Lord Fennyson was said to be a monster of men, large in build and dark in soul. His eyes were black as night and his tongue as wicked as the wolf preying on Josi's meager livestock.
Synopsis
When wolves threaten her home, newly wed—and widowed—Lady Josephine Darrow rides through the dark woods, risking the ire of the recluse earl, Lord Fennyson, a man rumored to be as wild as the wolves.
Thoughts & Feelings
I'm slightly embarrassed to admit that the Horses, Hounds, & Happily Ever After collections have been sitting on my nightstand for almost an entire year. When I first heard about this collection I knew that I HAD to have it. There were so many amazing authors included that I just couldn't pass up these stories. It is now July 2023 and I am finally diving into this collection of historical romance stories.
The first novella featured in volume one is The Wolf of Heathclove Manor by Clarissa Kae. I fell in love with Clarissa Kae's writing in January 2022 when I discovered her fairytale retelling series. When I saw that her novella was featured first I knew I was going to start off the collection on a good foot. I am happy to report that my inital thoughts were correct! I absolutely loved this story and read it in two sittings...one day. I told my husband I was only going to read a chapter or two and quickly found myself closing the book at 11:00pm. Oops. Some books are worth loosing sleep for and I have absolutely no regrets.
Even though this story is quite short, sixty-seven pages including the epilogue, it is completely captivating. I loved how each of the main characters was introduced and how quickly, but naturally, we got to know their background stories. Our main man, Cyril aka Lord Fennyson, has a reputation that reminds me a lot of the beast in Beauty and the Beast. Only the entire town knows of his existence and just chooses to avoid him. He is a bit rough around the edges but I love that we get to see a glimpse of the good relationships he does have. Our leading Lady, Josi aka Lady Darrow, is his complete opposite. She is a tough American (you read that right) who has found herself a widow of a titled Welsh gentleman shortly after their marriage. Despite all of the hardships she has been through Josi tries to see the positive and grits her teeth through the difficulties. Cyril and Josi are a captivating couple and they balance each other out so well.
I love this novella and highly recommend it to all my fellow historical romance fan friends.
Book Tags
Language
two farmer swears, it is mentioned a few times that Lord Fennyson mutters cursings under his breath but no specific words are given.
Steam Level
clean, kissing
Content & Trigger Warnings
none
Book Information
Title: The Wolf Of Heathclove Manor
Series: Part of the Horses, Hounds, & Happily Ever After Vol 1 collection
also featured in the Saddles & Scoundrels collection
Author: Clarissa Kae
Rating: 4.5/5
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