He’s doing what he can to save the Prince Regent’s life . . . but can he save his new marriage as well? Evan Eldridge never meant to be a war hero–he just wanted to fight Napoleon for the future of his country. And he certainly didn’t think that saving the life of a peer would mean being made the Earl of Whitelock. But when the life you save is dear to the Prince Regent, things can change in a … a hurry. Now Evan has a new title, a manor house in shambles, and a stranger for a bride, all thrust upon him by a grateful ruler. What he doesn’t have are all his memories. Traumatized as a result of his wounds and bravery on the battlefield, Evan knows there’s something he can’t quite remember. It’s important, dangerous–and if he doesn’t recall it in time, will jeopardize not only his marriage but someone’s very life.Readers who enjoy Julie Klassen, Carolyn Miller, and Kristi Ann Hunter will love diving into this brand-new Regency series filled with suspense, aristocratic struggles, and a firm foundation of faith.
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I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Evan and Diana in The Lost Lieutenant. Evan’s introduction to the ton is both informative and entertaining as his time as a soldier gives him a different view of nobility than most heroes in Regency romances.
In contrast, Diana has been raised to be the wife of a noble and is the perfect complement to Evan. It takes a meddling prince, a scheming father, and a crumbling manor for them to realize it, though.
Erica Vetsch adds a unique perspective to this time period while giving readers an engaging story with themes of loyalty, honesty, and faith woven throughout.
At first, I was somewhat suspicious of Marcus who comes alongside Evan to teach him the ins and outs of society, but he quickly grew on me. And I am looking forward to finding out what Vetsch has instore for him in the next book of the Serendipity and Secrets series.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
This is the first book I’ve ready from Erica Vetsch, and I can honestly say that I’m eagerly anticipating reading more from her in the future! If ever there was a binge worthy book, this is it! Right from the very first chapter I was swept off my feet and into this exciting story.
Evan Eldridge is such a swoony hero! Beyond his own struggles, he valiantly fights to protect others. Yes, he makes mistakes, but he owns up to them. And while his past and where he comes from defines him in the eyes of others, he finds a way to rise above that and blaze his own path.
This isn’t just another marriage of connivence story set in the Regency period. This story stands head and shoulders above the others. Witty dialogue, exciting adventure, spies, a secret-agent, tender romance, and page-turning drama are sure to warm you heart and keep you reading long past your bedtime. Snag your copy to today and settle in for a story that you won’t want to put down!
(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.)
Well, I have been in quite a reading slump recently. I haven’t wanted to read. I’d been doing a bulk of my reading on my Kindle. Since my preference is paperback, I put the Kindle aside and HOPED The Lost Lieutenant would sling me out of my rut! Wow, it did it in spades!
How have I not read any of Erica’s books before now? Where has she been all of my Regency reading life?
We meet Diana (who surprisingly isn’t mentioned on the back cover) who has a wretched father and brother. How she turned out so pleasant is beyond me. I wanted to smack the living daylights out of both the men in her life. Yes, that’s how good the writing is.
Then we’re also introduced to Evan who is recovering from battle, but doesn’t remember what happened on the field. Oh boy does the reader begin to feel for the guy. Things seem to go from bad to worse for him thanks to the Prince Regent’s… generosity. hahaha
Since not much is given away about Diana’s role in Evan, er the Earl of Whitelock’s introduction to the ton in the summary, I don’t want to say too much to give away some of the storyline. Simply put, she has a profound effect on his life and vice versa. And let’s just say that’s putting it mildly. Of course with Diana’s history with the men in her family as well as other nasty ones, Evan shows her not all men are like the others.
I actually appreciated the supporting characters in this story, starting with the Prince Regent of all people! Beth (Diana’s maid), Marcus (who helped Evan figure his new life out), and Shand (Evan’s sergeant) all made quite the impression on me as a reader as well as the main characters.
The storyline flowed along and I have to admit, as I got towards the end I started reading faster because I had to figure out what in the world was going on. Something was up, but WHAT?! There was definitely mystery throughout the entire story and it pulled me along.
Now, my only “negative” that I can think of with the story is kind of an overall message to authors in general. I’m not sure if all readers are like me, but I’m not a fan of authors using names that I have no clue how to pronounce. lol Literally every time I saw that name “Cian” I thought to myself, “Am I saying this how the author was expecting”? I was saying it like “Ryan” or “Sean”. I know it’s an Irish name, but since I’m pretty positive most readers aren’t familiar with it, I’m not the only one who was a bit thrown. lol Not a huge “negative”, but still…
I’m already excited for July 28th when book 2 comes out! I can’t wait to read Marcus’ story.
* I received this book from Audra Jennings PR. This is my opinion.
This is the first book I’ve read by Erica Vetsch. It will not be my last! I was pulled into the story right from the beginning and never wanted to put the book down. It was interesting learning about the English aristocracy along with Evan. I enjoyed watching the characters grow throughout the book. I was intrigued with finding out what it was that Evan was forgetting about the battle in Spain and what was going to happen with Cian. I found the book to be well written and with a nice flow. I look forward to reading more books by Erica Vetsch.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
I have long wondered how I am lucky enough to have read some wonderful books. Of course, this one has joined the books I love. It is an unusual tale of a common soldier at Salamanca, during the War with Napoleon saves a man’s life and the Prince Regent makes him an earl. He goes to a ball with his new friend, Marcus Haverly. Diana Seaton the duke’s daughter, the sister of the man that Evan had saved, was presented to him by her father. The Prince Regent decides they look wonderful together and tells them they must marry soon. Marcus helped him adjust to the title but he had a hard time.
Diana lost her sister in childbirth and she had promised to care for the child as her own. She loved little Cian. Her father was a cruel man as was her brother. He was brokering a marriage for her. He planned to sell her to the highest bidder.
There were some interesting twists to the story. There was also some humor but they had a hard time trusting each other. When you read the book you will understand better. I read this in one sitting, it was that interesting. It was well written, entertaining, and very easy to read. The characters were unsure of themselves but kept going onward. I highly recommend this novel and hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite tropes because I love seeing the characters get to know each other in such close circumstances and overcome unique obstacles to become partners in heart. The themes of trust and integrity are explored here as secrets play a big part in the conflict and plot. Evan and Diana both have traumatic experiences they are dealing with- Evan from the war and Diana from her abusive father. I loved the way these two hurting people were able to come together and help each other begin to heal. The romance was perfect and I appreciated the subtle humor that was woven in. This is the first Regency book I’ve read where the Prince Regent plays such a meddling role! The author hit a perfect balance between development of the characters and their relationship and the suspense and intrigue that kept the pace of the book moving forward toward the climax and satisfying conclusion. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series! Definitely one that fans of sweet romance won’t want to miss!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
A captivating and enchanting tale. This story sweeps you back to Regency England and a unique story that it tells. The Characters are fantastic, I loved seeing their relationship bloom throughout as they pushed toward the future. A sweet story with a few swoony worthy moments woven in with the adventure and just a touch of mystery. There is a lot to love about this book, including that beautiful cover.
Erica Vetsch’s writing shines in this captivating start to her new series. With a gorgeous cover, a unique story line, and colorful, well-drawn, and endearing characters, this story captured my attention and heart from the first. Though traumatized by war injuries and events, Evan Eldridge is a magnificent hero—caring and tender, but also courageous and protective when needed. Diana Seaton is brave, determined, resourceful, and willing to do what she can to make a safe home for herself and her baby nephew.
Brimming with rich historical detail, suspense, and doses of inspiration and romance, The Lost Lieutenant has earned a place on my keeper shelf and left me anxiously awaiting the next book in the series. In addition, Erica Vetsch is going on my list of favorite authors.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Kregel Publications through Interviews & Reviews. All opinions are my own.
Erica Vetsch has done it again! The Lost Lieutenant was a perfectly delightful Regency era novel with a hero and heroine I adored. It was such a joy to observe as this totally mismatched couple navigated the course of an unplanned and unexpected marriage against overwhelming odds.
Both Evan and his new wife Catherine hid personal secrets from each other. Neither knew enough about the other to be comfortable in trusting them. Each was surprised that the other did not fit their preconceived expectations and were pleasantly surprised at what they found. Ample action and suspenseful moments kept the plot moving along at a steady pace. Vivid descriptions of the setting added to my reading pleasure. I loved how the Prince Regent seemed to show up at just the right moment to turn every potential disaster to their favor. It also didn’t hurt a thing that the villains got what they deserved.
One sentence was repeated several times throughout the story that almost seemed to be a punchline – “No one says no to the Prince Regent.” I could almost hear it being said in unison and kept expecting it to pop up again and again. I loved it!
The Lost Lieutenant was a wonderful tale that illustrated the Lord’s hand in the lives of His people as well as the importance of truth, faith, and trust. I highly recommend this book and any other by this author. The teaser at the end for The Gentleman Spy has me anxiously awaiting his story.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Audra Jennings Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
I absolutely loved Erica Vetsch’s newest release, The Lost Lieutenant. It is a great beginning to her series, Serendipity and Secrets. This Regency era tale has quite a bit of what I enjoy in a book: adventure, action and romance. I loved the characters, setting and vivid historical details. I loved every single page.
I highly recommend The Lost Lieutenant for readers who love clean historical fiction. I would give it one hundred stars if I could. I can not wait to read the next installment from the Serendipity and Secrets series, The Gentleman Spy.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I was thrilled to know that the author had a new book releasing. The story is set in Regency England where Lords, Dukes and such preside. The breathtaking details had me transported back in time as I witnessed the waltz and dresses flowing gracefully across the ballroom. Evan is quite the catch for some lucky woman. I must go back a bit and explain just who Evan is. The funny thing is Evan doesn’t remember much since his injury while serving his country. He somehow managed to save a noble’s life. Everything that was common in his life is about to change. I loved his gentlemanly ways and his integrity. He is someone you can count on to protect those he loves. Evan suddenly finds himself with a title and attention he never wanted. I could hear the announcement, “May I introduce you to the Earl of Whitelock,” as the trumpets sound with authority.
If there was ever a damsel in distress it would be the lovely Diana. The Duke of Seaton who is Dians’s father is the most vile man in the world. His greediness is horrible as is his hatred for Diana. He will do whatever it takes to get her inheritance and Diana is helpless as she wants to protect an innocent baby. I think I wanted to slap The Duke of Seaton many times during the story. The writing is superior as the characters are very well developed.
I won’t give many details about the plot so without further ado I give you an arranged marriage, evil men who are out to destroy Evan and Diana, an innocent child, love and secrets. I loved reading about the place Evan and Diana were to reside in. Let’s just say any fixer upper show would run the other way once they caught a glimpse of the place. I hear a challenge ahead for the couple. I also enjoyed reading about Evan and his flashbacks. It is an important part of the story that will find Evan worrying about the consequences if his mental state is found out. Well there you have it. All the makings for an adventure worthy of one of my favorite 2020 reads .
I received a copy of this book from Read With Audra Blog Tours. The review is my own opinion.
Lady Diana Seaton has been warned by her abusive father that she should keep her mouth shut and look pretty. He will arrange a marriage for her to one of his friends, even though he is old enough to be Diana’s grandfather! Then, her father can get his hands on her large trust fund left to her by her grandmother. If she refuses, he will send her infant nephew to an orphanage. Diana can’t let that happen as she promised her sister as her sister was dying that she would take care of the baby. Diana has never known a man who wasn’t abusive, mean or out to get something from her. After her presentation to the Queen of England, her father’s plans for her marriage are foiled, but at what cost?
Evan Eldridge is recovering from a war wound in an English hospital. He is having panic attacks, flashbacks and memory loss, but he mustn’t let anyone know or he won’t be able to rejoin his regiment and may be confined to a mental hospital. He knows there is something important that he must remember about the day he got wounded, but his mind won’t let him remember what. He gets a niggling feeling and is on the verge of remembering, but then he is distracted or interrupted, and the ghost of a thought goes away. He receives surprising news while in the hospital. This news will change his circumstances. He meets the Prince Regent who has other ideas for Evan’s future. Can Evan keep his problems a secret?
I loved this story! I was drawn in from beginning to end. The characters are easy to get to know and care about. I enjoyed the interaction between Louisa and Mr. Strand where they clashed with humor and vigor. Evan’s experience with what now is PTSD and his fears of being thought crazy were realistic as well as Diana’s abuse at the hands of her father and brother. Both characters carried secrets into their unexpected marriage and their inability to fully trust one another led to problems, but they could see God at work and were able to resolve their trust issues once they fully trusted Him. I am anxiously awaiting book two in the series, The Gentleman Spy, due to be released on 7/28/20. Regency romance readers will really like this story, and even if you aren’t a Regency romance aficionado, I still recommend getting a copy for a great read!
I can find absolutely nothing wrong with this book! It has a gorgeous cover, an intriguing title, and a love story that took my breath away. Two people with unhappy pasts are united in a marriage of convenience and it appears that this will truly be a marriage in name only. And then, as with all good Regency novels, there are romantic feelings that develop between Evan Eldridge and Diana Seaton. When Evan finally understands the depths of his feelings, he marvels that “This was what love did to you. Made you vulnerable because the person you loved had enough of your heart to break it. He’d never trusted someone like that before, but now he needed to. Wanted to, even.” Wouldn’t you love to be the person he was talking about?
Hurtful secrets, ruthless and uncaring family members, and memory issues related to PTSD present problems that seem insurmountable but Vetsch once again proves her ability to write a story that is pleasing to everyone. The Lost Lieutenant is her first Regency novel and she has certainly found her niche! I’m so excited that the second book in the Serendipity & Secrets series releases later this summer. I highly recommend this book to all who enjoy Regency romance and Christian fiction.
I received this book from the author and Kregel Books. There was no obligation to write a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.
A war hero comes home to a brand new life, haunted by a secret he can’t recall.
I’m very familiar with this author’s Western books, so when I saw that she was releasing a Regency novel I knew I had to read it. And it didn’t disappoint, engaging, with a well balanced plot and fantastic protagonists, this book was a pleasure to read from beginning to end. This book has it all great characters, a riveting plot, romance, mystery, and arranged marriage.
Evan is a admirable hero, a well educated man not born to wealth, but noble of heart. He’s a problem solver, with a heart for people and a solid foundation. I admired how he utilized his natural leadership skills to help his comrades, and he worked to settle into his new life.
Diana has been trained for years to enter society and be the mistress of her own home. She is determined to protect the ones that she loves. I loved how well Evan and Diana complimented each other throughout, and though it all they both grow together as a couple and as individuals.
Overall, this was a wonderful read, well paced, with an engaging plot. I loved how this book is the perfect blend of history, romance, intrigue, and faith. I absolutely adored Evan, his integrity really shone, and I liked how he grew throughout the book. Highly recommend, and I can’t wait to read Marcus’s story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
When I first saw this book I had to look twice at the cover. I had read The Earl’s Betrothal by Karen Tuft just the month before and was surprised by the covers being nearly identical. The stories have a few similarities as well.
Both heroes are soldiers recently returned to England after the Battle of Salamanca and both suffer from PTSD with recurring nightmares. There also are adorable tots in the stories and the main lady and gentleman are forced to wed under different circumstances. I firmly believe these are coincidental similarities as the rest of each book’s plot is unique. I hope you read both these elegantly written Regency novels.
Evan Eldridge is just a commoner. While recovering from a traumatic injury, he receives a request to appear before the Prince Regent as reward for saving the Prince’s godson. He has no recollection of most of the battle or saving Percival Seaton. The Prince doesn’t just offer him his appreciation but grants him an earldom as reward for his heroic deed.
At court, Evan meets the lovely Diana Seaton, Percival’s sister and the daughter of a duke, who is being introduced to the Queen as her entrance into Society. He is befriended by Marcus Haverly who is the second son of a Duke. With his new friend’s help and further assistance from the Prince, Evan is introduced into Society where he meets Diana again.
He also meets Percival whose lewd friend Viscount Fitzroy ruined Diana’s sister last Season leaving Catherine broken and with child. These rakes try to tempt Evan in joining them in their leacherous pursuits
“Surely such infidelity couldn’t be acceptable in a society so strict about everyone’s actions.”
After Catherine was compromised, her father sent her to the countryside to hide her shame. She begged Diana to raise the baby, Cian, as her own and protect him from the duke before she died shortly after giving birth.
The duke threatens to send the baby to an orphanage if Diana ever crosses his wishes. He schemes to get ahold of half of Diana’s inheritance her grandmother willed to Diana’s future husband.
Evan attends Almack’s the first time that same night upsetting the duke’s plans. Unaware of all the rules, Evan attempts to save Diana from the demeaning attentions of Fitzroy by drawing her into a waltz without permission. The Prince appears at this interesting juncture and unwittingly saves both Evan and Diana from censure through his approval. He is struck by new inspiration and “suggests” the Earl of Whitelock, Evan, propose to Lady Diana.
The Duke of Seaton is outraged by the proposal and the ensuing engagement. His anger and abuse terrify Diana. Evan is shocked the duke would strike Diana and insists they marry within seven days to protect her from suffering more abuse. Diana is afraid to trust any men after living with her father and half brother, Percival.
The Prince invites himself to their wedding feast and announces how rich Evan now is because of Diana’s inheritance. He also invites himself to visit the new Earl and Countess of Whitelock, Evan and Diana, at their country estate in a couple months time.
Diana hides her nephew in a basket when they leave for the countryside secretly removing him from the duke’s residence. She claims the baby is her maid’s child when he discovers her hungrily crying nephew.
The Prince’s impending visit makes it essential that Evan and Diana prepare their new home. The inheritance will be necessary to accomplish everything needed. Neither Evan nor Diana, nor Evan’s army friend, now employed as estate manager, are prepared for how derelict their new estate has become.
Evan’s worst fear is being sent to an asylum if anyone learns of his flashbacks, loss of memory, and nightmares. There is something mysterious about what he cannot remember that of course is vitally important.
Diana’s secret about the baby’s real identity is revealed abruptly one night. Before she finds the courage to tell Evan, the baby becomes deathly ill.
Just as things are beginning to improve, disaster shows up at Whitelock. The fate of many lives rests on the decisions Evan and Diana make.
I was joyfully surprised by The Lost Lieutenant! The painful episodes I anticipated were different than I anticipated. This tale of compassion, faith, endurance, and trust is an entrancing read. I hope you enjoy reading it!
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book. All opinions are completely my own.
The Lost Lieutenant by Erica Vetsch is the first in her Serendipity & Secrets series. A fresh take on the marriage of convenience trope, the novel features Lieutenant Evan Eldridge, who has saved the life of the Prince Regent’s godson and is given an earldom as a reward. But the Prince Regent isn’t satisfied with just that reward, and before he knows it, Evan is married to the Prince Regent’s goddaughter.
Because no one says no to the Prince Regent.
The characterization is impeccable. Evan and Diana jump off the page. They’re real, they’re relatable, and they’re root-worthy. Vetsch grabs you from the first line and thrusts you into Diana’s world and Evan’s recovery. She sends you on the journey with them, and you don’t just witness their setbacks, you feel them. While I didn’t always agree with Diana’s and Evan’s decisions and subsequent reactions, I could understand why they did it, and that’s important. Their backgrounds are fleshed out enough that you can see how the abuse affected Diana. How the war affected Evan. And how they’re unprepared for the new life given them.
The plot is interesting. If you’re not already intrigued by a solider becoming an earl overnight, there’s a mystery, secrets, and a rundown manor that has to be repaired before the Prince Regent’s visit. Not to mention the fact that Evan can’t remember something important. And if he doesn’t, someone could end up dead.
Talk about suspense!
Vetsch manages to keep you on your toes and keeps you guessing. She does a great job of using her supporting characters to add intrigue and humor as well as give the main characters the push they need. (My favorite is Marcus, Evan’s society “tutor” and friend.)
I loved this book, ya’ll. I was engrossed in it from the moment I read the first line, and I stayed up way too late reading it. But it was worth it! If you love Regency romances, marriage of convenience tropes, and historical romance in general, you’ll love this book.
Note: I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
A beautiful, well written story with engaging characters. Diana is a woman who will do anything for her orphaned nephew including lying and marrying a man she does not know. Evan is a tormented soldier who deals with nightmares of his time in the war. He is given an earldom for a heroic act during war. These two will have to learn to trust each other with their secrets and thwart an unknown enemy. I loved that I could relate with the characters and you could read about their innermost thoughts. A clean love story, with a mystery involving spies and protecting the prince. I received a complimentary copy and I am voluntarily reviewing.
Seaton Estate, Berkshire – 1813
The Duke of Seaton is a mean, cruel, greedy, and bitter man. He has lost three wives, none of whom he loved. He had married them for monetary profit. Each wife had given him a child. His daughter, Catherine, was compromised by a rake during her debut resulting in a pregnancy. She died giving birth to her son, Cian. His other daughter, Diana, simply wants to care for the baby as she had promised her sister and whom she loves dearly. However, her father insists that she be presented at court and she will marry the man he has chosen for her. After which, he will take the inheritance her grandmother had left for her. They will take Cian with them to London and her father will place the child in an orphanage. They will be accompanied by her arrogant brother, Percival, who had been slightly wounded in the war, but who still unnecessarily carries a cane.
Lieutenant Evan Eldridge is convalescing in the hospital from wounds he received in the war. He is still plagued with nightmares. The son of a vicar, he simply wants to get well and rejoin his troops. When the Home Secretary comes to visit him, he is surprised. The man conveys that the Prince Regent has invited him to a ceremony at court for saving the life of his godson during battle. The man is Percival Seaton even though Evan doesn’t remember the incident.
At court, Diana is presented to the Queen and the Prince Regent awards Evan the title of Earl of Whitelock, Viscount Sharingham, plus lands and holdings. Evan is shocked by this and meets Diana and her brother, Percival who weakly thanks Evan for saving him. The Prince Regent also declares that Evan and Diana shall marry and she shall receive her inheritance from her grandmother. This news leaves her father furious, helpless, and ready for revenge.
When Evan and Diana arrive at Whitelock, they are shocked to find the place dilapidated. However, Diana is ready for the challenge of refurbishing the place in time for the Prince Regent’s visit after Easter.
This is a totally delightful book full of emotion and budding love. There is also evil and hatred. The descriptions of it all are magnificent. This book is not to be missed. I cannot wait to read more by this wonderful author.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The characters brought so much feeling. A most interesting plot that had me flipping pages as quickly as I could. It was a great book!
Disclosure statement:
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. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I LOVED every single page! I was so excited when I finished reading this book, I woke up the next day and started reading it again.
Evan Eldridge is a fantastic hero. He is thrust into a world he knows nothing about and given a wife whom he barely knows. There are a few difficulties between them as they begin their new life together and a few secrets too.
Diana is a very special Lady. Abused and manipulated by her father and brother, she has courage, smarts, and heart.
I enjoyed the Prince Regent in this story, (in other books he is often portrayed in Brighton during lavish parties). Here, he is more real and involved in people’s lives.
Erica Vetsch’s descriptions are simply wonderful. The visual images were so clear. I cannot wait to read The Gentleman Spy!
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required. The opinion expressed is entirely my own.