Inheriting a home near two eligible bachelors seems like a dream come true. But which man deserves her trust—or her heart?
Kate Kingston wants nothing more than to instill her love of art into the hearts of her pupils, but when a solicitor arrives to inform her that her uncle died and she inherited his estate, she is hesitant to leave the comfortable life she has developed. Encouraged by her … developed. Encouraged by her friends to embrace the new adventure, Kate uproots her life and travels to Larkfield where she must face the demons from her past—and work to replace the spoiled memories from her childhood with happier ones. The only problem: she doesn’t know the first thing about running a large country estate.
When an injured shoulder sends Peter Evans home from the war, he finds that his younger brother Martin is far from ready to give up his authority over the family estate, and even less willing to leave old quarrels in the past. But when a beautiful lady moves in next door and requests help in learning to manage her estate, Peter is willing to offer his knowledge—and his heart. If only Martin didn’t have his sights set on the new neighbor, as well.
But when trouble finds the inhabitants of Larkfield, few people believe the misdeeds are more than a run of bad luck. Convinced that someone is trying to hurt her friend, Kate must track the culprit, and she can’t do it alone.
But how can she know which brother to trust?
The third book in the Seasons of Change series, A Forgiving Heart is a stand-alone novel. Check out the other books in the series to discover stories about change and love.
Book One: The Road Through Rushbury by Martha Keyes
Book Two: A Forgiving Heart by Kasey Stockton
Book Three: The Last Eligible Bachelorby Ashtyn Newbold
Book Four: A Well-Trained Lady by Jess Heileman
Book Five: coming soon from Deborah M. Hathaway
Book Six: coming soon from Sally Britton
Book Seven: coming soon from Jennie Goutet
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You cannot go wrong with a Kasey Stockton book. Her Regency novels are always lovely, heartfelt, and happy-ever-after. Make certain you read this latest novel. You will absolutely love it.
4.5 stars. Kasey has done it again: she’s written a book I quite love! The storyline is different and very enjoyable. I found that I was kept on my toes most of the time and I really liked that! I love the themes of forgiveness, compassion, trusting and looking to God, and friendship, but I love even more that each of these feels like an undercurrent of character and not that I’m being beat over the head with moralizing. I love a good moral but I don’t like it being spelled out for me. Another thing I loved about this book were the amazing lines! I rarely highlight my Kindle books, but I just couldn’t help it with this book, as they were just too good. Way to go, Kasey!
Kate and Peter are just perfect protagonists. I love that it’s obvious they are human and make mistakes but they each grow so much and learn from their mistakes and actively work to overcome their weaknesses. I really like Kate’s personality.
Emily confuses me sometimes. She didn’t always act like Kate’s best friend. But I’m chalking it up to anxiety over Paul and I’ll leave it at that.
I will keep my opinion of Martin to myself. I have quite strong feelings about this dude. Perhaps I’ll only say that I am not as generous as Kate.
Marsh, Cohen, Aniston are awesome supporting characters. I loved that they felt as though they cut a large presence in the story, even if they didn’t appear in it (at least wholly) until nearer the end.
Miss Smithson and Miss Annie Smithson. One I like, one I don’t as much. I really wanted to get to know Annie more.
Mrs James, or Alice, might have been my favorite background character. I was only sad she didn’t have as much of a presence in the latter half of the book, because I really liked her!
This was really a lovely, sweet romance. Kasey is quickly making her way to my list of favorite authors and I cannot wait to read more of her books!
A beautiful story that really demonstrates the power of forgiveness and the lack thereof. There was so much mystery and intrigue throughout the story. You’re given enough information to keep you questioning and slowly things start to come together. I loved Kate and Peter’s characters. They were such good people. I hope there is a spin off series that includes Peter’s friends. Their stories really intrigue me.
4 1/2 stars. I truly enjoyed this book. Initially I had my misgivings because I don’t like a love triangle. However, this was so well written and I loved seeing the friendship develop between Peter and Kate. The Storyline had an unexpected twist from what I thought might happen early on but it ultimately was pretty perfect. However there’s a murder referenced in the book that is never made known to the two main characters and thus makes the final outcome seem like it should have been somewhat different for another main character.
I also did truly loved the audible version and I can highly recommend it as well.
A Forgiving Heart was a sweet enjoyable read/listen. I really enjoyed the intrigue with which the book starts, and how, obviously, one has to figure out who those boys were and kind of match them with the adult characters Kate encounters upon her return to Split Tree. Of course, once this was figured out, the second mystery surrounding a certain Miss served to hook me into the story even more. Though, granted, it was Peter and Kate’s second encounter and conversation that did it for me ;).
I found it interesting that the author gives us not only Kate’s POV but also Peter and Martin’s. And while I wasn’t a fan of one of them, it certainly added to the depth of the story.
The narrator did a wonderful job bringing all the characters to life as well as portraying different emotions, though I think there were a couple of nuances that could have been better (mainly whispers). Still, I think she did great performing all the different voices (from older matrons to maids, as well as lords and several misses).
Overall, this is a sweet and enjoyable Regency Romance story that’s perfect for fans of the genre as well as the author. ~4.5 stars
I loved the main characters, the plot (mysterious), and the resolution of conflict. I would have enjoyed a bit more steam :). The dialogue was great, the supporting characters authentic, and the friends of main man are intriguing. I look forward to reading the others in the series!
This was a well written regency. I like Stockton’s writing. It had great characters and a good story line. I enjoyed the slow moving romance and the mystery. I loved that the main character was capable and strong. I just really enjoyed this one.
It was lovely to witness the ease and comfort between the compatible hero and heroine. They simply understood each other and were strongly connected by that understanding. The villain, on the other hand, was a truly broken person who displayed how mistreatment as a child can manifest in adulthood as rage, bitter resentment, and misplaced control issues. The author deftly illustrated the reality of how women who feel unworthy of attention are obligated to express appreciation of and feel flattered by unwanted advances from men, such as this story’s villain, who are emotionally immature and self-centered and feel entitled to unwarranted admiration. The transitions between points of view were unusual–I’ve never seen alternating character names used as chapter titles to identify POV shifts–but I liked the straightforwardness and simplicity of it. There was some intrigue and action, but the best part of the entire story was definitely the admirable partnership between the hero and heroine. An enjoyable continuation of the Seasons of Change series.
I am always excited when Ms. Stockton comes out with a new book. She has such a beautiful writing style and does a great job of bringing the story and characters to life. This indeed was another one of her delightful stories. It’s the second book in the Season’s of Change series. Each book is written by a different author. I read the first book and loved it and adored this one as well. This is a beautiful story that showcases the power of forgiveness and the importance of it. It has mystery and intrigue and keeps you guessing as you read. The dialogue between the characters was also wonderfully written. A very well-written story that kept me captivated and engaged all the way through. Entertaining and interesting storyline, well-developed characters, and witty dialogue, this was such a charming read! I am totally addicted to this series and I can’t wait to read what comes next!
I received a complimentary advanced reader’s copy and am voluntarily giving my honest opinion.
I knew this book was likely to be pretty good because I have read others by this author, but it exceeded my expectations in every way! Suspense, surprises, clean romance ~ and a great, satisfying ending!
I really love Kate’s character – strong yet vulnerable. She is kind, intelligent, and as the title suggests, has a beautifully forgiving heart.
She deals with so many things in her new life after inheriting her childhood home ~ new acquaintances (including two handsome suitors!), finding courage to brave hurtful memories of the past, a mystery, danger, and learning how to ride a horse!
This story was well written, with excellent characters and kept me engaged the entire time. No slow or dull parts.
I loved it from beginning to end and I highly recommend it! I have added it to my ‘will read again’ list!
I’m also really looking forward to all of the upcoming additions to this series!
So many thoughts going through my mind, not sure where to begin. Emotions are abound in this story, bullying, forgiveness, friendship, loyalty, acceptance, trust both lost and earned. The characters are different yet some things the same. My favorite besides the main characters: Emily, Kate, n Peter, would have to be Mr. Cruikshanks, he seems like a easy going, hard working, story telling, honest man. I also enjoyed the camaraderie, friendship n trust with Marsh, Aniston, Cohen n Peter, amazing group of men!
And I really hope the best for Emily n Paul.
The Seasons of Change series Book Two: A Forgiving Heart by Kasey Stockton, was a Regency era book I thoroughly enjoyed reading! I didn’t want it to end. I truly loved Kate’s character and kind, forgiving heart. I also loved Peter’s character and his goodness. Martin’s character was very interesting and surprising. They all provided interesting twists and turns in this fantastic book. I especially enjoyed the sweet, clean love story, and I loved the ending. A definite must-read!
Another lovely, sweet and clean read by Ms. Stockton! I am a great fan of Kasey Stockton’s novels and this is a lovely addition to the Seasons of Change collaboration/series. These stories can be read as stand-alone novels and in any order. I am eagerly looking forward to reading the other books in this series as the overall theme(s) – seasons of change – are lovely and inspiring.
Ms. Stockton’s story spans some 10 years – a lot can happen in that time and people change. First impressions from so long ago may no longer be a reliable guide or influence to knowing a persons character a decade later where there has been no interaction in between. One must not judge or trust too easily.
This story is about a young woman, coming of age and facing the changes that occur outside of her control. Facing sad and haunting memories of her past while trying to carve a bright and happy future for herself. Developing and maintaining both new and old friendships during challenging and uncertain circumstances. These are all things that our heroine has to face while she navigates a new world of change in a society she is not fully familiar with. And of course, with two candidates vying for the position – who will be the hero of her story?
I truly enjoyed the character development throughout this book. I would quite happily read a further sequel following on with the other characters from this book!
I received an ARC of this book. I am under no obligation to leave a review.
Kate didn’t have a favorable first impression of Peter when he rides yelling after her borrowed carriage, but she remembers his brother Martin fondly as the boy in the tree she rescued from bullies when she was bullied by her uncle. Martin seems to have a devious nature and he tries to make it seem like he is the master instead of older brother who has recently returned from war Peter. If I were Kate based on those impressions I wouldn’t want either brother. But Peter shows kindness saving Kate’s friend Emily after she falls from her horse and insisting that he teach Kate to ride after he discovers she doesn’t know how. Kate has never had a man want her before, so she is uncertain which one her heart wants. There are some dark suspenseful moments with attempts on a character’s life, kidnapping, and madness, but this was a clean Regency romance with some sweet and funny moments too.
The second book in the Seasons of Change series a well written story with a very good storyline. Kate Kingston, and ex-soldier Peter Evans’ story, there is suspense, drama, danger, kidnapping, a villain, and romance. I hope there is more to come in this series.I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Setting: Miss Kate Kingston, lost her parents and grew up a ward of a hateful uncle. She was forced to go to work when she finished school, being cut off from funds from her uncle. When he suddenly dies, she finds her parents DID provide for her in a will. Moving back to her home, she takes up restoration of the home and farm.
An incident when she was a child starts the story. It involving 3 boys, 2 of whom were bullying a third, and Kate, who helped the third boy escape exposure, earning the gratitude of that boy. The story examines how the desire for revenge can corrupt even a good heart into becoming greedy and murderous. This is held up in juxtaposition to how another person, initially in company with cruel beings, can have his good heart enable him to change to become selfless and caring. We watch the results of these changes as they affect the life of our heroine, Miss Kate Kingston.
I enjoyed seeing how the transformation of the boys affected the men they became, as this provides a lesson for all to protect their heart from these wicked feelings that are ‘works of the flesh’. A clean story, suitable for all ages. Our heroine is a good role model for how to make the best life possible for yourself despite whatever obstacles are thrown at you. Our Hero makes commendable changes in his attitude and actions to become a fine man, worthy of our heroine.
ONE THRILLING ADVENTURE!!!
Gushing gecko! Kasey unleashes one dynamic approach with this skillfully composed delight, laying out this enthralling storyline and engaging plot, imparting such heartfelt essence, sentiment and nuance, wrapping this baby up sleek shiny and tight. Crazy mishaps and startling happenstance swirl with the formidable trials and challenging tribulations, spinning alongside the shocking twists and wicked turns, putting our characters through their paces, testing them in ways they could have never imagined. Shenanigans, escapades and mayhem rule the roost displaying the drama, turmoil, intrigue, sizzling suspense and electrifying situations, along with a double dose of moxie and intellect, you have one intoxicating adventure. Braided, bound and entangled, showcasing the explosive ups and agonizing downs, grounding in it’s strength and awe-inspiring in it’s depth. The characters, banter, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow, transforming into genuinely charismatic personalities. The scenes are so graphically descriptive you have no trouble picturing each scenario as they play off one another beautifully. Awesome job Kasey, thanks for sharing this little treasure with us.
This was a great book. I loved the characters. I couldn’t figure out how the author was going to wrap everything up at the end there were so many different things going on a once. I loved the ending and I’m hoping there will be more books about the secondary characters. Great job Kasey!
I love this author and I REALLY loved this story. It was a sweet, clean romance with a happy ending.
Kate lost her parents when she was four years old and her uncle sent her to live with a friend. When she was older, she was brought to Split Tree Manor to live. He was awful to her. He never let her leave the house and if she did, she knew the consequences would be awful. One time she risked it and found a two savage boys who were shooting arrows at baby birds in a tree. She also saw a young boy hiding up in a different tree. When she was spotted by the savage boys, she tried to save the young boy since it was obvious they were after him, even while being held captive by the two older boys. It was an experience she wouldn’t soon forget.
Many years later, when she returned to the manor after her uncle’s death, she met Martin, the young boy she saved and his older brother, Peter, who had held her captive. She didn’t instantly recognize either of them but they would both again be the catalyst to a major change in her future.
Kate was kind and forgiving and even with the horrible memories of her time under her uncle’s care, she was able to forgive and make a wonderful future for herself. Peter had served in the war and had memories from his life that also plagued him but also begin to forgive but Martin held grudges and didn’t easily forgive. He was determined to come out the victor at any cost.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The plot was well developed and executed and all of the characters were well thought out, even the secondary characters. I look forward to more wonderful stories from this author. She has a gift with Regency romances.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
Facts are not always what they appear. Kasey Stockton brings us a heroine that indeed does have a forgiving heart. Her story has the exact mixture of romance, humor, villainy and story line to make a delightful story that could have a different ending. I enjoyed this story.