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The Solitary Rose
Henry Dawson, sorcerer and apothecary assistant, works to support his mother and younger siblings after his father’s investments and consequent death leave them penniless. Invited to woo a reclusive heiress with magical empathy, he reluctantly accepts, despite a preference for earning his own way.
Emma Ainsworth fears smallpox scars and her hypersensitivity to others’ thoughts make her ineligible for marriage. Sheltered by her aunt and uncle, she has withdrawn from most social life and wears a veil whenever she must go out.
When a serious injury confines Henry to Emma’s estate for the summer, a verbal duel ensues—Emma wants to test her empathy in a sexual relationship, not marry him.
What neither admits is their fear that passion might burn them both.
Emma Ainsworth fears smallpox scars and her hypersensitivity to others’ thoughts make her ineligible for marriage. Sheltered by her aunt and uncle, she has withdrawn from most social life and wears a veil whenever she must go out.
When a serious injury confines Henry to Emma’s estate for the summer, a verbal duel ensues—Emma wants to test her empathy in a sexual relationship, not marry him.
What neither admits is their fear that passion might burn them both.
221 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 14, 2023
40 people want to read
About the author
Anne Rollins
9 books117 followersAnne Rollins wrote her first novel at the age of thirteen. She wrote it out by hand in notebooks, and learned a valuable lesson: writing on a computer does not cramp your hand as much as using a pen!
Thirty years later, she now writes Regency romance and fantasy romance. As an AuDHD author, her books tend to feature introverted, bookish, and neurodivergent characters.
CONTENT WARNINGS can be found on Anne's website.
https://annerollins.com/content-warni...
Thirty years later, she now writes Regency romance and fantasy romance. As an AuDHD author, her books tend to feature introverted, bookish, and neurodivergent characters.
CONTENT WARNINGS can be found on Anne's website.
https://annerollins.com/content-warni...
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
July 22, 2023
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: 3.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥
Humor: Yes, a bit
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
Percentage which mains are first on page together:
Cliffhanger: No
Epilogue: No
Format: read an e-book advanced reader copy from the author
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is Rollins historical debut!
Basic plot:
Henry desperately needs funds to support his sisters and mother after the passing of this father. With the opportunity to organize a library for a nice monetary amount, he finds himself in the company of Emma for a summer.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency (1814)
- fantasy/magical world – empaths, telepaths, sorceries, mental shields
- left handed hero
- virgin mains
- heroine has some minor smallpox scarring
- emotionally strong hero (hero cries)
- light touch of heroine nurses hero back to health
- lower to mid steam – 2 full scenes
Ages:
- Heroine is 20, hero is 24
First line:
Henry Dawson squinted at the name on the placard outside the stately-looking three-story stone building.
My thoughts:
I was really eager to read a Regency romance that has some paranormal/fantasy aspects! I thought this sounded quite fun and different. Overall, there were some aspects I liked and a few things I wanted more of/different.
This one was a bit slow to me, but I did love that it was character driven romance. It took me awhile to get into the characters, especially the heroine. She’s a bit bristly (I have seen it compared to a bit of a reverse beauty and the beast) but I eventually enjoyed her as well.
The magical aspect in this novel is extremely light. There is some mention of charms used and one example of a spell used. The biggest paranormal part was the heroine being an empath and being able to feel the people’s emotions around her. I was really hoping more magic would be a bit more of a part of the story.
I liked the main plot aspect that developed – the heroine wanting to know if she could even bear to be intimate with someone with her empath abilities and challenging the hero to help her figure this out. But the tension didn’t develop for me the way I wanted, maybe because they weren’t spending the most amount of time together the first half of the book.
I think I would try this author again down the road and see what she comes out with. It was nice to have a bit of a change from traditional regency and the magic aspect.
Quotes/spoiler-y thoughts:
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extras like what my breakdowns mean, where you can find me, and our book clubs
Overall: 3.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥
Humor: Yes, a bit
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
Percentage which mains are first on page together:
Cliffhanger: No
Epilogue: No
Format: read an e-book advanced reader copy from the author
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is Rollins historical debut!
Basic plot:
Henry desperately needs funds to support his sisters and mother after the passing of this father. With the opportunity to organize a library for a nice monetary amount, he finds himself in the company of Emma for a summer.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency (1814)
- fantasy/magical world – empaths, telepaths, sorceries, mental shields
- left handed hero
- virgin mains
- heroine has some minor smallpox scarring
- emotionally strong hero (hero cries)
- light touch of heroine nurses hero back to health
- lower to mid steam – 2 full scenes
Ages:
- Heroine is 20, hero is 24
First line:
Henry Dawson squinted at the name on the placard outside the stately-looking three-story stone building.
My thoughts:
I was really eager to read a Regency romance that has some paranormal/fantasy aspects! I thought this sounded quite fun and different. Overall, there were some aspects I liked and a few things I wanted more of/different.
This one was a bit slow to me, but I did love that it was character driven romance. It took me awhile to get into the characters, especially the heroine. She’s a bit bristly (I have seen it compared to a bit of a reverse beauty and the beast) but I eventually enjoyed her as well.
The magical aspect in this novel is extremely light. There is some mention of charms used and one example of a spell used. The biggest paranormal part was the heroine being an empath and being able to feel the people’s emotions around her. I was really hoping more magic would be a bit more of a part of the story.
I liked the main plot aspect that developed – the heroine wanting to know if she could even bear to be intimate with someone with her empath abilities and challenging the hero to help her figure this out. But the tension didn’t develop for me the way I wanted, maybe because they weren’t spending the most amount of time together the first half of the book.
I think I would try this author again down the road and see what she comes out with. It was nice to have a bit of a change from traditional regency and the magic aspect.
Quotes/spoiler-y thoughts:
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extras like what my breakdowns mean, where you can find me, and our book clubs
June 10, 2023
Like a well-wrapped gift, the author presents a unique combination of urban fantasy and the Victorian era which will have readers on their toes reading this stubborn romance full of pushing limits.
Read full review in the 2023 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2023 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 6, 2023
I received an e-ARC through Booksprout. The release is in mid-August.
I was so upset every time I had to put this book down. I read the bulk of it on Sunday and most of the rest of it today (Tuesday), and if my schedule had permitted, I would have read the whole thing in one sitting. Histromantasy (historical fantasy romance) novella, moderate heat (2 intimate scenes, the first is very important to plot and could be skimmed but not skipped, just FYI for those who skip sex scenes).
It's a gender-swapped Beauty and the Beast retelling. While it's not new to make the "beast" character a human with scarring, Rollins's twist is that Emma's reclusive nature is only partly due to her smallpox scars, but also due to her intense magical empathy that makes it difficult for her to be around most/many people and that functions analogously to neurodivergence. I will note that it is a loose adaptation, not a beat for beat, lest anyone develop faulty expectations.
What's so compellingly readable about this novella is the chemistry between Emma and Henry. I expected a lot of sniping and arguing, and they do argue. What took me pleasantly by surprise is how playful their dynamic is from so early on. It is Emma's uncle who keeps arranging for eligible (but poor) young men to hang around his reclusive heiress niece, and both Henry and Emma decide early on that this is a bad idea, but they also both decide early on that the other person isn't on board, too, and so as much as they disagree, there is a camaraderie born early in their relationship that makes it so much fun. I don't think I've ever read a "Beauty and the Beast" adaptation this lighthearted or charming before.
Something that I, as a histrom reader, think is a pro, but that might challenge some readers, is the way that Rollins manages her fairly young, inexperienced, and religious Regency characters dealing with premarital sex. (The characters are 20 and 24, FYI.) Rollins writes both Emma and Henry as practicing Anglicans who look at sex through a moral lens, in addition to the societal lens. Critically, the characters note the discrepancy between those lenses, the second of which only values *female* chastity. All of this is relevant to the plot as Emma spends the middle of the novella determined to seduce Henry. It's also refreshing in a genre that often either falls into the camp of only having characters have sex within marriage or having characters behave as though their sexual ethics were adopted from another century, to see characters engage in decision-making that defies moral norms of the time in ways that feel thoughtful, authentic, and challenging (for the characters), while still engaging in discourse of deconstruction that can ring true to 21st C. readers (on conscience, objectification, double standards, etc.).
TL;DR: SO much fun; such a delightful Regency histrom in an England with magic (but not faerie; some people are just magicians); such endearing young leads with great chemistry; arguing that is playful banter rather than grumpy sniping. STRONG recommend to my histrom friends, it will be a great way to cap off your summer.
I was so upset every time I had to put this book down. I read the bulk of it on Sunday and most of the rest of it today (Tuesday), and if my schedule had permitted, I would have read the whole thing in one sitting. Histromantasy (historical fantasy romance) novella, moderate heat (2 intimate scenes, the first is very important to plot and could be skimmed but not skipped, just FYI for those who skip sex scenes).
It's a gender-swapped Beauty and the Beast retelling. While it's not new to make the "beast" character a human with scarring, Rollins's twist is that Emma's reclusive nature is only partly due to her smallpox scars, but also due to her intense magical empathy that makes it difficult for her to be around most/many people and that functions analogously to neurodivergence. I will note that it is a loose adaptation, not a beat for beat, lest anyone develop faulty expectations.
What's so compellingly readable about this novella is the chemistry between Emma and Henry. I expected a lot of sniping and arguing, and they do argue. What took me pleasantly by surprise is how playful their dynamic is from so early on. It is Emma's uncle who keeps arranging for eligible (but poor) young men to hang around his reclusive heiress niece, and both Henry and Emma decide early on that this is a bad idea, but they also both decide early on that the other person isn't on board, too, and so as much as they disagree, there is a camaraderie born early in their relationship that makes it so much fun. I don't think I've ever read a "Beauty and the Beast" adaptation this lighthearted or charming before.
Something that I, as a histrom reader, think is a pro, but that might challenge some readers, is the way that Rollins manages her fairly young, inexperienced, and religious Regency characters dealing with premarital sex. (The characters are 20 and 24, FYI.) Rollins writes both Emma and Henry as practicing Anglicans who look at sex through a moral lens, in addition to the societal lens. Critically, the characters note the discrepancy between those lenses, the second of which only values *female* chastity. All of this is relevant to the plot as Emma spends the middle of the novella determined to seduce Henry. It's also refreshing in a genre that often either falls into the camp of only having characters have sex within marriage or having characters behave as though their sexual ethics were adopted from another century, to see characters engage in decision-making that defies moral norms of the time in ways that feel thoughtful, authentic, and challenging (for the characters), while still engaging in discourse of deconstruction that can ring true to 21st C. readers (on conscience, objectification, double standards, etc.).
TL;DR: SO much fun; such a delightful Regency histrom in an England with magic (but not faerie; some people are just magicians); such endearing young leads with great chemistry; arguing that is playful banter rather than grumpy sniping. STRONG recommend to my histrom friends, it will be a great way to cap off your summer.
July 1, 2025
A regency romance set in a magical world that's filled with banter, romance, and a plentiful helping of spice.
Henry Dawson is a fallen noble, one that works his hardest to support his younger siblings and his mother's extravagant taste. After his father's sudden death, he's had little more to support himself with than his wits and his skill as a sorcerer. Desperate for cash, he accepts a job cataloging the books in a nobleman's library. It turns out Lord Ainsworth actually wants to hire Henry to woo and court his niece. With little choice, Henry accepts the job. Upon meeting Emma Ainsworth, Henry soon realizes that he has signed up for more than he had bargained for. Can Henry escape the house before Emma becomes the undoing of him. . . Or will he be forced to act on the passion that he is desperately trying to suppress?
I was honestly surprised by how much I enjoyed reading this one. Lately, I've felt that historical fiction has felt rather boring, but this one was anything but that. It was romantic, entertaining, and even quite comical!
Emma and Henry have such an interesting chemistry. Emma starts out hating him due to the fact that her uncle hired Henry to woo her, but she eventually finds herself warming to the young gentleman. Henry decides that since Emma seems to hate him, he'll back out of the agreement as soon as possible. When unexpected circumstances lead to Henry's stay being extended, the two find themselves constantly confined to small quarters, which has them frequently bickering with one another. Obviously, this bickering soon turns positive, and they begin to shift into friendlier territory as the book progresses.
The magic is pretty subtle in this book, but also quite interesting. There are sorcerers and wizards that practice magic that allows them to do all sorts of things. Henry pretty much only uses his magic to shield his thoughts from others. This is important, because Emma is a highly sensitive empath who can sense other's thoughts so viscerally that it can often be painful. I think this alludes a bit to neurotypical people and how sensitive they are to loud noises and other people's actions. I can't confirm this, but that's how I viewed Emma's magic.
The way that this one talks about physical beauty versus inner beauty was quite nice, in my opinion. Emma is marked by smallpox scars, which has many suitors turning away from her in disgust, despite the large fortune that she has. She often feels that people only perceive her as the scars on her face and the money in her pockets. Henry is the first young man to look at her deeper than that, which has her greatly puzzled and intrigued.
Another thing I found interesting in this one is the discussion of virtue and premarital sex. This book is set in 1814 England, so these topics are obviously viewed a bit different than they are today. Henry is a young man who feels he owes it to his future wife to never bed another women. Emma, on the other hand, is a fair maiden who wants to test out whether she could manage to have sex without being in pain due to her abilities as an empath. Emma doesn't understand why Henry is unwilling to go to bed with her if she is willing. After all, society only seems to pressure young women into remaining chaste and virtuous until their marriage bed. I found this book to open a lovely discussion about such topics, and I thought it was interesting to compare their beliefs to the world that we are currently living in. Also, I am always down for something that highlights how different society's unfair expectations are towards men and women.
I thought the ending of this book was very cute. Henry and Emma are both stubborn and foolish, so they get themselves into quite the pickle when their tongues were a bit too loose during a battle of wits. However, the way that everything is resolved was very romantic and sweet despite it being a tad silly. I found the ending to come all too soon, but I was pleased that the ending was mostly positive.
Overall, "The Solitary Rose" was a fun historical fantasy brimming with romantic tension. I found the way that Henry and Emma constantly jab at one another to be quite comical and entertaining to read. The discussions about physical beauty versus inner beauty as well as those involving premarital intercourse are well written and open great paths for discussion. I'd say this one certainly reads as a regency rom com with a hint of magic, so if that sounds up your alleyway, I'd recommend checking this one out!
Henry Dawson is a fallen noble, one that works his hardest to support his younger siblings and his mother's extravagant taste. After his father's sudden death, he's had little more to support himself with than his wits and his skill as a sorcerer. Desperate for cash, he accepts a job cataloging the books in a nobleman's library. It turns out Lord Ainsworth actually wants to hire Henry to woo and court his niece. With little choice, Henry accepts the job. Upon meeting Emma Ainsworth, Henry soon realizes that he has signed up for more than he had bargained for. Can Henry escape the house before Emma becomes the undoing of him. . . Or will he be forced to act on the passion that he is desperately trying to suppress?
I was honestly surprised by how much I enjoyed reading this one. Lately, I've felt that historical fiction has felt rather boring, but this one was anything but that. It was romantic, entertaining, and even quite comical!
Emma and Henry have such an interesting chemistry. Emma starts out hating him due to the fact that her uncle hired Henry to woo her, but she eventually finds herself warming to the young gentleman. Henry decides that since Emma seems to hate him, he'll back out of the agreement as soon as possible. When unexpected circumstances lead to Henry's stay being extended, the two find themselves constantly confined to small quarters, which has them frequently bickering with one another. Obviously, this bickering soon turns positive, and they begin to shift into friendlier territory as the book progresses.
The magic is pretty subtle in this book, but also quite interesting. There are sorcerers and wizards that practice magic that allows them to do all sorts of things. Henry pretty much only uses his magic to shield his thoughts from others. This is important, because Emma is a highly sensitive empath who can sense other's thoughts so viscerally that it can often be painful. I think this alludes a bit to neurotypical people and how sensitive they are to loud noises and other people's actions. I can't confirm this, but that's how I viewed Emma's magic.
The way that this one talks about physical beauty versus inner beauty was quite nice, in my opinion. Emma is marked by smallpox scars, which has many suitors turning away from her in disgust, despite the large fortune that she has. She often feels that people only perceive her as the scars on her face and the money in her pockets. Henry is the first young man to look at her deeper than that, which has her greatly puzzled and intrigued.
Another thing I found interesting in this one is the discussion of virtue and premarital sex. This book is set in 1814 England, so these topics are obviously viewed a bit different than they are today. Henry is a young man who feels he owes it to his future wife to never bed another women. Emma, on the other hand, is a fair maiden who wants to test out whether she could manage to have sex without being in pain due to her abilities as an empath. Emma doesn't understand why Henry is unwilling to go to bed with her if she is willing. After all, society only seems to pressure young women into remaining chaste and virtuous until their marriage bed. I found this book to open a lovely discussion about such topics, and I thought it was interesting to compare their beliefs to the world that we are currently living in. Also, I am always down for something that highlights how different society's unfair expectations are towards men and women.
I thought the ending of this book was very cute. Henry and Emma are both stubborn and foolish, so they get themselves into quite the pickle when their tongues were a bit too loose during a battle of wits. However, the way that everything is resolved was very romantic and sweet despite it being a tad silly. I found the ending to come all too soon, but I was pleased that the ending was mostly positive.
Overall, "The Solitary Rose" was a fun historical fantasy brimming with romantic tension. I found the way that Henry and Emma constantly jab at one another to be quite comical and entertaining to read. The discussions about physical beauty versus inner beauty as well as those involving premarital intercourse are well written and open great paths for discussion. I'd say this one certainly reads as a regency rom com with a hint of magic, so if that sounds up your alleyway, I'd recommend checking this one out!
September 15, 2023
Cute Story . . .
Henry Dawson, an apothecary assistant with some magical skills, has to earn money to support his mother and siblings when his father dies and leaves them with nothing. A solicitor calls him for a meeting and, convincing himself it looks legitimate and not a swindle, he decides to go. Hoping someone left him money, he was disappointed to find that was not true. However, an unusual proposition may relief his financial problems. Henry was not sure how this man knew he had such problems and what he was offering. The position would be librarian at Westwinds, a manor house in the North Riding, near Whitby. But there is more to it than that if he answers some supplemental questions appropriately. He was asked about church attendance, drinking to excess, health issues, and his magical abilities (which were quite helpful in his current job for mixing medicines). He also was able to shield his mind from empaths and telepaths. When they got to prying into his love life, he was angry. He courted only one female and all he ever did was waltz with her and kiss her once under mistletoe. Answering all the questions in a satisfactory manner, he next met with Mr. Ainsworth, his potential employer.
His first duty is to catalog the magic books in the library which his niece cannot do since she is allergic to dust. He would earn 3 times his current salary to do this over the summer. But the real task if much more important. He is being asked to woo and marry Mr. Ainsworth’s niece!
Emma feels she will not be desirable due to smallpox scars and being sensitive to the opinions of others. If she must go out, she always wears a veil. When she met Henry, they had gone out riding when a rainstorm came up. Lightning caused his borrowed horse to bolt, but he was managing well until the horse tripped and fell. Henry experienced a broken leg and now would have to stay here where he could be cared for until he could manage crutches. Being urged by her Aunt Mary to spend time with the injured man who is stuck all day in his room with nothing to do, she agrees and takes a book to read to him. The two have quite a few sniping sessions, but will proximity over the summer bring them to a better understanding and perhaps something more? Emma does not wish to marry him… but could she convince him to cooperate with her “experiments” and discussing naughty things she was curious about? Or would he find it a better idea to go to his grandmother’s home and from there perhaps look for a clerk’s job?
Henry Dawson, an apothecary assistant with some magical skills, has to earn money to support his mother and siblings when his father dies and leaves them with nothing. A solicitor calls him for a meeting and, convincing himself it looks legitimate and not a swindle, he decides to go. Hoping someone left him money, he was disappointed to find that was not true. However, an unusual proposition may relief his financial problems. Henry was not sure how this man knew he had such problems and what he was offering. The position would be librarian at Westwinds, a manor house in the North Riding, near Whitby. But there is more to it than that if he answers some supplemental questions appropriately. He was asked about church attendance, drinking to excess, health issues, and his magical abilities (which were quite helpful in his current job for mixing medicines). He also was able to shield his mind from empaths and telepaths. When they got to prying into his love life, he was angry. He courted only one female and all he ever did was waltz with her and kiss her once under mistletoe. Answering all the questions in a satisfactory manner, he next met with Mr. Ainsworth, his potential employer.
His first duty is to catalog the magic books in the library which his niece cannot do since she is allergic to dust. He would earn 3 times his current salary to do this over the summer. But the real task if much more important. He is being asked to woo and marry Mr. Ainsworth’s niece!
Emma feels she will not be desirable due to smallpox scars and being sensitive to the opinions of others. If she must go out, she always wears a veil. When she met Henry, they had gone out riding when a rainstorm came up. Lightning caused his borrowed horse to bolt, but he was managing well until the horse tripped and fell. Henry experienced a broken leg and now would have to stay here where he could be cared for until he could manage crutches. Being urged by her Aunt Mary to spend time with the injured man who is stuck all day in his room with nothing to do, she agrees and takes a book to read to him. The two have quite a few sniping sessions, but will proximity over the summer bring them to a better understanding and perhaps something more? Emma does not wish to marry him… but could she convince him to cooperate with her “experiments” and discussing naughty things she was curious about? Or would he find it a better idea to go to his grandmother’s home and from there perhaps look for a clerk’s job?
July 4, 2023
"The Solitary Rose" by Anne Rollins Henry is a spellbinding tale of love, sacrifice, and the power of connection set in a world of magic and intrigue.
The story follows Henry Dawson, a sorcerer and apothecary assistant, as he navigates the challenges of supporting his family in the aftermath of his father's financial downfall. When Henry is unexpectedly invited to court a reclusive heiress with magical empathy, he hesitantly agrees, torn between his desire to provide for his family and his own independent spirit.
Emma Ainsworth, haunted by her physical scars from smallpox and her unique ability to sense the thoughts of others, believes herself unfit for marriage. Living under the protection of her aunt and uncle, Emma has become reclusive, rarely venturing outside without a veil to shield herself from the world's scrutiny.
Fate brings Henry and Emma together when a severe injury confines Henry to Emma's estate for the summer. As they spend time together, a spirited verbal duel ensues, with Emma proposing a purely physical relationship to test her empathic powers, while Henry grapples with his growing feelings. Unbeknownst to each other, they share a fear that their passion may consume them both.
"The Solitary Rose" beautifully explores the complexities of love, vulnerability, and self-acceptance. Anne Rollins Henry skillfully crafts a world where magic intertwines with the human experience, delving into the emotional depths of her characters.
With its richly drawn characters and enchanting storyline, this novel delves into themes of identity, sacrifice, and the transformative power of love. Readers will be captivated by the intricate dance between Henry and Emma as they navigate their desires and confront their deepest fears.
"The Solitary Rose" is a must-read for fans of magical romance and intricate character development. Anne Rollins Henry's masterful storytelling will transport readers into a world where love and courage bloom against all odds.
The story follows Henry Dawson, a sorcerer and apothecary assistant, as he navigates the challenges of supporting his family in the aftermath of his father's financial downfall. When Henry is unexpectedly invited to court a reclusive heiress with magical empathy, he hesitantly agrees, torn between his desire to provide for his family and his own independent spirit.
Emma Ainsworth, haunted by her physical scars from smallpox and her unique ability to sense the thoughts of others, believes herself unfit for marriage. Living under the protection of her aunt and uncle, Emma has become reclusive, rarely venturing outside without a veil to shield herself from the world's scrutiny.
Fate brings Henry and Emma together when a severe injury confines Henry to Emma's estate for the summer. As they spend time together, a spirited verbal duel ensues, with Emma proposing a purely physical relationship to test her empathic powers, while Henry grapples with his growing feelings. Unbeknownst to each other, they share a fear that their passion may consume them both.
"The Solitary Rose" beautifully explores the complexities of love, vulnerability, and self-acceptance. Anne Rollins Henry skillfully crafts a world where magic intertwines with the human experience, delving into the emotional depths of her characters.
With its richly drawn characters and enchanting storyline, this novel delves into themes of identity, sacrifice, and the transformative power of love. Readers will be captivated by the intricate dance between Henry and Emma as they navigate their desires and confront their deepest fears.
"The Solitary Rose" is a must-read for fans of magical romance and intricate character development. Anne Rollins Henry's masterful storytelling will transport readers into a world where love and courage bloom against all odds.
August 14, 2023
Provocative!
Anne Rollins writes fantastical romantic tale with The Solitary Rose. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. The reader is introduced to Henry Dawson, who supports his family after his father's death (and life) left them in poverty. Henry is a sorcerer and apothecary assistant. He needs the money and reluctantly accepts the invitation extended for him to be court a recluse. Emma is an empath, but very self-conscience about her looks, and scars from childhood's smallpox. Her aunt and uncle take care of her, and shelter her from the outside world, but then, Henry enters her life, and he ends up spending the summer with his new nemesis- Emma. The banter and edginess between the two of them, make the pairing seem dysfunctional, and also adds that extra chemistry. The author weaves a tangled web of story, and captures the reader. The author's technique of raw, magnetic characters and great plotlines is a gift. It's a great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next. Henry is a formattable character, and Emma is definitely tenacious. The Solitary Rose is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book, to also write a review.
Anne Rollins writes fantastical romantic tale with The Solitary Rose. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. The reader is introduced to Henry Dawson, who supports his family after his father's death (and life) left them in poverty. Henry is a sorcerer and apothecary assistant. He needs the money and reluctantly accepts the invitation extended for him to be court a recluse. Emma is an empath, but very self-conscience about her looks, and scars from childhood's smallpox. Her aunt and uncle take care of her, and shelter her from the outside world, but then, Henry enters her life, and he ends up spending the summer with his new nemesis- Emma. The banter and edginess between the two of them, make the pairing seem dysfunctional, and also adds that extra chemistry. The author weaves a tangled web of story, and captures the reader. The author's technique of raw, magnetic characters and great plotlines is a gift. It's a great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next. Henry is a formattable character, and Emma is definitely tenacious. The Solitary Rose is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book, to also write a review.
February 8, 2024
Thoughts: I don’t read many Regency type romances, but I do read them. But this one threw a twist at me that I have not seen before - and I loved it! Magic. Wizardry. Witchcraft. Empaths. It completely caught me off guard (No, I didn’t read the blurb, just started reading the story.) The story also reminds me just a little of “Beauty and the Beast”, but in reverse. Henry is a penniless, gorgeous young man who is trying his best to support his mother, grandmother, and siblings. Emma is an heiress who is scarred from smallpox and thinks herself ugly. Her uncle has been pushing men at her to marry, but they are just after her money. Her uncle hires Henry to catalog the library - and marry her. But Henry and Emma do nothing but fight - at first. This is, after all a romance.
I enjoyed the story and the paranormal enhancements just added to the enjoyment.
Recommended.
Disclaimer: Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
I enjoyed the story and the paranormal enhancements just added to the enjoyment.
Recommended.
Disclaimer: Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
September 18, 2023
Emma is an empathic heiress who is self conscious about the smallpox scars on her face. Her uncle and guardian is determined to have her marry, and keeps bringing home men for her to meet. Henry is his newest attempt. Henry’s life changed two years ago when his father, after making terrible financial decisions, died of a heart attack, leaving his wife and three children in dire straits. Henry was handpicked, not only becuase of his current financial situation, but because he was quite proficient at shielding his emotions, an act that would make life so much easier for Emma. Emma is quite resistant to Henry and avoids him as much as possible until an accident changes everything. This story is full of witty banter, and emotional debates. The inclusion of magical powers and mental shielding adds a new dimension that gives it a unique spin. The characters are interesting and easily imaginable, and the story flows along smoothly. I found it to be an enjoyable and entertaining read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 1, 2025
This book was a pleasant surprise! Henry and Emma made me very frustrated with their firm determination to read the other persons MIND instead of just saying the things! Which I loved anyways. I was definitely picturing Henry Cavill the entire time especially after he was doing those exercises trying to keep his upper half fit.
The premise is good, and there is enough action to keep you interested but the star of the show is really the banter between the two of them; it’s Emma vs Henry and it’s hilarious.
I love how both of them can fluster the other. The Uncle and the Aunt add to the plot, and also the ending was pretty good.
I would definitely recommend it if you like historical romance, forced proximity, banter between the FMC and MMC, and pretty much enemies to lovers!
I did look up what smallpox scars can look like on the skin and that was helpful in the description!
The premise is good, and there is enough action to keep you interested but the star of the show is really the banter between the two of them; it’s Emma vs Henry and it’s hilarious.
I love how both of them can fluster the other. The Uncle and the Aunt add to the plot, and also the ending was pretty good.
I would definitely recommend it if you like historical romance, forced proximity, banter between the FMC and MMC, and pretty much enemies to lovers!
I did look up what smallpox scars can look like on the skin and that was helpful in the description!
Read
January 21, 2024Heat Factor: Some non-explicit stuff
Character Chemistry: They fight like cats and dogs, but they kind of like it?
Plot: Henry is hired to woo Emma, but then breaks his leg and is stuck at her house for months
Overall: I’m not sure about this one
Read our full review at The Smut Report
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.
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Character Chemistry: They fight like cats and dogs, but they kind of like it?
Plot: Henry is hired to woo Emma, but then breaks his leg and is stuck at her house for months
Overall: I’m not sure about this one
Read our full review at The Smut Report
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.
Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
April 13, 2025
Emma is an isolated introvert because of her empath abilities and the fact that she has scars from small pox. Henry is down on his luck, looking for a better job and has the ability to block his feelings. Emma's uncle arranges for Henry to do some work around the house in hopes that he will become attached to Emma.
Henry gets injured while there and is forced to stay there to recover for a couple months. During that time, they really end up getting to know each other.
They like to argue all the time, but it's not malicious. You can tell they really like each other. I appreciate their conversations on sex. It's all very down to earth and realistic, like two scientists figuring it out. It's refreshing and also adorable, and made me like them even more. I enjoyed this regency romance with a paranormal twist. It's different than a lot of what I normally read.
Henry gets injured while there and is forced to stay there to recover for a couple months. During that time, they really end up getting to know each other.
They like to argue all the time, but it's not malicious. You can tell they really like each other. I appreciate their conversations on sex. It's all very down to earth and realistic, like two scientists figuring it out. It's refreshing and also adorable, and made me like them even more. I enjoyed this regency romance with a paranormal twist. It's different than a lot of what I normally read.
August 1, 2024
2024 reads, #44. I had the fun experience this year of being a judge for the Prism Awards, celebrating the best in paranormal romance publishing, and this is one of the entries I ended up reading for that. Therefore I don’t think it would probably be ethically good for me to be actually sharing my thoughts about each book’s quality here publicly, but I can at least confirm that all of them were great (not surprising, given that this was a contest and we can therefore assume everyone will submit their best work). Frankly, I’m mostly logging this simply so that it will count towards my total number of books read in the 2024 Goodreads Reading Challenge, so that I don’t end up reading all summer long and then have nothing to show for it here afterwards.
August 18, 2023
Special Powers, Shields, Fantasy Romance:
My first time reading anything by this author, and it was quite different from the usual historical romance I tend to read.
Emma is a very skeptical person due to her special abilities and her disfigurement from smallpox.
Henry is struggling to keep his family afloat and takes on a new job which involves wooing Emma without her detecting his objective.
A lighthearted fantasy, a bit of magic and a budding romance as they drop their shields to let love come in.
A beautiful ending to a pleasant story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest opinion and thoughts.
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4
My first time reading anything by this author, and it was quite different from the usual historical romance I tend to read.
Emma is a very skeptical person due to her special abilities and her disfigurement from smallpox.
Henry is struggling to keep his family afloat and takes on a new job which involves wooing Emma without her detecting his objective.
A lighthearted fantasy, a bit of magic and a budding romance as they drop their shields to let love come in.
A beautiful ending to a pleasant story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest opinion and thoughts.
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4
May 17, 2023
Sweet Regency romance with light magic themes (Think Bridgerton with some magical empathy & medicine). I was immediately engaged by the characters and the pacing kept me ready. Swoony respect from the male lead, excellent self awareness and self-advocacy from the female lead without breaking the worldbuilding- which is rare! I needed a nice fluffy romantic story with a happy ending this week - and I got it! Highly recommend.
(I received a free advance review copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.)
(I received a free advance review copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.)
August 25, 2023
This was a light, easy read. I would say it wasn't quite what I expected, but I liked it. I think initially, I was expecting a dark fairy tale or fantasy, but this felt mostly like a historical romance. It was quite sophisticated, and I would say it had just the right amount of steaminess. I liked the two main characters, and the chemistry between them.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for a free copy to review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for a free copy to review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 7, 2023
The Solitary Rose by Anne Rollins is a good, and enjoyable historical fake dating fairy tale retelling of Beauty and the Beast fantasy romance read. The story has a good world building story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry. This story is unique combination of urban fantasy and the Victorian era romance read that is an entertaining read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 16, 2023
The solitary rose is a standalone novel with a HEA. It has a bit of something for everyone whether you like historical romance, fairytale retellings (beauty and the beast), or fantasy. There’s also a few spicy scenes.
Overall I really like the plot, it was interesting and the pacing of the book made it hard to put down. I thought the characters were well thought out and were entertaining to read about.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Overall I really like the plot, it was interesting and the pacing of the book made it hard to put down. I thought the characters were well thought out and were entertaining to read about.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 20, 2023
This is a great book. I love the world the the author has built. It is a beautiful mix of the paranormal and the mundane, combined with historical romance. The characters are wonderfully complex and compelling. The situations that they keep finding themselves in are hilarious to watch. This story got my heart definitely struck my heart as I laughed and cried while reading it. Beautifully written. I really enjoyed this story and I hope you will give it a chance.
September 14, 2023
An beauty and the Beast retelling an historical romance novel I really enjoyed reading this book it's a very well written retelling of the novel.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 15, 2023
So, so good! I just couldn't stop reading and when I was done, was really hoping there was more. Loved it Rollins!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 20, 2023
What a lovely surprise this book was! An endearing page-turner with engaging characters and nice touches of humour. The fantasy elements were lightly applied to a story that felt true to the Regency period and it was compelling reading right through to the very satisfying end.
August 31, 2023
Regency and magic!
Loved the addition of magic to a forced-arranged-marriage cum love match. Henry was a real sweetheart. I recommend--it's quite lovely.
Loved the addition of magic to a forced-arranged-marriage cum love match. Henry was a real sweetheart. I recommend--it's quite lovely.
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