Cover Image: Highcliffe House

Highcliffe House

Pub Date:   |   Archive Date:

Member Reviews

I loved reading Megan Walker's Highcliffe House. It is the perfect book to easily enjoy in one weekend. Set in regency England, we meet Anna, the daughter of a well-to-do London businessman, and Graham, a young investor who works closely with Anna's father. Anna and Graham have a long history of resenting one another. However, things begin to change when they are forced to spend a week together in Brighton scouting out a new business venture for Anna's father.

The POV shifts from Anna to Graham with each chapter, which allows the reader to empathize with both characters and see both sides of their feud and evolving relationship. I really enjoyed the character development and pace of the story as in unfolded over the course of Anna and Graham's week together by the sea.

This was my first Megan Walker book and I am now looking forward to reading her other titles! Thank you to Net Galley for providing me with an ARC.

Was this review helpful?

Another wonderful book by Megan Walker! I just adored this story! One of my favorite enemy to lovers I have read. It was so fun seeing the dual point of view with some pride and prejudice vibes. Megan did a wonderful job going deep with the characters motives and growth. The romance was perfect with just the right amount of swoon while being clean . I could hardly put it down!

Was this review helpful?

THIS. This book is exactly what an enemies to lovers story should be.

I loved every page of Highcliffe House. I am happily adding it to my shelf of favorites and look forward to getting a paperback copy. Megan Walker really outdid herself this time! The characters, the banter, the setting, the plot...all of them combined to weave a magical spell that transported me to a place that warmed my heart.

I read a lot of books, and sometimes a particular book just makes me hug my kindle to my chest and say a prayer of gratitude for having gotten to experience the story. This was one of those books.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for giving me an advanced copy to review. I was not required to post a positive review and all opinions are my own.

Was this review helpful?

Can I give this book more than 5 stars? Seriously, this book was absolutely perfect and I adored every minute! Each page made me fall more in love with these characters and this story ebbed and flowed exactly how I wanted it to! The banter, the chemistry, the slow and steady burn! I fell in love with each and every character! Graham was perfection and Anna absolutely won me over and then I adored her. Graham’s family enriched this story so much and softened Anna’s rough edges allowing her to really be herself. This book was expertly paced and perfectly plotted. The romance gave me everything I was hoping for and even in moments of conflict this author handled situations with such ease and allowed the characters to work through issues instead of running from them! This book was like a breath of fresh air! I have absolutely loved everything from Megan Walker cementing her as a must read author on my list!

Was this review helpful?

If you love Regency Romance and have not read any of Megan Walker's books, believe me...you should! I've read Lakeshire Park, Miss Newbury's List and Highcliffe House and they are all AMAZING! I've loved each and every one of them and they are ALL stories I would read again and again.

Enemies to love is one of my absolute favorite tropes, and Megan Walker writes it so well! I loved Graham and Anna, their banter and chemistry, as well as the endearing cast of Graham family members. Tabs is the cutest little sister ever. The unique adventures and fast paced plot made this book impossible to put down. If you like kisses only romance set in the Regency time period, I highly recommend Highcliffe House as your next read.

Read if you like:
Historical romance
Enemies to love
Dual POV
Fast-paced plot
Brighton Seaside setting

Thank you, Megan Walker and Shadow Mountain Publishing for the complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed here are my own.

Was this review helpful?

A delightful love story, beautifully written. I loved all the characters in this book, from the dedicated, slightly misguided Mr. Lane to the delightful, charming, and hilarious Tabs. Family relationships are tender and true to life, with loyalty firmly at their core. The love story between graham and Anna is surprising to both of them and feels genuine and authentic. Good dialogue, lots of genuinely funny moments, and some original situations that made the story seem fresh. Satisfying ending that I was particularly glad did not turn into sappy perfection, but was more true to life….the working together that makes marriages strong. 
Megan walker’s writing style is different in a good way. The tone of her writing rings with an honesty that is rare in this genre, and that reflects sincerity and hints at deeper meanings. Somehow the writing seems more weighty and genuine than the usual regency romance. Would love to read more from her!

Was this review helpful?

A lighthearted Regency romance, Megan Walker's "Highcliff House" doesn't center on nobility and what scheming mothers will do to secure a Lord for their little darlings. Instead, characters are involved in investing and are decidedly title-free.

Perceiving herself to be the center of the universe, Anna Lane is initially rude and vindictive, and apparently doesn't care. While this is a harsh assessment of her character, I found her extremely unlikable at first. Her number one nemesis is Graham Everett, merely because he takes too much of her Papa's time. Things quickly change, however, when they are forced to share accommodations with Graham's family.

What follows is a speedy enemies-to-lovers story. Graham is a true hero with hidden depths. His backstory is intriguing and his family is a delight. Anna transforms rather quickly into a thoughtful and worthy young woman. This only takes a week, yet her alteration is believable.

Graham and Anna's banter is enjoyable, whether they're trading barbs or having heartfelt conversations. Secondary characters are interesting, although any "villains" are not wicked enough.

Told in two POV, "Highcliff House" is well-written and clean. Walker's prose is lovely. Thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for an ARC of this sweet tale.

Was this review helpful?

I loved this book! Anna and Graham are enemies because of their misconceptions of each other. But when forced together for a week in Brighton those misconceptions are slowly righted. I adored Graham's family, especially Tabitha. She is a force. I loved the interactions between Anna and Graham. Their chemistry is amazing, both caring and fire. I would highly recommend this book.

Was this review helpful?

After almost making a disastrous mistake in romance, Anna is ready to escape London and the season with her father, but her hopes are dashed when her long-time enemy comes to steal her father's attention yet again, for yet another investment. Graham has clawed his way up from poverty after his father deserted the family, and this investment in Brighton could be what he needs to provide his mother and sisters with financial stability. But as usual, Anna seems out to thwart him. When Mr Lane decides to send Anna to Brighton for a week to investigate the investment, Anna is determined to find fault with everything - and Graham is willing to do whatever it takes to convince her to change her mind. But spending time together at his family's home shows each a different side of the other. Can they learn to look past their respective money problems to find a love worth far more?

A thoroughly enjoyable read of two enemies who are forced to actually get to know each other and find themselves friends - or perhaps more. I love the reminder that there is often more to people than we see initially, and that getting to know someone can completely change the way we view them. Anna does come across as rather entitled, but that felt more understandable when I got to see what her life had been like. I enjoyed getting to know both Anna and Graham, and appreciated the relationship each had with Mr Lane - and of course Graham's family were also great characters. I particularly enjoyed the fish scene, but all in all the story was well written, with an interesting setting, some good humour and banter and a satisfying ending. A good read.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

Was this review helpful?

This book took me a bit to get into, but once I did I could NOT put it down. Megan Walker did a fantastic job with this enemies to lovers story.
That fine line between hate and love was precariously balanced by both Anne and Graham, it was truly entertaining and enjoyable to read about them going from one to the other. I mean, there were times I even questioned if they could move past their hate for each other, but don’t worry, it all works out. The banter between these two was *chef’s kiss* perfection and helped build swoony tension. The way they changed for the better and put aside preconceived beliefs was delightful. I truly felt like these two were able to grow and mature throughout this book.
I do have to say that the family members in this story made it even more enjoyable. The dedication and loyalty the MCs feel towards their families was endearing and realistic. Secretly hoping we’ll get Tabs and Ginny’s stories one day.
And let me just say, I am SO glad there wasn’t a huge and dramatic third act breakup. It was so refreshing to have characters that dealt with their feelings and circumstances like mature adults and not point fingers and give up.
Overall, even though it took me a bit to really get into this book, I really did love it and highly recommend it for anyone who loves good and clean regency romance.

Was this review helpful?

Book Review for Highcliffe House by Megan Walker
Genre: Historical Romance; Regency

Anna, when a romantic entanglement leaves her feeling humiliated and rejected, wants nothing else than her father to herself and for him to take her away from the gossipy ton. However, her father is a busy man and must leave to attend to business elsewhere, or so she thought.    Graham Everett relies on investments and investment partners, Anna's father being one of them. So when he proposes an investment in Brighton to Mr. Lane, he sends Anna to Brighton with Graham to check it out. Little does he know of their quarrels and endless arguments over the past few years, constantly vying for her father's attention. So she goes with hesitation and he allows her to stay at his seaside manor while she makes her report and decides whether Brighton is worth investing in.

What I loved:
Enemies to Lovers
Dual POV
Forced Proximity
A seaside manor: so romantic
The beach and what he does to her there
The library
Graham's wet shirt
Awwww Tabitha-I love little girls in books
the Sea monster
Goat cheese
Fishing trip
That kiss!

Highcliffe House and all of Megan Walker's books are definitely some of my new favorites. I loved everything about this one. The enemies-to-lovers aspect was so perfect. Their banter and scornful looks they gave each other were hilarious and entertaining. I loved the forced proximity in a large manor by the sea; what can be more romantic than that? It lends itself to picnics, wet clothing, and fun where no where else can provide. I love it when one of the main characters has a little girl relation because it lends the book to having light-hearted and fun moments. Their dual point of view was exquisite and so perfectly done; I loved reading both sides of the story- he seeing her and she seeing him, whether with disdain or not.  And let's not forget that kiss! One of my favorite kisses for sure!

I was given a free ebook from netgalley by the publisher in exchange for my opinion. These opinions are my own.

CW/TW may contain spoilers....
CW: kissing only
TW: loss of income

Was this review helpful?

If you’re in the mood for a charming and heartwarming “summer” read, “Highcliffe House” by Megan Walker is a must-read. This beautifully crafted historical fiction is infused with a delightful romance that will have you falling in love with the characters from the very first page. The author’s skillful narrative weaves together the story of Graham and Anna, initially portrayed as rivals, whose evolving relationship feels organic and authentic. The dual perspective allows readers to intimately know both characters, witnessing their growth and the blossoming of their connection. The interplay of banter and tender moments adds depth to their romance, while the simmering tension keeps you eagerly turning the pages. What sets “Highcliffe House” apart is its mature handling of conflicts and emphasis on communication and care over unnecessary drama. The author’s portrayal of familial bonds, particularly Graham’s devotion to his mother and sisters, and Anna’s relationship with her father, adds richness to the story. The setting of Brighton, the coastal town, adds to the romantic atmosphere, making “Highcliffe House” a captivating and highly recommended read for lovers of historical romance. If you’re looking for a sweet and romantic escape this summer, “Highcliffe House” is the perfect book for you. The writing is brilliant, and the characters are lovable and relatable. So grab a copy, get cozy, and let yourself be transported to the world of “Highcliffe House.”

***Many Thanks to the Author #MeganWalker, Publisher #shadowmountainpublishing and #NetGallery for the advanced copy of the book.

Was this review helpful?

I CAN'T EVEN!!!! I am utterly besotted!! One of my new absolute favorite Regency romances!!!

Anna has long detested her father's business associate Graham for always taking up so much of her father's time.

But when her father asks her to spend a week at Graham's estate to decide if an investment is worthwhile or not, she agrees. Even though Graham is the last person she wants to spend time with, it means she can escape the London gossip.

Graham has no idea how he is going to convince the spoiled, haughty Anna to recommend his investment idea. And he only has a week to do it.

Away from London and at the beautiful seaside, Graham and Anna realize they may have misjudged each other. But is a week at Highcliffe House long enough for them to change their hearts?

What you’ll love:
Regency era
Enemies to lovers
Seaside setting
Dual POV
Forced proximity
So much chemistry
Found family vibes
Fishing
Graham's family
The Assembly
Flirty, witty banter
The kiss!!!!!
The entire ending and epilogue

Megan Walker just blew the enemies to lovers trope out of the water!

There was a compelling and believable reason that they did not like each other, and the pacing and transition from enemies to lovers was done perfectly. There was so much chemistry and attraction, witty banter, lots of forced proximity, and oh my, some melt-your-heart romantic moments that had me reaching for my smelling salts because I legit thought I was going to SWOON.

All I wanted to do when I finished it was pick it back up and start right over at the beginning. I only wish I could experience it again for the first time!!

Anna and Graham's story is what Regency romance dreams are made of and it deserves all the hearts and stars and love! This one has earned a spot on my favorites shelf and I can guarantee it will not be gathering dust. Ever.

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

Was this review helpful?

When Anna Lane's romantic woes leave her wanting out of London as soon as possible, she is frustrated when her father is distracted by his friend Graham Everett. Tasked with a joint venture to Brighton, Anna and Graham clash until they realize that despite the years, they know little about each other. Will understanding bring them closer together, or will their differences pull them apart?

Enemies to lovers is not a trope I like. In a case like this, I really didn’t understand why they were enemies. All they had to do, especially Anna, was have a conversation. So the first half of the book was difficult to read because I found them both frustrating. And then once they get over themselves, there was so little time for them to get to know each other, let alone to fall in love. A week was hardly enough time for me to believe they actually loved each other.

Overall, it was a sweet read. I enjoyed Graham’s family, and they were probably my favorite part of the book. I would recommend this to readers looking for a clean historical read.

Was this review helpful?

Y’all. I simply adored this book. I adored every moment of it. It was sweet, it was fun, and it was oh, so swoony!!

Anna and Graham despise each other. Their relationship starts as true enemies. Of course, the only thing to do is force them to spend a week together. For different purposes, both Anna and Graham have to put aside their misunderstandings and judgments about each other. When they do, they’ll realize that maybe they don’t hate each other after all.

I loved so much about this book. The seaside setting was so refreshing. So many scenes earned a permanent spot in my memory: “This is for the goat cheese”, the alphabet game, the waltz!!, boat fishing. Anna and Graham have great chemistry and their banter/teasing had me giggling throughout. There was also a stand-out side character who stole the show in some scenes!

I read this book with a smile on my face! Highly recommend y’all put this one on your TBR!

📖
🔥 Kissing
🤬 none
❓none

*I received an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.

Was this review helpful?

This is an enjoyable, fast read, with one of my favorite tropes - enemies to lovers. I felt for both Anna and Graham as they were both very much misunderstood by the other, causing most of the negative feelings they held towards one another. As is typical in these types of books, there was miscommunication, but it wasn't so blatant and easily avoided that it drove me nuts, which I really appreciated.

The story flowed well, and the author did a great job bringing each of the characters to life. I highly recommend this book.

Was this review helpful?

What a sweet and endearing story. Though I don't mean to say a syrupy or cheesy sweet. I'd say it's a story about two people with, their private challenges, at crossed purposes that learn to see beyond the surface to appreciate the other. I enjoyed the moments each came to really see the other person. Great tender scenes as they fell in love. Definetly some humor sprinkled in. Overall, a good read for someone who just enjoys a pure romance story with low tension. I thought the flow of the story was good. I loved the sisters. I thought the conversation and interactions between the main characters was done well. Good writing!
fyi: clean, no innuendo, descriptive kissing scenes, fade out intimacy, language
*thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an early copy of the book. Opinions are 100% my own*

Was this review helpful?

Oh I loved this book. I loved anna and graham, individually and together. My heart broke for anna early on. And then graham. I felt loyal to them both. This book had me laughing as often as it had me sighing and wincing - it felt like I’d highlighted/reacted to/noted and bookmarked every other page. Megan Walker gets every emotion exactly right, and it’s so exquisitely written that I can’t wait to go back and experience it again.

Was this review helpful?

Reasons to read:
- Rivals to Lovers
- Fun Banter
- Family/home themes
- Coastal Brighton Setting
- Realistic third-act dilemma
- Regency Romance

My Thoughts:
A sweet romance featuring long-standing rivals, a coastal town, and high stakes, Highcliff House was a wonderfully written historical fiction, perfect for the Summer.

Walker did a great job in establishing the stakes for both Graham and Anna as rivals. I could see the reasons fueling their determination and why their initial dislike of each other was so intense. Their relationship developed at a quick pace, but the shift from loathing to love did make sense to me and did not feel rushed. The attraction was there from the beginning (no matter how passionately they denied it), and the chemistry between them sparked as Graham and Anna began to see each other as people, rather than rivals. I enjoyed the romance and found myself fully invested in their happy ending.

The secondary characters also added to the plot and enjoyment of the overall story. Family is a central theme of this novel. The love Graham had for his mother and sisters was the driving force behind his work ethic and character. He was a noble leading man, and it was easy to see why Anna stood no chance once she saw this during her stay at Highcliff house. I also enjoyed the loving relationship Anna had with her Father, who was a good friend and mentor to Graham. The dynamic between the three was always familiar in tone, but by the end of the story felt organic and seamless. The booming coastal scene of Brighton made for a wonderful backdrop for this story. I could easily picture Highcliff House and its residents, the sea, and the summer scenes described.

The writing in this novel was brilliant, and I was truly impressed at how the situations, choices, and consequences shown were entirely believable and true to character. This is one I feel comfortable recommending to any audience for a sweet and romantic reading experience.

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭:
Clean Romance (kissing only)
Trigger warning: paternal abandonment

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Was this review helpful?

Megan Walker just keeps cementing herself as one of my absolute favorite regency authors with every book she publishes. I loved Anna and Graham individually and as a couple. I totally got where both of them were coming from as far as why they didn’t like each other to begin with, but I LOVED when they started to give each other a chance. I cheered Anna on for being brave enough to express her feeling and wants and was SO HAPPY that there wasn’t any miscommunication trope and that the characters didn’t let pride stand too much in their way to each other. Cherry on top was the break away from 90% of regency novels, which usually feature the peerage. Neither Anna nor Graham were titled. I can’t wait to see what Megan writes next!

Was this review helpful?