About the Book
A LIBRARY JOURNAL BEST ROMANCE OF 2020
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?
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Audiobook
This book is also available on audiobook from the following booksellers:
Narrator: Alex Wyndham
Format: Unabridged
Runtime: 4h 37m
Reviews
“Matthews spins a moving friends-to-lovers Victorian romance that stands out for its sensitive portrayal of a heroine living with depression…Historical romance fans won’t want to miss this.”
–Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“A compassionate treatment of a heroine with a condition not commonly addressed in the historical romance subgenre. This, combined with Mark’s romantic gestures toward Beryl, results in a kindhearted love story that will delight anyone who longs to be loved without limits. Highly recommended.”
–Library Journal (starred review)
“A romance that is built on empathy and trust…the author deftly addresses the importance of bringing mental health treatments out of the shadows.”
–Kirkus Reviews
“Profoundly moving, tender and lovely, it’s one of the best books I’ve read this year.”
–All About Romance (Desert Isle Keeper)
“A must-read for all Victorian historical romance fans.”
–Readers’ Favorite
“If you love historical romance, you’ll love this book.””
–The Herald-Dispatch
“Beautiful, poignant, heartfelt, moving and deeply romantic. Mimi Matthews has never impressed me more…and that’s saying something.”
–Relz Reviewz
“This might just be Mimi Matthew’s best book yet….She has so much power and confidence in her voice that I just give myself over to her characters and world. I loved everything about this one, and did not want it to end. Five glorious stars. An amazing, inspiring, heartwarming read.”
–Jane Porter, New York Times bestselling author
“Wonderfully poignant, intelligent, and one of my favorite novels of the year.”
–Elizabeth Camden, RITA and Christy Award-winning author
“A gentle, beautiful love story… With a delicate touch, Matthews offers a timeless parable about loving and accepting others for who they are, flaws and all.”
–Clarissa Harwood, author of Impossible Saints
“With great eloquence and grace, Matthews gives us vivid insight into one woman’s life and experiences as she navigates the strict expectations of Victorian England. Fair as a Star is a tender, delicate love story that effortlessly transports the reader to another era. Highly recommended!”
–Sarah Ladd, bestselling author of The Cornwall Novels
Contests and Awards
- 2021 HOLT Medallion Award — Finalist
The Details
Published: July 14, 2020
Publisher: Perfectly Proper Press
Formats: EbookPaperbackAudiobook
ISBN-10: 1733056971 ISBN-13: 978-1733056977 ASIN: B0887NJD8G
Genres & Tropes
Victorian Romance, Historical Romance, Clean Romance, Wholesome Romance
