A stand-alone novella from New York Times bestselling author Elizabeth Hoyt Miss Mary Whitsun is far too intelligent to fall for the rakish charms of a handsome aristocrat. But when the gentleman in question approaches her in a bookshop, mistaking her for his fiancee, Lady Johanna Albright, the flirtatious encounter only raises more questions. Could Mary, a servant raised in a St Giles orphanage, … a St Giles orphanage, actually be Lady Joanna’s long-lost twin sister? If so, Mary has been betrothed since birth—to the rakishly handsome artistocrat himself . . .
Henry Collins, Viscount Blackwell, is far too intrigued by Mary to let her go so easily. He’s drawn to her sharp mind, indomitable spirit, and the fiery way in which she dismisses him—ladies simply don’t dismiss Lord Blackwell. But as Mary makes her first hesitant steps into society, she can’t help but wonder if she truly has a place in Henry’s world—or in his heart.
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I received this novella ahead of the publishing date. Elizabeth Hoyt asked for an honest review, which I’m happy to give. I’m at a loss on how to review without spoiling it for you future readers. Once Upon A Maiden Lane works great as a standalone but it behooves you to read the entire series. Besides being excellent you’ll understand the supporting cast better. Mary Witsun is an orphan from the foundling home that’s a running theme throughout the series. Having the series end with Mary is perfect. An orphan meets a handsome titled gent and sparks fly. It’s Cinderella like. I must confess to being a little in love with the Duke of Montgomery and having him, among others, wrap up their story lines was such a nice touch. I can only add that you won’t regret reading Once Upon A Maiden lane. Happy reading!
If you enjoy historical romance Elizabeth hit is the queen of writers. The Maiden Lane series is the best I’ve ever read
All Elizabeth Hoyt books are great!
Audiobook: Narrator – Ashford McNab
Another amazing performance that brings not only the characters but the whole story to life!
This was a great story of mistaken identity that ended up being so much more. I loved that this story was actually about one of the foundlings from Maiden Lane and that she gets to have an amazing happy ever after. Henry was perfect for her as well as for this storyline. I couldn’t have asked for a better hero.
Great series!! Really enjoyed them all.
Amazing story telling *****
I love all the Maiden Lane books.
Elizabeth Hoyt keeps up to her writing and with a flair of emotions between the two characters creates magic with the story
3.75 stars– Told from dual third person perspectives (Mary and Henry) ONCE UPON A MAIDEN LANE follows the building relationship between nursemaid Miss Mary Whitsun, and Henry Collins, aka Viscount Blackwell in the face of the discovery that our heroine might very well be the missing heiress, and Lady Joanna Albright’s twin sister Cecilia Albright-kidnapped as a child, and presumed dead for the past twenty one years. Promised at birth to the future Viscount Blackwell, Cecilia has been missing, and without proof of birthright Mary Whitsun struggles to accept the possibility that she is the formerly missing child Cecilia Albright-betrothed to the infamous rake Viscount Blackwell. Enter Henry Collins, aka Viscount Blackwell, and the man with whom Mary will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Mary and Henry, and the potential fall out when the truth is revealed.
ONCE UPON A MAIDEN LANE is a short story ala Cinderella where a beautiful young woman falls in love with the handsome prince only to realize under the pretty clothes and glamorous lifestyle, she will always be remembered as the nursemaid she was born to be. There are moments of intrigue and danger; mystery and suspense; romance and love. The premise is heart-warming; the romance is passionate. Several previous story line couples and characters make cameo appearances allowing for the familiarity of friendship and acquaintance. ONCE UPON A MAIDEN LANE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information form the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Sigh! This is a definite fairy tale for my favorite orphan, Mary Whitsun. What would you do if you were suddenly told you were the long-lost daughter of one of London’s finest families? Mary is trying to be sensible, but when she’s whisked into the world of the Albright family, she can’t help but lose her heart a little to her new family and the man she is supposed to marry.
Of course, there are twists and turns along the way to the happily ever after, and that’s what makes Elizabeth Hoyt’s stories so good. This was the warm cozy wrap-up to the Maiden Lane series I’ve been looking for.
I received an ARC of this book from the author at no cost.