Review

Lovely, romantic, and uplifting.

Fair as a Star by Mimi Matthews is a lovely, romantic, and uplifting historical romance that explores serious topics in a light but effective way.

Our thanks to the author for the advanced reader’s copy.

Book Details

Title: Fair as a Star by Mimi Matthews
Publisher: Perfectly Proper Press (July 14, 2020)
Language: English
ASIN: B0887NJD8G

Book Description

From USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews comes a Victorian tale of love and longing in a quaint English village.

A Secret Burden…

After a mysterious sojourn in Paris, Beryl Burnham has returned home to the village of Shepton Worthy ready to resume the life she left behind. Betrothed to the wealthy Sir Henry Rivenhall, she has no reason to be unhappy–or so people keep reminding her. But Beryl’s life isn’t as perfect as everyone believes.

A Longstanding Love…

As village curate, Mark Rivenhall is known for his compassionate understanding. When his older brother’s intended needs a shoulder to lean on, Mark’s more than willing to provide one. There’s no danger of losing his heart. He already lost that to Beryl a long time ago.

During an idyllic Victorian summer, friends and family gather in anticipation of Beryl and Sir Henry’s wedding. But in her darkest moment, it’s Mark who comes to Beryl’s aid. Can he help her without revealing his feelings–or betraying his brother?

From the Publisher’s Blurb

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I am a huge fan of Mimi Matthews’ work. Her stories take me to a happy place and bring peace to my soul.

Her most recent book, Fair as a Star, did not disappoint. It is a charming historical romance between a curate, Mark, and his childhood friend and neighbor, Beryl.

Mark and Beryl are intrinsically good. They are sweet, thoughtful, responsible, and love their families and community.

Beryl is vulnerable, but yet so very strong. She is compassionate and understanding. She was dealing with a challenging situation, but she did not let it cloud her judgment of others.

Mark is the sweetest of men. Friendzoned and in love with his brother’s fiancee, he kept taking great care of his parishioners and trying to hide his broken heart.

The side characters are delightful. Beryl’s sister Winnifred is obstinate and resilient; her youthful enthusiasm is contagious. Mark’s brother Henry is cold and practical. He had to save their estate from ruin after the death of their wastrel father, and it left a heavy toll on him.

I was hoping Winnie and Henry would eventually be a pair, but the charming local doctor seems like a more probable candidate.

Beryl has a secret, and it broke my heart to think about how many people had to face the same situation without being believed or understood.

Mark was wonderful, he reminded me of Mark Darcy in Bridget Jones. He loved Beryl, just the way she was.

Last but not least, Ernest, the dog, and Vesper, the stallion made the story lighter and fun.

Mimi Matthews, once again, brings an emotional and captivating story. Max and Beryl are my new favorite characters! I read it in one seat. I just could not stop myself

I highly recommend it!

Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

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About the Author

USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews writes both historical nonfiction and award-winning proper Victorian romances. Her novels have received starred reviews from Library Journal and Publishers Weekly, and her articles have been featured on the Victorian Web, the Journal of Victorian Culture, and in syndication at BUST Magazine. In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes a retired Andalusian dressage horse, a Sheltie, and two Siamese cats.

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