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Between Shores and Scandals: Victorians at the Beach
Clara Ward came to open a dessert shop for vacationers in Margate. She didn't anticipate feeding them a scandal... Or gaining a husband.
When scandal threatens Clara Ward’s future—and her dream of opening a gourmet ices shop—she agrees to a practical a marriage of convenience. Ellis Archibald offers protection and stability, nothing more. Love was never part of the bargain.
But as the newlyweds settle into life along Margate's shores, their sensible arrangement begins to feel far less sensible. Shared laughter, quiet moments, and growing affection blur the line between pretense and truth. With society watching and reputations at stake, Clara must decide whether she’s willing to risk her heart for a love she never planned.
A sweet, clean Victorian novella featuring a marriage of convenience, gentle humor, seaside charm, and a happily-ever-after—perfect for fans of Sarah M. Eden, Joanna Barker, and Anneka R. Walker.
When scandal threatens Clara Ward’s future—and her dream of opening a gourmet ices shop—she agrees to a practical a marriage of convenience. Ellis Archibald offers protection and stability, nothing more. Love was never part of the bargain.
But as the newlyweds settle into life along Margate's shores, their sensible arrangement begins to feel far less sensible. Shared laughter, quiet moments, and growing affection blur the line between pretense and truth. With society watching and reputations at stake, Clara must decide whether she’s willing to risk her heart for a love she never planned.
A sweet, clean Victorian novella featuring a marriage of convenience, gentle humor, seaside charm, and a happily-ever-after—perfect for fans of Sarah M. Eden, Joanna Barker, and Anneka R. Walker.
156 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 2, 2025
6 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 1, 2025
This was a fantastic marriage of convenience novella! Clara and Dr Ellis mistakenly end up in the same house, they both have a rental contract. When Clara is mistaken for Ellis’s wife after accepting a delivery, Ellis offers her a marriage of convenience to save her reputation. Ellis is away with Doctor calls and Clara can proceed with starting her Ices Shop. They won’t miss the other because they will be busy, right? Well, they find that love may be in the picture after all. I really loved this story! Clara is a great character, I love how she starts her own Ices Shop and found that interesting. The story is also done from her point of view. Dr Ellis, is also great, and he can be very funny which I didn’t expect from his character at first but he was fun and sweet. I also enjoyed his family, who complicate things upon their arrival to visit. Clara and Ellis have to pretend that they got married quickly because they were in love. Overall, this was a great novella and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
June 11, 2025
I couldn't put this adorable tale down—I binge-read it in one day! This enchanting novella whisked me away to a charming Victorian-era beachside community where every page was a delight. The pacing was spot-on, pulling me in with its beautifully crafted prose that danced off the page. As a fan of marriage of convenience stories, I was utterly captivated by this one! The author's notes about ices added a fascinating touch, and the chemistry between the couple was electric. Plus, I loved that it was a clean read. What a fantastic experience! I received a complimentary e-copy of this book and read it with pleasure. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.
July 15, 2025
My first ARC by Jill Warner and I was not disappointed!
Read if you love an anxious, resilient and kind FMC in a business setting, plus a MMC who leads and comforts her when she gets nervous or stressed.
God and prayer and hope are themes.
Side characters I loved were Harold and Lizzy (nephew and niece) and Mrs. Stephen’s.
Later, when I make a review for this book,
I will include movies it reminded me of: Howl’s Moving Castle, Emma, and… The Proposal movie 🍿 with the late great Betty White as the grandma.
Best quotes: (up to 3)
“Now, take your indomitable spirit that got you through that school of yours and into a position where you are a woman of business and figure this sticky situation out."
Grandmother Clarissa would have squeezed Clara to her side and told her "all in good time— the Lord's time." In fact, she had told Clara exactly that, many, many times. She very well might have said it in this exact location.
Clara opened her eyes. "I'm trying to be patient," she murmured into the breeze coming off the ocean.
"I am trying."
“Before you came in
with your old dreams and chaotic emotions, I had
settled for a staid life. Dou’ve reminded me what it is
to live, to dream, to hope... But most of all, you’ve
taught me how to love with a deeper part of my soul
than I ever knew existed.”
Read if you love an anxious, resilient and kind FMC in a business setting, plus a MMC who leads and comforts her when she gets nervous or stressed.
God and prayer and hope are themes.
Side characters I loved were Harold and Lizzy (nephew and niece) and Mrs. Stephen’s.
Later, when I make a review for this book,
I will include movies it reminded me of: Howl’s Moving Castle, Emma, and… The Proposal movie 🍿 with the late great Betty White as the grandma.
Best quotes: (up to 3)
“Now, take your indomitable spirit that got you through that school of yours and into a position where you are a woman of business and figure this sticky situation out."
Grandmother Clarissa would have squeezed Clara to her side and told her "all in good time— the Lord's time." In fact, she had told Clara exactly that, many, many times. She very well might have said it in this exact location.
Clara opened her eyes. "I'm trying to be patient," she murmured into the breeze coming off the ocean.
"I am trying."
“Before you came in
with your old dreams and chaotic emotions, I had
settled for a staid life. Dou’ve reminded me what it is
to live, to dream, to hope... But most of all, you’ve
taught me how to love with a deeper part of my soul
than I ever knew existed.”
December 28, 2025
Blog Post: https://fictionwithphoebe.com/between...
Clara Ward arrives in Margate ready to set up her ice cream shop. But an unexpected complication, in the form of Dr. Ellis Archibald, drastically alters her plans.
Learning about ice cream in the Victorian era (the flavors and the process of making it) was fascinating. Food history is one of my favorite things!
Ellis was so thoughtful. I wish I could read his POV, as well.
While I knew Clara’s decision to keep secrets was going to end badly, I could understand where she was coming from.
Clara thought she was a disappointment to her family, especially compared to her brother. However, they actually do appreciate her, which she realizes at the end.
Favorite Moments
🍧 Hall By the Sea
🍨 the picnic
🍧 exploring the cave
Content Notes:
touching, noticing and awareness, some extremely mild innuendo, blood, kissing, a married couple share a bed (nothing happens), references to delivering a baby, allusions to women being pregnant out of wedlock
Clara Ward arrives in Margate ready to set up her ice cream shop. But an unexpected complication, in the form of Dr. Ellis Archibald, drastically alters her plans.
Learning about ice cream in the Victorian era (the flavors and the process of making it) was fascinating. Food history is one of my favorite things!
Ellis was so thoughtful. I wish I could read his POV, as well.
While I knew Clara’s decision to keep secrets was going to end badly, I could understand where she was coming from.
Clara thought she was a disappointment to her family, especially compared to her brother. However, they actually do appreciate her, which she realizes at the end.
Favorite Moments
🍧 Hall By the Sea
🍨 the picnic
🍧 exploring the cave
Content Notes:
touching, noticing and awareness, some extremely mild innuendo, blood, kissing, a married couple share a bed (nothing happens), references to delivering a baby, allusions to women being pregnant out of wedlock
July 1, 2025
If ya like the marriage of convenience troupe or the miscommunication troupe then ya should check out this novella!! They were done so beautifully! it comes out in two days!
June 22, 2025
This was so fun!! All the teasing and banter, mixed with the sincerity and swooning I expect from a good regency!! The characters were both sweet and honest. Really easy to fall in love with! Funny circumstances and silly coincidences that make you cringe until it all unfolds into something so endearing. For a short novella I feel like it still had all the elements for the plot development, supporting characters, conflict/concern and a satisfying resolution. Definitely enjoyed binging this today!
*ARC read—but all honest thoughts!*
*ARC read—but all honest thoughts!*
June 18, 2025
4.5/5
December 3, 2025
Between Shores and Scandals is one of those books that makes you smile while you read it. From the seaside setting of Margate Beach to the unexpected marriage between a determined ice shop owner and a serious local doctor, this story is full of charm, heart, and just enough drama to keep things interesting.
Clara Ward is such a fun main character. She's smart, driven, and passionate about opening her gourmet ices shop. You can’t help but root for her as she works toward her dream, even when things go sideways thanks to a mix-up that threatens her reputation. Enter Ellis Archibald, the quiet, mysterious doctor who shocks her with his solution: a marriage of convenience. It’s not exactly how Clara planned to start her new life, but it sets the stage for a lovely slow-burn romance.
What I loved most was how real the characters felt. Watching Clara and Ellis learn to trust each other—and fall for each other—was so rewarding. Their relationship builds slowly and sweetly, with plenty of moments that made me smile. I loved how Ellis supported Clara's dream of owning an ices shop. Women were starting to run their own businesses but it was still frowned upon by some and I appreciated that he cheered her on.
The seaside setting adds the perfect summery vibe, and the descriptions of Clara’s ices made my mouth water. There’s just the right mix of romance, personal growth, and gentle drama to keep you hooked from beginning to end. This is a sweet summer romance. If you love clean historical romance with a marriage of convenience and a setting that feels like a mini vacation, Between Shores and Scandals is definitely worth the read.
I received a copy from the author but also bought an ebook for my digital library. All opinions in this review are my own.
Clara Ward is such a fun main character. She's smart, driven, and passionate about opening her gourmet ices shop. You can’t help but root for her as she works toward her dream, even when things go sideways thanks to a mix-up that threatens her reputation. Enter Ellis Archibald, the quiet, mysterious doctor who shocks her with his solution: a marriage of convenience. It’s not exactly how Clara planned to start her new life, but it sets the stage for a lovely slow-burn romance.
What I loved most was how real the characters felt. Watching Clara and Ellis learn to trust each other—and fall for each other—was so rewarding. Their relationship builds slowly and sweetly, with plenty of moments that made me smile. I loved how Ellis supported Clara's dream of owning an ices shop. Women were starting to run their own businesses but it was still frowned upon by some and I appreciated that he cheered her on.
The seaside setting adds the perfect summery vibe, and the descriptions of Clara’s ices made my mouth water. There’s just the right mix of romance, personal growth, and gentle drama to keep you hooked from beginning to end. This is a sweet summer romance. If you love clean historical romance with a marriage of convenience and a setting that feels like a mini vacation, Between Shores and Scandals is definitely worth the read.
I received a copy from the author but also bought an ebook for my digital library. All opinions in this review are my own.
October 27, 2025
This novella is set in the 1890s but reads like a modern rom-com. It's a ridiculous premise: A young woman, 27, arrives in Margate with a plan to start a gourmet ices shop. She bought a home before arriving, but finds a tenant with a legal lease agreement already living there. Aren't leases supposed to involve the owner? This dilemma is never explained. On the day they meet, the two make a "logical" decision to solve the problem by marrying.
I wasn't able to connect with the characters and plot in this one. There was a lot of filler: picnics on the beach, excursions to points of interest in Margate, and dealing with rambunctious children. The FMC's anxiety about her parents didn't seem realistic. It added more frustration than drama. On the plus side, it was mostly error-free.
I wasn't able to connect with the characters and plot in this one. There was a lot of filler: picnics on the beach, excursions to points of interest in Margate, and dealing with rambunctious children. The FMC's anxiety about her parents didn't seem realistic. It added more frustration than drama. On the plus side, it was mostly error-free.
July 2, 2025
This was such a sweet marriage-of-convenience novella!
Clara is a young business woman intent of opening a gourmet ices shop in a little town she visited with her grandmother as a child. Now as an adult, she has enough money to pursue that dream and has bought a home in that small town and pursued renting a building for her shop.
Ellis is a young doctor in that small town who just so happens to be the current tenant of the house that Clara bought. Oops.
Through a series of unfortunate (but not really) events, they decide on a marriage of convenience in order to save their reputations and further their perceived credibility to the other residents of the town.
Intent on keeping the marriage purely platonic, their plans quickly go awry as they get to know each other and feelings start developing.
Clara is a sweet and strong woman who struggles with feeling like she is not enough. She is convinced that she must become a success in order to make her family proud of her.
Ellis is a sweet, funny, and caring man who has allowed himself to live a life of regularity. He was content in that until he met Clara.
Watching these two fall in love was very sweet and I’m glad they were able to overcome their challenges and grow even closer!
You should definitely pick up this story if you enjoy historical fiction romance in the Victorian era!
Thank you to the author for including me on her ARC team! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Content:
Clean kisses
No innuendo
No language
Clara is a young business woman intent of opening a gourmet ices shop in a little town she visited with her grandmother as a child. Now as an adult, she has enough money to pursue that dream and has bought a home in that small town and pursued renting a building for her shop.
Ellis is a young doctor in that small town who just so happens to be the current tenant of the house that Clara bought. Oops.
Through a series of unfortunate (but not really) events, they decide on a marriage of convenience in order to save their reputations and further their perceived credibility to the other residents of the town.
Intent on keeping the marriage purely platonic, their plans quickly go awry as they get to know each other and feelings start developing.
Clara is a sweet and strong woman who struggles with feeling like she is not enough. She is convinced that she must become a success in order to make her family proud of her.
Ellis is a sweet, funny, and caring man who has allowed himself to live a life of regularity. He was content in that until he met Clara.
Watching these two fall in love was very sweet and I’m glad they were able to overcome their challenges and grow even closer!
You should definitely pick up this story if you enjoy historical fiction romance in the Victorian era!
Thank you to the author for including me on her ARC team! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Content:
Clean kisses
No innuendo
No language
July 2, 2025
A delightful step into the Victorian era with a sweet romance and beautiful story in marriage of convenience.
This is my first foray into the author’s work but I find it quite enjoyable.
Comfortable prose, engaging style, and a well-developed plot about a woman-entrepreneur in a small British town in the late 1880s make it easy to spend time turning “one more page.”
The book is short (only 18 chapters) but explains the plot well and is perfect for an afternoon read. Little details of Victorian culture and life grab for attention but it is the development of friendship of Clara and Ellis to more when pressed for time that engage a reader the most. The Romance is sweet, and with a single POV one has an opportunity to see Clara’s heart desires and her longing for being valued by Ellis as well as her family for who she is. Besides, their meet-cute with a huge misunderstanding is so fun to read.
I love that it is the story with more mature characters, established in their careers, not typical debutant falling in love. And even the love story is more about them choosing to love, learning to trust, and overcoming scandals/differences/selfish interests.
A brownie point for the educational note about Victorian ices at the end.
I had a privilege to read an advanced copy and absolutely loved it! All opinions expressed are my own.
This is my first foray into the author’s work but I find it quite enjoyable.
Comfortable prose, engaging style, and a well-developed plot about a woman-entrepreneur in a small British town in the late 1880s make it easy to spend time turning “one more page.”
The book is short (only 18 chapters) but explains the plot well and is perfect for an afternoon read. Little details of Victorian culture and life grab for attention but it is the development of friendship of Clara and Ellis to more when pressed for time that engage a reader the most. The Romance is sweet, and with a single POV one has an opportunity to see Clara’s heart desires and her longing for being valued by Ellis as well as her family for who she is. Besides, their meet-cute with a huge misunderstanding is so fun to read.
I love that it is the story with more mature characters, established in their careers, not typical debutant falling in love. And even the love story is more about them choosing to love, learning to trust, and overcoming scandals/differences/selfish interests.
A brownie point for the educational note about Victorian ices at the end.
I had a privilege to read an advanced copy and absolutely loved it! All opinions expressed are my own.
June 30, 2025
I give this 4 1/2 Stars!
I want to start by saying I received an ARC of this book. This is a clean Victorian romance book and part of the series Victorians at the Beach. The main characters are Ellis and Clara. Ellis is a doctor and Clara is opening up a gourmet ices shop. When things get mixed up and word starts spreading Ellis and Clara agree to a marriage of convenience. Will they end up falling in love? How will their families react when they find out? Will her ices shop end up being a success? I loved Ellis from the beginning but it took me awhile to like Clara. Seeing how Ellis treated Clara and his family was amazing. I loved the side characters especially Ellis’s family. This is the first Victorian romance book I have read and the first book by this author I have read and it did not disappoint me. I would say more but this is a novella and I don’t want to spoil anything. Overall, this was a great book.
I want to start by saying I received an ARC of this book. This is a clean Victorian romance book and part of the series Victorians at the Beach. The main characters are Ellis and Clara. Ellis is a doctor and Clara is opening up a gourmet ices shop. When things get mixed up and word starts spreading Ellis and Clara agree to a marriage of convenience. Will they end up falling in love? How will their families react when they find out? Will her ices shop end up being a success? I loved Ellis from the beginning but it took me awhile to like Clara. Seeing how Ellis treated Clara and his family was amazing. I loved the side characters especially Ellis’s family. This is the first Victorian romance book I have read and the first book by this author I have read and it did not disappoint me. I would say more but this is a novella and I don’t want to spoil anything. Overall, this was a great book.
June 19, 2025
I was smiling and laughing while reading this one. Sweet Clara Ward is out to show her family that she can follow her dreams and thrive. I loved watching her being strong and independent and thinking everything was falling into place. Until an encounter with doctor Ellis Archibald throws everything out of balance! Hahaha! Such a delightfully funny meet cute! You're going to love it!
And now she has to either face ruin and scandal or go back and tell her family she didn't succeed. Not due to her own fault but this meet cute circumstance! I loved it! I loved watching her and Ellis trying to work together to make it the best outcome for her. And bam! We have a sweet marriage of convenience trope happening! One of my favorite tropes!
It was such a sweet story! I loved these two together and them building a friendship in their marriage. And of course we get to see their love story develop and unfold. It was deliciously sweet. Especially with all of the yummy talk of food and Victorian Ices! Yum!
This is the first book in the Victorians at the Beach series releasing throughout the summer. I'm so excited for all of these books! And I was super excited that Jill E. Warner had a new book releasing! I loved her debut novel and needed more from her!!!
Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing more.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
And now she has to either face ruin and scandal or go back and tell her family she didn't succeed. Not due to her own fault but this meet cute circumstance! I loved it! I loved watching her and Ellis trying to work together to make it the best outcome for her. And bam! We have a sweet marriage of convenience trope happening! One of my favorite tropes!
It was such a sweet story! I loved these two together and them building a friendship in their marriage. And of course we get to see their love story develop and unfold. It was deliciously sweet. Especially with all of the yummy talk of food and Victorian Ices! Yum!
This is the first book in the Victorians at the Beach series releasing throughout the summer. I'm so excited for all of these books! And I was super excited that Jill E. Warner had a new book releasing! I loved her debut novel and needed more from her!!!
Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing more.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
August 11, 2025
between Shores and SCANDALS
by: Jill E. Warner
@jillewarner
••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~Armed with an elite culinary education, a small inheritance, and the famed Mrs. Marshall’s recipes, Clara Ward is ready to open a gourmet ices shop that leaves the vacationers of Margate Beach talking. She didn’t anticipate feeding them a scandal... Or gaining a husband…
-between Shores and Seashells, is a delightful
charming quick story set in the 1800’s within the Victorian era. It is a sweet romance and beautiful story of marriage of convenience. This dear story is filled with lovable characters, intriguing historical details, and lovely themes of choosing to love, learning to trust, and overcoming scandals/differences/selfish interests. Watching dear characters be able connect, build friendship, take risks, and have desires of their hearts be reached was beautiful. Even more so, seeing dear characters be valued simply for who they are individually was heartwarming. The sparks of chemistry that came along the way was the cherry on top to this sweet story, worth reading!🩷📚✨
“Before you came in with your old dreams and chaotic emotions, I had settled for a staid life. You’ve reminded me what it is to live, to dream, to hope... But most of all, you’ve taught me how to love with a deeper part of my soul than I ever knew existed.”
•Content: no language, no violence, kisses only. Clean!
“Heaven help her, but she’d completely fallen in love with her husband.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Problems are normal. You’re intelligent and
hard-working. None of these Margate the type of woman you are.”
#betweenshoresandscandals
#jillewarner
“Now, take your indomitable spirit that got you through that school of yours and into a position where you are a woman of business and figure this sticky situation out.”
#allaboutthebestreads
“Most of all, what filled Clara’s heart the most was knowing that she, Clara Archibald, was
loved.”
by: Jill E. Warner
@jillewarner
••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~Armed with an elite culinary education, a small inheritance, and the famed Mrs. Marshall’s recipes, Clara Ward is ready to open a gourmet ices shop that leaves the vacationers of Margate Beach talking. She didn’t anticipate feeding them a scandal... Or gaining a husband…
-between Shores and Seashells, is a delightful
charming quick story set in the 1800’s within the Victorian era. It is a sweet romance and beautiful story of marriage of convenience. This dear story is filled with lovable characters, intriguing historical details, and lovely themes of choosing to love, learning to trust, and overcoming scandals/differences/selfish interests. Watching dear characters be able connect, build friendship, take risks, and have desires of their hearts be reached was beautiful. Even more so, seeing dear characters be valued simply for who they are individually was heartwarming. The sparks of chemistry that came along the way was the cherry on top to this sweet story, worth reading!🩷📚✨
“Before you came in with your old dreams and chaotic emotions, I had settled for a staid life. You’ve reminded me what it is to live, to dream, to hope... But most of all, you’ve taught me how to love with a deeper part of my soul than I ever knew existed.”
•Content: no language, no violence, kisses only. Clean!
“Heaven help her, but she’d completely fallen in love with her husband.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Problems are normal. You’re intelligent and
hard-working. None of these Margate the type of woman you are.”
#betweenshoresandscandals
#jillewarner
“Now, take your indomitable spirit that got you through that school of yours and into a position where you are a woman of business and figure this sticky situation out.”
#allaboutthebestreads
“Most of all, what filled Clara’s heart the most was knowing that she, Clara Archibald, was
loved.”
July 3, 2025
loved this story of Clara and Ellis and the marriage of convenience they find themselves in. I bet you have never read a unique circumstance of a marriage proposal like this one before; I know I hadn’t.
Ms. Warner did an excellent job with developing the plot and characters in this novella. With not as much opportunity with the length of the story many times this is not done, but I was happy to see this was not the case. Clara dealt with feelings of inadequacy, but Ellis comes right alongside her and shows her how precious she is to him and others.
Things you’ll enjoy:
Victorian era
ices shop
seaside
donkey ride
eyebrow waggling
flirting
ice caves
I highly recommend reading this marriage of convenience story that becomes a true match of love. You might want to grab a dish of ice cream too while you read. :) The blueberry ice that Clara made sounds amazing.
I received this complimentary copy of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Ms. Warner did an excellent job with developing the plot and characters in this novella. With not as much opportunity with the length of the story many times this is not done, but I was happy to see this was not the case. Clara dealt with feelings of inadequacy, but Ellis comes right alongside her and shows her how precious she is to him and others.
Things you’ll enjoy:
Victorian era
ices shop
seaside
donkey ride
eyebrow waggling
flirting
ice caves
I highly recommend reading this marriage of convenience story that becomes a true match of love. You might want to grab a dish of ice cream too while you read. :) The blueberry ice that Clara made sounds amazing.
I received this complimentary copy of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 23, 2025
Genre: Historical Romance, Victorian Romance, Sweet Romance, Proper Romance Kissing Only Romance
Spice Level: Kissing
BETWEEN SHORES AND SCANDALS plays with a marriage of convenience in a new way, and I smiled through all of it.
Clara is determined to open her shop, but her plans quickly go awry after meeting Ellis, a doctor, the morning after she arrived at the beach.
The set up and justification for the marriage of convenience is delightful. Period era things like ices, the beginnings of photography, and period morals all bring in the flavor of Victorian England. As Clara and Ellis try to naviagate this growing problem (the upcoming marriage), they have to figure out themselves and what they want for their lives. Throw in some family drama too!
I really like it when historical novels reflect the attitudes of the time. This novel does a great job at that. It could fit for a Christian audience too.
This one is a lot of fun—I highly recommend it!
Happy reading!
Spice Level: Kissing
BETWEEN SHORES AND SCANDALS plays with a marriage of convenience in a new way, and I smiled through all of it.
Clara is determined to open her shop, but her plans quickly go awry after meeting Ellis, a doctor, the morning after she arrived at the beach.
The set up and justification for the marriage of convenience is delightful. Period era things like ices, the beginnings of photography, and period morals all bring in the flavor of Victorian England. As Clara and Ellis try to naviagate this growing problem (the upcoming marriage), they have to figure out themselves and what they want for their lives. Throw in some family drama too!
I really like it when historical novels reflect the attitudes of the time. This novel does a great job at that. It could fit for a Christian audience too.
This one is a lot of fun—I highly recommend it!
Happy reading!
June 18, 2025
Between Shores and Scandals caught my interest because the idea of a Victorian Era beach read sounded like the perfect escape from the weirdly cold and rainy June we've been having this year. Clara Ward is a fun protagonist though completely unaware of the feelings of those around her. Though the ability to assume you know where everyone's head is at while being completely, hopelessly wrong is something I can relate to. I enjoyed getting to know Margate and feel that though we didnt spend much time with the other townspeople the world of the story felt lived in. I do feel like the solicitor in the story has quite a bit of explaining to do which I wish had been given a few pages. If you need a light on consequences big on feelings read this is a good option. It's also apart of a series Victorians at the Beach.
July 3, 2025
This story is filled with SO many super sweet moments! Clara has set off for her favorite home from childhood that she recently purchased where she spent summers with her grandmother. She's trained hard to be an accomplished ice maker (frozen treats) and plans on renting a shop front and starting her business.
But when she arrives, she's met with a very surprising and scandalous situation. She now shares a home with a man she's never met. But he's happy to save her reputation and my favorite historical romance trope featuring a "Marriage of Convenience" begins!
Clara and Ellis are adorable in their marriage / courtship and bring a ton of warm heart feelings as they both navigate their vulnerabilities. This was a sweet and fast read (only 155 pages) that's part of a series. I'll be reading the other ones soon and can't wait for more!
But when she arrives, she's met with a very surprising and scandalous situation. She now shares a home with a man she's never met. But he's happy to save her reputation and my favorite historical romance trope featuring a "Marriage of Convenience" begins!
Clara and Ellis are adorable in their marriage / courtship and bring a ton of warm heart feelings as they both navigate their vulnerabilities. This was a sweet and fast read (only 155 pages) that's part of a series. I'll be reading the other ones soon and can't wait for more!
July 2, 2025
This book is a fantastic, fun, quick, sweet romance read. Clara is finally making all her dreams come true by buying the beach house she used to go to with her grandmother and starting a new business selling ices on the beach (ices is Victorian word for ice cream). Unfortunately her solicitor fails to mention that the house she bought currently has a tenant so she walks right in and spends the night. In the morning she finds out that a bachelor lives in the house. She must either face scandal and give up on her dreams by moving to a new town or get married to the bachelor (Ellis). She begins to feel something for Ellis, her new husband, but does he reciprocate the feelings? This story is full of charm and heart. I very much enjoyed the book and the characters of Clara and Ellis.
June 12, 2025
This is a charming novella set in the Victorian era with some delightful period details and a very English style sea side feel. The characters are well portrayed and realistic and the romance is likewise well written and very sweet. It was great to see a slice of life for everyday people with hopes and dreams that didn't feel like modern day people with modern attitudes transplanted into another time. It was so easy to fall into this story and it remained wonderfully engaging throughout. A standout start to the Victorians at the Beach series.
I received an ARC and voluntarily leave an honest review.
I received an ARC and voluntarily leave an honest review.
June 30, 2025
I loved this zero spice Victorian era romance! I was hooked right from the beginning, and I really enjoyed the historical romance theme and the characters. The plot follows the mishaps of the two main characters, Miss Clara Ward and Mr. Ellis Archibald, starting from their accidental joint living and ending in a blooming relationship. The character growth and their budding relationship made for a very interesting and enjoyable read! I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a feel-good historical romance.
I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 21, 2025
The setting was so beautiful and atmospheric, I felt like I could smell the sea salt in the air! And it was giving me major Sanditon vibes for how I was picturing this little town.
Clara and Ellis were so sweet! I loved their first meeting, the picnic, the little things...it was all so beautiful!
They were two characters who really brought out the best in each other and made each other stronger and better. I also now have so much curiosity about Michael and Molly and how they came to be a couple!
This lovely romance has all the ingredients to a perfect love story: two fantastic leads, a marriage of convenience, seaside town, adorable families, ana charming neighbors!
Clara and Ellis were so sweet! I loved their first meeting, the picnic, the little things...it was all so beautiful!
They were two characters who really brought out the best in each other and made each other stronger and better. I also now have so much curiosity about Michael and Molly and how they came to be a couple!
This lovely romance has all the ingredients to a perfect love story: two fantastic leads, a marriage of convenience, seaside town, adorable families, ana charming neighbors!
July 30, 2025
I loved this novella by Jill Warner! It's a quick read that feels complete. But it will leave you wanting more!
I loved Clara. She's an independent woman getting ready to start her own business in Margate. She's taken care of all the details. Now the only thing left to do is to move into the home she bought and find a location for her shop. The only problem...she discovers that her new home is not occupant free. And she has to do something about the scandal of living with the town doctor.
I loved Ellis, too. He's the town doctor. And a genuinely good guy. It was so fun watching these two fall for each other a little at a time.
This is a quick read you won't want to end!
I loved Clara. She's an independent woman getting ready to start her own business in Margate. She's taken care of all the details. Now the only thing left to do is to move into the home she bought and find a location for her shop. The only problem...she discovers that her new home is not occupant free. And she has to do something about the scandal of living with the town doctor.
I loved Ellis, too. He's the town doctor. And a genuinely good guy. It was so fun watching these two fall for each other a little at a time.
This is a quick read you won't want to end!
June 30, 2025
My goodness. This story was so sweet and not just because there's a lot of ice cream. Clara and Ellis are so good for each other. I wished multiple times that we also had Ellis's POV, but I guess the end sort of makes up for that. I loved that Clara came to see that she was worthy of love just as she was. To paraphrase one of my favorite talks, worth isn't tied to our actions or accomplishments. It just is. Clara seems to have learned that lesson well, while also successfully accomplishing her dreams.
July 8, 2025
I liked this marriage of convenience story. For the length of this book, I loved the depth of these characters. I also loved being transported to another time and place. I thought the storytelling was well done. I also loved seeing the struggle that Clara had as she tried to decide if she could have her business and love. I loved how everything worked out in the end.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
September 7, 2025
What a cute novella by @jillewarner. I’ve been dying to read a book by her and this didn’t disappoint. Ellis is sweet and the most gentlemanly man there is. Clara is kind and hardworking as she wants to be a business woman herself. This marriage of convenience, only one bed, sweet romance is too cute. There’s teasing and kisses in the dark. You gotta read this one to journey with these two and how they navigate there new lives together. Thank you Jill for an early copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 30, 2025
This sweet Victorian novella was truly satisfying. The characters were realistic and I found myself relating to the MFC Clara the most. Clara is a witty, resilient, and headstrong young woman who finds herself in a difficult situation where marriage of convenience is the only solution. The romance between Clara and Ellis was swoon worthy and easily believable. I definitely recommend “Between Shores and Scandals” if you love independent heroines, quiet heros, and marriage of convenience.
July 7, 2025
Absolutely delighted by this Victorian novella from Jill E. Warner!
A delectable treat for a summer reading list; this novella not only taps into a more idealistic era, but also gives sight into a more overlooked aspect of the time period. Innovation during the Victorian era is expected, but rarely are the advances in food, technology in restaurants and food shops. Places like ice shops and candy parlors were opening up, selling stunning treats that have become legends.
A delectable treat for a summer reading list; this novella not only taps into a more idealistic era, but also gives sight into a more overlooked aspect of the time period. Innovation during the Victorian era is expected, but rarely are the advances in food, technology in restaurants and food shops. Places like ice shops and candy parlors were opening up, selling stunning treats that have become legends.
July 23, 2025
Clara is everything I wanted from a main character of a regency romance novel. She is motivated with the dream of opening her own ices shop. Ellis is supportive, which I love especially given the time period. The book used the marriage of convenience trope that turned into a slow-burn romance. With the beautiful setting of the sea, this book is perfect for historical romance lovers looking for a summer read.
June 12, 2025
This was a delightful read! The characters and their struggles are very relatable. It was fun to read a historical romance about ordinary people falling in love through every day experiences. I especially liked reading about a strong-minded, independent woman. And yes, I was very tempted to eat ice cream while reading (but not curry flavored).
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