The Lost Lieutenant
by Erica Vetsch
He's doing what he can to save the Prince Regent's life . . . but can he save his new marriage as well?
Evan Eldridge never meant to be a war hero--he just wanted to fight Napoleon for the future of his country. And he certainly didn't think that saving the life of a peer would mean being made the Earl of Whitelock. But when the life you save is dear to the Prince Regent, things can change in a hurry.
Now Evan has a new title, a manor house in shambles, and a stranger for a bride, all thrust upon him by a grateful ruler. What he doesn't have are all his memories. Traumatized as a result of his wounds and bravery on the battlefield, Evan knows there's something he can't quite remember. It's important, dangerous--and if he doesn't recall it in time, will jeopardize not only his marriage but someone's very life.
Impressions: It was well written and easy to read.
Liked: It was entertaining.
Didn’t like: How the Prince Regent was portrayed as a selfish glutton for drama but simultaneously a kind-hearted and thoughtful fairy godmother to Evan and Charlotte. I didn’t care for Evan and found him a bit ungrateful which was off-putting. I couldn’t understand how Charlotte was so wonderful but also stuck on the marriage mart for 3 years. It didn’t add up.
Learned: I’m not sure. Perhaps not to be too proud or insecure to miss out on positive happenings in life.
Quotes: Nothing worth highlighting.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.

It has been so long since I have read a Regency and now I wonder why I have waited so long. This book was hard for me to put down. It was fun to read about the English ton and its customs along with bits about the military and the various settings made this story come to life for me.
When two strangers are thrown together in a marriage ordered by the Prince Regent to unite his goddaughter and a common military hero, there are a lot of unknowns that the two have to discover about each other as well as earning the other's trust. And it is a union that no one wants, especially the father of the bride. It was a journey fraught with many obstacles, mostly caused by deceitful, selfish people. For me, emotions ran the gamut from anger, frustration, and disgust to feelings of delight and happiness as the main characters interact with each other and against others. There is also a deeper plot going on that is hinted at but not answered until near the end. This is a book that stayed with me when I wasn't reading it and I expect it will for a while. Loved it! Great book and first that I have read by the author but I am looking forward to the next story in the series.
I received a complimentary ARC from Kregel Publications through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.

Well considered me hooked! This was the first book I've read by Erica Vetsch and I cannot say enough good things about it. I had seen so many people talking about this book that it peaked my interest and I had to get my hands on it. I was not disappointed. All the characters were fantastic. I found myself literally laughing out loud at parts and smiling huge at others.

Poor Evan gets thrust into the world of nobility after a heroic act he can't even remember. He's only known life as a "commoner" and a solider, but now finds himself taking on the role of an earl. The Prince Regent constantly shows up to "reward" him, but ends up making more chaos along the way. He ends up marrying poor Diana simply because the prince said he should and no one can say no to the prince. Almost the whole book, I can imagine Marcus just off to the side or in the background just laughing to himself about all the crazy antics. Though, he does have a serious side you get to see. I loved watching the growing relationship between Evan and Diana. It felt like a natural progression and was so sweet.

There were some twists and turns in this book which I didn't see coming. I think that's a good thing because it kept me on my toes and wasn't super predictable. At the same time, there wasn't this overwhelming feeling of drama and doom that made reading difficult. There was a good balance. I feel like I devoured this book and couldn't put it down. Seriously, work and other responsibilities really cut into my reading time when all I wanted to do was keep going.

I highly recommend this book, even if more historical based stories aren't fully your jam. I tend to read more contemporary reads, but do enjoy a good historical fiction every once in awhile and this was one of the best ones I've read. I will definitely be interested in reading the next one, which I believe follows Marcus and I'm excited to see more of him!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I am leaving an honest and voluntary review.

I am always on the lookout for "new to me" authors and I think I have found yet another favourite in Erica Vetsch, with this first book in her Serendipity and Secrets series.

What an intriguing plot! Evan Eldridge, a recovering soldier finds himself suddenly endowed with a title, lands, money and a new bride, all because he saved the Prince Regent's godson off the battlefield. The problem is that Evan doesn't remember any of it. His new wife, Diana, will have to guide him through all the new rules of how to act, dress and what he can or cannot do in public. A restriction that is fun to read as Evan tries to find his way through "polite" society. Which is anything but!

I loved the tension between Evan and his new wife. The secrets between them should have torn them apart. Fortunately, Evan was raised by Christian parents. He is constantly evaluating his reactions and decisions based on his upbringing. I loved this line, "I think he’s finally realized that nobility starts in the heart, not in the pedigree. It’s a matter of action, not standing.” The whole story from start to finish was a delight to read. I look forward to the second book!

I received a copy from Kregel Publications through NetGalley.

I adored this book! What a fun take on a marriage of convenience. I loved how much the Prince Regent was in this story and the circumstances in how he threw our main couple together. Evan and Diana both had intriguing storylines and great chemistry. Family drama, mystery/suspense, and romance.. this has a little bit of everything for historical romance fans. l loved it from start to finish and look forward to the next in the series with Marcus (he is dreamy)! His character really intrigued me and I’m excited to learn more about him. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me a copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

Absolutely charming and wonderfully romantic! The Lost Lieutenant is a story of a marriage of convenience, a familiar trope for regency novels but this one comes with several plot twists and turns that make it stand out in its genre. I enjoy time period novels that have spies and secrets and the suspense blended in perfectly with the rest of the storyline. I loved the relationship between Evan and Diana - they are probably the only couple in all history who grew closer during a house remodel instead of farther apart! It worked for them because they learned to trust in and value each other.

I enjoyed the overarching theme that "nobility starts in the heart, not in the pedigree. It's a matter of action, not standing." Erica Vetsch is a fantastic addition to the realm of regency authors, and readers of Kristi Ann Hunter, Sarah Eden, and Julie Klassen will enjoy her book. I truly could not put it down and am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series!

Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the complimentary copy. My opinions are my own.

Saving Prince Regent’s godson on the battle field Evan Eldridge is knighted, given an estate, land and money. Duke’s daughter Diana Seaton is also selected by the Prince Regent to marry the new Earl of Whitelock, wildly against her father’s wishes. The married couple hides serious secrets, but is forced to trust each other when life threatening events occur.

The Lost Lieutenant is first installment in the new (Serendipity & Secrets) by Erica Vetsch which is set in London and Berkshire 1813. It’s about War Veteran Evan Eldridge who is knighted for bravery in the Peninsular War. I find this book to be interesting and unusual as it focuses on a male main character. In all similar stories I have read the main character has been female, which makes this a novelty.

Main character Evan Eldridge is a traumatized ex sharpshooter. Following the Prince Regent’s gratitude he has to suddenly learn how to be a gentleman and. I like him a lot as he seems a well rounded character with good values who is a believer in God. He is my favorite of this story.

Secondary character Diana Seaton is pressured to do her father’s bidding to marry someone chosen by him. She seems assertive and strong despite the way her father treats her.
I felt sorry for her trying to deal with an impossible situation.

There is some impressive character building in The Lost Lieutenant (Serendipity & Secrets #1) by Erica Vetsch. The characters seem to be built from a combination of the most problematic character traits of the time.

Evan suffered memory loss related to events on the battle field. My favorite part of the story was clues to the mystery of what happened. This part of the plot included a surprising development.

Plenty of complications prevented Diana and Evan from getting close. Nothing much happened in the way of romance until the second half of the book, which I found in keeping with the development of the plot. It made room for other dramatic elements to remain in the foreground.

I enjoyed that some of the spiritual message was conveyed through song (or poem) and that both Evan and Diana prayed for strength throughout the story.

The Lost Lieutenant (Serendipity & Secrets #1) by Erica Vetsch is excellent entertaining in an interesting plot with captivating character building and enjoyable, vivid writing. The ending is exciting as well as satisfying and ties up loose ends while still leaving enough to build a plot for the next book. I will eagerly be watching out for the next installment in Serendipity & Secrets Series by Erica Vetsch.

Fans of Erica Vetsch will love this new series. Readers of historical romance fiction might enjoy it as well. Similar authors to explore might be Julie Klassen, Carolyn Miller, and Kristi Ann Hunter.

Thank you to publisher Kregel Publications and NetGalley for this eARC which gave me the opportunity to share my honest review.

My rating: 5 stars / 5
Main reason: interesting plot, excellent character building, great writing

With an abusive and scheming father, Lady Diana knows she will have no choice about whom she marries. But when the Prince Regent decides to play matchmaker, no one has a choice at all. Lieutenant Evan Eldridge was wounded in battle saving the life of the Prince’s godson. To show his gratitude, the Prince makes Evan the new Earl of Whitlock and decides Diana should be his bride. After a rocky start, Diana learns that her husband has many noble qualities though it takes awhile for her to trust him. There are secrets between them that seem insurmountable at times. I enjoyed watching these characters learn to trust and love each other. The story was compelling and the plot was fast paced. There was an element of mystery as well as Evan tries to regain his memories from the day of his battle injury. I would recommend this to anyone who likes Regency fiction, historical fiction or a marriage of convenience storyline.

Thank you to @netgalley and Kregel Publications for the complimentary ebook to review. Opinions expressed here are completely my own.

The Lost Lieutenant

“I think he’s finally realized that nobility starts in the heart, not in the pedigree. It’s a matter of action, not standing.”

"The Lost Lieutenant" by Erica Vetsch is a Regency romance set in 1813 in England. Evan and Diana met in an unexpected circumstance that led to a fast engagement and wedding. There is so much tension in this book especially when Diana Seaton’s family is in the picture. I want to skip those pages because I feel Diana’s pain and whoever else is in their wrath. You can find grand balls, war memories, secrets and spies in this book.

I like how Marcus has stepped up to assist Evan in his new role but I wasn’t sure about his motives. He remains a good friend of the new Earl. I like how Evan is composed despite inner turmoil, good leader, compassionate and protective. Diana is a beauty and keeps her poise even in times of fear and doubts. She is a loving woman of many skills and talents that are greatly appreciated by her husband while preparing White Haven for the Prince Regent’s visit. I like how their relationship blossomed over time. I am certain they will be successful in running the earldom. I will want to see the new White Haven. It seems like a charming place.

I recommend this book. 4 stars I look forward to the next one in this series, The Gentleman Spy, featuring my favorite character Marcus Haverly.

*Thank you #netgally and @KregelPublications for the free copy. All opinions are my own.*

This was my first Erica Vetsch book and I really enjoyed it! I can't say that it became an instant favorite—I struggled to feel the emotion of the story. And yet, I really liked the characters and the plot moved at a great pace. I also enjoyed Marcus as a side character and I hope he gets his own book in the future!

When I first saw this book I had to look twice at the cover. I had read The Earl’s Betrothal by Karen Tuft just the month before and was surprised by the covers being nearly identical. The stories have a few similarities as well.

Both heroes are soldiers recently returned to England after the Battle of Salamanca and suffer from PTSD with recurring nightmares. There also are adorable tots in the stories and the main lady and gentleman are forced to wed under different circumstances. I firmly believe these are coincidental similarities as the rest of each book’s plot is unique. I hope you read both these elegantly written Regency novels.

Evan Eldridge is just a commoner. While recovering from a traumatic injury, he receives a request to appear before the Prince Regent as reward for saving the Prince’s godson. He has no recollection of most of the battle or saving Percival Seaton. The Prince doesn’t just offer him his appreciation but grants him an earldom as reward for his heroic deed.

At court, Evan meets lovely Diana Seaton, Percival’s sister and the daughter of a duke, who is being introduced to the Queen as her entrance into Society. He is befriended by Marcus Haverly who is the second son of a Duke. With his new friend’s help and further assistance from the Prince, Evan is introduced into Society where he meets Diana again.

He also meets Percival whose lewd friend Viscount Fitzroy ruined Diana’s sister last Season leaving Catherine broken and with child. These rakes try to tempt Evan in joining them in their leacherous pursuits

“Surely such infidelity couldn’t be acceptable in a society so strict about everyone’s actions.”

After Catherine was compromised, her father sent her to the countryside to hide her shame. She begged Diana to raise the baby, Cian, as her own and protect him from the duke before she died shortly after giving birth.

The duke threatens to send the baby to an orphanage if Diana crosses him. He schemes to get ahold of half of Diana’s inheritance her grandmother willed to Diana’s future husband.

Evan attends Almack’s the first time that same night upsetting the duke’s plans. Unaware of all the rules, Evan attempts to save Diana from the demeaning attentions of Fitzroy by drawing her into a waltz without permission. The Prince appears at this interesting juncture and unwittingly saves both Evan and Diana from censure through his approval. He is struck by new inspiration and “suggests” the Earl of Whitelock, Evan, propose to Lady Diana.

The Duke of Seaton is outraged by the proposal and the ensuing engagement. His anger and abuse terrify Diana. Evan is shocked the duke would strike Diana and insists they marry within seven days to protect her from suffering more abuse. Diana is afraid to trust any men after living with her father and half brother, Percival.

The Prince invites himself to their wedding feast and announces how rich Evan now is because of Diana’s inheritance. He also invites himself to visit the new Earl and Countess of Whitelock, Evan and Diana, at their country estate in a couple months time.

Diana hides her nephew in a basket when they leave for the countryside secretly removing him from the duke’s residence. She claims the baby is her maid’s child when he discovers her hungrily crying nephew.

The Prince’s impending visit makes it essential that Evan and Diana prepare their new home. The inheritance will be necessary to accomplish everything needed. Neither Evan nor Diana, nor Evan’s army friend, now employed as estate manager, are prepared for how derelict their new estate has become.

Evan’s worst fear is being sent to an asylum if anyone learns of his flashbacks, loss of memory, and nightmares. There is something mysterious about what he cannot remember that of course is vitally important.

Diana’s secret about the baby’s real identity is revealed abruptly one night. Before she finds the courage to tell Evan, the baby becomes deathly ill.

Just as things are beginning to improve, disaster shows up at Whitelock. The fate of many lives rests on the decisions Evan and Diana make.

I was joyfully surprised by The Lost Lieutenant! The painful episodes I anticipated were better than I anticipated with some lovely surprises. I loved that the plot was unique throughout the book and not cliche.

This tale of compassion, faith, endurance, and trust is an entrancing read. I hope you enjoy reading it!

I received a free advanced reader copy of this book. All opinions are completely my own.

I love this book! Set in England in 1813, this emotionally rich story checked all the boxes for me—a smoothly flowing, steady-paced, captivating plot; well-developed, engaging characters; and beautifully drawn settings. Vivid descriptive language and sensory imagery add to the enjoyment of the read. The prose is crisp and concise reflecting excellent storytelling skills. Historical details are skillfully woven throughout the narrative. The romance with its ups and downs develops sweetly despite secrets and personal struggles, and the faith element is infused effectively into the story. I look forward to reading Ms. Vetsch’s second book in the Serendipity and Secrets series, The Gentleman Spy, releasing in July. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.

I received a copy of this book in e-book form from the publisher via netgalley but am under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

This story was very enlightening as to how the war affected the time period. Prinny was throwing around landed titles to heroes of the Napoleonic wars. This is a story of how one of these heroes is affected. He gets a title, an estate that he wants to burn down, a wife and a Royal visit in just the blink of the eye. The heroine is desperate to take care of her nephew from her half-sister's sexual assault. Her father wants her inheritance and will do anything to get it. This story started out with how bad people always have the power, but if you have a fairy 'Prinny' godmother, surprises abound. The character development in this story contributes to the uniqueness of the story line. There are smooth continuous plot lines with defined beginnings and endings. The sub plots support the main story. This story was enthralling and drew the reader in from the first chapter. I finished the story in record time and then started reading it again and it was just as good. This is definitely going into my personal library. I highly recommend this story with 5 stars and purchased other books by this author based on this one.

Unique and captivating:
What an interesting and enjoyable book! The author has a skilled way with words and I enjoyed the beautifully descriptive prose.
I formed a quick bond with the main characters and was invested in finding out what was to become of them. Diana is a young debutante with a controlling and uncaring father. As typical of the day, she is at the mercy of the men in her life and unable to direct her own future. Evan meanwhile was injured during the Napoleonic war and is most surprised to be awarded a peerage for his actions. He is like a fish out of water and it was fun seeing him trying to navigate in this alien and sometimes hostile world. When Evan and Diana find themselves thrust together it was lovely seeing them come to care for one another although the journey was rather bumpy. A wonderful reminder for us all that honesty and trust is vital in a relationship.
One thing I did wish was that the faith element had of been more pronounced throughout the book. I did however really enjoyed the mystery and intrigue aspects and found myself eager to find out what really happened on the battlefield. I look forward to the next book in the series and finding out more about Marcus.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

The Lost Lieutenant is the first book I have read that was written by Erica Vetsch, but it certainly won't be the last! The Lost Lieutenant has everything I love in a book, enjoyable characters, a strong engaging plot and it is set in Regency England! Add in a marriage of convenience and a bit of mystery and you have one of the best books I have read this year. So if you love Kristi Hunter, Julie Klassen, and Carolyn Miller you will love Erica Vetsch. So brew a pot of tea and a grab plate of biscuits to enjoy while you devour this book.

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

I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Evan and Diana in The Lost Lieutenant. Evan’s introduction to the ton is both informative and entertaining as his time as a soldier gives him a different view of nobility than most heroes in Regency romances.

In contrast, Diana has been raised to be the wife of a noble and is the perfect complement to Evan. It takes a meddling prince, a scheming father, and a crumbling manor for them to realize it, though.

Erica Vetsch adds a unique perspective to this time period while giving readers an engaging story with themes of loyalty, honesty, and faith woven throughout.

At first, I was somewhat suspicious of Marcus who comes alongside Evan to teach him the ins and outs of society, but he quickly grew on me. And I am looking forward to finding out what Vetsch has instore for him in the next book of the Serendipity and Secrets series.


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

How I do love a regency romance! The first couple of chapters were not as captivating as I hoped, and I (incorrectly) thought I could predict exactly what would happen, but then the Prince Regent showed up repeatedly and thwarted my expectations just as he did everyone else’s. By a third of the way through I was well and truly hooked on this delightful story. It has the requisite debutante season, dances at Almack’s, and the stress of doing what society expects, alongside a bit of war and mystery. Towards the end, I was thinking how much I hoped there would be a sequel to learn more about one particular character, so I was mighty excited to get to the end and discover teaser chapters for the next book, The Gentleman Spy, due out in July 2020! I’ll be buying that the second I can!
Thoroughly recommended, especially for fans of Georgette Heyer.

This is the first book I’ve ready from Erica Vetsch, and I can honestly say that I’m eagerly anticipating reading more from her in the future! If ever there was a binge worthy book, this is it! Right from the very first chapter I was swept off my feet and into this exciting story.

Evan Eldridge is such a swoony hero! Beyond his own struggles, he valiantly fights to protect others. Yes, he makes mistakes, but he owns up to them. And while his past and where he comes from defines him in the eyes of others, he finds a way to rise above that and blaze his own path.

This isn’t just another marriage of connivence story set in the Regency period. This story stands head and shoulders above the others. Witty dialogue, exciting adventure, spies, a secret-agent, tender romance, and page-turning drama are sure to warm you heart and keep you reading long past your bedtime. Snag your copy to today and settle in for a story that you won’t want to put down!

(I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)

Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite tropes because I love seeing the characters get to know each other in such close circumstances and overcome unique obstacles to become partners in heart. The themes of trust and integrity are explored here as secrets play a big part in the conflict and plot. Evan and Diana both have traumatic experiences they are dealing with- Evan from the war and Diana from her abusive father. I loved the way these two hurting people were able to come together and help each other begin to heal. The romance was perfect and I appreciated the subtle humor that was woven in. This is the first Regency book I've read where the Prince Regent plays such a meddling role! The author hit a perfect balance between development of the characters and their relationship and the suspense and intrigue that kept the pace of the book moving forward toward the climax and satisfying conclusion. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series! Definitely one that fans of sweet romance won't want to miss!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

I've been quite sick recently and really enjoyed spending these last few days cozied up in bed reading this book. Wonderfully written and a great escape from reality, "The Lost Lieutenant" has a perfect blend of suspense, intrigue, historical details, and romance, and I love the way faith has been woven throughout this story. This book is a definite keeper and one I will likely read again in the future.