When Katherine “Kit” FitzGilbert turned her back on London society more than a decade ago, she determined never to set foot in a ballroom again. But when business takes her to London and she’s forced to run for her life, she stumbles upon not only a glamorous ballroom but also Graham, Lord Wharton. What should have been a chance encounter becomes much more as Graham embarks on a search for his … friend’s missing sister and is convinced Kit knows more about the girl than she’s telling.
After meeting Graham, Kit finds herself wishing things could have been different for the first time in her life, but what she wants can’t matter. Long ago, she dedicated herself to helping women escape the same scorn that drove her from London and raising the innocent children caught in the crossfire. And as much as she desperately wishes to tell Graham everything, revealing the truth isn’t worth putting him and everyone she loves in danger.
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My favorite thing about this book is the contrast of personalities between Kit and Graham. They both have so much to learn from each other and both bring a new and fresh perspective to their friendship and relationship. Graham’s cheerful and light-hearted nature brings joy to the children and the women who care for them. Kit’s mission and purpose shows Graham a serious side to the consequences of society’s dictates and he admires her determination to work towards solutions. There is some danger and suspense as long-held secrets come to light, and Kit learns over time to do the right thing and trust God to provide solutions as she turns her cares over to Him. There is conflict that comes between Kit and Graham, but I loved what ultimately brings them together as they continue to pursue ways to help those in need. Loving this new series!!!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
I think this book may be her best so far. She addresses what it was like to be an illegitimate child of nobility. The plot was original, well thought out and well written. A sweet, clean love story.
“A Defense of Honor” by Kristi Ann Hunter
(Haven Manor Series Book 1)
Whatever you are looking for in a Historical Romance I feel you will find it, and more, in this book.
Kristi Ann Hunter has woven mystery, intrigue, fear, drama, deception, trickery, blackmail, prejudice, honor, love, compassion, strength and faith into a historical setting in the 1800’s London and its outskirts.
The main character Katherine “Kit” FitzGilbert is a determined woman who is on a mission to seek justice for those who society has rejected, her intentions are admirable, even though her method of attaining that justice is not. She is a woman of deep faith, yet her independent spirit, coupled with a guilty conscience, causes her to take things into her own hands instead of seeking God’s way and will in the matter.
Throughout the book you will led on a journey thru London and it’s high society, meeting many people of royalty and those who are of lesser status. You will get a glimpse into how life was lived there in the 1800’s and It will, at times, be a confusing journey as you meet many characters and get bits and pieces of information that cause you to wonder what this story is all about. It’s rather like putting together a puzzle one page at a time. But, in the end, when all the pieces begin to fit together, you will be touched to the heart by what is revealed.
It is a book that you will have difficulty putting down once you begin reading but once you reach the end, you will want it to continue.
I highly recommend reading this book, you will not be disappointed, and if you do, I imagine you will be looking forward, as I am, to reading Haven Manor 2 whenever it is released.
(I received this book from Bethany House Publishers but was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.)
I enjoyed getting to know Graham and Kit. They are unique, well-written characters that won’t soon leave your imagination. Graham has a fun sense of humor and a playful endearing quality that draws you in and makes you want to linger. Kit is more serious. She is determined and practical. She needs a little encouragement to let down her hair and laugh. Graham is just the man for the job.
Haven Manor is a hidden gem. A safe place of refuge for those who the elite of society has deemed unworthy, and has cast aside. Kristy Ann Hunter has given us a new series of Regency-era stories to enjoy. New characters to meet and a fresh look at an often hidden side of the Regency era.
While this story deals with the delicate subject matter of the seemingly rampant indiscretions of the nobility and elite class in Regency London, it is handled with grace and points toward the importance of trusting God.
With dynamic, original characters and a vivid setting, this delightful story is sure to not only entertain but to also leaves the reader with something to think about beyond the story itself. I give this story 4.5 stars and I eagerly anticipate the next stories in this new series.
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
This was another fantastic read from Kristi Ann Hunter. This book has a very unique storyline and I was enchanted from the very beginning and was dying to learn the secrets and see how it ended. I was thrilled to see a familiar face from the Hawthorne House series and can’t wait to see that character get their own story! The humor that I have come to expect from Kristi’s books was there as usual and was as always one of my favorite parts of the book. This is another can’t miss book!
I received this book from NetGalley and wasn’t required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
The Honourable Katherine FitzGilbert (I’m sorry, but the title is British, so it should be Honourable not Honorable) is now known as Mama Kit. She shepherds a group of not-quite-orphans in a forgotten house in the country. Her anonymity and remote seclusion are her weapons, the way she protects those in her charge.
Graham, Viscount Wharton, is bored … at least, until he notices a beautiful lady in green at a ball, a lady he then rescues before she disappears. He has no idea how to find her again, as he doesn’t even know her name. So he’s more than a little surprised to come across her in an out-of-the-way almost-abandoned manor house near the small market town of Marlborough.
As first meetings go, Kit and Graham’s first meeting is definitely memorable. So is their second.
But it’s when they meet in Marlborough that things get interesting. Graham is trying to locate his best friend’s missing sister, and he realises Kit must know where she is. But Kit has spent the last twelve years protecting women and hiding their illegitimate children, and she’s not about to stop for some random Lord who finds her secret home. No matter how attractive he is.
And the end … I’m not going to give spoilers, but I am already looking forward to the next book in the series.. A Defence of Honor is the first full-length novel in Kristi Ann Hunter’s new Haven Manor series, but it’s not the first book. There is a prequel novella, A Search for Refuge, which is available as a free ebook.
It’s not necessary to read A Search for Refuge first, although I did, and I can assure you it will provide needed backstory to A Defence of Honor. Recommended for all Regency romance fans, because it’s close to perfect. And Kristi Ann Hunter is a wonderful witty writer.
Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review
I never turn down a Kristi Ann Hunter book. Her books make me think, cry, laugh, and simply enjoy a marvelous story with stunning characters. Hunter’s latest, A Defense of Honor, the first book in her Haven Manor series, is no exception. From start to finish I was immersed in a story with twists, turns, and quirky developments that kept me on my toes.
I can honestly say I’ve never read a book with quite this plot before. Yes, it is historical fiction which is nothing new, but the content on saving illegitimate children and their mothers from societal scorn intrigued me. Hunter filled her novel with characters that embedded themselves into my heart as she brought to life a time, place, and plight far removed from me, yet near at the same time. For though society has changed since the timing of Hunter’s story, the need for redemption, belonging, and an advocate for defenseless children has not. This is a tale to ponder and examine, a tale to inspire us all to make a difference in the lives around us.
I cannot wait to hear more about these characters in the coming novels. This story is far from done!
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions in this review are my own.
I wish I could give this book a 10 star rating, because it is that fabulous! There are a lot of characters in this novel and most are very endearing and lovable. How to begin? Well, the heroine Katherine “Kit” FitzGilbert leaves London after a traumatic experience, and after nearly twelve years we find her taking care of a several children whose mothers experienced a similar trauma as Kit’s friend Daphne. They, along with the enigmatic Jess, are secreted in a woodland home keeping the children safe from those that would do them harm to keep their secrets from coming out.
Then we have the Hero, Graham, Lord Wharton, who happens upon their hidden home while out looking for clues to his friend’s missing sister. Kit is terrified Graham will tell others about their home and what they do there, but she couldn’t be further from the truth. Graham grows very fond of the children while he is stuck there due to a flooded bridge keeping him there. His feelings for the beautiful, but distrustful Kit begin to change as well.
What will happen to the children and the home Kit and her friends have built for them if Graham can’t be trusted? Will Graham keep their secrets? If you like clean, Christian, historical romance with twists and turns and intrigue and laughter, you will love this book as much as I do. Check it out and Enjoy!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kristi Ann Hunter and the publisher, Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to post a review, but I do so voluntarily.
A Defense Of Honor, what a story. I mean when you have the beginning made up of boredom, plants, ballroom dancing and secrets you know you have a hit on your hands. The book only got better and better from that point on – if you can believe that. There is mystery – not in the sense you may think – like murder – just a plain – straight up – mystery that Graham is trying to figure out. Will he? GOD fits right on in here – but how? Well let me tell you – HE – – – – I cann0t ruin this book for you – it is worth the read to find out. I received a copy of this book from the Publisher and Netgalley; all of the opinions expressed in this review are all my own.
if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com – I look forward to seeing you there.
Kristi Ann Hunter tackles a topic that is often brushed over in Regency fiction. We read about the ton, the balls, parties & dinners, and even the scandals. But rarely do we read about what happens to those whose lives are ruined when the men of the upper echelon of society cast them away.
A Defense of Honor, the first book in The Haven Manor series, introduces readers to three women who refuse to forget or ignore the women and children who need to disappear.
After a close call of her own twelve years ago, Kit FitzGilbert pours her life into caring for those society would rather forget (after a run through the ton gossip mill, of course). Perhaps her methods are not the best, but her heart is in the right place. On one of her trips to London to secure funds for the manor, Kit meets Graham (aka Lord Wharton).
In an attempt to forget about an intriguing woman he’d learned little about, Graham sets out on a mission to find the sister of one of his friends. What he doesn’t expect is to run into that same woman who has been on his mind in the country.
Graham is a likable character from the beginning—charming, a little bit of a flirt, and someone who holds family and friends in esteem. And the first time he interacts with a child, I was smitten.
As Graham digs to uncover Kit’s secrets, and she struggles with handing control of the women and children she assists over to God, the two find a mutual admiration for the other.
In usual Hunter style, laughter and smiles are mixed in with heavier moments of questioning, disappointment, and concern.
Shining a light on both the trial and joys of helping those less fortunate, A Defense of Honor reminds readers that caring for even one person less fortunate than us makes a difference. The ending of Kit and Graham’s story is perfection while whetting my reading appetite for more about Daphne and Jess, the two women who help Kit run Haven Manor.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I loved reading Kristi Ann Hunter’s newest romantic Regency novel. A Defense of Honor is an engaging novel with just the right amount of humor. From the start, I was drawn in to the lives of these endearing characters. Then I couldn’t stop reading. I was encouraged as I observed these characters grow and learn lessons about faith and trusting during difficult circumstances. The importance of relationships and caring for others is a reoccurring theme. These are such timely lessons for all of us and are woven into a memorable story which could also impact young adult readers in a powerful way. Personally, this novel only left me wanting more. Fortunately the second book in the series will be coming. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are mine.
Set in the Regency era in England and populated with creative, realistic, and endearing characters, Kristi Ann Hunter’s latest novel kept me reading far into the night. Hunter’s attention to historical detail and her delicious sense of humor have combined to make her books must-reads for me. A Defense of Honor is brimming with adventure and intrigue with just the right amount of romance and redemption adeptly woven in. I must admit I fell a little in book-love with the swoony hero, Graham. He was almost too good to be true, and I adored his charming adventures with the children in the story and his kindness. Kit, the heroine, was a work in progress. Her heart for the scorned women and illegitimate children of the aristocracy endeared her to me, although her methods of helping them were a bit eye-opening. The tender, up-lifting messages of redemption, forgiveness, and trust in God that were woven seamlessly throughout touched my heart and added depth and emotion to the story. I’m looking forward to the other books in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I love Regency set novels, but it is true they often politely ignore that an ugly underbelly existed during the era. In many ways I am fine with suspending that reality, preferring my reading be kept on the lighter side, which Kristi Ann Hunter’s books have largely done in the past. This particular story is different, taking on a more serious tone with a suspenseful undercurrent. While it was not quite what I expected, I still found it a fascinating, well-plotted story that examines hearts and motivations even as it tells a beautiful romance.
Part of the reason I enjoy the period is because of the often courtly behavior that rules the time. It seems a more gentle part of history, where men protected those they loved. But I have read enough to know that it was often a thin veneer of civility, used to hide the unlovely and even sinister dealings happening in back rooms and secluded alcoves. The interesting part about this novel is that Hunter shows us both the good and bad, without leading to the conclusion that all men are users and abusers of women.
Graham is a wonderful hero, not perfect, but who can help but forgive his faults when his knees become weak as small fingers slip into his larger hand? His largely carefree life doesn’t prevent him from caring about his friends and their struggles, doing whatever he can to alleviate suffering where he has the power to do so. His is firmly settled as my favorite character in this book—sorry kids!
At times this book gets downright heartbreaking and made me shed some tears. Then, a few pages later, a beautiful scene would bring the exact same reaction. This book engaged my emotions more than Hunter’s previous works have done, even as it caused me to look into my heart and question how I would have responded in some of the same circumstances. Yes, it’s different than her first series. But different doesn’t mean bad.
This is a difficult book in many ways, but definitely one worth reading. Due to the subject matter, I think this novel is best suited to mature teens and up, but it is important in helping us to understand we all have a past but that doesn’t mean we cannot have a future. I recommend it for those who enjoy Regency fiction without the rose tint, though thoughtful readers may find it adds to their knowledge of the period, furthering their enjoyment of other novels set during this time.
I received a review copy of this book from the author and publisher but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
A Defense of Honor by Kristi Ann Hunter is a Regency piece set in London and Marlborough in 1816. It is the first of a fascinating new series by Kristi.
Kit FitzGilbert and her friend Daphne are hiding in the countryside after fleeing London society over a decade ago.
Graham, Lord Wharton is bored waiting to become an Earl but wants nothing to do with the frivolous pursuits of most of his peers. In other words, he wants to make a difference.
This novel is anything but boring! Kristi enchants us again with a tale of England’s upper crust in the Regency Era. She is one of my favorite authors.
Kit and Graham meet by chance at a ball. Graham is curious about an elusive lady in green. Perhaps trying to find her will cure his boredom.
Kit has a heart for children and mothers in dire circumstances. But will the mysterious Governess help or hurt Kit and her charges? After coming upon Kit, Daphne and the children while trying to assist his friend in finding his missing sister, Graham finds he has a heart for children, too.
Although this novel has that signature Kristi Hunter humor, this book is different from Kristi’s other books in that it touches on a more serious matter. She deals with attitudes that were prevalent in 1816 and are no less relevant today. She handles them through the faith of her characters. Each is striving to do the right thing. Graham talks to Kit while trying to understand why she does what she does. “ Grace doesn’t work like that, Kit. I know my life’s been pretty easy, and my sins wouldn’t make anyone blush, but I’m not perfect and I’ve read the Bible enough to know that grace doesn’t come because of anything you can do. Jesus didn’t die and rise again so you could crucify yourself with guilt.” Kit begins to question her motives and methods as she goes about helping the less fortunate.
There are many spiritual lessons to learn from this book. Among them, as Graham says: “ The most precious gems are forged from pressure. God brings beauty from adversity, when you let Him.”
A Defense of Honor is a beautifully written historical story whose principles can be applied to the present. I was pleasantly surprised at the solution to a very complicated problem.
I would recommend this book to fans of Christian Historical Fiction, who would like to see how a complex issue is handled.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
I really enjoyed this book! The storyline is very original. I loved the characters. It was nice to see our old friend Jess in this series. I can’t wait to see what comes next for these characters. I’m really hoping to see the same characters in the next one. I can tell that I’m going to love this series as much as I love her other books!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.