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sandlynn's review against another edition
4.0
Anne Gracie’s The Spring Bride, published in 2015, is part of a series. The fact it’s called “The Spring Bride” was the tip off — and, although it can be read as a standalone, there are references to the heroine’s backstory that seem important enough to look into the books which came first, i.e., “The Autumn Bride” and “The Winter Bride,” before tackling this one.
Anyway, in *this* book, it’s 1817 and the heroine is a young beauty just preparing for her London season. Her upbringing, however, was very troubled and, as a young woman, the story Jane “Chance” presents about herself and her family is not exactly the true one. As for the hero, he has traveled to London, in disguise, to deliver a message to his friend who handles spies for the English government. Zachary Black has been abroad for 12 years as a spy, but his backstory is equally as troubled, and he has not been in touch with his childhood home for quite some time. The hero and heroine happen to meet, are attracted, but neither reveals who they truly are to the other.
What makes things even more difficult for the couple is that the heroine is determined to marry a wealthy, stable, but boring man who can keep her and her future children safe and secure, unlike her own childhood. For his part, the hero has not only led a precarious, undercover life for years, but upon returning to England, he finds himself wanted for a serious crime and not free to claim his birthright.
This story is filled with colorful characters, interesting backstories, and unexpected developments, so it always kept my interest. I honestly, until the last few chapters, had no idea how the main obstacle between the couple was going to be resolved. The things that I didn’t like as much was the heroine’s insistence on marrying a totally unpleasant suitor without even going through with the season. Who knows? Someone else equally as wealthy could have proposed to her! So, I found that part of the story a somewhat false obstacle to the hero and heroine’s romance, i.e., he wasn’t a true, potential rival. Also, I do think I would’ve enjoyed the story a bit more if I had read the previous books first, but that’s my fault. I give this story a B+.
Anyway, in *this* book, it’s 1817 and the heroine is a young beauty just preparing for her London season. Her upbringing, however, was very troubled and, as a young woman, the story Jane “Chance” presents about herself and her family is not exactly the true one. As for the hero, he has traveled to London, in disguise, to deliver a message to his friend who handles spies for the English government. Zachary Black has been abroad for 12 years as a spy, but his backstory is equally as troubled, and he has not been in touch with his childhood home for quite some time. The hero and heroine happen to meet, are attracted, but neither reveals who they truly are to the other.
What makes things even more difficult for the couple is that the heroine is determined to marry a wealthy, stable, but boring man who can keep her and her future children safe and secure, unlike her own childhood. For his part, the hero has not only led a precarious, undercover life for years, but upon returning to England, he finds himself wanted for a serious crime and not free to claim his birthright.
This story is filled with colorful characters, interesting backstories, and unexpected developments, so it always kept my interest. I honestly, until the last few chapters, had no idea how the main obstacle between the couple was going to be resolved. The things that I didn’t like as much was the heroine’s insistence on marrying a totally unpleasant suitor without even going through with the season. Who knows? Someone else equally as wealthy could have proposed to her! So, I found that part of the story a somewhat false obstacle to the hero and heroine’s romance, i.e., he wasn’t a true, potential rival. Also, I do think I would’ve enjoyed the story a bit more if I had read the previous books first, but that’s my fault. I give this story a B+.
charlotteklopfer's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
2.75
helenkat's review
5.0
I adored this book as I've adored every single one of Anne Gracie's books. The third book in the series focuses on Jane - a woman who only wants security, so falling in love doesn't have a place in her life. She has a heart of gold and always looking out for strays - including a mangy dog. Coming to her rescue is a gypsy named Zachary Black, who intrigues her more than she cares to admit. Zachary has his own trials and tribulations but his meeting with Jane changes his goals.
Theirs is a sweet connection that grows as does their awareness and attraction. Their banter is lovely as is the banter between Jane and her 'family', as well as Zach and Gil. Anne Gracie makes you laugh, cry, and of course there's that feel good emotional ending. Bravo!
Looking forward to reading Daisy's story.
Disclaimer: While I know the author personally, this doesn't affect the star rating.
Theirs is a sweet connection that grows as does their awareness and attraction. Their banter is lovely as is the banter between Jane and her 'family', as well as Zach and Gil. Anne Gracie makes you laugh, cry, and of course there's that feel good emotional ending. Bravo!
Looking forward to reading Daisy's story.
Disclaimer: While I know the author personally, this doesn't affect the star rating.
smithrachaelynn's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
So cute. I enjoyed reading Jane’s story. The plot really surprised me for such a sweet, soft-hearted girl. I loved a look in her mind and how her upbringing impacted her. Zachary’s character was cute too. Something about this didn’t live up to the previous two but still a great read.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Murder
Minor: Physical abuse and Sexual content
melamtz's review against another edition
3.0
Love the series! I like Zach and I do like Jane but I was got super annoyed with her at times. Overall though it was an entertainin romance story.
2nd read: it was ok, not my favorite and missing something but I don't know what.
2nd read: it was ok, not my favorite and missing something but I don't know what.
nsah's review against another edition
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
blobaloo's review against another edition
4.0
This series is definitely not for those who like to read steamy romances but if you're into family, friendship and actual connection between characters then this series is for you. For once in a romance book the characters didn't think about ripping each other's clothes off every time they were near each other like wild animals in heat!
I loved Jane's logical opinion of marriage. It was very refreshing since it's not something you'd see developed as it was in this romance novel.
I loved Jane's logical opinion of marriage. It was very refreshing since it's not something you'd see developed as it was in this romance novel.