“I am not romantic, you know. I never was.”
Newly escaped from a loathsome engagement of convenience, Charlotte Lucas has no interest in romance. More than ever, she is convinced that no man would—or could—love her. As companion to an aging aunt, Charlotte’s new life is as predictable as it is circumspect.
But then she is rescued from a robbery by her uncle’s heir, a masterful man who is … uncle’s heir, a masterful man who is disastrously handsome. Why has he remained as a guest in the house? Why is he so determined to draw Charlotte out and make her talk? And what of his invitation to visit his home by the sea?
Romance is not on the chart for Captain Jack Blunt. Never again will he be played for that kind of fool! He is ashore only to heal from an injury and see to business, nothing more. And yet the pointed disinterest of his cousin’s pert niece is intriguing. She is forthright, refreshingly honest—and altogether lovely. She will make a fine wife for one of his officers. But not, of course, for him.
So This Is Love is a joyride of a Regency, bringing whirlwind romance and happily-ever-after to Jane Austen’s staid and practical Charlotte Lucas.
“Absolutely perfect, hitting every note with all the feels.”
– Robin Helm, author of Understanding Elizabeth and More to Love
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Oh what a wonderful story!
It also happens to me, as to the author, that I find the punishment of poor Charlotte terribly unnecessary. Such a good friend, forced by her age and social status to stay with Mr. Collins! It could be said that in the end she handles the situation, but one like that she deserved a super HEA.
And that’s what this story is about. With a not so formal and light language we immerse ourselves in the “true” personality of Charlotte and discover her adventures. I must say that Jasper is sublimely one of the best heroes. And Diana is just a match for him.
“Is anything in life safe? One must be daring and take risks.” (quote from the book)
What a fun, romantic adventure this story was! Charlotte Collins is front and centre and little does she know the path that awaits her after accepting Mr. Collins marriage proposal. But what happens when she realizes she cannot marry such a man? How do her parents take the news? How does Mr. Collins take the news that she is ending their engagement?
“If only she did not see so much or think so much! (quote from the book)
So be prepared for some shocking and surprising events…highwaymen, a ‘masterful rescue’, surprising connections to another Austen novel, a handsome Naval captain that completely throws our dear Charlotte for a loop…”I am not romantic you know” and a dress mad, matchmaking aunt!
“Oh! You have got to be the most provoking, most vexatious man I have ever met!” (quote from the book)
I must say, Captain Jack Blunt is a swoon-worthy character…I wonder if he knows Admiral McGillvary? I am so glad that Charlotte has stepped outside her comfort zone and embarked on a journey that will see her as happy as Mr. & Mrs. Darcy!
I always enjoy reading historical fiction because it is fun to learn about different time periods! I love Pride and Prejudice, so it was fun to enjoy a trip back to rural England and meet some of the old characters. It was interesting to get the happily ever after that Charlotte Lucas deserves and a satisfying ending to Mr. Collins’ story! I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I reluctantly must confess I did not really start reading books by Jane Austen until the Homeschool Drama group in our town in Texas did a play based on one of her novels. Since then, I have found myself not reading the actual books, but reading modern day retellings of these stories. I found myself intrigued by the plot of this book. So I had no experience with Charlotte Lucas, but I love a heroine getting the happily ever after she deserves.
Jack Blount provides the perfect match for Charlotte. I love how the two come together, even if they did not mean to do so. The story kept my attention and I could not wait to find out how it would end.
Speaking of the end, I appreciate a “real” ending to a book and this one definitely provides that feature. So if you love regency books with humble heroes and heroines who willingly speak their mind, check out this regency book for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
If you are a Jane Austen fan, especially Pride and Prejudice you will absolutely love this story. I absolutely love when authors take your favorite classic and put a different twist into it and that is exactly what Laura Hile has done here. In this novel we continue the story of Elizabeth Bennett’s friend Charlotte Lucas who in the original Pride and Prejudice, marries the odious Mr. Collins.
Laura Hile does an excellent job at keeping that same characteristics that Charlotte has in the original story. She is meek, shy and believes that there is not a romantic bone in her body. She sees Mr. Collins as her way to get out of her parents house and start life on her own. Mr. Collins is the usual odd, weird and character you love to despise and in this story he is even more so!
The love story between Charlotte and Captain Jack Blunt is dreamy! He sees her… truly sees her for the beautiful person that she is, inside and out. Even amidst all her complaints about being plain and too old he could care less. He falls in love with her immediately. I love how sweet and protective he is with her. He could definitely give Mr. Darcy a run for his money!
Overall I absolutely enjoyed this story but I may be biased since I adore Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. I definitely recommend it and I cannot wait to read more from Laura Hile as this was my first from her and now I am completely hooked!
(I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.)
If you are a fan of “Pride and Prejudice”, did you ever wish for a happier ending for Charlotte Lucas than marrying Mr. Collins?
This book is a good example of the “ Pride and Prejudice fan fiction” that’s become popular among fans of Jane Austen today.
Laura Hile has taken the character of Charlotte Lucas and given her a brand new story. This time around Charlotte has her own romantic adventure, and I enjoyed reading her story.
I loved this author’s writing style. The dialogue between the characters fit the time period, and I thought her characterization of Charlotte was excellent. She kept Jane Austen’s original character, but helped us see her in a different light as a young woman wanted to have a marriage that was based on love, not just convenience. As in all good Regency romances, Charlotte and Jack’s story has it’s fun, romantic moments.
Please note: Personally, I would not put this book in the “Historical Christian Fiction” category. I would classify it more as “Crossover” fiction. (The “Crossover” category is more like general fiction, but includes a couple of mentions of faith.) My reason for this is that although the book is definitely clean, has good morals, and has no foul language, there’s a couple of romantic scenes in the book that I felt fit better in the “Crossover” category. They aren’t written in an inappropriate way, but they aren’t as mild as what I normally expect to read in a Christian Historical book. I know readers have differing levels of what they look for in a book, and that why I’m mentioning this. Also, be aware that there’s a mention of sexual abuse in this story.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
What if Charlotte Lucas, from Pride and Prejudice, did not end up with Mr. Collins after all? What if she decided to remain a spinster and finds true love instead? Well that is what this delightful story that gives Charlotte her happily every after is all about.
I have always kind of felt bad for Charlotte. She does get a comfortable home with Mr. Collins, but lets face it, Mr. Collins had some annoying habits. But what would cause Charlotte to end her engagement? Well, a very different Mr. Collins than what she thought she was getting.
Author Hile writes Charlotte as a steadfast and strong woman. Once she realized a certain life was not for her, she stuck with her decisions. No matter the unhappiness and displeasure of her family or what society would gossip about her. And she was rewarded richly in the form of Captain Jack Blunt, who also was a character that went against society norms. A man that though is not Mr. Darcy, certainly stands out in a crowd.
If you are looking for an out of the box story/retelling of Charlotte Lucas filled with adventure and romance while still staying true to Austen’s times, than pick this one up. First, that cover is gorgeous and second I liked Charlotte’s character getting more fleshed out. Simply an enjoyable and a fun story to lose yourself in.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
Fans of Pride and Prejudice will love being taken into the story for another point of view. Using characters we are familiar with, Laura Hiles takes the readers into what happens to Elizabeth Bennet’s friend Charlotte Lucas. She doesn’t seem to have any prospects of a marriage because she feels like she is too plain and doesn’t have a significant dowry to attract a suitable marriage. When she does receive a proposal, she acts quickly thinking this will provide her a comfortable home. Besides, she has never been a romantic.
Things change quickly and once again, she makes a rash decision. Will it work out in her favor? She quickly learns that she needed to wait on the Lord and ask for direction. When she does, she is pleasantly surprised to see what God has in store for her life. As the reader, I was pleasantly surprised and so happy for her as well.
I loved the banter and witty conversations between Charlotte and Jack. I loved to see how their appreciation for one another began to grow as they spend time with each other. My absolute favorite part was how they first introduced themselves then continued to call each other by Diana and Jasper throughout the entire book. I enjoyed the variety of characters in the book, especially the diversity of the sailors and Charlotte’s little brother. I found myself smiling as Charlotte found out what love truly is when she thought she would never discover it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.
Again, another great Regency-era book! These are becoming so many this year and I love them so I’m not complaining. Do you enjoy Regency fiction? If the answer is no then maybe you should read this one.
This book is written well and easy to read. It reads quickly and keeps you entertained. I found that I did not want to put the book down. At all. The more I read the more I wanted to read and the more I really wished my children all still napped so I could have an hour’s peace to read in.
Have you read Jane Austen? What about watching the movie version of one of her books?
If you’ve done either of these two you know who Charlotte Lucas is. She’s a wonderful character and I loved getting to know her better here. This is definitely a side I never considered but now I’m hooked.
I highly recommend you read this book and then come back and tell me what you thought.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I’m giving a big cheer to the author for giving Charlotte a story that her fans will adore. I just cringed when the dastardly Mr. Collins insults Charlotte with his fierce words. How dare he say she is not attractive and will never find a husband. What does he know anyway? I’m glad Charlotte had enough determination to run as fast as she could away from that man.
This story highlights Charlotte with her intelligence, beauty inside and out and a catch for any man. Being rescued by the dashing Captain Jack Blunt would be dreamy for any young woman. It’s not everyday that Charlotte finds a man who can see the beauty she possesses within. I loved how the author lets us get to know Charlotte better and understand her doubts of acceptance. Why must people feel the need to criticize others?
I cheered for Jack as he teaches Mr. Collins in how to treat women. Did Mr. Collins really think he could get away with the physical attack on Charlotte? Now I must say it will take some time for Charlotte to trust a man but maybe Jack can penetrate the wall she has built around her heart. It is fun to read about their interactions and at times I could feel Charlotte slowly let her guard down. Love is a funny thing. It can hurt, make you feel lonely and left out. But when you find that one true love, oh my how your heart goes pitter patter. Don’t miss this wonderful story of love conquers all.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
So This Is Love: An Austen-Inspired Regency is yet another good read by Laura Hile. I thought this was a pretty good read. I enjoyed getting to know Charlotte. I adored her fun and delightful personality. I was entertained with her from start to finish. She gets involved in danger that kept me on my toes. This leads her to a whole new world she did not expect. What a great adventure for her. I did not know where the following scenes would go, making me want to keep reading.
So This Is Love: An Austen-Inspired Regency is getting four stars from me. I recommend it for readers who enjoy clean Regency Romance. I hope to read more books by Laura Hile in the near future to find out where her imagination takes her readers to next.
I received So This Is Love: An Austen-Inspired Regency from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I have read every one of Laura’s novels. She stretches my imagination in such fun and beautiful ways! In this Austen based jewel, Elizabeth Bennett step aside. A new star is born in the brilliant, refurbished Charlotte Lucas. She needs a story, I agree. As she takes center stage, hope is born for all of us struggling to find our footing in this crazy world. Not all of us can be Elizabeth Bennett. Huzzah for Elizabeth’s faithful friend.
Several relevant themes wind through the English 1800 countryside and cities, giving the reader glimpses of the roaring coastline and waving fields. The main character faces challenges of her will, alternatives, living the consequences of decisions, weighing the options, all with an open prayer to God to guide. Don’t we all have to do that every day? One decision sets a course. I’m not going to tell you what choice Charlotte makes. You will have to read that on your own!
I look forward to Laura Hile’s next novel….
So This is Love by Laura Hile introduced me to the world of Pride & Prejudice inspired books. I liked this portrayal of Charlotte Lucas. Though she is practical as always, Charlotte is also witty, speaks the truth with grace, and rises up bravely when necessary.
The idea of Charlotte having a happily-ever-after drew me to So This is Love. Most unexpectedly for Charlotte, she is caught in a deep romance with Captain Jack Blount, a swoon-worthy hero. He is brave, confident, and protective of Charlotte. The plot trots at a steady place with plenty of interactions between Jack and Charlotte. Add in some romantic sizzle and it is quite a whirlwind romance that ensues.
While So This is Love by Laura Hile entertained, it did not grip me to the point of being hard to put down. Still, I liked the story and will read it again in the future. I recommend this book to fans of historical romance who enjoy a bit of Pride & Prejudice thrown in. The story does contain a Christian faith element though it does not play a major part in the storyline.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
“When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don’t adjust the goals, adjust the action steps.” –Confucius
Rating: clean: angst level: low to medium. Trigger warning: violent robbery scene that turned deadly.
There were several surprises that our author Laura Hile hid within this story. A crossover of characters from another of Austen’s Classics that made me giggle. Oh, what fun. I didn’t catch it at first. I must have been tired. When it hit me that this location and family name were familiar… I had to laugh. Let me just say… Hile, that was amazing.
This story could have been about any female and it would have worked. I’m sorry but the hero of this story was so strong that he completely dominated every page he was on. As much as I love Charlotte Lucas and have always wanted her to have a HEA… Captain Jack Blunt stole the show as well as my heart. Heavy sigh. Let me just say, every possible chance for a hero moment was thrown his way and he did his duty, performed masterfully, and honorably. Whew! I need to order another fan… I broke mine beyond repair and put my wrist in a brace. Oh well. Blunt and his motley crew of sailors were so cute. I loved every single one of them. They would make an amazing movie.
Oh, yeah, Charlotte. I didn’t mean to overlook you, my girl. OK, she accepted a proposal from Collins, received chastisement from her best friend Eliza, fought with her conscience over her duty to her family, and finally, after egregious behavior from the slimy slug, threw off Collins, and fled the Meryton gossips that threw her under the bus. She then traveled to her relations [guess who? I was so surprised] and on the way met our Captain. This ‘Hero Moment’ was straight out of a romance novel.
There was so much going on between our couple that poor Charlotte didn’t have a chance. I enjoyed him so much and am so glad for the honorable man that is in store for our girl. Yeah, they will do well together. Charlotte’s little brother was cute as a button as only a young tween boy can be. Yeah, this was cute. Were there problems with this story, probably but I was so entertained that I didn’t notice or care. So, be your own judge. I highly recommend this entertaining story.
“26. Don’t marry someone with intolerable characteristics in the hopes of changing him or her. If you can’t live with someone who drinks or someone who isn’t a Christian or someone who isn’t clean, then don’t marry that kind of person. The chances for miraculous improvements or changes in behavior are slim. What you see is what you get!” –James C. Dobson, Life on the Edge: The Next Generation’s Guide to a Meaningful Future
6-28-20 Source: I won an ebook from the author and her publisher during the blog tour at Rita’s ‘From Pemberley to Milton.’ Although a review was not required as part of the giveaway, I was excited to read and review this book. The views and opinions expressed are my own.
A delightful twist on Charlotte’s story full of hope, heartache, adventure, faith and love. Charlotte Lucus accepts Mr. Collins marriage proposal only to retract it when he acts inappropriately. She flees to her Aunt Meg Allen in Wiltshire where is rescued from highwaymen on the way by Mr. Blunt, Jasper or Jack as he prefers to be called who was also staying with the Allen’s. Her aunt tries to fix her up but she will have none of it. She takes up a friendship with Jack and their early morning coffee becomes a habit as they get to know each other. Jack is a true gentleman during their time together as his faith would not let him do otherwise. Will Mr. Collins try to get Charlotte back or find someone new? Read this enchanting story to see what happens by this amazing author Laura Hile.
I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
This book is so good! Once I started reading it, I couldn’t put it down. It’s a romance that will make you laugh out loud yet it is full of adventure. This is a book you don’t want to miss. If I could I would give it more than 5 stars! I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The author has penned a story that is fun, witty, sometimes unpredictable and heart warming. This is Charlotte Lucas and Jack Blunt, a sea captain’s, story and the character development is outstanding. You will need to read the story to see if Charlotte and Jack are able to work out their differences and reach a HEA. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. It is a real page turner and I know you will enjoy it too. Hopefully, the author will continue to pen these Jane Austen type stories for our enjoyment.