're extremely talented and smart! I like how they work as a team to solve the mystery. Mrs. Milton touched my heart. Her circumstances are not ideal, but she perseveres!

I really enjoy reading books by Sarah Ladd. Her books are filled with characters that are easy to like and relatable. The surprises that appear throughout the story are splendid!

I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Thomas Nelson via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

How I loved this story! And all the art references! 😍 It was really interesting. I was so looking forward to this book and it delivered. This is the third book on the ‘Houses of Yorkshire’ series.
This novel was full of mystery, no one was truly who they were. It was all a charade and this adds so much to the story. This story embarks the reader into a journey of intrigue while at Cloverton Hall through the different characters actions and the art pieces. With a surprising twist you never see coming, that brings tension and ultimately the end, perfectly done.
Also, what I like the most of Ladd’s novels is that the romance is subtle and truly clean. This author is a favorite of mine.

I loved Olivia and Lucas from the very beginning. Olivia’s confidence in her skills adds so much to her character. I love when heroines have self esteem and know their worth without being arrogant and conceited.
“…confidence and knowing one’s worth is the most beautiful trait a woman can possess.”
Lucas was such a wonderful character. Always acknowledging and supporting Olivia. Together they were a powerful duo on antiquities 😏
…and the romance (sigh)
“…she was taking with her a piece of him that he could not live without — his heart.”
“I confess that I am hopelessly captivated by you. And if this past month had taught me anything, it’s that love, and love alone, makes life worth living.” ❤️❤️❤️

The main characters’ desire to leave grievances aside make them more likable in my opinion. When people are more adept to drop their odds quickly instead of dragging it all their lives I find it more appealing and relatable to life.
“…life is too short to hold on to grievances.”

And here are other excerpts I liked…

“It takes but one mishap to abolish trust, and once gone, it’s nearly impossible to restore.”

“Trust is built by listening, not speaking.”

“Very few hold true to a conviction, for it is easiest to do what is expected and easy.”

“And if it is gossip that is worrying you, don’t give it that power. People love to talk the things that take the focus from their own problems.”

“Emotion is the entire reason we do what we do, be it love, pride, affection, fear, or any number of motivations for why people amass things. What are any of us without emotion?”

"I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Fiction through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

This was such a good book! I am such a fan of Sarah E. Ladds books so I was excited for this one. It didn’t disappoint, I loved the storyline and the characters! Highly recommend!

An excellent Regency era tale set between London and an estate in Yorkshire. A house party brings together people from different levels of society under some pretense. A mystery is uncovered, and a romance begins amidst the tension.

Well-written with a steady pace, this story kept my interest from the first to last pages. All of the tension builds to an exciting climax and some 'aha' moments that I didn't see coming. There is a bit of action, but nothing too violent.

I enjoyed the characters of Olivia and Lucas, and hoped they would be given a happy resolution to their conundrum. They had a backstory that added a theme of forgiveness, family loyalty, and finding their own way forward.
Olivia was a young woman with a strong moral compass, who didn't shrink from a challenge. I applauded her bravery and felt for her vulnerablility among the societal elites. She was courageous and true. Loved the ending!

A good, clean read, perfect for any reader from teens and up. 4.5 stars

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

I really enjoyed this book so much.. it was a wonderful story and I enjoyed all the characters. The story got very suspenseful and I could not put the book down. I enjoy reading anything by this author. I look forward to reading more books in the future by this author..

Book 3 of 3 - Two people are hired to sneak through a Regency England home appraising antiques. What they find is surprise, even finding love. Clean romance.

The Cloverton Charade by Sarah E. Ladd has many possibilities. A pair of London based antiquities appraisers, Olivia and Lucas, attend a Yorkshire house party. They begin as rivals with a history, each is secretly evaluating an antiquities collection at the request of separate persons without the other's knowledge. They eventually become suspicious of why the other person is attending the house party. When a question comes up about the authenticity of some of the pieces, they begin to work together. As Olivia and Lucas continue to work together, they also start to find the other attractive. This story works very well as a clean romance and as a an intriguing criminal mystery. How will it all end? Will they find the counterfeiters/thieves? Will they get together in the end? Follow the story through all the complex twists and turns and find out. A very satisfying read!

The Cloverton Charade was such a sweet, fun read! I absolutely loved it. It had everything I love in romance books: great character development, drama, suspense and of course great romance! It’s about two antiquities dealers whose families had a falling out and end up at the same house party to secretly evaluate two collections of antiques. They end up realizing how much they have in common and decide to put their family’s past aside to work together when they discover something is afoot at the house party. Olivia and Lucas (the main characters) are so likeable and kind I was just rooting for them the whole time. I highly recommend this to anyone who love a clean romance!

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

In "The Cloverton Charade" by Sarah E. Ladd, Alicia Brannon and Lucas Avery arrive at Cloverton Hall under the guise of guests and quickly recognize each other as business rivals. They join forces to uncover a deception within a private collection. As they work together, they form a strong bond. When a famous piece in the collection is broken during a house party, everyone becomes a suspect. Alicia and Lucas must decide how much they are willing to risk, not only for their professional reputations but also for their hearts.

I adore a well-written historical house party story and this one is set between London and an estate in Yorkshire. This story had a steady pace and managed to keep my interest from the first page to the last word. The ensemble of characters was incredibly diverse and intriguing. I particularly enjoyed the mix of romance, intrigue, and mystery in the plot.

Sarah Ladd's "The Cloverton Charade" is a thoroughly enjoyable tale, and the third book of her Houses of Yorkshire series. Invited to the same house party, rival antique appraisers Olivia Brannon and Lucas Avery appear to be at cross purposes, yet they join forces when they must discover who is replacing the valuable pieces with counterfeits.

The house party, with its interesting attendees and fun activities has never failed to appeal to me. This one offers mystery and a crime to solve, as well. Did I figure it out? That's a resounding no, which is indeed a very good thing. A predictable perpetrator always ruins a mystery. Olivia is lovely and determined to succeed in a business world dominated by men. Lucas is equally dedicated to proving his worth. Their romance is engaging, and while it happens rather quickly, it does not read as insta-love. Secondary characters are entertaining too.

Sarah Ladd's prose is always pleasing, and without a doubt, she accurately depicts the Regency period. Clean and with few, if any, grammatical errors, "The Cloverton Charade" is a wonderful read.

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for an ARC of this novel.

Friends as children, Lucas and Olivia’s fathers break up their business partnership causing them to become enemies, then rivals after both fathers die and they want to continue in the antiquities business. Sent to discreetly appraise different collections in the same household as guests at a house party, thus the charade, they realize the need to work together when counterfeit pieces are discovered. Renewed friendship develops and quickly blossoms into love as they begin to piece things together to solve the mystery. I enjoyed the intrigue in this book as much as the love story and would highly recommend this clean regency read. I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley and Thomas Nelson but was not required to give a positive review. The opinions are completely my own.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! In fact, I loved it!
I have read a few of this author's other books in the past - and while they were good, this one is very, VERY good!
It is one of the top 10 books I have read in 2024 - which is saying a lot - as I read many books a year.
The plot is fantastic! The characters were truly well thought out and nicely developed.
There was mystery, suspense, and a wonderful sweet and clean romance that I adored.
Lots of supporting details and descriptions without being overloaded... about the antiquities profession, the countryside, the beautiful Cloverton House, and the gowns the ladies wore. I loved it all.
I will definitely recommend this book to all, and I know I will be reading it again in the future... and next time I'll do so a little slower, to be able to savor it more! I was so engrossed in it that it was hard to put down!
Thank you to this author who created such an enjoyable book - that is clean and definitely worth the time to read!
💜 💜

What a fantastic read! Lovable characters, I especially enjoyed Olivia and Lucas but I found Mrs. Milton held a place in my heart as well. I found the plot to be an exciting one that held mystery and intrigue along with an enjoyable romance. The museum pieces and the far off places they came from only added to the mystery and the fun of the story. I was held completely captivated from the first page to the last. The story never lacked or grew slow but instead I found it only to add a new source of interest for me as it progressed. Never have I read a book of Sarah Lad’s that I didn’t find myself entranced by. This is definitely another well written story that wisk you off to a place that only astounds the imagination of castles, lords, and ladies.
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

This book was lovely from start to finish. The pace of the story was well written and the characters consistent throughout the story. I enjoyed it immensely!

Olivia Brannon love and knowledge for antiquities comes from her father. She longs for adventure traveling to different countries and finding treasures as her father and mother did when she was younger. When an opportunity to inspect, evaluate and catalogue a collection was offered by Mrs. Milton, she immediately took the chance and its risks.

Lucas Avery is the son of Olivia’s father former business partner. Their parents broke the partnership years ago and along it the relationship of their families. Lucas is offered to evaluate, and catalogue the collection of the deceased Mr. Milton with the outmost discretion, if possible. Olivia and Lucas will reconnect after years at the same house party secretly evaluating different collections while maintaining their facade as guests. Their journey, and several mysterious events forced them to be in closer proximity than they initially wished to have but they can never regret.

The book was full of interesting facts about antiquities and their period which is a bonus for me.
I loved most of the characters specially Olivia, Lucas Julia, Tate and Miss Wainbridge. Hopefully there is a sequel about Tate’s story and more adventures for Olivia, Lucas and Julia. I would love to read about it.

I just reviewed The Cloverton Charade by Sarah E. Ladd. #TheClovertonCharade #NetGalley

In Regency England, Olivia Brannon has unconventional goals. She wants to follow in her late father’s footsteps and work in the world of antiquities. Olivia’s uncle has taken over her father’s business and doesn’t give her the opportunities she desires. When Olivia is invited to evaluate the collection of a rich widow, she jumps at the chance and leaves London for a house party in the country where she runs into Lucas Avery, whose father was a business rival of her father. Olivia and Lucas make shocking discoveries, unlock mysteries, and share an undeniable attraction.

Sarah Ladd's novels always pull me in from the first line. Her characters are rich and multi-layered, and the romance and mystery don't disappoint! The Cloverton Charade was a page turner, and a wonderful read until it's satisfying conclusion! I loved this peak into Regency England from the perspective of a working-class heroine and hero! Highly recommended!

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





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

I’m becoming more of a fan of the Regency Era and Sarah Ladd is one of the reasons. The Cloverton Charade has interesting characters, a house party full of mystery and just the right amount of romance. This lovely story has a nice pace, interesting facts about the time period and its art. It was a fun book to read with a satisfying ending.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the opportunity to read for my honest review.

As an avid fan and reader of historical fiction and Sarah Ladd’s books, I was excited to get to read her latest!

In The Cloverton Charade, Ladd brings us quality character development and a fun plot with a few twists and turns. Lucas’s kind heart captured me from the beginning, and I loved watching Olivia’s confidence grow in who she was and her value both in society and business.

I enjoyed this clean regency story with such a well-developed plot. Much of the story takes place at a house party, but the focus isn’t just on romance or the usual surface situations. There is depth of relationship as both Lucas and Olivia participate among the elite and grow in relationship to each other as well as the others in attendance. There is also a mystery which did a good job of keeping me guessing. Setting the stage for the mystery does take a bit more of the book than the solving of it; the solution came together rather quickly, but was surprising.

I was disappointed there was no mention of faith or God since it was from a Christian publisher, but there is an underlying thread of goodness. It involves identity and seeing our value as well as how kindness and seeing beyond a person’s façade can make a difference. Lucas recognizes Olivia’s inner beauty and value, and Olivia sees beyond Mrs. Milton’s grief and terseness. There is the battle for truth and honesty along with moments of forgiveness, restoration and encouragement. In other words, there is inspiration found within its pages.

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishing for the advanced copy to review with my honest opinion.

Olivia Brannon knows more about antiquities than most men in the business have forgotten, and she’s determined to accomplish the impossible: to make a name for herself and become an independent career woman in Regency-era England. Olivia thinks she’s found her chance when a wealthy woman asks her to evaluate a private collection at Cloverton Hall. The catch? She has to pretend to be a socialite simply there for a house party.
But when Olivia runs into rival antiquities dealer Lucas Avery will her true identity be exposed? Then, as counterfeits appear and danger quickly escalates, Olivia must decide if she can trust Lucas enough to work together before this charade turns deadly.
Cleverly plotted, packed with period detail, and an absolute page-turning delight to read! Fabulous!

*Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Outstanding! Vivid descriptions, wonderfully relatable characters, and an intriguing mystery to solve! This historical fiction explores the world of antiquities in the early 1800's. The book is well researched and contains a fascinating insight into English collectors of artifacts and treasures from around the world. The main characters, Olivia and Lucas, are unintentionally invited to attend the same house party. They are each asked by different family members to undertake a confidential task, which ultimately puts them in the middle of a family dispute. This delicate situation and the mystery surrounding the antiquities are resolved in a brilliant fashion which is both delightful and refreshing. I love the "feel" of this story: Jane Austen-esque with a bit of mystique. The story is chaste with satisfying romantic chemistry between characters. A wonderful story I heartily recommend.

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

Hello! :) Firstly many thanks to Netgalley for the ARC of the Cloverton Charade. I love any book written by Sarah E. Ladd, and this book is her best by far! I absolutely love the Cloverton Charade and cannot wait to buy the physical copy when released! I find it an amazing joy to read about antiques, valuation of antiques and romance juxtaposed to a house party. I love the romance and the years a slow development of a romance in terms of the relationship between Olivia and Lucas. I feel like their relationship and the resulting romance are akin to an antique bowl, for example...crafted years ago, set upon a shelf for years and, then, at a particular point, valued and used as well as ultimately considered as a priceless treasure. Many factors served to thwart Olivia's development as her own person and as a knowledgeable antiquarian - especially as a women in those times. And multiple factors thwarted the Olivia-Lucas reunion. But they found their way amidst a shared love of antiques, family connections, betrayals of others and their own realization that they were soulmates. They belonged together like a rare painted porcelain salt and pepper shaker or sugar and creamer. They could not part with each other much like one's not being able to part with a priceless antique or heirloom. Brilliant and wonderful!! Thank you!! :)

Sarah Ladd brings the Regency era back to life with another wonderful story. Yorkshire, England becomes a rich backdrop for an unfolding mystery and possible romance. The book is filled out with strong, amazing characters that bring the story to life. Olivia is a strong and independent woman in a world where men dominate the antiquities field. Lucas is determined to bring respectability and honour back to his family name. Both can't resist antiquities and the history that surrounds them. Trust is hard to earn and easy to lose. Who should they put that trust in? Deep felt emotions and normal doubts and heartache make for realistic people who feel like friends letting the reader into a part of their lives.
Sarah Ladd pulled me in with the first chapter and kept me invested through the last page. The characters, setting, and some mystery and romance kept the story flowing easily. There were a few twists that kept me guessing until all was revealed at the end. I found myself pulling for the good guys and moaning when they missed an opportunity to set things on the right path. I have been looking forward to the book since it was announced and it did not disappoint. I was transported back to Regency England and loved ever moment of the trip. Sarah Ladd has become a favorite author who I never miss reading. I can't wait for the next adventure. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Wow. This is yet another well-written story from Sarah E. Ladd. The plot keeps the reader wanting to know more and guessing who done it right up until the very end. The main characters in this story are quite well developed. The storyline gives readers a glimpse into what life would have been like in England at the time for wealthy and for tradespeople. Olivia, although an expert in her field, is trapped by her uncle inheriting the family business, so where does she fit in this situation? Lucas has inherited his family’s business, but apparent untruths about his father have left him scrambling to save the business. Both find themselves at a house party where all is not as it seems and at least someone is not who they seem to be either. I appreciated the author showing how grief has played a major role in the lives of several of the characters, and how she guides the reader through the story into seeing the results of that grief. Grief, although not a fun topic, is an important emotion to acknowledge. The author does a good job in giving us those insights without detracting from the fun of a story, which also makes this story stand out. The writing about antiquities, of which I know nothing, now has me intrigued about looking up some of these items and seeing for myself what the draw to them would have been. One never knows what learning can come from a good book, and I highly recommend this book for a literary escape with a bit of intrigue thrown in as well.

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

A fantastic read!

This has it all.. Romance, a touch of mystery, twists and turns. It's a the book book for historical romance fans. I would highly recommend this book.

Thank you to the publisher and to NetGalley for an arc. All opinions expressed are my own.

A house party, an art forgery mystery, and rivals finding friendship.
I loved this story! The details of the house party, the art descriptions, and the romance were perfectly balanced. I thoroughly enjoyed Lucas and Olivia’s story. Their meeting after so many years and finding that neither was what they had thought was sweet. Their relationship grew to friendship and love quickly but was very believable. I enjoyed many of the secondary characters and was shocked at the solving of the forgery mystery.

This ARC was provided through NetGalley by the publisher. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.

The Cloverton Charade is a historical novel set during the Regency period. Alicia Brannon is asked to appraise some antiquities at Cloverton Hall. Lucas Avery is also interested in appraising the collection. As romantic sparks fly, a mystery also unfolds.

I wanted to read this novel because I love historical fiction and have enjoyed other Sarah E. Ladd novels. I have not read the earlier books in this series but had no problem enjoying this book as a standalone read. The characters were engaging, the dialogue was lively, and the historical details were interesting. I recommend The Cloverton Charade for other fans of historical fiction!

Lovely, engaging story set in the 1818-1819 timeframe in London and Yorkshire. Love the main characters, Lucas Avery and Olivia Brannon. They are both asked to appraise some antiquities, unbeknownst to the other. Olivia is striving to make a name for herself in a male dominated business, and Lucas is hoping to secure some funds for his business. Both families have a history and these two have known each other since they were young. Cloverton Hall is filled to the brim with antiquities and people for a party with Mrs Milton acting as hostess. We meet a lot of people at this party, and I'm hoping the author plans this as a series. Lucas is used to these affairs, somewhat, but Olivia is out of her element. She doesn't know the things the other young ladies do, as she's only been interested in learning the trade, and she's not to let people know why she's there. Page turning story, with a few surprises thrown in that makes this hard to put down.
A complimentary copy was provided by Thomas Nelson Publishers via NetGalley. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

I loved Olivia's character. She is kind, strong, independent, and has integrity. Lucas is also kind, strong and very likeable. They are both in the antiquities field. Their mothers were best friends and their fathers were business partners until they had a falling out. With both of their fathers now deceased and also Olivia's mother deceased they meet up again in an unlikely place. They decide to let bygones be bygones and a friendship forms. I loved watching their relationship strengthen and grow. This book has great characters, sweet romance and a bit of a mystery. I would highly recommend it.

The Cloverton Charade by Sarah E. Ladd is a regency story that is part of the Houses of Yorkshire series. Olivia Brannon wants to be a travel around the world in search of antiques and rare pieces. While trying to make a name for herself she agrees to attend a house party at Cloverton Hall. She is a guest of a wealthy widow while she secretly views some of her valuables. Lucas Avery is trying to build back his father’s antiquity business. He is invited by the new owner to Cloverton Hall to appraise items. Olivia and Lucas are both there covertly when they begin to uncover secrets.

Charlotte and Lucas were gracious characters who rekindled their childhood friendship during the house party. I am a believer there is nothing like the setting of a Regency house party to make for a delightful read. The characters were interesting and I was compelled to keep reading to try to figure out their back story. I was engrossed and enjoyed my time at Cloverton.

This was a delightful regency story filled with romance, some mystery, and the fascinating world of antiquities. I appreciated the different spin this story had from typical Regency romances. I highly recommend!

I was give a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.

** “I firmly believe that confidence and knowing one’s worth is the most beautiful trait a woman can possess.” **

Sarah E. Ladd delivers another delightful Austenian read with her latest novel in the Houses of Yorkshire series, “The Cloverton Charade.”

After the death of her father, a purveyor of antiquities, Olivia Brannon deeply desires to continue his legacy … a job society says is not fit for a woman. But when the widow of one of his main clients, Mrs. Agnes Milton, asks her to secretly take a look at her own personal collection of oddities, Olivia hopes this will get her foot in the industry’s door.

Former childhood friend Lucas Avery, whose father also worked in antiquities until scandal rocked his reputation before his death, also hopes to reclaim his place in the antiquities world. So when George Wainbridge, Mrs. Milton’s nephew and new master of Cloverton Hall, contacts Lucas to value the home’s collection to sell, Lucas jumps at the chance.

Shocked to meet each other at Cloverton, Olivia and Lucas are even more shocked when strange occurrences pop up with the estate’s very extensive and valuable collection. Can they get to the bottom of what’s going on, move past their former ill will between families, and possibly admit to feelings for one another?

Ladd does a great job of creating a story filled with twists and turns, adding shocking surprises, all while creating characters readers can relate to. She also includes some great themes, like the need for security; loyalty; rooting out injustice; not worrying about what others think of you (“And if it is gossip that is worrying you, don’t give it that power. People love to talk about the things that take the focus from their own problems”); and finding a fresh start and new beginnings.

Fans of classic authors like Austen and present-day authors like Abigail Wilson and Joanna Davidson Politano, as well as romantic stories with a little bit of suspense, will enjoy “The Cloverton Charade,” which is due out Sept. 3.

Five stars out of five.

Thomas Nelson provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.

At a Regency-era house party, rival antiquity brokers Alicia and Lucas are each secretly assessing a potentially valuable collection. Their investigation uncovers counterfeit items, forcing them to work together to expose the deception. As their professional partnership deepens, so does their attraction, but a broken heirloom threatens to unravel their secrets and their hearts.

I loved this. The story is strong and the romance swoony. Alicia and Lucas are wonderful, both separately and together.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

This is another wonderful novel from Sarah Ladd. Olivia Brannon is a woman who just wants to be respected for what she knows and what she can contribute. When a wealthy widow invites her to a house party for the purpose of cataloging a collection she owns, Olivia accepts. Now she has the opportunity to prove what she can do. Lucas Avery is trying to rise above challenges left by his father, so when he has the opportunity to attend the same house party for the purpose of a clandestine review of the contents of the home, it's the perfect opportunity to gain a client and work.

While both attend the house party they have to decide whehter to work together or stand in each other's way. Will they trust each other assume the worst? Not easy when the allure of attraction wants to draw them closer. This is a wonderful read set during the Regency era with a strong romance and good mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

This was an enjoyable read- well written and believable.
I loved hearing about all the antiques. I love old things so it was fun to hear descriptions of the treasures they appraised.
I thought it was fun that this book was a romance but also had a good mystery to it as well.
I loved the characters and thought it had a satisfying ending.
I was also able to listen to this book on audio and it was awesome. I loved the narrator. I listened to it at 2x speed and it was still enjoyable and understandable.

Another fabulous book from Sarah E. Ladd! I loved the settings in London and Yorkshire and the cast of characters was delightful. Especially our main leads, Alicia and Lucas. A story of mystery, antiques, family history, family rivals and growing attraction, this one is sure to have you turning the pages and be transported to a different time.

I loved the history between Lucas and Alicia and watching that play out the more we come to know these characters. Their meeting at the very beginning of the book, as well as at the house party, were very fun. I was holding my breath at the house party meeting waiting for the shoe to drop, so to speak. Ohhhh, you'll be waiting as well to see if their secret will remain intact or be outed.

There are several secrets floating around during this one, can you spot them all? I have to say that I didn't. And once things started to be revealed I did a figurative face palm to myself, thinking well why didn't I catch that. But you're not supposed to until later on. But maybe you'll figure it out early if you're watching closely.

The antiquities were a really fun aspect of the book and very interesting. My heart sank a few times in regards to them. Which you'll discover along the way with Alicia and Lucas. They'll have to work quickly though or real trouble will abound.

Sweet love story mixed with mystery and whodunnit vibes, makes for a delightful read! Definitely one I recommend for fans of this author's work or if you've never read her books before, if you're a fan of mystery and Regency, you'll definitely enjoy this one. It is part of a series but they can be read as standalones or together. They're all wonderful.

Content: Clean and wholesome. Some moments of very mild peril.

I received a copy from Thomas Nelson Fiction, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

Antiquities expert Olivia Brannon is excited to have the opportunity to appraise widow Mrs. Milton's collection. When her uncle inherited her father's business, he didn't appreciate or utilize Olivia's knowledge. Olivia has been invited to a house party to discretely look at the items. She is surprised to see her family's rival Lucas Avery there. Hopefully, Lucas won't tell the other house guests her background. Lucas is there to discretely appraise Mr. Wainbridge's collection that he inherited from Mr. Milton. When he realizes there are forged pieces in the collection, he ask's Olivia to verify as well. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I love books that surprise me with the solution to a mystery and this one does that. I also love how Olivia and Lucas start as rivals and how their relationship changes. I admire that Olivia is intelligent, strong, and holding on to her goals and dreams in life. I also love how Lucas appreciates not only Olivia's beauty, but her intelligence and knowledge as well. I love this book and series.

The Cloverton Charade by Sarah E. Ladd joins my list of books I’ve loved by the author! Her books never fail to delight me, and I can never put them down.

I adored Olivia and Lucas! Olivia’s independent spirit shines through. I loved that she didn’t want to live the life of a traditional Regency woman. She wanted to travel the world searching for antiquities just as her father did. Even though it was a lofty goal, she held onto that dream. Lucas was left with a huge responsibility when his father died leaving his family’s name besmirched. Lucas’s ambition was admirable as was the chivalry and kindness he showed to everyone, even those who didn’t deserve it. The side characters in the book had unique personalities with quirky characters, grouchy characters, sweet characters, reprehensible characters…you get the picture! The author always does such a wonderful job bringing her characters to life, and she definitely did that in The Cloverton Charade!

I’m such a huge fan of Regency romances set in England because I think I belong there! This book takes place in both London, where Olivia and Lucas live, and Yorkshire, where the house party they attend takes place. Ladd’s descriptive writing brings these settings to life. I could definitely picture everything from the noisy London streets to the serene Yorkshire countryside.

I highly recommend this sweet, clean Regency romance for its well-written characters, descriptive writing, and well-developed plot. I give it 5 huge stars!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.