In the Shelter of Hollythorne House

Sarah Ladd has done it again! This was stunning! The plot was well-paced and captivating from start to finish. The characters were well-developed; complex, and intriguing. I highly recommend this beautiful telling of the power of love. Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advanced copy of the book.

Another wonderful book by Sarah Ladd!
Filled with romance, suspense and so much more!
Sarah Ladd really pulls you into her stories and tugs on your heartstrings.

Sarah E. Ladd's In the Shelter of Hollythorne House is fine romance/mystery. An initial romance between the two main characters, Charlotte Grey and Anthony Welbourne, when they are young is abandoned but never forgotten. Anthony leaves for the army and suffers through battles and wounds. Charlotte is married to an abusive, controlling husband and has a child. They meet again years later when Anthony, an ex-soldier working as a thief-taker is hired to protect Charlotte and her young son at her childhood home after her awful husband has died. The plot is intricate with unexpected twists. The setting is well imagined. Both the main characters and the peripheral characters go through a series of changes. This was a very satisfying read and strongly recommended.

Ms. Ladd has penned another amazing novel set in the regency era, filled with memorable characters, mystery, and suspense. The pace is perfect, the writing is top-notch and I got caught up in the storyline from the very beginning.

Charlotte had much more strength and courage than she ever imagined after the unexpected death of her husband as she returns to her childhood home with her baby. I expected to feel bad for her with all of the changes in her life but instead started to admire her for her dignity. The unexpected return of her first love and fierce protector was a wonderful surprise which added to the plot and my need to find out exactly what would happen in the end.
Overall, I thought this novel was exceptional. The author is a gifted storyteller, weaving suspense, mystery and romance seamlessly
I received a copy of this book from the publisher though Netgalley. Opinions are my own.

Charlotte and Anthony never thought they would see excited again. Little did they know. I love how Sarah E Ladd takes the story on twists and turns and to places you would never imagine. SOOO good!

Wow! This book has it all! Sudden death, lies, intrigue, betrayal, abduction and second chances at love. The story is set in England in 1813. Charlotte is a great character. Strong, brave and not afraid to protect what's hers. Anthony is brave, stalwart and reliable. Together they must overcome obstacles that threaten the people they love. The ending was a complete surprise and I enjoyed the other characters stories. A definite must read!
I was provided an ARC copy of this book by Net Galley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This book was the perfect easy read for cold, dreary February! The main characters, in love in their youth but torn apart by circumstances, were extremely likable and easy to cheer for. Charlotte was a strong female lead whose determination and spirit kept her afloat after her cruel husband's death, and her decisions helped carry the story along at a good pace. Anthony was everything a good hero should be- kind, steady, and supportive of Charlotte through her difficulties. While the mystery wasn't terribly difficult to solve, I enjoyed it- I wasn't looking for an edge-of-your-seat thriller, but a strong, interesting story with a sweet romance.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes historical romances with a hint of mystery.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion and review.

A beautiful second-chance romance. Charlotte is a young widow with an infant son. Upon her husband's death, old emotions have surfaced and Charlotte embarks on a journey to find the man with who she once held affection. Anothony never forgot the woman he loved. When the two reunite will they choose to face life together or go their own ways? Another hit from Sarah E. Ladd! I loved this book. Anthony and Charlotte are a beautiful match and I got sucked right into their story. I would recommend this book to any friends or family.

Wow! I loved this regency read! It has just the right amount of romance, suspense, crime, and more.
The characters are very well developed.
The details are well written. You get a real sense of the times this story was set in.
With my overbearing, patriarchal background, it is hard to read if women trapped in loveless and respectless marriages. There is still a fight for women’s place in marriage today.
I highly recommend this read!

Hello! This book, in the Shelter of Hollythorne House, is a marvel...absolutely because of the writing style, word/phrasing choices, and images evoked, but also because of the feelings that I had when reading this novel. At times I felt bone-deep terror and powerful worry for Charlotte and as Charlotte. During other times I felt all of the love and warmth surrounding the relationship between Charlotte and Anthony. The choice of names - Charlotte as 'warrior' and Anthony as 'priceless one -' seems not to have been by chance. And I have a new book boyfriend in Anthony!

Sarah E. Ladd has significant talent as a writer in capturing the reader from the first word of a novel to the last, and I always feel as though I have not only traveled back in time but have traveled to the manor, to the fields, to the library, to the stables, etc., and am a 'third' in each conversation. I am literally sitting and observing every skirt swish, every hand-wringing, every horse ride, every coattail swirl, etc. Each word and all dialogue are created not only with the author and reader in mind but with the characters in mind...they drive the book and their adventure. This novel can easily become a movie...it was a movie in my head and imagination as I read this book. Such captivating scenery in Yorkshire, England, to be sure...in reality and in history. Charlotte's and Anthony's story is not an easy path...it is dynamic and filled with the most poignant of interactions. The two have amazing chemistry, and I was on the edge of my seat awaiting the next great move by both characters to combat seen and unseen threats to their happiness. Just when the reader thinks he or she has the mystery and case sorted, another surprise awaits. I read most of this novel in one sitting but held out a few days to finish the last 25%...because I did not want it to end. I appreciate the ARC from Netgalley and highly recommend this book. Beautifully done! I cannot wait for Sarah E. Ladd's next novel. Charlotte's and Anthony's story is one for the ages! :)

I love the way that Ms. Ladd writes. Her descriptions of the wild moors, the dialogue between the characters, and the portrayal of Charlotte and Anthony and the trials they face together feel like you are a part of the story.

Charlotte has the unenviable job of putting the familial run down estate back into order. She learns the truth of her newly deceased husband’s business dealings and flees back to her childhood home. I greatly admired her for her courage and determination to provide for her son , Henry, and stand up against her powerful in-laws. Her fierce love for her baby to do anything to keep him safe resonated with me.

This was such a powerful story of forgiveness and reconciliation as Charlotte and Anthony choose to put the past behind them. It has danger, mystery, and romance all wrapped up into this amazing story. I highly recommend reading this book. Once you start you may not be able to put it down.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of this book to review. This was my first time reading a book by this author and I was pleasantly surprised. I loved the description of the scenery and the feeling of your home calling you back. The characters were relatable and you went on the rollercoaster of emotions with them. They experienced love before terrible tragedy struck in both their lives. Fate brought them back together and this book details how they overcame all the obstacles. This was a very clean book, if you want a steamy book, this is not it. My attention was kept and I got through this book quickly because I didn’t want to put it down. An enjoyable read for sure.

I just reviewed In the Shelter of Hollythorne House by Sarah E. Ladd. #IntheShelterofHollythorneHouse #NetGalley
I loved this book! The storyline, the characters and the whole premise were awesome. Page turner!

I've read all of Sarah's books and this is another amazing one like usual.

The story starts with Charlotte saying goodbye to Anthony as he's leaving to fight in the war.

Three years later, Charlotte finds her husband dead and it's a relief for her since he was a cruel man. She has a 7 month baby boy and when his life is threatened, she leaves to her childhood home, Hollythorne House.
Her brother in law hires two men to protect her and the baby and one of them turns out to be Anthony.
They are both surprised by this as he didn't know she was the widow and she didn't know what he was doing or where.

At first, Charlotte and Anthony treat each other very formally, but as the story develops into more threats and danger, they start to rely on each other.

Charlotte's and Anthony's lives have not been easy for either one in the years since they last saw each other but we soon see they are just what each other needs. Here's a literary couple who definitely earn their HEA.

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

IN THE SHELTER OF HOLLYTHORNE HOUSE by SARAH E LADD is a most enjoyable and exciting romantic suspense novel set in Regency England with very interesting characters and a great plot. There is quite a twist in the end and Charlotte, who wants to keep her seven month old son Henry safe and is also determined to never again be imprisoned as she was in her marriage to Roland Prior, is unsure who to trust. Can she trust Anthony Welbourne, the man she was in love with, or has he changed since coming back from the American war and joining Walstead’s Watchmen as a thief-taker? In fact, who can she really trust? I like to see her strength of character as she takes on her crumbling family home and learns to look after her baby, qwho she was hardly ever allowed to spend time with.
Anthony wishes he had listened to his uncle and taken over the family mill instead of following his father’s dreams and running off to war, thus losing the love of his life. He also feels responsible for his uncle’s death……
In The Shelter of Hollythorne House is an altogether lovely read and one I highly recommend to anyone who rnjoys this genre.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

I thoroughly enjoyed “In the Shelter of Hollythorne House.” Charlotte and Anthony had a story of love-deferred. This story has scandal, intrigue, a bit of mystery - but so very much love. Highly recommend!

Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to advance read and share my thoughts. ❤️

What a great historical romance! I love Sarah Ladd for the Regency-era novels. This one takes place in England. One woman has had a great life with her parents. Her mother died when she was 12 and she and her father had a good life until he started to get sick. When he got sick he wanted her taken care of. He arranges a marriage for her and she's swept away by how lovely and nice the man is. Only after they're married and living on their own he becomes the exact opposite of what she thought he was.

She puts away all the thoughts of her life before and merely tries to survive and live with her new husband. When a baby enters the picture he becomes worse and won't even let her hold or care for her son. She gets one supervised hour a day. Oh, how she wishes for more and different.

And then she gets it! Her husband dies. But things aren't all better. His brother just like him is now in charge of her son's future and all the money except Charlotte gets to stay her son's guardian. She makes the decision to move back to her childhood home and raise Henry as she sees fit.

Enter a group of hired thugs or I mean Watchmen. Charlotte's brother-in-law hires them to protect her. Or rather protect his nephew and keep her in line to what he wants.

But here's the clincher. Charlotte's old love and flame is one of the watchmen. Can she keep her life going how she wants on her own or will she have to trust someone else? Is Anthony still the same man she once knew? Can she trust him? And then disaster strikes?

Will Charlotte ever be able to live without looking over her shoulder?

I loved this book. It's got romance and also suspense and danger. The book reads well and quickly. The characters reach out and grab you. Oh, and there are a few twists and turns that you wouldn't suspect thrown in here and there.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

I have found my new go to author! I loved this book. As soon as I finished reading I went directly to get additional books by her. She writes in a way that I felt like I was one of the characters. I could see Hollythorne House. I walked the moors with her. The love story is captivating, the tension, perfect! Thank you for complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I really enjoyed this story so much. I enjoyed the characters as well. This book kept me on the edge of my seat several times. It was very hard to put this book down. I really look forward to reading more of this authors books. The author writes lovely books, every book that I have read of hers has been a wonderful read. A Christian and clean read.

The second installment from Sarah E Ladd's The Houses of Yorkshire series, In the Shelter of Hollythorne House, is a wonderful and beautiful clean historical romance. I loved it and am giving five stars.

This was a lovely “second chance” romance. How nice that family prejudices and the scars acquired in the years apart did not extinguish the love Anthony and Charlotte shared for each other. And now the stakes are higher - Charlotte’s young son, Henry, must be considered as they tentatively examine their feelings and future. They soon learn they can depend only on each other as they seek Henry’s welfare. I was interested to learn about the history of the “thief takers,” an early example of personal security. I wonder if Anthony ever got that last paycheck! I was delighted to receive an early complimentary peek at this gem by NetGalley. Like all of Ladd’s books, it’s an enthralling five stars.

#IntheShelterofHollythorneHouse #NetGalley

There is a layer of intrigue, suspense, and romance are found in this novel by Sarah Ladd. A romance set aside because of family dispute and war, leaves Charlotte Grey in a desperate situation. With her father in poor health she marries the handsome Roland Prior, but soon realizes that he put on quite an act.
Anthony Welbourne is good at what he does, tracking and capturing the bad guys. When he is assigned to be head of the security team for the widow of Roland Prior he doesn't expect to see the girl he loved before he went off to war, now a widow with an infant son. What other secrets will he find lurking in the midst of it all?

This is the second book of the series, and I thoroughly enjoyed the first one This is another excellent book by Sarah Ladd. Early on in this one, I was a little confused because there wasn’t a lot of clarity in the parting of Charlotte and Anthony, or communication between them as to a potential future. Yet they obviously had been romantically involved. Fortunately, the story is told in two separate voices, so we get to hear from both Anthony and Charlotte, which allows us to understand the history of each of them in the years since they have been apart.

It is always been hard for me to understand how mothers were often kept apart from their children (and sometimes it seems they preferred that). However, as the story begins with Charlotte, finding her rather abusive husband suddenly dead, she is determined to make a path of her own with her infant son, Henry. Her equally unpleasant brother-in-law is opposed to this, but she makes the determination to leave with her son and her maid and head back to her childhood home. In response, her brother-in-law hires several guards to go with her. Charlotte is immediately shocked to discover that Anthony is the main person hired to “protect” her.

After finishing his time in the military, Anthony had taken a position as a thief taker, and has excelled at it for the last several years. He did not expect this assignment to be with Charlotte. Charlotte initially has some resentment toward him, because she has learned not to trust men, and also does not understand how he came to be in this position over her.

There are some very shady characters, as well as a rather intriguing mystery but ultimately Charlotte and Anthony do get their happily ever after…along with baby Henry.

I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley, but the opinion above is entirely my own. As always, I highly recommend this and all books written by Sarah E Ladd.

This is a review of Sarah Ladd's upcoming book, In The Shelter of Hollythorne House, book 2 of the Houses of Yorkshire series, that will be released on July 11, 2023. I am reviewing this book for NetGalley, and also received a copy from the author in return for my honest review.  I am a huge fan of Sarah Ladd, and own all her books, and I have been across anxiously waiting for this book to be released ever since I read book 1 The Letter from Briarton Park last year, and I was so glad to get an advanced copy, because I absolutely loved the book as Sarah Ladd has again written an amazing story!  I didn't feel like I needed to read book 1 to follow this, even though I did, but you can follow it without reading book 1, but I highly recommend both books!  Sarah wrote a book that was well written, with an exciting plot from the beginning, characters that drew me in from the beginning, and kept me reading till the end because I just had to find out what happened!  The characters felt like old friends by the end of the book, but I totally was turning pages because I couldn't even begin to guess what was going to happen, and was so excited to finish it, but a little sad because I didn't want the story to end!

Our story begins Charlotte Grey, in 1814, who grew up at Hollythorne House located in Yorkshire, England with a loving family, fell in love with Anthony Welbourne, a man who went off to war in America without knowing how deeply she loved him, and so to please her dying father, she agreed to marry another. 

in 1817, Charlotte found herself in a love less and very strict marriage to Roland Prior, a wealthy man, but was not a gentleman by any means because of his cruel treatment of Charlotte by controlling every part of her life, even to the extent of limiting her comings and goings, what she wore, who she interacted with, and even the time she was allowed to spend with her own child!  She agreed to marry Roland to please her father, but years before her heart had belonged to another, but that seemed like a lifetime ago to Charlotte who had buried those memories deep, and just tried to survive daily life with Roland. 

A few months after their son is born,  Charlotte finds Roland dead in his study, but she feels no love loss because of it.  Not soon after, her husband's death, his brother, Silas Prior, comes to Leeds because he wants to take control all of Roland's affairs which include his estate in Leeds, and the future of the heir to that estate, the son of Roland and Charlotte.  Silas is no better than Roland, and Charlotte finds her voice, and refuses to allow Silas to control her or her son in any way.  She refuses his offer to financially take care of her, and she finds out there was one thing Roland didn't steal from her, her childhood home in the Yorkshire Dales, Hollythorne House, where Charlotte grew up in a happy home, with parents who loved her!  She decides to leave Leeds for good, and return herself, her son, and her lady's maid and dear friend Sutcliffe, to Hollythorne House, and try to build a life for themselves, free from the grasp of Silas Prior, but that might not be as easy as she thought! She didn't realize that danger would follow her and her son, and that help would come from someone she had once loved, but never thought she would see ever again, Anthony Welbourne.

Anthony Welbourne, who grew up in the Yorkshire Dales with his uncle who had a mill in the area, but left his home, and the woman he loved to become a soldier, who came back from the war in America to join up as a thief-taker, one of Walstead's Watchmen, cleaning up the criminals off the streets of Leeds. He works close with his close friend Timmons, who he owed his life to because he nursed Anthony back to health on the ship back to England after the war.  He and Timmons are both theif-takers on Mr. Walstead's payroll, and find themselves given an assignment to guard a woman and her son who find themselves in great danger, and who are unaware of that danger, and it is up to Anthony and Timmons to keep them alive.  Anthony is very surprised to find that the woman in danger was the very one who had stolen his heart just a few years ago, Charlotte Grey, now known as the widow Mrs. Roland Prior, and her son.  But you must read the book to find out what happens!

I loved this book! I was hooked from the beginning! The story was real, exciting, unpredictable and just really good!  I give it 5 out of 5 stars, and highly recommend it!!!

The author gives us a young woman who has lost the love of her life, not to death, but to military, and married a man whom her father chose. As the story opens Charlotte has just become a widow, and we become privy to how her life has been since she married and had her baby!

When danger rears, security is hired to protect, and a thief/taker is hired, whom happens to be Charlotte's old love Anthony. As the facts on fold, you will wonder why the danger seems to get worse, and soon you won't know whom to trust.

This is quite a journey to answers and peace of mind, and the author does a wonderful job of bringing this story alive and to a great conclusion!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.

"That being said, my advice to you, my dear Mrs. Prior, is to leave Leeds. Take Henry. Go to Hollythorne House and establish your household immediately, before Mr. Prior can interfere."

In the Shelter of Hollythorne House (2023, Thomas Nelson) is second in The Houses of Yorkshire series by Sarah E. Ladd. It's a historical Christian romance with light suspense, set in 1817 England.

Rating: 5 stars

Is it clean/chaste? Yes!

Other content issues:Previous domestic abuse mentioned, but not elaborated on, *****spoiler****** as well as a kidnapping *****spoiler*****.

Christian elements:Christian publishing company, but it's not preachy

The heroine:At eighteen Charlotte Grey fell in love with Anthony Wellbourne. Three months after they met, he left for war. "Given the nature of the strained relationship between their families, any true union would be impossible. Her father and his uncle were bitter enemies."

Now, four years later, Charlotte is a widow after three years of a loveless marriage to the physically and emotionally abusive Roland Prior. Charlotte Prior's fears are now directed towards her brother-in-law Silas Prior, who she believes, will not permit her any involvement in raising her son. She flees to her childhood home, Hollythorne House, with her seven-month-old son Henry in tow. Silas hires watchmen to guard Charlotte and Henry until the inquest of Roland.

"He was a hired watchman, but her heart was determined to remember him quite differently." "...two people did not share a romance like theirs and forget a single detail of it, despite what they had moved on to be."

The hero:Two-and-a-half years ago, Anthony Wellbourne returned from the war in the United States, severely injured with significant scarring.

"He'd spent years forcing thoughts of Charlotte Grey to the back of his mind. Leaving her had been the biggest regret of his life. And now he was going to see her? Speak with her? Protect her and her son?"

"He was not quite the same person he had been, but he had not died. He was still alive. And just as he fought to keep air in his lungs during the war, he would fight for Charlotte."

What I liked:

*The main characters - I'm always happiest when I respect the hero and the heroine right from the start.

*Hollythorne House. I would've liked to have learned more about it and the work to restore it. "It was hundreds of years old, constructed of gray gristone that had blackened over time."

What I didn’t like:

*It felt like the book started with two short prologues, which outlined two major events in the heroine's life, and jumped right into the main story. I wanted more backstory.

Book recommendation:<i> The Headmistress of Rosemere, a lovely book by the same author

The bottom line: This was a great second chance historical romance with a bit of suspense. I definitely look forward to reading more by Sarah E. Ladd.

My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

In the Shelter of Hollythorne House is book 2 in the Houses of Yorkshire Series. It does just fine as a stand alone novel.

Charlotte Gray had a chance at true love but wasn't brave enough to take it. She married a rich man of her father's choosing who mistreated her during their union. So unsurprisingly, the only thing she feels after her husband's death three years later is relief. She takes her infant son back to her family home to rebuild her life. As details of her husband's misdeeds come to light, Charlotte's brother-in-law hires two bodyguards to protect the child from any who might seek to harm him. One of the bodyguards is her old flame, Anthony Welbourne. As they try to maintain an appropriate relationship, both Charlotte and Anthony have feelings that never died. When Charlotte's baby is kidnapped, Anthony must save the boy and win Charlotte's heart once again.

I enjoyed this novel very much. The author is very good at setting the scene and describing the action. I liked the characters of Charlotte and Anthony. The antagonist was my second guess. I would recommend any fans of Regency Christian fiction to read In the Shelter of Hollythorne House!

I’ve read a few books by Sarah Ladd and this one is my favorite so far. I was drawn into the story from the start and couldn’t wait to see how these two would find themselves together again. Throughout the novel I found there was never a spot where I got bored. The middle didn’t have any down time or repetitiveness that novels often have. The entire story was wonderful and emotional and I loved seeing into the heart of each character and how they believed the best in one another, and then fought for that. Wonderful story!

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

Charlotte Grey and Anthony Welbourne fell in love one summer when his uncle and her father forbade their relationship. Then he went to war and she was married off to Roland Prior -- until she finds Roland dead. The man was indebted to many dangerous people, so Charlotte flees with her infant son Henry to Hollythorne House, where she grew up. Her brother-in-law insists on sending protection in the form of thief-takers, including Anthony, now scarred from war. Neither knows who they can trust as dangerous men threaten the one person with an inheritance: Henry.
Loved this book! I always love books by this author, but this one mixes in extra mystery and suspense. I love the tangible setting of the chilly moors and old house. Love the relationship between Anthony and Charlotte. Loved seeing her grow. Anthony did think she is the one person who could make him whole, when really, that us Jesus. "She smiled and him" instead of "at" on 317. On 256, there is a space before the comma. Lastly, America is referred to as "the United States," but I'm fairly sure we were not referred to as such until after the Civil War. Still, I loved this book and I'm super grateful to #NetGalley for this #ARC! I will purchase it after it comes out in July.

This story took a couple chapters to really get into, then it turned into a can't put down book. Charlotte moves back to Hollythorne with her 7 month old son, Henry, after her husband's death. She is accompanied by her ladies maid and 2 protectors hired by her brother-in-law. The house needs repairs and she has little funding to deal with those and take care of the servants and guards needs. She sets out to do what she can, all the while avoiding Anthony, her former love. She doesn't know who she can trust, who will honestly protect Henry and who would send news back to her brother-in-law Silas. Anthony is dealing with his feeling and trying to keep them protected. His guard partner, Timmons, just finds it a good paying job in a place he considers desolate. As threats start coming in, Charlotte looks more and more to Anthony to find out what is going on, and get more help if needed. Likeable characters and a moving plot.
A complimentary copy was provided by Thomas Nelson, via Net Galley. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Newly widowed Charlotte Prior leaves the home that she shared with her treacherous late husband to move back to her childhood home with her infant son. Her brother-in-law insists that she have protection because of threats against her husband that now threaten their safety, One of the men assigned to guard her is her first love, Anthony Welbourne, whom she thought never to see after he left to fight the war in America. Her feelings for Anthony have not changed, but she has learned the hard way that her feelings in the past were wrong. Can she trust Anthony, or have his feelings for her changed in the 4 years he was away? While navigating their current relationship, a threat to her son has her doubting her judgement and security.
I enjoyed this clean romance and thought the plot was well developed. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Ladd's novels.
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review,

This was a very enjoyable read for me. It took me a little bit to get into it, but once it grabbed me I didn’t want to let go.

This was a wonderful second chance romance. Both main characters had been through traumatizing experiences since they had seen each other four years before. Charlotte had been trapped in an abusive marriage with a controlling husband. Anthony had lived through the horrors of war and severe injury.

They both had hardened their hearts, but soon discovered they had to rely on each other to survive when they didn’t know who they could trust.

I enjoyed the naturally evolving relationship amid a story of mystery, suspense and danger. Sarah Ladd is a great storyteller who can draw you into the lives of her wonderful characters. Beware as this book may keep you reading far into the night.

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

It has been waaay too long since I read a Sarah Ladd book and I am so glad I picked this one up - I loved it!!

Newly widowed Charlotte moves back to her childhood home, Hollythorne House, with her infant son. Her brother-in-law insists she and her son are in danger and hires bodyguards to protect them at the isolated estate.

Anthony has never forgotten Charlotte or the love they shared before he took a commission in the army. Four years later, he has returned and has been assigned by his employer to guard a widow and her son, and is shocked to come face to face with Charlotte again.

As Charlotte and Anthony are thrown together time and time again, feelings reignite but before they can decide if they want a second chance at love, they have to survive the danger that threatens them.

What to love:
Regency era
Second chance romance
Mystery and suspense
Vivid setting
Compelling characters
Forced proximity
The rescue

I loved watching Charlotte take back some control and independence in her life after living in a controlling and abusive marriage. Every time she stood up for herself I wanted to cheer!

Second-chance romance is one of my favorite tropes! So many happy sighs watching Charlotte and Anthony find their way back to each other. The pacing of their romance felt very natural and I loved every minute of it. I also loved how the ending of the story wasn't rushed and we got resolutions for all the loose ends.

This is the second book in a series but is unconnected from the first and can be read as a standalone. 4.5 stars and I look forward to picking up more books from this author very soon!

I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and Thomas Nelson. I'm voluntarily reviewing this book without compensation.

Genre: Historical Romance, Romance, Regency Romance, Sweet Romance, Christian Fiction
Spice Level: Sweet

The characters have both experienced physical trauma in the past, but it is not explained in gruesome detail.
This is part of the Yorkshire series, but it also stands alone.

This is the romance my heart has been wanting!

Charlotte is one of those characters who have forgotten who they really are, and now that their life circumstances changed, she rediscovers herself.
Anthony is similar but he's deliberately pushed away thoughts of his past and now must face them.

I loved the twists and turns in this novel. It's got shades of a mystery within the plot—especially when we see what the bad guys are after. But who's who in this book?

This is the type of feel-good historical that I can lap up.

Things to look forward to include:

A devilish scar
A windfall
A darling child
A childhood home
Wild weather
Moors
Heroics
Lost love

And so much more!

I highly recommend this book!

Happy reading!

PS: Anthony reminds me of Poldark but with better values.

The Heroine

When Anthony Welbourne leaves for war, he takes Charlotte Grey’s heart along with him. As every good daughter in Regency England knows, one cannot marry outside of one’s social class. And one can certainly never marry the nephew of a man one’s father despises. So Charlotte sets aside her feelings and does what every obedient daughter does—marry a man her father thinks will suit her.

Little does her father know Charlotte’s husband, Roland Prior, harbors sinister designs beneath his pleasant façade. When Charlotte finds Roland dead of apoplexy in his study after only four years of marriage, she wastes no time in mourning. She knows she must flee to the shelter of her childhood home with her infant son, Henry, if she wishes to extract her son from the clutches of the Prior men.

Her brother-in-law, Silas, arranges for guards from the famous Walstead’s watchmen to escort Charlotte to Blight Moor. Begrudgingly, Charlotte agrees. But when one of the watchmen turns out to be her beloved Anthony, Charlotte doesn’t know how to react.

The Hero

Anthony Welbourne loved Charlotte from the moment he saw her. But as a mill owner’s nephew, he knew they had no future together. Instead, he fulfilled his father’s dying wish and bought a British army commission to fight in the newly formed United States.

He returns to England scarred and broken and forced to sell his commission. A faithful friend helps him find a job as a thief-taker and guard, and Anthony settles into the lonely life of a man determined to help others find justice.

When he comes face to face with the only woman he’s ever loved on his latest assignment, Anthony is shocked by her changed appearance. Thin and wan, she doesn’t resemble the carefree woman he left four years ago. He’ll do anything to help her regain her spark, even if it means keeping secrets from his friend and partner.

As Charlotte settles into Hollythorne House, hope slowly builds that she can regain her life and set her estate in order. Until someone threatens her son. Together Charlotte and Anthony must uncover a sinister plot that threatens to everything Charlotte holds dear.

What I Loved About This Book

Ladd has penned another sweet Regency romance laced with suspense and mystery. Readers will relate to Charlotte and Anthony as they struggle to work through regrets, abuse, and the horrors of war. Despite the odds, the hero and heroine find a way to overcome their pasts and take hold of their second chance at love.

Fans of Julie Klassen and Abigail Wilson will love this book.

I enjoyed this Regency romance. Charlotte is a strong, compelling main character. The story was a good mix of suspense and light romance. Both main characters interesting and likeable. It is not a super fast moving, action filled story but flows along nicely making for an enjoyable summer read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publisher for the opportunity to read for honest review.

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

England, 1817.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Atmospheric, almost gothic mystery, set in Regency times.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This was my first book written by this author. I enjoyed it very much. There were parts that were slow, but I've come to realize that is the case with most Regency books I've read so I assume that is what happens for the time period. Perhaps I am wrong but I've seen it with every book set in this time period so that is my take on it! Both Charlotte and Anthony have changed from when they were "forbidden" sweethearts 4 years earlier. They were of different classes and knew they wouldn't be permitted to marry. Anthony went off to war in the US and Charlotte married someone her father chose for her. That marriage was a disaster, but she endured it. Thankfully, her abusive husband died suddenly, and she escaped to her childhood home - Hollythorne House. Anthony is one of the men charged to guard her since it is discovered her dead husband did some nefarious things and her infant son might be at risk. I connected immediately with Anthony. I liked his character a lot. This story had a lot of intrigue, mystery and questions. Charlotte was trying hard to become her own person after being held down for so long. I admired her. I would like to read another book by this author.

I have long been a fan of Sarah E. Ladd's books. She has an eloquent way of describing the historical English settings, and endearing the lead characters to her readers.

The story opens with Charlotte Grey saying goodbye to her love, Anthony Welbourne, who is whisked away to fight in America. There is a jump in time where Charlotte is married with a young child, and she discovers her husband, who is not a nice man, is dead. Anthony has returned from war, a bit banged up and down on his luck, working for a local watchman in Leeds. Charlotte flees to her empty home, Hollythorne House, to protect her son. There she discovers Anthony has been hired to protect her.

Once again, we are given a sweet romance with really lovable characters. The way Ms. Ladd writes, you can feel every emotion expressed deeply. She just has a way with words! I highly recommend this and any other of her wonderful books.

Thank you Thomas Nelson - Fiction and NetGalley for the ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.

** “You don’t believe me now, but one day you’ll want a home to rest in. Permanency. Do not discount steadiness and security.” **

Sarah E. Ladd’s latest novel, “In the Shelter of Hollythorne House,” is a tale of love, mystery and courage with an Austenian flair.

When tragedy strikes, Charlotte Prior finds herself returning to her childhood home, Hollythorne House, with her infant son. Not knowing whom she can truly trust, she finds herself reacquainted with Anthony Welbourne, the man who stole her heart before heading off to war. Now working as a thief-taker for Walstead’s Watchmen, he’s tasked with keeping Charlotte and her son Henry safe.

Can they remain safe from nefarious influences, all while continuing to deny their returning feelings?

Ladd, as usual, develops intriguing characters with flaws, secrets and hopes. She fills her plots with just enough of romance and thrills to keep the reader wanting more. She also includes several great themes, like freeing ourselves from the briars of life; having a sense of freedom and home; confronting injustice; and finding courage to carry on.

“In the Shelter of Hollythorne House” is a great story written today but in the vein of authors like Jane Austen. Fans of classic authors like her and present-day authors like Abigail Wilson and Joanna Davidson Politano, as well as romantic stories with a little bit of suspense, will enjoy this novel.

Five stars out of five.

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

I have enjoyed every Sarah E Ladd book I have read. In the Shelter of Hollythorne House is no exception. I was intrigued from the very beginning, and I felt the pull of the storyline. A romance with suspense and mystery was a perfect scenario. The plot was well thought out and flowed effortlessly. I enjoyed the characters very much. Both Charlotte and Anthony had been in a forbidden love. Four years later, and under extreme circumstances, their lives come together again. They have both experienced tragedy and unfortunate circumstances which has made them both stronger, but hesitant to trust and love again. A beautiful story of fight, determination, trust, forgiveness, and true love. This is a clean, regency romance, with bit of suspense and mystery. A perfect read. I couldn’t put it down. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Sarah E. Ladd did a fine job with her book “In the Shelter of Hollythorne House”! Charlotte was married to someone she mistakenly thought was a kind man. However he turned out to be a devious manipulator. After his untimely death she leaves her husband’s controlling brother as quickly as possible. Upon deciding to return to her ancestral home she realizes that she will be escorted by a man she was previously in love with. The story is very well written leaving you wondering who the bad guy is as you follow Charlotte on her adventure back at her former home. It keeps your attention the whole way and makes it hard to put the book down just like other wonderful Sarah Ladd books! Again fabulously done!!

Five star worthy!! A beautifully written regency romance that will you keep you turning the pages. Charlotte and Anthony have a past and now they are placed together can they overcome their feelings and find love again? Romance, mystery and intrigue what more can you ask for?! A real page turner. Highly recommend this wonderful book!

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

When Charlotte Gray’s husband is found dead, her only desire is to escape the clutches of the family. But retreating to her family’s ancestral home of Hollythorne House doesn’t bring the peace she seeks. Instead danger follows, along with a handsome face from the past.

Charlotte is the last person Anthony Welbourne expected to see on his latest assignment. Can he protect her and her infant son from the dangers swirling around them? And can he protect his heart from the pull of the past?

A page-turning blend of mystery, danger, and Regency-era romance set along the wild moors of England. Ladd’s masterful plotting will keep readers guessing in this beautifully written story of hope, second chances, and daring to dream of what could be.


*Thank you to @netgalley and @tnzfiction for the complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This story is a “wrap you in a warm hug” kind of love story. It was so sweet. We get beginning before the story starts. How Charlotte and Anthony left broken hearted. Anthony goes on to the Navy, while Charlotte is married off and has a child. Her husband is vile. He is abusive and deceitful. When he winds up dead, that leaves Charlotte and her son in a dire situation. When her brother in law, for selfish reasons, doesn’t want the now-heir (the 7 month old son) to be out of his sights, he allows Charlotte to go to Hollythorne House, only if she takes protection with her.

Anthony, after being injured, has been a security man of sorts. A thief catcher. A hired watchman. And as fate would have it, HE would be the protection for her. But as time goes on, and they learn more about each other and about their lives in their time apart. But as Anthony is hired to protect her, he can’t protect their hearts as they fall back in love. But harm isn’t out of the picture and when it shows up on their doorstep, things start to unravel and things aren’t quite like they seem.

I absolutely adored this story! It was so sweet. Anthony is all kinds of swoony. He never got over Charlotte and finally gets his second chance. You will fall in love with their relationship and never want to leave this world

Fabulous read with a great plot, suspense, a second chance at love, secrets and much, much more!

I love when Sarah E. Ladd releases a new book! I can't help but dive into it! She's a favorite author of mine and one I'm so glad I discovered many years ago!

Charlotte and Anthony have a history together. But unfortunately that history was laid to rest 4 years ago. He's completely surprised when he realizes she's his next assignment for work. Not only is he meant to protect the widow Mrs. Prior and her infant son, he'll need to protect his heart until he decides the time is right to confront her and talk with her about their past.

These two were so perfect together! The tension between them was strong. Charlotte doesn't have time for old emotions to surface or for worrying about the handsome man protecting her and her son. And Anthony should only be focusing on ways to keep her home safe from intruders and those who might wish them harm.

I loved the mystery woven throughout this story. Her dead husband has controlled enough of her life and inflicted himself upon her even through death. Charlotte is more than ready to be out from his grasp and living her life and her son growing and thriving with love, not control and indifference!

Anthony and Charlotte have great chemistry! They were so much fun to watch. Their ups and downs and their finally not fighting the chemistry and feelings that are so palpable between them!

I loved it all so much!

Content: Clean. Some moments of peril, death, talk of murder. Some kisses but nothing further. Overall very well written. One I would let my teenagers reader!

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

Happy Reading!!!

I only recently discovered this author’s work, and I am glad I did. I don’t go out of my way to read clean romance, let alone Christian romance, but I really appreciate the rich description and characterization that I am finding in this author’s books. Those traits are evident in this newest book as well. I really appreciate a well-told story like this one, with lots of emotion and insight into the main characters’ frame of mind.

I’m a sucker for a second-chance romance, and this one was particularly engrossing. I didn’t really care that the villain storyline was predictable, because I was engrossed by how the main characters came to find each other again. I loved the depth of feeling and history between them. These are two wounded people who rediscover who they were meant to be, individually and together, and I loved their relationship.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this lovely book.

In the Shelter of Hollythorne House (2023, Thomas Nelson) is second in The Houses of Yorkshire series by Sarah E. Ladd. It’s a historical Christian romance with light suspense, set in 1817 England. This was such an enjoyable read and it held my interest from the very beginning until the end…. Charlotte is a widow after three years of a loveless marriage to the physically and emotionally abusive Roland Prior. Charlotte Prior’s fears are now directed towards her brother-in-law Silas Prior, who she believes, will not permit her any involvement in raising her son. She flees to her childhood home, Hollythorne House, with her seven-month-old son Henry in tow. Silas hires watchmen to guard Charlotte and Henry and one of the guards is Anthony who was once someone she had fallen in love with before he went to war. A lot has happened since then and Anthony is wary and so is Charlotte. What transpired in their reunion is a beautiful love story that will touch your heart. Amid fear and poverty Charlotte is determined to have a safe place for her and her son…. Thanks to Thomas Nelson and the author for this lovely book to read and review.

Beautifully written, as always. Sarah Ladd’s latest is somewhat reminiscent of Jane Austin’s Persuasion. I love the idea of second chances and this book did it justice. I loved it!

What an stunning tale of love and loss; of loyalty and betrayal; and of secrets, danger, and deception! I experienced so many emotions while reading In the Shelter of Hollythorne House. This is truly a novel that captivates the heart and makes you lose track of all time and reality as you're transported to 19th century Yorkshire, England!

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

Sarah Ladd vividly brings the Moorlands to life with her rich, detailed descriptions. And the characters breath life into a story full of danger and intrigue. Unexpected freedom leads to more danger when dark secrets must come to light. And when they aren't your secrets, the risk is even higher.
The character depth is amazing, pulling me into a story of growth and self-discovery. I learned so much along with each character. They whispered their longings, doubts, fears, and strengths through each page. Then the danger would start my heart pounding and the pages couldn't flip fast enough to get the answers. Sarah Ladd has resurrected a time period in striking detail, giving the reader a glimpse into a bygone time. I loved every minute of it and wished the story could continue for just a little longer. Sarah Ladd has quickly become a favorite author. I eagerly anticipate each book and this one more than exceeded my high expectations. I am already anticipating her next book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This book was totally enchanting!

I loved all the vibes in it so, so much! I could feel the chill from the moors as well as the refreshing warmth by the fire. It made me want to grab a shawl and take a stroll for myself!

The emotions were equally as real and… Raw. So incredibly amazing. Charlotte is such a strong woman even in the face of so much hardship and pain. And Anthony… Ack! There couldn’t have been a better pair for her. *all the heart eyes*

And the mystery! Oh. My. This book had me anxiously scrolling pages almost faster than I could read at parts. It was the perfect blend of suspense and heart racing drama. I loved it so much!!

In all, this book was simply remarkable! It had all the feel good cozy vibes I’m coming to expect from Sarah Ladd while also bringing a fresh and fulfilling story to the table. I’m already imaging a reread on a cozy autumn day…

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own!

In the Shelter of Holly-Thorne House is book 2 in the Houses of Yorkshire series. The story is based in 1817 England and is full of faith, family, challenges and love. I truly enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more of this series! Good news: The books in this series are pretty much standalone stories and they can be read in any order you wish to read them in!

Book 1 in this series, The Letter from Briarton Park is the first book in this series and I highly recommend that book as well. I'll be posting my review for this book later this week. All in all, I really enjoyed reading both books and I highly recommend them!

5 Stars!


I received this book for free. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own. Thanks to Mrs. Ladd, Thomas Nelson Publishing and Netgalley for the opportunity to read/review this book.

I truly loved this story by Sarah E. Ladd.

Anthony Welbourne and Charlotte Grey had once been very special to each other, but due to life’s circumstances and bitter family relations they cannot see a future together. They part with things left unsaid and undone.

Years pass before their paths cross again, but neither is sure that they will be able to mend what is broken between them. Time and circumstances have changed them both and there are seemingly insurmountable obstacles to overcome.

In this story you will find…

Second chance
Suspense
Regency romance
Dual POV
Forced Proximity
Forbidden love
Betrayal
Abduction
The calling of home
Protective MMC
Clean/closed door

I absolutely love strong, protective and masculine MMCs and this story delivers!

I love a story with some good suspense and mystery. I had an inkling on some things, but there were definitely parts I did not figure out and I love the moments when I see how everything comes together.

If you love sweet second chances and some mystery, this is definitely a book you want to pick up.

This was a beautiful story of second chances and wounded hearts! I loved the characters and Ms Ladd’s writing always takes me with her on journeys of heartache and joyful endings! Enjoy!

PURE JOY - reading this was just what I wanted and needed. A fantastic historical fiction read with characters you love and just enough intrigue and interest to keep me turning pages well past bedtime. One of my new favorite authors.

I really enjoyed this book. I liked how there was some mystery in the story and it wasn’t who you expected who was behind things. I liked how Charlotte and Anthony got to have a second chance at love. I liked how they both found what they wanted out of life as they reconnected and as they worked to keep Charlotte and her son safe. I liked the characters and the setting and thought this was a well told story.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.