I admired and adored Evie, the successful author who borrowed the name Lady Larkby to be her pen name. All was well until she met the recently knighted Sir Sebastian Larkby

Bash rushes home to be by his ailing grandmother’s side. He subsequently hears that he is betrothed to Lady Larkby. What? He is going to get to the bottom of this. Then he meets Evie and wants to learn more about this beautiful, brilliant woman who had taken his name and claimed to be his fiancée. He'd put an end to this charade.

After they officially meet, Bash decides they can help each other. He'd go along with the fake engagement if she agreed to meet his ailing grandmother. His betrothal announcement would cheer her immensely. Things are going so well with the grandmother that they decide to pretend for a bit longer. That's when things get a little crazy. This story had likeable characters, with the right mix of mystery, mishap, and the ideal blend of romance, danger, and surprises.

Looking for something lighthearted and fun, a novel that will make you smile from the inside out? Look no further. This is a delightful escape and a novel that would be great for your book group. If you've never read a book by this outstanding award-winning author, I recommend this one. If you are a fan of Jen Turano, you'll love this author’s novel.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

This is the second book in the Best Laid Plans series by Grace Hitchcock. It is a kisses only Regency Era romance. I think that this book could be read as a standalone even though characters from the previous book are included in this one. I mostly say that because I read the first one, and while I know I enjoyed it, I can't remember a thing about the plot. I was still able to fully understand and be entertained by this book.

I found myself laughing out loud more than once in just the first chapter. I thought the banter and wit of this book was superb! The story was thoroughly captivating to me. Everything was top notch in my opinion until the very end.

In full disclosure, I stayed up way past my bedtime to finish this book. In doing so, I may have missed something. But I got the feeling that the ending was a little "off". Then I spoke to someone else that read it. That individual said that the author plans to tie up some things in the next book in the series. Maybe that's what I was feeling. I'm not sure. The only problem I have with her doing that is that if this is anything like the other book, I will not remember this story to have it wrapped up satisfactorily in the next one. It's fine for her to do that, I just felt like maybe that could have been hinted at or something. I'm not even sure what will be addressed. But I don't mean for this to overshadow the whole book.

It was certainly becoming one of my favorite reads of the year. And perhaps I really just need to go back and reread the last chapter or two when I'm wide awake to see if perhaps it was my drowsiness that caused my confusion. Once I do that, I will update my review.

I was given an opportunity to read an advanced digital copy of this book by the author via Netgalley. All of my opinions expressed are honest and voluntarily given.

To Kiss a Knight was just so much fun and now I need to go back and read book 1 in this series, To Catch a Coronet! I've enjoyed every book I've read by Grace Hitchcock, and this was definitely no exception! I love her humor and the fact that I keep grinning throughout her books!

Evie is such a vivacious character, and I couldn't help falling in love with her and Bash! There was so much action, and I was totally swept away into this wonderful story. If you're looking for a hero who cares so sweetly for his loving grandmother and will do whatever it takes to take care of his new love, then this is the story for you! There is adventure and danger and a love like no other!

Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Publication date: 20 May 2025

To Kiss a Knight (Best Laid Plans #2)
by Grace Hitchcock
Just as exciting as Book One!
England, 1813.
This book is very fast-paced and wonderfully delicious! When a highwayman unexpectedly kidnaps Vivienne, who is already on the run, her life takes yet another turn. Sir Sebastian is a Yeoman for the Prince Regent and is working diligently to thwart enemies of the Crown. His sweet, feeble grandmother is declining quickly, causing him great worry. So many twists and turns in this story that I could not put it down.
My only regret is not knowing what will happen to the dastardly Barrister. That one actually woke me up in the middle of the night. I really want him to get his comeuppance! Hopefully, that will be resolved in Book three.
QUOTEABLE: He was a knight and, as such, a protector... despite the fact he was the reason she needed protecting.
Excellent romance, comedy, adventure story!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

As part of the author's review team, I received an eVersion via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone without expectation or compensation.

Best Laid Plans Series
*To Catch a Coronet (published 5/21/24)
*To Kiss a Knight (expected release 5/20/2025)
*TBD

Witty and charming, romantic and fun, TO KISS A KNIGHT will delight histfic rom readers from page one. I loved it!

What a fun novel! I loved my time spent between the pages of To Kiss a Knight. It's a marriage of convenience story but with twists and complications and real emotions/reactions. The marriage of convenience trope is definitely one of my favorites, and I've loved how many stories go about it. What made this one unique was how the characters felt remorse over the intricacies of the situation. I appreciated that. If you're confused over what I mean, you'll just have to read the story for yourself. ;)
To Kiss a Knight is also full of so much charm.
The main characters were both so lovely, and complimented each other very well.
Honestly, this novel is one my mind keeps flitting back to - it was beautifully written and a great reading adventure.
Sometimes main character, Evie, could be a trifle bit "silly" but she was also endearing, and I really liked getting to know her and her highway man. ☺️
Loving this series, and can hardly wait for the next book!

I received a copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to write a positive review and all thoughts expressed are entirely my own.

Oh my gosh - what a fun book to read! You will not want to put it down until the end, just waiting to see what trouble Vivienne Poppy will get into next. Starting with running away from upcoming nuptials that she wants no part of, being kidnapped by a highwayman and more. Add to that the use of a pseudonym for her writing that puts her as the unknown bride of a knight, and you will be reading laughing out loud. The scrapes she gets into will keep you on the edge of your seat, wondering how she could possibly top the last one. It would appear that whatever loose plan she may have had, it is not working out as she had hoped.

An ebook of A Novel of Best Laid Plans #2 was received through Kregel Publications and NetGalley. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.

Wow, this book was such a page-turner! From the very first page, you're thrown right into the action, and it’s hard to put down once it starts. Vivienne’s kindness to Sebastian’s grandmother was so heartwarming, and Sebastian’s honorable character sets the bar high for any man. The chemistry between them is electric from the get-go, making you root for them the whole time.

Vivienne is running from a forced marriage and taking on a new identity as the author Lady Larksby in Bath, but things take an unexpected turn when she’s kidnapped by a highwayman. At first, he robs her, then saves her...and that’s where things get complicated. Turns out, Sebastian is no ordinary thief but a knight undercover for the prince. After a life-changing encounter, their paths cross again...

Sebastian needs Vivienne’s help to keep up the appearance of a marriage for his ailing grandmother, and Vivienne needs his name as her pen name... they propose a fake marriage. Sparks fly between them, but there’s one problem. Vivienne doesn’t know Sebastian’s secret: he’s the thief she met earlier. As they navigate their growing feelings and complicated situation, they both struggle with their secrets and what it means for their future. And what happens when the truth is revealed, or when Vivienne former fiancé comes to claim her. Can a fake marriage or a marriage built on lies keep her safe?!

This book is full of twists, romance, and drama. You won’t see the curveballs coming, and I couldn’t stop reading it! I definitely recommend it! I honestly have never read anything quite so unique, and I loved it!

I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.

Some stories charm you from the first page and keep you grinning until the last. To Kiss a Knight was exactly that kind of read—clever, quick-witted, and full of delightful trouble I couldn’t stop flipping pages to follow.

Vivienne Poppy might be writing under a name she borrowed, but there’s nothing borrowed about her boldness. I couldn’t help but love her from the start—creative, chaotic in the best way, and always one idea away from making a bigger mess. And Sir Sebastian? Let’s just say his honor isn’t stiff—it’s sincere. There’s a quiet steadiness to him that balances Vivienne’s flair, and I enjoyed every bit of their not-so-simple arrangement.

But tucked in between all the banter and near-disasters were moments that made me pause and smile a different kind of smile.

“I’ve been through such attacks… For me, the lion stalking me is fear. It is only in Christ’s strength that I have found my way through the battle of anxiety and fear.” That line? That’s where this story hit a little deeper for me. Because sometimes, the battle isn’t what’s outside—it’s what stirs inside. And this book doesn’t shy away from that truth. It brings it gently, through characters learning to breathe again, to trust again, to pray through the pressure.

“Lord, help me through this…” A quiet prayer in a fantastic story that continually reminds us we are always dependent on our precious Lord and Savior.

Grace Hitchcock’s writing is exactly what I needed—playful and strong, adventurous with purpose, and full of unexpected joy. I’ll be re-reading Vivienne and Sebastian’s fantastic story over and over again!

I received a digital copy of To Kiss a Knight from the author via NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

This book is a great read. It's a fun read that will make you laugh out loud in spots. It has just enough twists and turns to keep you turning the pages.
This book was an absolute joy to read. I loved it!
I received a complimentary copy from Grace Hitchcock and Independent Publishers Group | Kregel Publications via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

4.5 Stars!! To Kiss a Knight is regency romance at its best. I received a complimentary advanced copy from the author. No strings attached, this review is my honest opinion. This is book 2 of the series so when I received this copy, I quickly listened to book 1. I would say it was a little helpful but not necessary to read book 1 first.

While I enjoyed both books of the series, To Kiss a Knight was my favorite of the two. There was such a sweet suspense built between Bash and Evie, the two main characters. And, while I felt I knew where the story was going, the journey kept me engaged and often surprised. I didn’t expect the direction it turned and how it all played out which keeps me interested particularly in romance novels.

I appreciate the love story with no/low spice and clean language. It takes a talented author to build the attraction, desire, and love between the characters without detailing the “spice.”

Great job Grace Hitchcock! I’ll be waiting for Book 3 in this series.

Filled with action, suspense, humor, and a good dose of romance, Grace Hitchcock’s new book, To Kiss a Knight, is a delightful mix of all I love in a historical romance. The characters are well-crafted and engaging, the plot has depth and creativity, and the story is entertaining and deeply satisfying. Vivienne Poppy, the spunky heroine, chose the name Lady Larkby as her writing pseudonym, but she obviously should have researched that name a little deeper, as the Larkby title is still in use. When Sir Sebastian Larkby finds that someone is using his title--although he isn’t married--a comedy of errors evolves and makes for a great escapade. I loved the rather madcap adventures of these characters and the way their relationship grows and develops.

Hitchcock has proven she can write successfully in varied historical eras. This book is the second in her Regency series. It can easily be read alone, however. I’m looking forward to more stories from this talented author. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Kregel Publications. All opinions are my own.

Vivienne Poppy and her maid are on the run from her arranged marriage to a creepy, yet determined suitor. She doesn’t know what the future will hold, but she surely didn’t expect to be abducted from her stagecoach. What transpires is quite funny and had me looking forward to seeing how things were going to work out.

Sebastian Larkby had a dangerous undercover job as Yeoman of the Guard for the Prince Regent. He had to use whatever means necessary to protect him both physically and politically. He proves himself several times why he was given that position and why he is a knight in the British realm.

At first, he proposed a marriage in name only with Vivienne. It was fun to see his friends support him in ways to woo her when he realized he loved her. I have to say that some of the ideas were terrific.

Things to love about the story:
Regency period
fake identities
highwayman
spies
humor
matchmaking grandmother
friends
danger
daring rescue

This is the second book in the Best Laid Plans series. I have enjoyed both books immensely and can’t wait to read the next one! If you are looking for a book that you can easily recommend to a teenager or your mother, this is the book/ series for you.

I received a complimentary copy of the book. All opinions are my own with no obligation to write a positive review.

To Kiss a Knight is the third book I have read written by Grace Hitchcock and she has now become an instant read for me. This book was so hilarious and well-written it was such a pleasure to read. The book sucked me in from the start and now that it is over, I’m a little sad to say goodbye. This will be a re-read for sure.

The character development was great. I loved watching Vivienne writing and trying to find herself out of different predicaments and seeing Sir Sebastian sweep in to save her. Watching Vivienne deal with anxiety and the way her stepbrother is treating her is heartbreaking. Very evident of the times. Sebastian was an interesting character with lots of layers. We meet him as the highwayman robbing a stagecoach; to later find out he was sent to do that on an assignment. Sebastian is a very caring, God-fearing man. We find out he is very loyal to the Prince Regent.

The setting and plot were great. I loved being in the Regency era, Attending Balls and fencing matches. I enjoyed the marriage of convince troupe with the meddling grandmother. It made for some great humor. However, when the cousin swoops in from nowhere to steal the inheritance and sends grandmother to the asylum I was not happy. In the end, everything works out.

The romance aspect was low spice and perfect, just the way I like it. There were a few passionate kisses, but nothing over the top.

Grace Hitchcock did a great job intertwining faith throughout the book.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

To Kiss a Knight by Grace Hitchcock is book number two in A Novel of Best laid Plans series, but can be read as a stand-alone novel. Vivienne Poppy has a plan to escape her brother and a horrible arranged marriage. She is going to use her writing pseudonym Lady Larkby until she discovers that is a real name Sir Sebastian Larkby is a Yeoman of the Guard and recently knighted. When he discovers Vivienne, he is not sure what to do. Especially since his grandmother is so excited, he has taken a wife.

I thoroughly enjoyed this Regency Romantic Comedy! What a delightful story that starts out with a bang and had me hanging on each word until the end! Watching Vivienne and Sebastian both go outside their comfort zone with each other, grow as characters, and discover their hearts was a delight! They both had great chemistry, banter, and sweet spirits. The Regency setting was fantastic with wonderful historical details that made the story come alive. I could not put this one down!

I loved the romance, setting, faith elements, humor and chemistry between Sebastian and Vivienne. To Kiss a Knight will be one of my favorite books of 2025! I very highly recommend!

I was given a copy and not required to write a positive review!

It's really quite disappointing to not be able to give To Kiss a Knight 7 or 10 stars. Yes, I loved this book that much. There aren't many books I want to rate so highly - but this one - yes.

Why? Well, Vivienne is full of life, mischief, creativity, curiosity, compassion, and fear. Sir Sebastian meets all these aspects of her personality with tenderness and an utter lack of condescension.

So refreshing!

I found myself laughing out loud many times, sniffing back tears, and occasionally groaning in disbelief at the impending consequences of the choices made by our protagonists. I fell in love with the spunk (and some snark) of Grandmother Larkby. I sincerely hope we will hear more of Vivienne and Sir Sebastian's adventures in Book 3 of Best Laid Plans.

My favorite bit of dialogue:

“Love is stronger than fear.”

“It seems that it is also stronger than sanity.”

Well done, Grace!

I received an ARC; this is my honest review.

What a fun read! I loved that Vivienne was an authoress and Sebastian was quite the perfect match for her in more ways than one. There were dangers to them from multiple angles and that gave a lot of exciting moments and multiple twists to the story. There was one element to the wrap up that I wish had been resolved better which is why I gave it 4 stars instead of 5, but overall I completely enjoyed the read. Can't wait for Tess's story to release!

I received this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

“To kiss a knight is not something I take lightly.”

What happens when you cross an authoress writing under a pseudonym of a titled Lady and a knight, highwayman whose wife would have that title? Adventure, a pretend marriage turned marriage of convenience, suspense, danger, and love.

Vivienne and Sebastian were fantastic! I was laughing at the scrapes Evie found herself in. Bash was the perfect dashing, witty, protective knight. I really enjoyed when Bash shared his favorite Bible verses, that he used to fight his anxiety/fear, with Evie. Together they faced some challenges and evil men, the twist and turns definitely kept me turning pages.
Mrs. Larkby was delightful. I loved how she kept encouraging Evie and Bash to kiss. Haha! And Tess! She is feisty and protective of her friend. I am excited for her story next!

A few quotes:
“Am I so admirable that you cannot take your eyes from me? I must warn you—many a maid is drawn in by my dangerous allure, but I am as difficult to catch as the waves upon the shore.”

“So you wed the knight and still managed to secure the hand of the dreamy rogue? I underestimated your attraction for the man.”

“No. I have a plan, and you are going to need me.” “I already need you, and I fear that should anything happen to you, I could not survive it.” “You are not going to make me bend to your will every time we disagree by kissing me, are you?” “It has served me well in the past, and you seem to like it just as much as I do.”

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

I adore Grace Hitchcock’s writing. It’s witty and fun and makes me grin like an idiot! She had me laughing right from the start with this one. Maybe it’s the fact that Vivienne is a writer that endeared her to me… I just love an authoress for a heroine! And Sir Sebastian!! Insert swooning here! And it was wonderful to have Tess pop in. (I look forward to her book next!!) I enjoyed every page of this book, even if I was shaking my fist at the villains (yes, that’s plural).

I do wish the epilogue had been a bit longer and wrapped up some details I felt were lacking at the end. But it was at least satisfying with what few details we got.

This one just might be my favorite of the series!

Vivienne is an authoress writing under the name Lady Larkby, a title she doesn’t think exists but boy is she wrong. Sir Sebastian Larkby is a Yeoman of the guard. He recently went undercover as a highway man. He robbed and took Vivienne but escorted her home. He then discovers that someone is posing as his wife, and he isn’t married. When he finds out it’s Vivienne, he comes up with a plan to help them both with this situation. She agrees to pretend to be married but doesn’t know he was the highway man. And her ex fiancé is on his way to claim her.
Oh man, I loved this story!! It was such fantastic fun! Vivienne is hilarious with all her mishaps. Sebastian is so smug sometimes and finds her delightful. He is very heroic as well. I love their interactions so much! They just sync together so well. I loved Sebastian’s grandmother, she is just great always encouraging them to kiss. Haha. I loved how Sebastian and Vivienne’s relationship progressed. There were a lot of funny moments and some swoony moments as well. I just loved it all! I highly recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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