A totally fantastic story!
This book will keep you reading, waiting to see what new twist or turn is around each bend. Just when you think you know what is going to happen, it surprises you by going a different way. It is so good. Kenneth, a widower, has raised his two boys and is pleased to see them moving towards their chosen fields. He has a small estate and is content with his lot, when he receives word that his cousin has suddenly died making him heir to an earldom. Something he never expected or wanted but he finds himself heading to his uncle’s to be trained in all the responsibilities this new position entails. Hoping to escape the looming pressures, if only for a few moments, he exchanges jackets, boots and hats with his valet and takes off on a brisk ride across the countryside. The spirited horse he has acquired has no desire to follow Kenneth’s directions and soon runs Rebecca, who was walking along the footpath in the woods, onto the side of the path to escape serious injury. Rebecca was a widow and former maid who had raised her daughter, Rose, so well that Rose had been able to get a position as a companion. Now Rebecca was living with her father and helping him in his business. She was entertaining the idea of remarriage to a man who she did not love but would provide companionship and an escape from her father’s drunken rages. As Rebecca pulls herself out of the bushes, Kenneth approaches to apologize for the accident. As they meet and begin to interact, they both find themselves drawn together but Kenneth presents himself as his valet making a romance possible. But eventually the truth of Kenneth’s identity will be discovered and any romance made impossible. Add in a stern uncle, a conniving cousin with three daughters, and a powerful and understanding baroness and you get a story that continues to engage and surprise right to the end. A great read! I highly recommend it. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy. This is my review and all thoughts are my own.

The Valet’s Secret by Josi S. Kilpack is an excellent historical romance that had me engaged, enthralled, and cheering through till the end.

Rebecca and Kenneth both are at fairly uneventful spots in their respective lives- both having raised their own children and both widowed. Their assumed futures are abruptly shaken when they meet one another as Kenneth is on his travels to accept a surprising, and uninvited, Earldom after a death in the family. Kenneth masquerades as his valet in a last minute attempt to hold off the responsibilities and change in status and life if for just a few moments, one last time. It is at this moment of escapism that these two destined souls meet and chemistry blossoms.

Unfortunately, duties and societal roles, as well as many family obstructions, are obstacles in what should be an obvious romance. Rebecca finds out whom the real Earl is, and despite their feelings for one another, there are so many mountains placed in their path. Can they overcome all of the challenges to find love, happiness, and a happily ever after?

It was so sweet and romantic to see these two treasured characters overcome so many external difficulties: family, duty, expectations, societal restrictions…and find one another and the future that they both truly deserve. The chemistry was most definitely there…they were perfect for one another, and I am glad to see how wonderful of an ending the author was able to give to two such memorable and well-rounded characters.

The twists, turns, and surprises all added a bit of complexity and added to the enjoyment that I experienced while reading this story. I finished it happy, light, and satisfied.

5/5 stars

Thank you NG and Shadow Mountain Publishing for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately ( as of 9/25/21 no BB listing has been created and will be posted when it is updated with links added below) and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.

As a once happily married woman, Rebecca Parker lived a charmed life, but now widowed and working for a living, she feels alone and living a mundane existence. That is until the day a valet speeding by on a horse nearly runs her off the road. Mr. Malcolm Henry is apologetic, gentle, and very handsome. She’s instantly drawn to him, which is why, rather than stopping him from kissing her, she finds herself kissing him back, reigniting a nearly forgotten passion in her. But love at first sight only happens in fairy tales—never to an ordinary woman like her.

But while working in the kitchens during a fancy dinner party, she sees something strange: the valet—the valet she kissed—is sitting at the right hand of the baroness. She realizes that Mr. Henry is not the earl’s valet; he is the earl—Kenneth Winterton.. Will there be a happily ever after?

Add in a drunk father, interfering uncle, evil cousin with three daughters... it's a lot of obstacles standing in the way of true love. The twists and turns keep me reading. :) I really like this version of Cinderella. Love both main characters a lot. :) Very enjoyable.

Thanks to the publisher for providing an arc

I couldn’t put this book down! It was amazing from start to finish. One of those books you want to go back and read your favorite parts over again, so that you can savor them a little longer.

The storyline is loosely the storyline of Cinderella, with a few role reversals at times, and a wonderful regency twist. I loved the nods to the original story, but loved even more the parts that made it unique.

Rebecca was so lovable. How can you not love a walnut throwing woman with good aim, who’s a hard worker, and loving mother.

Kenneth was a worth male lead, who really wanted a woman who he could love, not just live companionably with. In most Cinderella stories the couple is young and naive, but in this story they are both widows, and the wisdom of an older than usual couple made this book even more enjoyable.

I received an advanced copy of this book by Josi Kiloack from Shadowmountain via Netgally. The opinions are my own. This book will be available March 2022! You won’t want to miss it.

Widower Kenneth is on his way to his uncle’s estate, now that he’s the heir presumptive to his uncle’s Earldom but he has one last bit of rebellion in him, and he changes clothes with his valet and rides to the estate. He meets widowed Rebecca Parker and there’s instant attraction. Unfortunately for Kenneth, he introduces himself as his valet. Several meetings later, Rebecca realizes he’s not who he said he was. And this means their roles in society are very different.

Overall, I liked this book. I thought the idea that true love wins over restrictive society roles was nicely done, even if it was a bit unbelievable at times. I loved the baroness, who turns into a champion for Rebecca and Kenneth’s love. I adored that we got a book with “older” main characters instead of the fresh out of the schoolroom haven’t seen anything characters. Unfortunately, I didn’t think they were well written in terms of maturity. I felt like Kenneth in particular was written like a twenty something man who doesn’t understand the reality of life at that time. That’s what really keeps me from giving this a higher rating.

I did enjoy this book as a whole, even though I don’t consider it a favorite. 3.5 rounded up to 4.

As a Cinderella story, this one had cute moments. Other moments were difficult to swallow though. The whole hiding your identity then being found out before you could come clean feels very overdone, and it wasn't convincingly done in this case.

At times it feels like you start to really get to know the characters, at others it feels like the author is just skimming the surface and contradicting what we previously knew about the character. For example, Rebecca is feisty and fiery when she first meets the supposed valet. But quickly melts into his kiss with no hesitation only moments later, with no explanation other than she's lonely and he's good looking.

The story went on like that - with completely out of character moments happening because plot. When it went well, the story flowed easily and was enjoyable to read. But certain aspects felt forced, and made it difficult to fully enjoy. While a fairy tale isn't necessarily meant to be realistic, part of the wonder of them is that you can imagine it really happening, and I did not find that with this one.

There is something special and unique about Josi Kilpack's stories. Her novel, Lord Fenton's Folly was one of the first regency era stories that I read and there began my love of historic novels, especially all things regency. I have been a fan of her work for a long time and am happy to add The Valet's Secret to my list of favorite books by Ms. Kilpack. The Valet's Secret is charming with a fun twist and unique nods to the fairy tale Cinderella. I loved that the characters has to make decisions for themselves that would lead to their happiness, despite what others and the world thought they needed or should do. When everything and everyone appears to be working against the very happiness that they sought, they learned to follow their hearts. Sometimes the heart wants what it wants, even if it doesn't fit into a perfect box or society's demands and expectations. Other times, it takes great courage to follow your heart. True, not everyone gets the chance to chase after their heart's desires, but in this novel it was very endearing and satisfying to see. I highly recommend The Valet's Secret and enjoyed reading it, probably too much, judging by how late I stayed up to finish it one sitting.

Thank you to Josi S. Kilpack, NetGalley, and Shadow Mountain Publishing for my eARC of “The Valet’s Secret” in exchange for my honest review.

In “The Valet’s Secret,” we meet Rebecca and Kenneth, two folks who end up falling in love but are on opposite sides of the class hierarchy. Since it’s a HEA, they are able to overcome the limitations and expectations of their stations to reach their HEA. It’s a very sweet and tender read. I enjoyed reading about two adults, in their 40s, finding a partner again and falling in love. I also really loved some of the humor - I won’t spoil a certain scene but it made me laugh out loud.

I do wish there was a bit more action or interaction between Rebecca and Kenneth. While we get to see them interact a fair amount and you can see their relationship grow and strengthen, I think I wanted even more. And in some ways, I almost wish Kenneth impersonating the valet, Malcolm, went on a bit longer since that’s the title of the book. I was expecting the reveal to be much later or somehow really make a mess of things but that was not the case.

Overall, I did thoroughly enjoy “The Valet’s Secret” and I will be certain to read another one of Kilpack’s novels again.

This proper romance doesn’t disappoint. It has a Cinderella theme to it with a regency background. I really enjoyed this. I read this very quickly. I would definitely recommend this to those who love a story with depth and feeling that is sweet.

Excuse me, but why did this book have to end?!? I was swept away in a world with Rebecca and Kenneth. These two people never should have worked being from "opposite sides of the track" but their love overcame all the obstacles. This was definitely a book I was expecting to be as outstanding as it was which are my absolute favorite stories! Author Josi Kilpack has a way with words to lead us all to the happily ever after.

Firstly, I would like to thank Shadow Mountain Publishing, and NetGalley, for the privilege to read this eARC!

Brief Plot (without spoilers): The Valets Secret, by Josi S. Kilpatrick, is a regency era romance. Oh Kenneth is an earl, and one day to get away from the stress he dresses up as his valet for the day. While he’s out he almost runs over Rebecca with his horse, but their chemistry is so strong they end up kissing. What ensues is multiple more encounters with Kenneth hides his true identity and Rebecca falls harder and harder. When the truth comes out Kenneth hast to decide if you wants to maintain his title, or try at love with a commoner, Rebecca.

My review: 3.5/5 ⭐️ While I thought the story was cute, and I love anything that’s referred to as a hopeful fairytale, I just couldn’t get invested enough with this book to read it higher. With the opening scene being the characters meeting and kissing, I hoped for more chemistry. Recently I’ve been reading more historical fiction, and the storyline seem to fall a bit flatter than compared to others. It was still cute, but just not my cup of tea.

Thanks Netgalley for a arc copy of this book for a honest review..  


The Valet's Secret had a lot of twist and turns I was all for it a very delightful read 5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟









Happy Reading Lisa 📚

This is a unique take on Regency romance. I so enjoy an older love with adults. The heroine was a widow with a 20-some year old daughter and the hero was older with two sons 'in university', as they say. They were only about 4 or 5 years apart in age, which is a wonderful age gap. The hero was just into his title and was also an heir to an earldom, when he was tired of trying to mold himself into his new position. He had been a small landowner with an estate in Sussex. He switched places with his valet so he could ride a horse to his uncle"s estate and have a little freedom. He almost ran down the heroine because he was on a rented, spirited chestnut gelding. (My daughter has ridden her fair share if crazy chestnuts!) By the time he brought the horse under control and walked it back to where he saw the heroine, she had finally extricated herself from the bushes she went into trying to not get trampled by the run away horse. The heroine worked with her abusive father, doing silhouette portraits. She was running errands when she was almost run down. The hero helped her up and overcome by her presence, kissed her. He then escorted her to near her home. They couldn't forget about each other. He was intrigued by this lower class lady and she was intrigued by the valet she just met. The hero lied to her about his identity because he was embarrassed. She was picturing herself in almost-love with someone of the same class as her. I will let you read how it goes.
I enjoyed this story because of the different perspective it gave of a widow of that time period and the sacrifices women had to make since they couldn't own companies, run estates, or have bank accounts without a man. I also like the different perspective of the age of the main characters. Normally you have a young lady and slightly older man. The age differences brings up different perspectives and responsibilities. This was a well written book that was very descriptive. At some times it seems slow, but this book was about life in a small village. The only action and adventure was going to church on Sundays, lol. I was never bored with this story and I enjoyed the entire read. I give this book 5 stars and recommend reading with all due haste.

"The Valet's Secret" is a charming Regency Proper Romance by gifted author Josi Kilpack. Featuring an older couple, both widowed, this tale explores class differences and expectations. There are shades of Cinderella, complete with a fairy godmother.

This is not, however, a fairy tale. There are no magic wands or transforming pumpkins. Working-class Rebecca Parker and Kenneth Bartholomew Winterton, heir to an earldom, are engaging main characters. Walnut-throwing Rebecca is a delight, while fish-out-of-water Kenneth is coping with his new responsibilities. Secondary characters are also entertaining. Rebecca's daughter Rose and the baroness are endearing, while Lady Beth and Mr. Seffton (Rebecca's father), are detestable.

Kilpack's prose is lovely, and this well-edited book is clean. Although I'm unaware if this tale is the first in a series, there are characters here that deserve their own stories.

Thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for an ARC of this engaging novel.

I really enjoyed this story. I really liked how different it is from other proper romances. I loved that the characters are older, experiencing a second change at happiness later in their lives. A true regency Cinderella story.

Rebecca Parker had had a wonderful life, that is until her loving husband dies and forces her to live again under her father's roof. While she enjoys helping with her father's work as a silhouette artist. She knows her only means of escape from her father's home is through marriage and she resigns herself to a marriage of convenience. That is until she is nearly run over by a handsome man on a horse. A man, who she believes is a valet named Malcolm Henry and who also kisses her with such passion, giving her the chance to think there might be more out there than a marriage of convenience.

But not is all as it seems. Mr. Henry does exist and is a valet, but he is not the man who nearly ran over and shamelessly kissed Rebecca. That distinction belongs to Kenneth Winterton, a soon to be earl, who simply wants to enjoy the simple life a little bit longer and disguises as his valet to enjoy some simpler pursuits before assuming his role as earl. Kenneth too is a widower and knows he must find a wife as he assumes his new title, knows Rebecca is far below his social rank, but cannot seems to avoid the chemistry and the fact that he might just love her. But the chasm between their social stations is too large.

This is a wonderful story of second chances and finding true love.

Kenneth Winterton is the heir presumptive to the Earl of Brenston.
Rebecca Parker is a widow working with her father in his business of making shadow art. Years ago she was in service and must take it up again after leaving her father's home. Almost run over by a horse ridden by Kenneth, he and Rebecca kiss. What a kiss! They both want more, but Kenneth has lied about his identity and continues to do so every time they meet. It's not long before Rebecca finds out who he really is.
A heartwarming love story that is built on the difference in class and the impossibility of a life together, or is it? This reads at a fast pace with angst, heartache and a happy ending.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

If you're looking for a proper romance book that is outside of the typical mold, this is the author for you! She has several books that feature characters or situations that aren't typical of the genre. In this particular book, the main characters are middle aged widowers with grown children, and they first meet by chance on a road, where they share a passionate kiss. Kenneth tells Rebecca that he's a valet to the earl... but in reality, he's actually the earl himself. Rebecca works with her father as a shadow artist, and her status is nowhere close to that of an earl. While I had difficulty getting over the idea that, in this time period, two strangers kissed on a road and then the woman went out of her way to find the man again, Josi Kilpack presented the idea in a way that made me believe is was reasonable. We got insight into Rebecca's hopes, fears, and challenges, and it lent some credibility to the otherwise unbelievable action. This is a lovely story about finding love a second time, overcoming obstacles, and figuring out what is worth fighting for.

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

I received a free preview copy from NetGalley and this is my freely given review.

I gave this a 4.5 stars; this was a beautifully written historical romance that touched me deeply. This was the first book I read by this author and I loved the blurb about this because there were so many things that appealed to me. The hidden identity/mistaken identity, the differing classes... but it was so much more than that and it was a story that really riveted me.

The hero, Mr. Kenneth Winterton is a widower, father of two nearly grown men, and an ex-Navy man. He is a mature 48 year old who recently found out that he is to be the heir to his uncle Lester, the Earl of Brenston, since his cousin died suddenly, with no children. His uncle is hail and hearty, but in his 70s, and concerned about his legacy. He wants to ensure that he passes on his knowledge to Kenneth, and ensure that he is well established in the community in the North of England. Especially considering Kenneth did not expect to inherit and his status will be raised significantly, his duties will be augmented, and he is from the South, and an unknown entity to the local gentry. Part of ensuring his status before he inherits is to see that Kenneth marries well, which to the Earl, means a woman from the community, raised to manage the duties of being Countess, and supporting the gravitas and prominence of the earldom.

Kenneth is aware that he is being given a grave responsibility, as well as a significant inheritance, and wants to live up to his uncle's expectations. But he is a grown man of 48 years old, and he is struggling on how to maintain his own individual identity and his needs without losing himself in the quest of learning to becoming the Earl. Part of his angst is the fact that he loves to draw, and loves to ride wildly. He knows he needs to marry, but also wants to find a wife that he connects with.

As part of his minor, hidden rebellions, he sometimes trades identities with his valet, Malcolm, so he can rent horses and race them around the area. On doing so one day, he nearly runs into Rebecca, forcing her off the road while she was walking to meet her daughter. He stops to help her and when she gets over her initial ire with him, they realize they feel a mutual attraction and kiss.
Neither one of them can forget the kiss. But Rebecca is a commoner, and poor, forced to move back in with her father when she became widowed, to raise her daughter. Her daughter is now an adult and has work as a paid companion to a member of local gentry. Rebecca continues to live with her father, and help him with his work, but also coping with his alcoholism and abusiveness.
Regardless of knowing that she is not an appropriate option for him, Kenneth continues to meet with Rebecca, in the guise of his valet, and their attraction becomes stronger, and Rebecca hopes for more with the valet she is falling for.

But of course, as with so many lies, the truth is revealed...

I enjoyed reading about the complexities of their various relationships. The real valet made a nice foil, as both a conscience and an enabler to Kenneth. There was nice depth and realism in the complexities of Rebecca's relationship with her father, and also with her daughter to; including the sacrifices she made to give her daughter some opportunities. She is a character that seems very real and relatable.

It was also wonderful to read a historical romance that was about the hope of mature love and second chances at love. This was not a story about young 17 year old virginal debutantes and their 20-ish rakehell suitors. This was a story of a widow and widower in their 40s, with adult children, and knowledge about the world, and it's unfairness. But also about how hope, desire, passion, and the magic of new love can also exist at that age.

So - as a passionate woman who believes in magic and love, and who is in her 40s; I have to say that I loved this book. I just wish that there was an epilogue or something to let us know how the couple managed in their relationship after they came together. The final road to the HEA was rather rushed for me, especially with the uncle's capitulation, after all his lessons and mechanisms to get Kenneth to select an appropriate wife.

Also it would have been nice to see Lady Beth get some of her comeuppance too - snobby, manipulative bitch.

Wow, this must well be the best book I've read all year! I just wish it had an epilogue!

Josi Killpack's use of language is excellent and her writing flows effortlessly, enhancing the story in the best way.

From the moment Kenneth and Rebecca meet, there's a power and depth to their connection that takes them both by surprise, yet neither are able to deny those feelings. From the beginning, Kenneth knows they're unequally matched—based on his lies, Rebecca believes him to be a valent to Mr. Winterton when, in fact, he is Mr. Winterton, an heir to his uncle's earldom.

With each encounter, they see these feelings only strengthened, and the impossibility of their growing closeness only grows too, especially after she finds out who he really is.

I have read many good stories this year but this one took hold of my feelings from their first encounter. I couldn't help but go along with Kenneth and Rebecca as they fell in love and ultimately fought to be together.

I just wish it had an epilogue.

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

5 stars

An excellent read. I didn't expect to like it. It's a clean read and the hero is a balding 48 year old. His would be wife, a widow in her 40s with a daughter in her twenties.

I liked the interaction between the two characters and the wider community. Some of the others in the story were scheming, some misunderstood.

I thoroughly recommend this book and I'll be looking out for more from this author, what it lacks in erotic scenes it more than makes up for in characterisation and dialogue.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Valet's secret was delightful. The two main characters in their 40 meet on the road without knowing each other's identity and share an impulsive kiss and the rest is history. Had quite a bit of a Cinderella feel toward the end. The characters could have used more depth and I would have enjoyed more of their conversation. It was implied that they talked for hours several times but we only get a snippit of the conversation. A quick read.

This was a cute and fun read. It took me a little while to get intoThe Valet’s Secret by Josi S Kilpack. However once I really started reading it, I was very intrigued. The Valet’s Secret was different then the other books I had been reading, but it was still an enjoyable read and very interesting.
Rebecca Parker is in a new stage of life. She feels lonely and wants a break from the mundane routine of life. She never expected to meet Mr. Malcolm Henry on the road, and she never expected from him to change her life. However, what will she do when she learns that he is not a valet but the earl - Kenneth Winteron? Can their relationship ever become more? Kenneth Winteron just wants to be free, however becoming his uncle’s heir means rules and stations. He never expected to fall for a woman below his station or to lie to her about who he is. Will he ever be able to gain her trust and maybe grow a relationship?
Rebecca was such a refreshing change of character. She was older and she had lived life. I really enjoyed reading about her and reading about her finding herself. She had gotten married at a young age and raised her daughter, but when her husband died she moved back in with her father and in a way lost herself. Rebecca was so strong. She had endured much in her life, and it was cool to read about her still growing and learning. She was learning how to find herself in this new stage of life and she was falling in love.
Kenneth was an interesting character. He had to grow on me. I didn’t dislike him, but I just had to read more about him before I really understood him. He was also just trying to find his place in the world. He was a bit uncertain about his place and it was fun to read about him learning what it meant to be an Earl. However, he was kind and he truly cared about those around him. He had lived life and he valued people. Kenneth had to figure out what it would mean to love Rebecca and how to build a relationship with her.
Rebecca and Kenneth had an interesting relationship. They were of two different stations. However Rebecca didn't know it at the time and she found a connection with him. It was definitely fascinating to read about them falling in love and interacting, trying to figure out how to make their friendship work, never expecting something to come out of it. I thought that they were such a sweet couple and they definitely balanced each other out. They also had to learn to overcome their differences in stations and work past the whispers of others.
The side characters were also fun! Rebecca’s daughter Rose was super sweet. I loved Rebecca and Rose’s relationship. They trusted each other and cared for each other. Kenneth’s Uncle was complicated but he also cared for Kenneth. The Baroness who Rose worked for was also a character
She was such a strong woman who was a great addition to the story.
The Vault's Secret was a sweet and cute book. It was about characters falling in love and figuring out how to work with their different stations. I really enjoyed it and I would recommend it to those who like historical women's fiction. The Valet’s Secret is a clean historical women's fiction romance.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.

This was a sweet Regency romance about two people in their 40’s who are living very different lives. Kenneth has recently become heir to an earldom after the untimely death of his cousin. Rebecca assists her drunken, violent father in the making of intricate silhouettes of the local Yorkshire gentry and had been a maid in one of the great houses. Rebecca and Kenneth meet accidentally and fall in love. In spite of tradition and custom of the time, can they overcome all and help each other take on the future?
It’s refreshing to have the romantic leads to be older but the story felt contrived, especially the ending.

This was a very sweet Cinderella-esque story
Premise
York, England, 1819.

As a once happily married woman, Rebecca Parker lived a charmed life, but now widowed and working for a living, she feels alone and living a mundane existence. That is until the day a valet speeding by on a horse nearly runs her off the road. Mr. Malcolm Henry is apologetic, gentle, and very handsome. She’s instantly drawn to him, which is why, rather than stopping him from kissing her, she finds herself kissing him back, reigniting a nearly forgotten passion in her. But love at first sight only happens in fairy tales—never to an ordinary woman like her.

I don’t always enjoy historical type fiction. Sometimes I find it a bit tedious, but not with this particular story. It was well written, romantic, and kept me turning the pages late into the night.

I flew through this book! This was such a fun and charming Cinderella inspired story. I always enjoy how Kilpack is able to incorporate elements into her story that are not always found in typical historical romances. I enjoyed how both of the characters had a past to overcome and how they were able to find love again later in life. I thought this story was a very sweet and charming read- I would definitely recommend!

Well this book was quite a ride of ups and downs...

At first there was insta love... and insta love is really not my thing. They met once (it was described quite shortened and not at all in great detail) and suddendly I was supposed to believe they were in love and sparks were high and flying... (and all even based on a lie!)

But then at about 30% in it got better. The meetings / rendevous got more believable and the sparks more feelable (if thats a word? :))

And at about 80% I started to get annoyed by the book anew because the author started to throw in quite a lot of weird obstacles which were (for the plot) unnessecairily and made the book feel fantastical espescially with the fairytail-like resolution that happened quite suddendly.

Generally this is quite a refreshing out of the usual regency romance story and has an interesting feel to it as both main characters are quite old already and there are only very few nice side characters...

Main Characters: clear backgroundstory, Kenneth somtimes kinda confusing because of the lie that he tells, mostly locigal actions
Side Charactes: mostly mean
Writing Style: good
Content: Clean, just kissing
Violence: Non
Would recommend: Yes

I got a free copy for a voluntarily left review by NetGalley

This was absolutely delightful, there is a place in my heart for ‘Proper Romance” and Josi Kilpack has done it again! The plot was well-paced and captivating to the end. It was refreshing to see older characters with grown children given a second chance at love.
I highly recommend this fun and quick read.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an eArc to review.

I have to say that I really didn't know how much I would like this book because I just couldn't see how this could possibly end well. To my surprise, though it may seem slightly unrealistic for the time period, I thought the ending was perfect.

This story was a sort of play on the fairy tale Cinderella. A maid meets the "prince" (heir to a title) and so of course their relationship is forbidden. I thought some of the subtle changes were cute though, like Kenneth being the one locked in a tower instead of Rebecca, among others.

It was a sweet read that kept my interest and ended well. Another success for Josi Kilpack and The Proper Romance series.

I read this book on an autumn weekend with a cup of tea...and it was an absolute treat! The initial mistaken identity was fun and the characters lovely to spend a few hours with.

This is a really delightfully written book All of the characters are amazingly crafted, and have some intriguing fears/problems to overcome. This is a steamy plot, that is very entertaining and enjoyable to read..

4 stars *may change

I’ve said before I don’t really mind insta-love, and you definitely have to not mind it for this. Those two meet, like, twice before spilling their deepest desires and worries to each other. It was actually a little funny. Somewhere in the middle I just forgot that they barely knew each other because they acted like they were so well-acquainted.

The protagonists are quite a bit older than I think regency romances tend to have, and I wish it had been explored a bit more past “Ughhoo I’m so old.” Like, yeah, he’s got two fully grown sons in college, but he acts just like a 20 something year old. Besides the uh, you know, 19 year old fiasco. Speaking of, so glad he shut that down, Jesus. Does anyone ever bother to listen to the age gaps in romance books? Because some of them are WEIRD. I swear Kenneth was acting super meta in this book anytime he would talk about all the weird practices regency England had. He gets me.

This book is a lot more…contemporary soft feely-good? Compared to most regency romances, I mean. It’s more for someone who wants to read a romance in the time period without having to read a…bodice ripper.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advanced reader’s copy.

Kenneth Winterton, heir presumptive to the Earl of Brenston, and widower, is taking a ride in disguise wearing his valet’s clothing to have a little freedom, without restriction. On this ride he runs Rebecca Parker off the road. Rebecca is a widow, mother of a young woman, who lives with and works for her father in his silhouette business. Rebecca is slightly injured from the accident, and Kenneth helps her clean a scratch from her face that he caused. As her helps clean up the injury, the two are drawn together and are joined together in their want and loneliness in a kiss, and then another kiss. This was an amazing first kiss scene; and I loved it that it happened right at the beginning of the book; that was a fun surprise! Kenneth describes it as a kiss for the ages.

Aside from the fact that they had never met before, which it was totally appropriate for them to be kissing, there are two tiny little problems: 1) Rebecca thinks Kenneth is a valet to Mr. Winterton, not Kenneth Winterton, the heir presumptive to the Earl of Brenston, and 2) Kenneth is the heir presumptive, and Rebecca is of the working class. This chance meeting and swoony kissing was a great beginning to the Valet’s Secret.

I have to say that I am gushy in love with this novel. It is a beautiful second chance love story that shows that second chance love can be a possibility, and that with true love you can overcome obstacles. It gives hope for all of those looking for a second chance at love. The novel also nods to the great story of Cinderella, which was a nice touch! I loved the author’s dedication, “Dedicated to everyone who is wanting, fearing, and hoping for a second

This was such a fun read with great writing. The story flowed well and the characters were well written. Rebecca Parker is a widow trying to decide what to do with her life now that her daughter is grown. Then Kenneth comes pounding into her life and they share a life changing kiss. Little does she know Kenneth is next in line for a lofty title and belongs to a world out of her reach as an artist's daughter. What follows is a whirlwind romance with twists and turns thrown in their way.
#TheValetsSecret #NetGalley.

When I first started reading this book I was not sure I was going to like it. It seemed there was no way for this story to end well. I kept reading because the story is well written and I was pulled into it. I really liked the story by the end and would highly recommend it.

#thevaletssecret #netgalley

This was a cute storyline with neat characters. I loved the premise and the mystery, with a little romance thrown in.

It's hard not to root for Rebecca and Kenneth in this short and sweet regency romance. I loved the fact that our protagonists were older in life and hoping for a second chance at love, despite their differences in station.

The book was a poignant reminder of the lack of choices un-titled women had during this era. Despite being humiliated upon learning Kenneth's true identity, Rebecca is a strong, proud and admirable woman who carries herself with all the grace of a countess!

This book was an excellent addition to the genre and I recommend reading it upon its release in early 2022.

The Valet's Secret was an exciting read with a well-developed plot, interesting characters, and a strong romance. Rebecca Parker has lived a life of hard work and deals with abuse from her father, both of which make her the more practical of the two protagonists. Kenneth Winterton, however, is also grounded and must learn to balance his identity with his future title of Earl. The pair bond well and have excellent chemistry, making the romance aspect very enjoyable.

I loved how Kilpack laced in tiny details about the time period, from class structure to everyday life aspects. I also loved all the Cinderella elements that really came together in the last act. The "rags-to-riches" concept is present throughout the entire novel and only enhances the characters' interactions. However, I have a few critiques. For one, the pacing was a little fast for my taste. I would have liked to get to know the characters some more before truly diving into the rising action. All their backstory was dumped within the first few chapters, and then they met and it was love at first sight (which I guess makes sense considering the fairy tale theme). There was also this recurring statement that Kenneth's wife, whom he is being forced to find and pick for the Earldom, had the primary job of making *him* a better man and propping *him* up. I understand this ideology is realistic for the time period, which I appreciate, but it was a tad uncomfortable to read when used in context of the leading romance. Lastly - though technically not about the novel itself - the synopsis is somewhat misleading. From my understanding, Kenneth is not the Earl yet but his heir. Also, the summary is worded in a way where it sounds like the novel is from Rebecca's perspective. It's actually in both Rebecca and Kenneth's perspectives, almost every other chapter, in the third person.

Overall, this was a fun and entertaining read! I would definitely recommend it to any Regency fan.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are my unbiased opinion.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
2.5
I was intrigued by the premise of this book, but it didn't quite captivate me as I hoped it would. The Valet's Secret is a historical romance between Kenneth Winterton, a gentleman and soon to be Earl, and Rebecca Parker, a common artist's daughter. They meet by chance in a less than fortunate first encounter, but sparks fly between the two of them. Both widowed and not expecting to feel this way again, they meet each other again, but Ms. Parker does not know his real identity, as he was disguised as his valet when they first met. If she did, he would never see her again.
I enjoyed the plot and the forbidden romance that was explored between the two main characters. The reason the book fell a little flat for me was because I didn't connect with the main characters, and found them lacking a unique voice and personality. Rebecca is a strong and independent woman who is a little lost in the world after losing her husband, but she felt 2-dimensional and I didn't really connect emotionally. Mr. Winterton is a kind gentleman and is also a bit lost in his new world, but again, I didn't feel that emotional connection, either with him or with the romance built between the 2 characters. The character I did really enjoy was the Baroness who is confident, self-assured, and respected, and coming from a lower place in society, she is also humble and kind. This lifted the story for me as she featured more towards the end. I also enjoyed the writing itself; it wasn't anything special, but it was well done and it didn't feel like a chore to read despite my lack of connection with the characters.
Overall, this was a nice, easy read, with a good plot, and would recommend to anyone seeking a light, historical romance that crosses the boundaries of class.

3.5/5 stars
I was happy to see a book where the main characters, Rebecca Parker and Kenneth Winterton, are in their middle years with older children. It isn’t very common to have this occur and I liked that aspect because it provided more to make it an original story. Both Rebecca and Kenneth lost their spouses and each of them are lonely and eager to start a new life. How far they are willing to risk it is what drives the story.

There were several issues in the book that were tastefully addressed. In this Cinderella retelling, there is the twist of Rebecca having to be rescued by Kenneth from an aggressive, drunken father. The other thing was the societal class barrier of nobility versus the working class was well established and both Rebecca and Kenneth had to overcome this. Good for Kenneth that he realized that being nobility did not make you any better than someone else. I thought it was sweet to see how he was a determined man who chose to convince Rebecca to follow her heart.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an electronic copy of the book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

The future earl, Kenneth, dresses as his valet to feel a little more like himself and less of the burdens of his position. While out he practically runs Rebecca down with his wild horse. While checking that she is alright, sparks fly and an instant connection is realized. They meet again, Kenneth again in disguise but before their third meeting, Rebecca encounters him at a dinner where she is serving his meal as the future Earl. The journey that follows while he tries to regain her trust and good opinion is beautiful. It took me a little to get into the story at first, but I was very glad I stuck with it as I could not put it down after. The Cinderella elements were subtle yet striking and the twist of Kenneth being locked into the tower to miss the ball was funny. The thought of a capable man locked in his room trying (unsuccessfully) to break down the door, soaking himself in Sandalwood oil trying to loosen the hinges, is frankly hilarious! I do wish they would have returned to the ball for the final dance and to see Lady Beth set down by her own father for her antics. But I loved that they were able to find their second chance at love and their Happy ever after!

I really enjoyed this book. The characters are compelling and true to themselves. It has a fairytale feel to it that is fun and enjoyable. I love an underdog story.

Overall, I thought this was a pretty cute historical romance. I thought the pacing at the beginning was pretty slow but it picked up rather quickly. I was not completely sold on the instant love connection between the two at the beginning but towards the middle I kind of forgot at times that they barely knew each other. I think there could have been more interactions between the two to add more suspense to the story and their relationship but I did enjoy the interactions that are there.

I also enjoyed the difference in social standing because going against the norm creates a fun spin. I know things would have been different based on the time period in real life but I was happy with the ending.

I thought it was a little refreshing that Rebecca and Kenneth were already in their 40's during the story because I feel like I don't see that very often. I myself am young but that doesn't mean I can't connect with these characters in ways. I also got the hint of a Cinderella story towards the end but it didn't really click with me at the beginning.

This was a fun story that makes you feel good.

An enjoyable read about a mature couple that have a chance encounter that neither can forget. I have been reading romances for many years and when I find a book about a second chance at love I am drawn to it. This is such a book. The characters are nice people finding themselves a bit lost as Kenneth is to become an Earl and Rebecca finding love again after her husbands death and living with her abusive father. Both the couples children are grown. There was a bit too much of insta love and I would have enjoyed more interaction between the couple but this was difficult due to the class differences. The ending was a bit too modern in thinking that this would not have mattered more. I rate this a 3.5*

Josh S. Kilpack has done it again! Josi is a great regency author and has delivered yet another delicious read, perfect for any proper romance lover. Being a young adult I don't typically pick up books with middle aged main characters as I just can't relate to a lot of the themes there, but this book can be enjoyed by most. I liked seeing Rebecca and Kenneth's relationship develop, and learn their motivations for their actions. Josi is good at writing not-your-average regency, and that's exactly what this delivered. Can't wait to see what she writes next!

The Valet’s Secret is a fun entertaining read with a Cinderella type feel to it. It is well written and had great characters. I really liked that the main characters in this book were middle aged. I was a nice change from the usual romances I read.

I also enjoyed the love story between Kenneth and Rebecca. They had instant chemistry and a strong desire to be in each other’s company. But the both had to come to terms with the difference between their social class and figure out how to make a relationship work between them.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it to anyone who loves regency romances.

I was very excited going into this book, but something fell very flat for me. We follow Rebecca, a widow who falls in love with a valet. She finally realizes she can love again after the death of her husband…then she finds out the valet was lying to her the whole time and was actually a future earl.

I really liked Kenneth as a character. He was my favorite in the book. He’s kind of dream man material. I also liked Rebecca because of how strong she was. But there were definitely moments when I found her very annoying.

I found the romance was quite well done. I’m not a fan of insta love, but I think something did run deeper with these two. To each other, they were the proof that they could love again. They not only fell in love with each other, but they fell in love with the idea of each other.

I also particularly liked the writing style. It was simple and concise. I don’t read many historical/period romances, but based on this book alone, I would like to read more. I would also like to read more by this author.

The problem I had was the depth. I found that I didn’t really understand what was keeping these characters apart, aside from class. There never was any expression from characters outside of Kenneth and Rebecca that they could not be together. The stakes were also not very high for me. I never really felt Kenneth’s pressure to marry.

While this is a quick and rather light-hearted read, I found myself a little bored by about 80%. I think the author started adding unnecessary elements that prevented the two characters from getting together, as well as villainizing some side characters. I think the author should have added these details in earlier rather than later.

Overall, I still enjoyed this book. It was a pretty easy read, but I think it could have been more in-depth and detailed.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review!

I enjoyed this story of second love and second chances. Josi Kilpack does a great job of getting away from stereotypical storylines and bringing up other relatable life circumstances. A good story to get lost in for awhile!

I was excited to pick this book up. I really enjoyed it.

When first reading the description, I couldn't wait to get it open. It took a bit to be able to get to read this one, and even though I remembered the premise of the story, I had forgotten quite a bit. Stupid me, didn't go and read it again before diving in. That lead to me being thrown by a few things: their ages and their first kiss.

But neither of those things were negative for me. I just needed to change my mindset. Most regency books you read have these young women as the main character and a 21 year old man. But the main characters were in their 40s. I actually really liked that. It was a nice thing to read. And that chemistry!

The first kiss was great, but I think it was a bit too fast, and too sudden for me. Although it was a great place for the book to jump from and a most unforgettable meet cute.

I enjoyed the book. I would read it again.

Rating: 3.5 Stars

This doesn’t disappoint it was such a fun read. The story flowed well and the characters were well written. A romance with a few twists and turns thrown in, what more could you ask for! It was also nice to have characters in their middle years, rather than the usual youngsters..

I enjoyed this Regency romance set in 1819 Yorkshire, England, especially because it involved somewhat older protagonists for once. Rebecca Parker, 42, and Kenneth Winterton, 48, were both formerly married, had children, but lost their spouses. Each of them thought they could never again feel what they had felt before toward someone else.

A chance meeting between them in the woods ends with a kiss that surprises both of them and proves them wrong. But Rebecca is a house maid and Kenneth is the heir to an earl. When they met, however, Kennth was disguised as his valet, Malcolm Henry. Being attired as a valet gives Kenneth more freedom, and Rebecca believed Kenneth was Malcolm, and therefore someone in her own social station.

As Kenneth’s Uncle Lester is trying to prepare Kenneth, Lester’s only male heir, to be the next Earl of Brenston, he insisted that marriage was an essential first step. He paraded a number of eligible young ladies in front of Kenneth, but after that kiss in the woods, Kenneth could think of no one but Rebecca, even though he knew such a liaison could never be accepted.

Meanwhile, Uncle Lester’s daughter, Lady Beth, was scheming to get Kenneth to marry her eldest daughter Jacqueline, only 19, and determined to win Kenneth’s hand. Kenneth, even had he never met Rebecca, couldn’t fathom it: “A nineteen-year-old wife? A woman younger than both his sons with no experience of life? Not in a thousand years did he want such a woman.” But Kenneth underestimated the extent to which Beth was trying to manipulate him.

The pair do have an ally, although they are unaware of it. The nearest neighbor to Kenneth, the Baroness of Grangeford, was formerly a milliner’s daughter. With the support of her husband, the late Baron of Grangeford, her past was forgotten, and finally , after early a decade, her past was forgotten. While it took a long time, in the meanwhile, the two had each other, and enjoyed their love and life together.

But can everyone’s best intentions overcome those of the scheming Lady Beth?

Evaluation: This fun romance with a bit of intrigue will satisfy readers, and have them searching for similar, more unusual Regency stories.