Juliet Graham fervently counts the days until her twenty-first birthday, when she can claim the inheritance that will grant her the freedom she has always craved and the guardianship of her younger brother. Until then, she is trapped under her aunt Agnes’s domineering will. When forced to accompany the family to a house party at Shaldorn Castle, Juliet’s only objective is to keep to herself. That … That is, until a chance encounter with a boorish stranger stirs up an unexpected whirlwind of emotions in her. Thrown off-balance, Juliet does the unthinkable: loses her temper and insults the man—who turns out to be her unwilling host, the Duke of Halstead. Fully expecting to be sent away, Juliet is surprised when the brusque and callous duke instead takes an interest in her.
Drawn to the duke in unguarded moments, Juliet finds herself more and more intrigued by the man who shuns Society’s rules as completely as she does, and over the next few weeks, their unlikely friendship deepens into a connection neither expected.
But even as Juliet comes to recognize her true feelings, her scheming aunt issues an ultimatum that threatens the future she was just beginning to hope for. Juliet must choose: either break the promise she made to herself years ago, or lose the man who has captured her heart and soul.
more
Again, a delightful, clean, Regency Romance that goes far beyond simply enjoyable ‘fluff’. It’s intriguing to me how we seek to be seen for who we are, yet struggle to see ourselves for who we are. We sometimes choose a mate/life partner for the way we feel when we are with them, but that feeling is subject to alteration. Can we come to a realization of who we are and love that person? We can only absorb as much love from others to the degree we love ourselves. I’m so glad this story tapped into the depth of love and acceptance that is possible when we meet someone who ‘sees’ us. I wonder if the main characters begin to believe in the love they show each other and are able to come to a point of loving themselves as well…
As for the quality: excellent dialogue, characterization, plot, pace, scene, and style! I look forward to another of hers!
I started listening to this book forever ago, but was not able to get back to it until a couple of days ago. But I couldn’t remember what was happening, so I started the book all over again. I have to say that now that I’ve finished this book it has become one of my favorites. (Note: A true reader cannot have just one favorite book. It’s nearly impossible to have just one favorite.) The Duke of Halstead reminds me of one of my favorite characters, The Duke of Kielder, but they are also very different as well. The author, Heidi Kimball did an excellent job in making me feel like I was the star of the story, Juliet Graham. I for one did not want my time with the Duke of Halstead to end. But, with every story out there, they all must come to an end.
One of the passages in this book will always stay close to my heart. I don’t know that exact phrasing, but the concept is this. The stars and the sea may seem so far apart, but us some point the stars do meet the sea. Hence the title of this book. I loved it.
As I mentioned, I listened to this book and I have to say Louise McCance-Price did an excellent job.
I recommend this read to regency readers, romance readers, and any woman who wants to be swept of her feet again.
This story had a great storyline, and I told my teenage daughter that, “I was reading a good book right now, and I want to get back to it.” when I had to go do real life stuff.
Juliet was a fun character, but here’s the thing. While I did enjoy the story, I was surprised when I finished and looked at the author. I would have bet this was a first novel for someone. And I would have guessed that because even though I enjoyed it, the characters weren’t super developed, and I had a lot of why questions that I don’t think I can bring up without spoilers. But I never really felt the connection grow between Juilet and the Duke. Since I liked them both it didn’t bother me, but they are insulting one another and then like each other. I needed more why’s, especially with the aunt. Her actions really didn’t make sense to me.
*I received a copy from NetGalley. All opinion expressed are my own.
This was a fun, light Regency novel. Juliet and her little brother, Harry, have been under the care of an aunt for years. Her mother was disowned by most of her family after she ran off to marry a sailor. Much of the plot revolves around these two points. There is conflict between Juliet and her aunt about Harry’s care and upbringing. The other conflict involves the two men who want to marry Juliet. One she thinks of as a brother, and the other is a titled Lord. She doesn’t wish to enter an unequal marriage as her parents did.
I thought the characters were well done though the heroine was a little inconsistent. Her indecisiveness was a major driving force of the plot, and it made it drag along a bit. Otherwise, I enjoyed this story. It had some good themes.
3.5 stars
A deliciously immersive and atmospheric Regency romance. The intriguing title and lovely cover are merely the subtle beginnings of a deep dive into the innumerable complications of human connections. The unusual relationship between the hero and heroine was exquisitely rendered. The story was expertly plotted with unexpected twists and crafted with beautifully descriptive, almost lyrical, prose. It was about overcoming prejudices, societal expectations, and devastating loss to ultimately choose from the heart.
Where the Stars Meet the Sea is another sweet romance by Heidi Kimball that topped it off the charts! I think this is one of my favorite tropes, and I loved and enjoyed every second of this story, both the getting to know stage between Miss Juliet Graham and the Duke of Halstead, and their slowly falling for each other. I loved how it’s definitely not an easy road for them, and how much their backgrounds play a part in their decision making, but I think it was the learning from it and the overcoming of it that made this book the wonderful read it ended up being.
I think the Observatory scene is my favorite (though there are many to choose from), and that final chapter + epilogue gave it the perfect ending ~ 5 stars and completely recommended!!
This was an excellent story. I loved the spunk of the main character. She kept putting herself in awkward positions and it made for a very entertaining story. She had a very good heart and had been dealt a huge blow by the loss of her parents. Having to live with a cruel aunt endeared her to me even more. I loved the transformation she helped with for the cranky duke.
It was a lovely story with a happy ending that I can see myself reading again.
4.5 Stars
*I received a review copy from NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
I hope I can adequetly express why I thought this book was so wonderful. I could imagine this being dramatized and becoming such a classic in the way of a good romance movie to watch with your friends like any Jane Austen movie or North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell, The h & H were easy to fall in love with. Once I picked this book I was hard pressed to put it down to get any work done. I loved the reading journey of the couple trying to find their happily ever after. The writing was able to hook me from the first few pages. Heidi Kimball was able to write a compelling love story with just the right amount of tension, twists and turns without being overly dramatic. I felt the h & H had layers and depth. The author was able to convey well by showing and not telling the reasons behind their actions and hesitations and struggles. I thought the secondary characters added to the story well and propelled the story at a natural pace. The h & H grew individually through the story. The story had a wonderful message of trust, courage and perseverance but wasn’t preachy. There was a nice little twist and swoony element in how the story was concluded. Beautiful romance, good antagonist, and cast of characters.
Where the Stars Meet the Sea instantly became a new favorite after reading it. If you like Regency romance, you need to read this book. The protagonists were not only likeable but they had a great built up of romantic tension. The dramatic tension was amazing and there wasn’t any dull lulls in this story. It was very well crafted. The antagonists were complex and dynamic. It was quite the page-turner for me. The descriptions were really well done as well as how she introduced the characters. I could easily visualize the settings, the characters and the scenes. This book is a five star “guilty pleasure” book. I would definitely recommend reading this book.
Please note that I received a free copy of this book, however, this is my honest opinion.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Juliet is instantly likeable, and while the duke tries his best to be abrasive and unlikeable, his wounded heart had me quickly cheering for his healing and redemption. All of the characters are written well and interact together in a delightfully, engaging way. I loved how the stories of the sea and stars were woven together to create a splendid imagery of how differences can emerge to create something beautiful. True romance, in a clean form, to attract all readers looking for a witty, heartfelt, happily ever after.
I received a complimentary of this book and all opinions expressed are my own.
Where do I start telling you about this wonderful book? How about the cover? It is gorgeous and I could look at it for a long time. Next, I need to pass along a warning. I was told not to start this book unless you had time to finish it once you started. Well, I picked it up in the evening and ended it in the wee early hours of the morning. For a romance, it is very compelling because of the powerful and charismatic characters. I loved the main character, Juliet, from the start. Even though she is feisty, she’s had to bow down to her Aunt Agnes’s will. Her aunt is her guardian along with her 11-year-old brother. To add to her problems, her cousin Robert is in love with her, but Juliet doesn’t return his feelings. I loved Juliet and her loyalty to her younger brother and the memories of her deceased parents. There was nothing I disliked about Juliet.
The thing I really loved the most about this novel is how many great characters there are. The handsome, brooding, male character, Halstead. Every interaction between Juliet and Halstead, the Duke, was fantastic. I loved to see the sparks flying between them. Talk about an emotional journey; Halstead’s really made an impact on me. Side characters of Juliet’s cousin Hugh, and Halstead’s sister, Ellen, were delightful and some of my favorite. There was also obnoxious Aunt Agnes and Halstead and Ellen’s mother. I tired of them quickly so I know they were written well. As for Halstead’s domineering grandmother, she still was very likable and full of wisdom.
Lovers of Regency Romance will consume this novel of romance, deception, tragedy, and healing. Buy this one today!
I very much enjoy a good title, especially when the theme is carried throughout. It makes my heart happy. “Seeing where the two met, the unruly, tempestuous sea and the brilliance of the heavens, I could almost see a future I’d not thought possible.”
Halstead is the best part of this book. He’s a bit of a recluse and difficult to get to know in an appealing sort of way. Juliet draws him out with her fiery temper and refusal to play the subordinate miss. Halstead and Juliet’s interactions reminded me a little of Elizabeth and Darcy.
At times, I wish Juliet to be a bit more outspoken. Her internal dialogue and constant frustrations lend to more of an emotional journey in her character arc. I love that she feels torn between her mother’s upper class upbringing and her father’s poorer Scottish roots. It plays well with her hesitations to overreach what she thinks life owes her and makes her a relatable heroine.
This is sweet regency romance has an unexpected heroine and a dreamy hero.
I was swept away by this beautiful and emotion-packed world that Kimball created. I could not put this book down, I just couldn’t. I was drawn in by Juliet’s station in life, not quite good enough to be considered for marriage to someone of the upper class, but not quite considered working class. She was beautiful, intelligent, and bold. She was refreshing
and vibrant! And her aunt, man, she was so unkind and I have no idea how Juliet dealt with it with such grace.
The duke was withdrawn, intimidating, yet thoughtful. The two together brought sparks you could feel flying off of the pages! I have highlighted quotes and I never do that with books. The emotional beauty of the story is something that has stayed with me long after I read the last page. I have already recommended this book to all of my book reading friends, this one will win awards. Hands down this is one of the best stories ever told.
I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Juliet’s first encounter with the Duke of Halstead makes for quite an intriguing beginning to the story. As the daughter of a lady of quality and a former sea captain she doesn’t quite fit in at the house party she is attending. Her awkward, harsh encounters with the duke make things even worse, at least at first. Juliet must determine whether to marry her cousin, Robert, who has expressed his affection for her. But as Juliet’s encounters with the duke turn more pleasant and she starts to develop feelings for him, she struggles to contain her emotions. As if that weren’t enough, the duke’s mother and grandmother have other plans for him, despite his resistance, and they make it clear that Juliet is not to be a part of those plans. And on top of that, Juliet must deal with her mean, manipulative aunt whose control she must endure until she receives her inheritance. Her concern for her brother, who is away at school is a driving force in the decisions she must make.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It’s become one of my all time favorites. Juliet is a wonderful character that I cheered for from the very first page. Her encounters with the duke made for the best parts of the book. As strong-willed, passionate people, their encounters varied from tumultuous to tender. I loved reading about how the duke’s directness brought out Juliet’s true nature, while Juliet’s openness lead the duke to start lowering the walls he put up after his horrible accident. But there are major obstacles to any long term relationship between a sailor’s daughter and a duke. I appreciated the fact that Juliet is a very human character, sometimes she makes good choices and sometimes not. Both Juliet’s and the duke’s flaws are obvious, and yet as they let down their defenses and get to know each other, it’s not hard to understand the feelings that develop between them.
Truly a delightful book with wonderful characters, enjoyable dialogue, and a gorgeous setting.
I knew from the very first chapter that I was in for a great story- the kind of story you don’t want to walk away from. It was interesting, engaging and gave me so much to dig into with characters and emotions. I was never sure exactly what Juliet would do or say next because she is quick to temper but only in a way that stands up for herself or others she cares about. She is a loyal sister and devoted daughter even though her parents are no longer alive. Her emotional connections to memories were where I really felt her deeply and came to love her. Juliet definitely finds herself in a few more embarrassing scrapes which lead so some interesting interactions with the duke which were my favorite scenes in the whole book. They are charged with all sorts of emotions- frustration, disappointment, tenderness, sadness, determination, attraction, comfort, embarrassment and so on. It’s what really kept me wondering and hoping the whole book through. I really loved this story!
– I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
This book is so well written that I didn’t even notice it was written in first person present tense. I usually hate that but I didn’t notice! Not until near the end did it dawn on me. It just felt so normal and didn’t stick out as weird like the books that turned me off to it. Well done.
I enjoyed the book. It might be a little slow paced but that felt normal too. If I were to put the pacing into an image it would be a woman walking through a park enjoying the flowers. And I don’t usually enjoy love triangles but that didn’t hinder this book either. Everything worked. I liked the main characters and enjoyed some swoony lines from the duke. I loved how they brought the best out of each other in helping to find themselves and their place in life. Robert was also a good guy but even in his love and care of Juliet he missed understanding things about her. He should get his own book to give him a happily ever after too. Except who wants his mother as a mother-in-law? Ugh.
If you love clean, swoony regency this is a must read.
No sex, language or violence.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Netgalley and voluntarily chose to review it.
I was engrossed in reading Where the Stars Meet the Sea from the very first page. It begins with a scene that unexpectedly introduces us to the two main characters and their personalities in such an intriguing way. It gave me the shivers.
Juliet and her much younger brother are orphans. Their dad was a sailor and so the family was disapproved of by relations and society. They are now under the guardianship of their highly disapproving aunt. Juliet is anxiously awaiting her next birthday when she will become her brother’s guardian. Juliet fears her brother will run away to sea if something does not change soon.
I felt an affinity with the heroine and hoped she would succeed in building a happy life despite her aunt’s intimidation. Juliet’s scandalously honest discussions with the duke were very amusing. Her unique way of addressing him intrigues the shattered duke. Slowly he begins to interact more with her and others again despite the fears he gruffly conceals. I found myself crying multiple times for Juliet and the duke’s emotional wounds. I longed to see them take this chance with each other to heal.
There were some similarities to Jane Eyre. The theme, being seen and loved for who you are, is soul enlightening. The melancholy duke reminded me of Edward Fairfax Rochester. Another character also particularly reminded me of someone from Jane Eyre but I do not want to spoil it for you by saying more! However, this is not a retelling of that book. The plot is very unique.
Aunt Agnes is not the only character with a strong determination. This leads to some delightful scenes that remind me strongly of Lady Catherine de Bourgh’s speech to Elizabeth Bennett in Pride and Prejudice.
I loved every minute of reading this enchanting book and anticipate rereading it several times. Be aware, each page you read makes it only that much harder to stop. You will likely devour it rapidly like I did!
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book. All opinions are completely my own.
This book is the newest Regency romance by Heidi Kimball. I loved everything about it! The author did a great job with the characters, the plot, and the setting.
I really loved Juliet. One thing that really sets her apart from most young ladies that are written about in this time period is that she is really a nobody. Juliet’s mom had been a lady, but her father was a sailor. That left her and her brother, Harry, in a social class by themselves. Juliet felt awkward, and rightly so, living with her aunt after she was orphaned.
Juliet is also fun because she speaks her mind. I loved the many scenes where she told the Duke of Halstead off for something or other. He deserved them! I really loved their interractions.
It would have been nice to have seen what the Duke was thinking throughout the book. But, maybe this one was better that way. With the reader not knowing any more than Juliet what he was thinking. There is a certain charm to that.
I really loved the castle that this book is set in. Juliet explores it multiple times and gets herself into so much trouble. It made me smile.
If you’re needing an escape from your current conditions, this book can be a big help!
I was sent a copy of Where the Stars Meet the Sea as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Where the Stars Meet the Sea is the first book I have read by Ms. Kimball so I didn’t know what to expect. What did I find in this delightful Regency romance that makes me want to read more of her books? The characters are well-developed and memorable. Juliet, the strong, impulsive heroine; Halstead, the broody, reclusive Duke; Lady Everdale, the controlling, manipulating aunt; Robert, the love-sick cousin, and a slew of other interesting family members and acquaintances combine to form an engaging cast of characters. I love the banter between Juliet and Halstead, and the tension/chemistry between the two is delightfully entertaining. The plot flows at a fitting pace and is filled with romance, humor, witty conversation flavored with sarcasm, along with emotional struggles and issues of social disparity which are skillfully woven together to produce an easy-to-read, captivating story. I thoroughly enjoyed this narrative from the intriguing beginning through the emotion-packed, satisfying end. I highly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via netgalley but am under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I truly enjoyed Where the Stars Meet the Sea by Heidi Kimball. Juliet was not your typical lady and hated having to behave properly, but her Aunt Agnes, who had raised her and her brother since their parents’ passing, was very concerned with what others think. Juliet and her family are guests of the Duke of Halstead. This book takes you through Juliet’s struggle with her family and love and introduces you to a group of characters, each with their own agenda. I enjoyed the great characters in the story who I both loved and hated. The story evolved the characters and was very well told, pulling pieces of the past in at the right times to expand the story and better understand the characters.