Summary: Winning the Gentleman (Hearts on the Heath book 2) by Kristi Ann Hunter
Sophia Fitzroy knows that most horsemen don't take her seriously because she's a woman, but she can't pass up the opportunity to get away from the tumultuous world of travel and performing. As she fights for the right to do the work she was hired for, she learns the fight for Aaron's guarded heart might be an even more worthwhile challenge.
As secrets come to light and past vulnerabilities are confronted, will Aaron and Sophia sacrifice their former dreams and forge a new one together--against all odds? (from Goodreads)
My review of this captivating historical romance
Winning the Gentleman is book 2 in the Hearts on the Heath series by Kristi Ann Hunter, published by Bethany House Publishers. The story is set in Newmarket, England 1817 and is about stable manager Aaron Whitworth as he tries to find a jockey to enter a horse race. He is shocked when Sophia Fitzroy turns up as she is a trainer and circus artist with superb skills on horseback. Aaron has dedicated his life to maintaining a low-key position on the outskirts of Society, but Sophia’s presence makes him rethink his attitude towards that life. Sophia has a dream of starting her own riding school. They both make every effort to stay away from each other. But feelings change while they are not looking.
Stable manager Aaron Whitworth is sensitive about his background as a Lord’s illegitimate son, but he is well educated and has loyal friends. His view of women’s inferiority seems typical for his time but he seems kind and emphatic.
Circus artist and jockey Sophia Fitzroy was orphaned at 17 and has lived a hard life on the move with her twin brother. She is a super skilled equestrian, but is full of self doubt. I find her a human, relatable and well rounded character very easy to like. She is my favorite of this story. Descriptions of Sophia’s struggle to be a female jockey in a male equestrian world added descriptions of some heart wrenching consequences she had to endure which made an excellent dramatic element to the story.
The signature lighthearted and beautifully skilled writing has made Kristi Ann Hunter one of my go-to authors for years. This plot stands out as it is set in English Society’s horse racing community, which I have not read as a specific plot before. Descriptions of the competitive horse racing feels expertly done; like I was in the horse race myself. Fans of the author may be happy to recognize characters from her other books and while I’m pretty sure you would want to read other of her books, this plot easily reads as a standalone. I eagerly await the release of Hearts on the Heath book 3.
My favorite part of the story was the surprising and utterly touching twist towards the end. I can’t tell you much about it, only that it made the story stand out as captivatingly entertaining and memorable.
Both Aaron and Sophia were on spiritual journeys. Sophia constantly prayed for a better life while she struggled in the most difficult of conditions. Aaron started reading the Bible as he became increasingly confused about his future and felt unsure about what changes to make.
Thank you to #Bethany House Publishers, #Kristi Ann Hunter and #NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.
Conclusion: Winning the Gentleman is the captivating and thoroughly entertaining story about how illegitimate son Aaron desperately tries to fit into Society while super skilled female equestrian Sophie turns his world upside down and makes him question his life decisions.
Rating: 5 stars / 5
Your can get your copy here
Barnes & Noble NOOK book (ebook)
Book Details
Publisher: Bethany House PublishersISBN: 0764235265 (ISBN13: 9780764235269)
Author Bio
Kristi Ann Hunter graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in Computer Science but always knew she wanted to write. In addition to several pre-published contests, Kristi is a Rita award winner and has also been a finalist in the INSPY, Christy, and GRW Maggie Award of Excellence. She lives with her husband and three children in Georgia. Find her online at www.kristiannhunter.com.
No comments:
Post a Comment