The Secret Heart

Unmarriageable #6

by Mary Lancaster

Betrayal, temptation and an impossible love.

The final book in the Unmarriageable series...

Some suspect that Lily Villin is the true heart of the Hart Inn, a lucky house where love always seems to blossom, whatever the obstacles. But Lily has another secret. She is in love with an enigmatic nobleman, and no luck in the world can make such a marriage possible.

Randolph, Lord Torbridge, is a man of many secrets, in pursuit of a well-born traitor. But his visits to the Hart have increasingly less to do with his vital work than with the innkeeper's beautiful daughter—until he discovers her gift for mimicry and enrolls her in a dangerous masquerade to unmask the enemy.

Being with her brings temptations he struggles to resist, for he will not ruin her, and he cannot marry so far beneath his rank.

For once, it is not Lily's talents, but his own, which are needed for this love to blossom—along with a little luck and ingenuity.

Genres: Historical, Historical Romance, Romance, Historical Fiction

315 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 5, 2020

About the author

Mary Lancaster is a USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction and historical romance. She lives in Scotland with her husband, one of three grown-up kids, and a small dog with a big personality.

Her first literary love was historical fiction, a genre which she relishes mixing up with romance and adventure in her own writing. Several of her novels feature actual historical characters as diverse as Hungarian revolutionaries, medieval English outlaws, and a family of eternally rebellious royal Scots. To say nothing of Vlad the Impaler.
Her most recent books are light fun Regency romances, with occasional forays into Victorian mystery.

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Reviews

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5/5.0

The reader drops right into a fast-paced plot from the first pages, woven together with snappy dialogue and laced with humor.

Read full review in the 2020 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Elodie’s Reading Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Heart
The Unmarriageable Series #6
Mary Lancaster
https://www.facebook.com/MaryLancaste...
Release date 05/05/2020
Publisher Dragonblade Publishing

Blurb :

Betrayal, temptation and an impossible love.

Some suspect that Lily Villin is the true heart of the Hart Inn, a lucky house where love always seems to blossom, whatever the obstacles. But Lily has another secret. She is in love with an enigmatic nobleman, and no luck in the world can make such a marriage possible.

Randolph, Lord Torbridge, is a man of many secrets, in pursuit of a well-born traitor. But his visits to the Hart have increasingly less to do with his vital work than with the innkeeper’s beautiful daughter – until he discovers her gift for mimicry and enrolls her in a dangerous masquerade to unmask the enemy.

Being with her brings temptations he struggles to resist, for he will not ruin her and he cannot marry so far beneath his rank.

For once, it is not Lily’s talents but his own which are needed for this love to blossom – along with a little luck and ingenuity.

My review :

Will them working together be the beginning or the end of their duet ...

This is my second read by Mrs Mary Lancaster, my first having been the first in this series, so fun that this one will be the last book in it.

What a lovely read it was, words flow easily and smoothly. From the very beginning I was entranced by this tale. Such I devoured it in one sitting.
I just adored her main couple but also the side ones, and the secondary romance.

Lily is such a pleasure to learn about, she is easy to live with, she brings happiness in her wake. So much, Randolph was lost from the moment he set eyes upon her.
While Lily is the angel enlightening everyone’s life, Randolph lives in the shadows, impersonating a fleeting peer with few countenance. When he is so much more than what he let everyone see. And while he is good at what he does, Lily is one who slowly comes to read who he hides behind his carefully crafted appearance.
I loved both Lily and Randolph, despite their age difference, they are perfect for one another, as each enhances the other’s mood. And while they are engaged in a dangerous game of exposing a traitor, Randolph does not play all almighty lord, he listens to Lily’s thoughts and instincts. Able to recognize when he is in the wrong. And when it was at the beginning, only a time occasion to spend a bit more time together before they split and each goes to its own path; soon it becomes obvious their burgeoning attraction is more than what they thought. Up to them to see if they can flaunt conventions.

A special mention to Millie, Randolph’s sister, she is such a ray of light, giving the appearance that she is shallow when she is only hiding deep wounds.

5 very well deserved stars for this moving and full of actions read.
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher Dragonblade Publishing, here is my true and unbiased opinion.

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[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story had me gripped from the beginning. Lily, the innkeeper’s daughter was a very special person who seems to know things about others by instinct. She was very insightful. Torbridge was a bit of a mystery and Lily knew he had some connection with spies. Lily had been in love with Torbridge for a long time but he was a nobleman and as such nothing lasting could come of it. Torbridge, too was drawn to Lily. I enjoyed the part when Lily appeared amongst the ton and how Torbridge realises how deeply he felt for Lily. There are a number of dangerous situations and a traitor to discover, as well as what will happen to the relationship between Lily and Torbridge. This was a very entertaining read which moved along at a good pace.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some suspect that Lily Villin is the true heart of the Hart Inn, a lucky house where love always seems to blossom, whatever the obstacles. But Lily has another secret. She is in love with an enigmatic nobleman, and no luck in the world can make such a marriage possible. Randolph, Lord Torbridge, is a man of many secrets, in pursuit of a well-born traitor. But his visits to the Hart have increasingly less to do with his vital work than with the innkeeper's beautiful daughter—until he discovers her gift for mimicry and enrolls her in a dangerous masquerade to unmask the enemy.
This is the final book of this lovely series, I’ve only recently discovered the author & so glad I have as I'm devouring her books, they are so good. A well written page turning read with lovely characters who have plenty of depth, of course both Lily & Randolph have appeared in earlier books & I loved that Lily especially has her own story & I loved every word of it. A fun adventurous sigh worthy read which I highly recommend, just a word of warning don’t start it in the evening if you want to sleep - I made this mistake & finally got to sleep at nearly 4am
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romance, spies, wit, and an enigmatic hero all come together to make this a very enjoyable Regency novel. Lily has carried a torch for Lord Torbridge for years, having had an easy and comfortable relationship with him as a guest at her parent's inn. She knows him to be a brave hero and vanquisher of villains, but unlike most people, she finds him difficult to read. Thus, when he asks her to accompany him to London to assist him in going after a traitor, Lily jumps at the opportunity. As Lily becomes part of his family, her gift of being able to understand the needs of people brings healing and some surprises. The plot is interesting, keeping the reader involved with the characters throughout. I loved Randolph and Lily as well as their families and enjoyed the sub-plots interwoven in this story. I felt bereft when I came to the end of this novel and didn't want it to end. I received a copy of this book through NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Olga Godim · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
This was this author's version of Pygmalion. Some stories follow strange twists and turns in their long literary lives. Pygmalion is one of them: from the original Greek myth, through Bernard Shaw's excellent play (1912) and its many adaptations and retelling over the years, including the famous musical My Fair Lady - both stage and movie - towards, finally, this charming historical romance. Lovely, if totally unrealistic.

[Rose Blue · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars, as reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-1dZ

My first experience with reading a book by new-to-me author, Mary Lancaster, left me impressed with the smooth writing, and smiling at the sheer loveliness of the story.

Randolph “Dolph” Merrick, Viscount Torbridge, secretly works for the Crown. For years he’s hidden his true self by adopting the persona of just another frivolous aristocrat with no real substance. Inside, though, he’s a caring and dedicated man. He’s had many occasions to frequent the Hart Inn, where he has lost his own heart to the beautiful innkeeper’s daughter. Torbridge realizes there is no possibility of any future between them, and he’s gentleman enough to not want her ruin. So he treats her with courtesy and friendship, basking in her warmth, because he just can’t stay away.

Lily Villin’s heart beats faster every time Torbridge comes to the inn. She knows that her infatuation is hopeless, as he is so far above her socially. He never treats her as an inferior, and always listens to her. On his current visit, Torbridge overhears Lily mimic a society lady perfectly. Knowing that Lily has a strong intuition about people and situations, he begins to think her assistance could be a huge advantage in his next assignment. When Lily is eager to help, Torbridge faces the daunting task of getting her parents’ permission. By assuring them that Lily will be safely residing with his married sister, Millicent, and that all is above board, they reluctantly agree.

Lily becomes a guest at Millie’s home, pretending to be an impoverished relation. It’s necessary for Lily to have a new wardrobe, and have a crash course in manners, so that she’ll fit in at the house party where she’ll be assisting Torbridge with his assignment. Torbridge has always found Lily beautiful, but in her new finery, she is stunning. Her seamless entry into society makes him wonder – is there any possible way they could manage to have a life together?

I fell in love with THE SECRET HEART and its lead characters. The longing that Lily and Torbridge feel for each other just jumps off the pages at the reader. I felt so bad for Torbridge, for the part he had to play, and how he could never be his true self, except with Lily. There is also a lovely secondary romance, as Millie and her husband are in the midst of a bleak period in their marriage. The assignment itself presents some danger, and I really would have liked to see a harsher punishment for the villain, as I feel he got off very lightly for all his crimes. The respect that Torbridge shows for Lily’s opinions indicates how highly he regards her intelligence, and her compassion when he faces a family crisis shows what a genuinely caring and empathetic person she is. I love how Torbridge came to the realization that he has to find a way to have Lily as his wife, a way that will not allow her to be looked down upon. I greatly enjoyed THE SECRET HEART, and Mary Lancaster’s writing. If you enjoy a book where the romance is the star, and the characters are wonderful, I highly recommend reading this book. I know that I’ll be checking out her future books, as well as her backlist.

(Note: This book is listed as part of the UNMARRIAGEABLE series. While previous characters make appearances here, I had no problem reading this book as a standalone.)

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secret Heart by Mary Lancaster is the latest in the Unmarriageable series by this author. Lily is the daughter of the proprietors of the notorious Hart Inn, which has figured prominently in this series. It is a special place and she is a special woman. One of her long time customers is a handsome man in his middle thirties: Lord Torbridge. He is a good customer, been their guest many times. This times he asks a special favor of her: to become a spy for him; he wants her to attract a certain young man and listen for information. He will disguise her as a cousin from Ireland who has recently lost her family and he will house her with his sister in London. Her parents are adamantly against it; she is just as adamantly for it. She has never been anywhere, seen anything, and now is her chance. She trusts Torbridge. So off she goes on her adventure.

This series matches people with one another who would never normally come in contact with one another. It has spawned successful marriages. Lily is realistic. She loves him but knows it can never be. He pretty much feels the same way. Different classes, different lives. He is a good man who would never hurt Lily. It is a good story. A really interesting subplot is the one between Torbridge's sister and her husband. Lily interferes just the tiniest bit and sets things aright. Other things happen, astonishing things. Maybe it's Lily who has the magic touch, not the Hart. Good story, good characters, good book. I recommend it.

I received a free ARC of the Secret Heart from Dragonblade in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own.

[Kiley · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secret Heart, the 6th book in the Unmarriageable series, was about Miss Lily Villin, the daughter of the couple who owned the Hart Inn, and Lord Randolph "Dolph" Merrick, the Viscount Torbridge, and soon-to-be the Marquess of Hay.
Ever since meeting Lily on the night that Lord Verne (The Sinister Hart, Book 2 of the series) was shot, Randolph had been constantly drawn back to the Hart Inn. Unable to resist the pull of Lily, from whom he drew comfort just by being in her presence, he found himself making trip after trip from London just to see her, even though he knew nothing could ever come of it due to their differences in class rank.
Lily, the real secret to the Hart Inn, had the inane ability to put everyone at ease, no matter the situation in which they found themselves, and to read them. She also had the incredible ability to mimic the various people she has met along the way.
Because of Lily's ability to mimic people, Randolph asked for her help in retrieving information for the Crown. Reluctantly, her parents allowed her to travel with him to London, with the understanding it was only a temporary situation and that Lily would be kept safe and eventually returned home.
From this point on, the story became a little too "My Fair Lady"...with a twist of spy instead of a bet. Ensconced as Randolph's sister's companion, and their Irish Cousin, Lily had to undergo a massive change, starting with the way she spoke and then to her rough, chapped hands that needed to become more "lady-like" soft. Then she had to get a new wardrobe, a haircut...all the trappings of a real "Lady".
The longer the story droned on, the more frustrating it became. Torbridge's use of Lily began to pall and the fact that his sister and brother-in-law were at odds with each other (and that Torbridge was probably using Lily to try and salvage their marriage) was almost more than any reader could handle, especially as it was just another added twist to the already confounding storyline of potential spy/traitor plot.
The angst was extraordinarily high, as was the drama, for what was supposed to be a romance novel. It felt more like a mystery/intrigue novel than about love since the two main characters were rarely in each other's company. There was more humor in this book than most of the other books in the series, which was definitely needed to alleviate the heaviness of the story. There was also the added mystery about Lily as well. It was hinted at from the beginning of the story but only touched here and there throughout the book.
Despite being a tad bit drawn-out, the book was actually well-written. With all the twists and turns, the intrigue was enough to keep the reader wondering what in the world would happen next. It was an excellent way to end the series (yes, I know there is one more very tiny short story, but this was purported to be the "final book" LOL). It still doesn't rate a five-star rating, but that was due to the meandering it did and a bit to the fluff that was totally unnecessary.

[MrsMascara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just adore the way Mary Lancaster writes, and I especially love her earlier work, the Vienna series, and her historical fiction, which are slightly more involved and detailed. I have also enjoyed her Blackhaven Brides series and this unmarrigable series. This series has been connected by the Hart inn, it proprietors the Villins, and their lovely and very intuitive, almost fey daughter Lily. She serves and looks after visitors to the inn, and has had a hand in introducing or facilitating many of the love stories in the first 5 books.

Lord Toringdon, Randolph has lots of secrets and pretends to be a bluff, vague and dull peer, but he is actually on the hunt to uncover spies and traitors, he finally has to confess to himself that his many visits to the Hart are not only about spying, but also so he can see Lily. Unbeknownst to him Lily is very keen on him too, but realises theory can never be because of their differing classes.

He decides to ask LIly to help him get closer to one of his suspects by posing as his Irish cousin, and becoming companion to his sister Millie in London.

As Lily gets to know his family, they come to rely on her more and more, and Lily and Dolph fall in love, when one of Lily’s possessions uncovers that Lily’s background is different than it appears, can they both uncover the plot and get their HEA.

I really loved this one for the quality of the writing as always, the sure touch of lightness but with depth and maturity, the lovely characters who are imperfect and believable, and the charming love story.

I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and all opinions are my own.

[🦉Maggie Whitworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
💋💋

The Tales Of all those Unmarriagable’s who found their HEA ‘s at the Harts Inn , finally comes to a close with Lily and Randolph’s story .

This is such a tender story , one that leaves you breathless, and has you devouring every page in quick succession.

Lily Villin has been at the heart of every story , every perfect match, she’s a servant along with her parents ,the owners of the Inn.
As couples come to stay, somehow they end up , married.
Is it Lily or the Inn that is gifted?

Randolph Merrick Viscount Torbridge has been in other books, in this he returns to see Lily though he hardly admits it to himself, knowing their positions in society prevent them from being together , he can’t stop his feelings , what he doesn’t expect is that she feels the same.

When he takes her to London to help catch a traitor the stakes get high , and the result could be lives lost especially their own if they aren’t careful.

Tense, emotional, beautiful story of love , devotion and the meeting of hearts that refuse to adhere to social boundaries.

I adored every page of this book and series.
Mary alway writes brilliant stories, this is another , a must read.
Outstanding book!! Outstanding author!!

I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review

[Jeanie's Kindle · Rating 3 out of 5]

The finale in the unmarriageable series finds sweet innkeeper's daughter Lily the main character. She has been sprinkled through each of the previous novels, this time she takes the lead. There has always been that one customer that set her heart aflutter. Lord Torrbridge, the future Lord Hay he was always special to her and often came to Hart Inn. As it turns out he found peace and tranquility in Lily's presence. His father was dying and although he had never been close to his parents, it meant a change in his responsibilities and status. One he was not thrilled with the lifestyle change. He would now need to take a wife and move into the family home and settle down. Finding a suitable bride was difficult in that you had to find someone not only to have your children, but to carry on a conversation with and enjoy their company for a lifetime.
Lily was bright, articulate, educated but the innkeepers daughter. Her social status kept her from the realm of possibilities for any member of the ton. Torrbridge needed Lily for a quest in London and introduced her as his sister's companion and long lost Irish cousin into London society. Together they were able to track down who was selling information to the French.

[SH · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘The Secret Heart’ is the last book in the Unmarriageable series and it is sad to see the end of this series. Lily Villin is considered by Randolph, Lord Torbridge, to be the true heart of the Hart Inn, where Lily lives with her parents, who own the inn. However, despite the notion that love always blossoms at the inn, Lily is in love with Randolph, a fact that he is unaware of, or is he really immune to her charms. Randolph seeks Lily’s help to help him uncover an enemy of the country. Yet despite their differences in social standing, their feelings are hard to hide.
This was such a lovely story and I must admit that when a book catches me in the first few pages as it did with this book, I knew that this was going to be a memorable read. The characters of Lily and Randolph were hard not to fall in love with, but I also enjoyed Randolph’s sister, Millie, who plays an integral role in such a captivating story line. Just when I thought I had this story worked out, this book had an interesting twist. A great read and I so look forward to a new series by this talented author.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly wonderful series that has been so enjoyable comes to an end, but with the best yet.
The Harts Inn has brought many couples together and now it is Lily's turn, who has been part of every story and what a heartwarming story it is!
Lily's parents own the Inn and she has been serving all the people that come to stay. Something magical happens as matches are made and couples come together to be married. We have been left to wonder how this magic happens. Could it be the Inn itself or Lily?
Randolf, Viscount Torbridge has stayed at the Inn many times. He cannot help his attraction to Lily, but their stations are so different. Working for the Crown he is trying to catch a traitor and realizes Lily has a gift that can help him!
As the two are brought together, what will happen? An adventurous journey to find their happy ever after with visits of other's who have been in some of the earlier stories.
Mary Lancaster is one of my go to author's and have loved all of her fabulous stories. Don't miss this one or the entire series if you haven't read them. You will thank me!

[Carole Burant · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so enjoyed this wonderful and exciting story with quite a few twists and turns that will keep you on your toes!! Mary Lancaster has such a delightful way of writing and you can't help but fall in love with her characters, even her secondary characters!!

Lily may just be the innkeeper's daughter but her personality is so warm and loving and with love matches being made at the inn, she is known as the heart of the Hart inn:) Randolph is a guest who comes often at the inn and Lily has fallen head over heels in love with him but dares not say anything as she's so beneath his station and knows there's no chance for them. When Randolph asks for her help, she doesn't even think twice about it! Thus starts an adventure in London that is filled with danger, secrets and threats. It's a slow burn romance between them but oh, how your heart aches for them, wondering if nothing will come of it. This is where the twists and turns come in:)

I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Amy Alvis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Randolf has always enjoyed his stays at the Hart Inn, mostly because of Lily. Because of their different stations in life, he has kept his feelings to himself. When Lily shows a gift for mimicry, Randolf decides to ask her to help him with a mission.

Lily has been hiding a secret love for Randolf for years. When he asks her to help him, she says yes if only to be able to spend time with him. She never imagined it would change her life...

What will happen when these two finally admit their feelings for one another?

This is my first book by Lancaster and I will definitely be back for more! I really enjoyed watching Randolph and Lily finding their HEA. I loved how Lily was able to read others and how it allowed her to see beyond what Randolph showed the rest of the world to see the man he truly was.

I really enjoyed reading this story and the tidbits about the other stories in the series have me chomping at the bit to read those too!

[Barbara Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

The final book in the series of the Unmarriageable Characters that seem to find their way to The Hart Inn. Known as the lucky house due to the number of guests that have found love that blooms there, regardless of their difficulties. However, at the center of the wonderful events is, Lily, the daughter of the owners. Lily has many talents that are uncommon to a persons without society privilege. Lily also has a secret that she keeps to herself, as she is in love with Randolph, Lord Torbridge. But Randolph has secrets of his own, as he is seeking a well-born traitor. I have enjoyed each of these wonderful tales of the Hart Inn and find that I will miss not having more adventures to read. Thank you, Mary Lancaster, for a wonderful adventure. Each book is a definite pleasure to read and enjoy.

[Debbie Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

We’ve seen Lily Villin is the true heart of the Hart Inn where love always seems to blossom no matter whatever the obstacles. She’s always had a tender for Randolph, Lord Torbridge, is a man of many secrets. When he realizes she’s can mimic ladies of the ton he enlists her help to find a well-born traitor. Torbridge has always felt something for Lily, but he’s known he can’t marry below his station or can he? He takes Lily to his sister’s home and from there the investigation begins. I love these two, their attraction is mutual and Lily knows must give into these feelings or she’ll be ruined, but it gets complicated when they are thrown together every day. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily reviewed it and the comments are my own.

[Sandra Standefer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lord Randolph Torbridge has many reasons for going to the Hart, but the main one is to see Lily Villin. Lily is secretly in love with Randolph but knows he is way above her class. When Lord Torbridge asks Lily to step into his world and use her particular skills to help find a traitor Lily can’t resist. Thrust into Lord Torbridge’s world is like a dream to Lily, but her love for Lord Torbridge grows and so does his feelings for her. Caught up in a world she can’t stay in Lily knows what is inevitable. Randolph has fallen hard and will fight for Lily but can he find out the truth to make her his. Another wonderful story from the Hart! Definitely a special series and I have loved them all. If you get a chance definitely read any of the series and fall I love with theme to!

[Linda J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes, these can be a stand alone, but you will enjoy each one. This maybe my favorite. The character's seem to come to life that I felt I was part of the plot to capture the villains.

This couple had a connection from the beginning and it lasted til the last page. There is romance that builds slowly and just a tad of spice, within marriage. Heat level 1.5 out of 5.

There is suspense, intrigue, twists, secrets revealed plus romance - perfect.

My heart went out to the H's sister and her husband. You understood how they came to be living as they did. This added to the story. I especially loved the epilogue 4 months in the future. Tied everything in a nice bow!

No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance and tad of spice. I recommend this story, series and author. (ljb)

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Heart by Mary Lancaster is book 6 in the Unmarriageable Series. This is the story of Randolf Merrick, Viscount Torbridge and Lily Villin. I haven't yet read the previous books in this series, so for me this was a standalone book. Randolf secretly works for the Crown which leads him to be at the Hart Inn a few times. There Lily works and is the daughter of the Inn's keeper. Randolf finds that he needs Lily's help she agrees to help him because she is secretly in love with him. Know that she can't be anything more because of their different stations in life they both seem to use the chance to be closer. But maybe the rumor of the Hart's Inn being lucky might have some luck for them? Enjoyed their story.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

FINDING A TRAITOR
Randolph Merrick, Lord Torbridge, is looking for a traitor. Documents from the Foreign Office to France, including correspondence between Wellington and foreign leaders is missing. The Hart Inn is considered a lucky house and the one woman who draws his attention is the owner's daughter, Lily. Her gift of mimicking other people gives him an idea on how to draw out a traitor. Lily's life takes a major turn in playing a role to help the man she loves. Maybe their stations are far apart, but Torbridge is determined to find a way for them to be together.
A favorite trope with very likeable characters. I love when Lily and Torbridge are together. Interesting conversations and passion.

[Elizabeth S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lord Torbridge, who had hoped to court Lady Cecily in Book 2, and who turned out to be a spy-chaser, has been much in contact with Lily, the innkeeper Mr. Villin's daughter at the Hart Inn. He was such a kind and appealing character that Lady Cecily was very sad about breaking his heart. I anticipated that he would get his own chance at a HEA. The dilemma is that, in spite of their mutual attraction, a Lord cannot possibly marry a serving girl from the inn. But Lily gives him peace when everything else in his life is a secretive struggle with little relief.

This may be my favorite of the series so far, although I love them all. I just fly through these stories, and they're over before I know what hit me.

[Petula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lilly Villin is the daughter of an innkeeper.  The Hart Inn is well known in some circles and has a reputation as a lucky place.  Several unusual couples have found love there.  

The patrons come from all walks of life.  

One regular is Randolf Merrick, Viscount Torbridge.  He secretly works for the Crown and is trying to catch a traitor.  Coming to The Hart has always brought him peace.  Or is it just the lovely Lily?? 

An idea comes to him that maybe she can help him with his task.  

This is lots of fun and a great adventure for our heroine.  There are lots of fabulous characters , some of whom you will have met in previous books.  The unexpected happens a lot.  

Great fun.  

[Alicia Marsland · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well-written and fun

Still, I’m getting a little tired of the formula that everybody has to turn out to be noble so that they can Mary into the nobility and decorate a palace. At least, for once, the heroine did not get kidnapped. Also, it isn’t really historically accurate for God to always be on the fringes, (sometimes sure, because that’s how we humans treat Him) but in times of crisis it isn’t really realistic, especially for the regular church goers of the day. Darwin, even 50 years later, still had lots of detractors with very good points and hadn’t won even in academia.

[Janet Denise Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 STARS, EXCELLENT END TO THIS SERIES FOR NOW


Mary Lancaster earned 5 STARS for Book 6 of this very enticing & mysterious series. Great characters that some popped up in more than 1 book & always were usually enjoyed. This was full of emotions & action packed something that M.L. is a master at or becoming one!

I hated for it to end because I will miss visiting the Hart Inn & all of the different characters I met connected with it. Here's hoping Mary Lancaster has something new or it will be a dry season on exciting characters in this time period.

RECOMMENDED

[N Dent · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hart is a Lucky House

The final book is the best! It brings back all the characters that have fallen in love at the Hart Inn. We have always known that Lilly is the “heart” of the Hart Inn. Lilly has fallen for a nobleman way above her rank and no luck will come of this. Lord Trobridge is a man of secrets and his biggest is loving Lilly. Spies, lies, adventures and love will not let rank matter. Of course, a little luck can’t hurt either.

[Sandie Tangen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Perfect Ending to this Series

Truly, the best was left to last, and that's saying something because I've loved every book in this series. I reached the end laughing and with tears in my eyes. A wonderful author who creates brilliant characters and exciting storylines. I can see me coming back to this series, but not until I've finished reading all of Mary Lancaster's other books.

[Cindy Woltman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful

Mary Lancaster has given us the delightful, intriguing story of Dolph and Lily. Unknown to most, Lord Torbridge (Dolph) worked for the crown. He elicits Lily’s help in tracking down a traitor. In the process he realizes his love for Lily. She has always loved him! Tying together all the lives and loves who had their start at the Hart was masterfully done.

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful series

This series is excellent just like the Blackhaven brides. Lily has so much to overcome to marry the one man she loves, Torbridge. Their love finishes up the many loves started at or around the Hart, Lily’s family inn. Great read for a rainy day. Mary Lancaster weaves a story better than many historical authors.