About the Book
Book: To Catch a Coronet
Author: Grace Hitchcock
Genre: Christian Regency Romance
Series: Novel of Best Laid Plans, Book 1
Publisher: Kregel
Release Date: May 2024
Sometimes the only way to outsmart a scandal is to find a crown big enough to silence it
Muriel Beau, country baker turned heiress, can't stop instigating outrage. She discards two arranged engagements, then further antagonizes in Kent society by publicly proposing to a baron at a ball. His rejection leaves her with no choice but to flee to the city and to secure a coronet so splendid that her peers will forget her debacles. The glitter of the London courts convinces Muriel that it's possible to find the future she dreams of, until she finds herself entangled in yet another escapade--one that may cost her more than her crumbling reputation.
After years of serving as a privateer under an assumed name, Captain Erik Draycott, heir to Draycott Castle and soon to assume his uncle's title of Earl, returns to his London home to find it in disrepair thanks to his longtime nemesis. A staunch bachelor intent on returning to his ship, the captain now finds himself in dire need of a wife. But while his pauper status causes the potential London brides to turn their noses up at him, the captain is shocked when his mentor encourages him to retire and take a wife. But while his alleged pauper status causes the potential London brides to turn their noses up at him, the ladies of Kent have no such qualms and are eager to fill his coffers with their fathers' wealth. When he encounters the unconventional Muriel Beau and she becomes embroiled in his risky undertaking, Erik is torn between staying put to protect this enchanting country lady and heeding the call of the high seas.
Muriel Beau, country baker turned heiress, can't stop instigating outrage. She discards two arranged engagements, then further antagonizes in Kent society by publicly proposing to a baron at a ball. His rejection leaves her with no choice but to flee to the city and to secure a coronet so splendid that her peers will forget her debacles. The glitter of the London courts convinces Muriel that it's possible to find the future she dreams of, until she finds herself entangled in yet another escapade--one that may cost her more than her crumbling reputation.
After years of serving as a privateer under an assumed name, Captain Erik Draycott, heir to Draycott Castle and soon to assume his uncle's title of Earl, returns to his London home to find it in disrepair thanks to his longtime nemesis. A staunch bachelor intent on returning to his ship, the captain now finds himself in dire need of a wife. But while his pauper status causes the potential London brides to turn their noses up at him, the captain is shocked when his mentor encourages him to retire and take a wife. But while his alleged pauper status causes the potential London brides to turn their noses up at him, the ladies of Kent have no such qualms and are eager to fill his coffers with their fathers' wealth. When he encounters the unconventional Muriel Beau and she becomes embroiled in his risky undertaking, Erik is torn between staying put to protect this enchanting country lady and heeding the call of the high seas.
My Thoughts
I have enjoyed Ms. Hitchcock's books set in the Guilded Age and I have really enjoyed them but I must say I believe she knocked it out of the park with this Regency setting and I absolutely loved it!!
The characters are endearing and lovable. I absolutely loved Muriel. She is a completely normal person who has been thrown into wealth by her mother's marriage into nobility. She made me laugh with her antics and was just delightful. She has the best of intentions but sometime doesn't know how to quite execute them. After botching up a proposal she is sent to find a proper match. Here is where she meet Erik who is completely swoon worthy and sees Muriel like no one else can. They definitely have great chemistry!
I absolutely loved Muriels friends Vivienne and Tess and cannot wait to read about them throughout the rest of the series. Overall I really enjoyed this story. It has romance, mystery and a twist that caught me a bit off guard! If you are looking for a new Regency story to read I definitely recommend this.
I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Grace Hitchcock is an award-winning author of multiple historical novels and novellas. She holds a Masters in Creative Writing and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in History. Grace lives near New Orleans with her husband, Dakota, sons and daughter. Connect with her online at GraceHitchcock.com.
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