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Otherwise Engaged
Constantly stifled by the rules of Society, spirited Rebecca Rowley enjoys finding ways to quietly—or not so quietly—rebel. But riding bareback and avoiding nosy neighbors are nothing compared to the thrilling secret she is keeping from her family.
When Rebecca’s quick thinking saves the life of a young girl, she unwittingly attracts the attention of the child’s dashing brother, Lieutenant Nicholas Avery. As that attention turns flirtatious, Rebecca is forced to tell him the she is secretly engaged—to the one man her family would never approve of. Fortunately, Lieutenant Avery is a navy man with no wish to marry, or so they both assume as they enter into a friendship. Rebecca hopes to change her family’s mind about her betrothed, but the more she comes to know the handsome lieutenant, the more she wonders if she promised her hand too hastily.
After all her carefully laid plans are shattered during a family crisis, Rebecca must force her heart to decide. Should she stay true to the promise she made or fight for the future she’s only just begun to imagine?
When Rebecca’s quick thinking saves the life of a young girl, she unwittingly attracts the attention of the child’s dashing brother, Lieutenant Nicholas Avery. As that attention turns flirtatious, Rebecca is forced to tell him the she is secretly engaged—to the one man her family would never approve of. Fortunately, Lieutenant Avery is a navy man with no wish to marry, or so they both assume as they enter into a friendship. Rebecca hopes to change her family’s mind about her betrothed, but the more she comes to know the handsome lieutenant, the more she wonders if she promised her hand too hastily.
After all her carefully laid plans are shattered during a family crisis, Rebecca must force her heart to decide. Should she stay true to the promise she made or fight for the future she’s only just begun to imagine?
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2020
122 people are currently reading
3723 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Barker
14 books1,294 followersJoanna Barker firmly believes that romance makes everything better, which is why she has fallen in love with writing Regency romances. When she’s not typing away on her next book, you’ll find her listening to podcasts, eating her secret stash of chocolate, or adding things to her Amazon cart. Joanna thinks being an author is the second-best job in the world—right after being a mom. She is just a little crazy about her husband and three wild-but-lovable kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 652 reviews
May 5, 2024
You know when you start reading and think: this is going to be my first 5 stars of the year.
Then you realized the characters are rather bland and you have already read them before, and that scene, and that one too, and everything in the plot is always so convenient, and the dialogues are so perfect they seem like someone spent hours thinking about the ideal thing to say - which is true, but you know. Then you pray -despite being atheist- for the ending to not be that convenient too. And it is. Everyone gets their HEA -except for you.
In defense of the book, every scene was entertaining and it was a good read if you are looking for a light and fluffy romance. I just wanted something real, different. Something with more deph that surprised me. Have I read so many romance books that I already know all the characters, plot devices and scenes?
Then you realized the characters are rather bland and you have already read them before, and that scene, and that one too, and everything in the plot is always so convenient, and the dialogues are so perfect they seem like someone spent hours thinking about the ideal thing to say - which is true, but you know. Then you pray -despite being atheist- for the ending to not be that convenient too. And it is. Everyone gets their HEA -except for you.
In defense of the book, every scene was entertaining and it was a good read if you are looking for a light and fluffy romance. I just wanted something real, different. Something with more deph that surprised me. Have I read so many romance books that I already know all the characters, plot devices and scenes?
August 19, 2020
This book was absolutely charming! I'm torn between what I loved most: The author's writing voice or that perfect, swoony first kiss scene. :) I love books where I'm able to just immediately settle in to the story and the characters and that was this one to a T. A perfect summer evening read on the patio with just the right mix of humor and romance.
September 17, 2020
I just love when a book engages my interest from the very beginning and doesn't let go. That's what this book was- engaging and interesting. The characters were enjoyable and the plot was layered. Oh, and isn't the cover pretty?
Rebecca is a fun character. She longs for adventure and freedom. Yes, she is a bit on the obstinate side but she is kind and never tries to purposely hurt anyone. I loved her passionate side and how much she loved riding her horse- fast! Her family is protective of her but they recognize her zest for riding and try not to stifle her too much. If only they knew . . .
The first meeting between Nicholas and Rebecca was a good one. Think of a good dousing in a lake. I love how although things between Nicholas and Rebecca start out a bit rocky, their friendship is genuine and grows in a lovely, natural way. Because they are both great characters, it was easy to love them both.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The ending was dramatic and romantic. The epilogue was just what my heart wanted to seal the deal.
Content: kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Rebecca is a fun character. She longs for adventure and freedom. Yes, she is a bit on the obstinate side but she is kind and never tries to purposely hurt anyone. I loved her passionate side and how much she loved riding her horse- fast! Her family is protective of her but they recognize her zest for riding and try not to stifle her too much. If only they knew . . .
The first meeting between Nicholas and Rebecca was a good one. Think of a good dousing in a lake. I love how although things between Nicholas and Rebecca start out a bit rocky, their friendship is genuine and grows in a lovely, natural way. Because they are both great characters, it was easy to love them both.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The ending was dramatic and romantic. The epilogue was just what my heart wanted to seal the deal.
Content: kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 27, 2020
Delightful Regency novel! This is my second Joanna Barker novel and will certainly not be my last.
Rebecca Rowley is a bit of a free spirit and enjoys activities such as bareback horse riding that would be frowned upon by most of her contemporaries. In that vein, she becomes engaged to the son of a man that is disliked by her family. The engagement is kept a secret and she is separated from her fiance geographically while Rebecca works out how to share the news with her family.
Meanwhile, a newcomer to the area where Rebecca resides, Lieutenant Nicolas Avery, sees right through her various escapades and the two become close friends. Rebecca also befriends his young sister Olivia. The chemistry and banter between Rebecca and Nicolas is phenomenal.
My gratitude to publisher Covenant Communications for a NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.
Rebecca Rowley is a bit of a free spirit and enjoys activities such as bareback horse riding that would be frowned upon by most of her contemporaries. In that vein, she becomes engaged to the son of a man that is disliked by her family. The engagement is kept a secret and she is separated from her fiance geographically while Rebecca works out how to share the news with her family.
Meanwhile, a newcomer to the area where Rebecca resides, Lieutenant Nicolas Avery, sees right through her various escapades and the two become close friends. Rebecca also befriends his young sister Olivia. The chemistry and banter between Rebecca and Nicolas is phenomenal.
My gratitude to publisher Covenant Communications for a NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.
June 12, 2020
Oh my goodness, I absolutely fell in love with these characters. Rebecca Rowley is engaging and full of life. Lieutenant Avery is perfect in every single way a man of the time should be (although I don't know how to spell lieutenant, so he does have that strike against him I suppose -thank you spell-check. But I promise in every other way he is dreamy.) If you have been following Joanna's books up to this point you are going to absolutely adore this one. If not... well... now would be a great time to start.
October 16, 2020
Yes. Yes. And Yes. I am happy to say that this book is definitely Joanna Barkers best work (and I’ve really liked everything she’s put out thus far)
I was romanced thoroughly as I followed Rebecca and Lieutenant Averys tumultuous yet deliciously beautiful relationship. I was turning pages late into the night...losing much needed hours of sleep but not finding it in myself to care. Great romantic tension, kissing scenes, and character development all rolled up into one charming book that is now a favorite.
Rebecca has a fiery spirit and a stubborn nature...always looking for the next thrill. When she engages herself to a man she clearly knows will not be accepted by her family...her troubles only start from there. After a life changing event her mind isn’t so set and clear as it used to be and maybe that’s because someone else has started to sneak his way into her heart. And yes, he is in fact every bit as dreamy as you would expect him to be. Not only because of who he is, but how he makes Rebecca feel about herself.
Read it. Put it on your Christmas list, your birthday list or just treat yourself to a new book because if you adore a proper romance like I do....this is for you.
I was romanced thoroughly as I followed Rebecca and Lieutenant Averys tumultuous yet deliciously beautiful relationship. I was turning pages late into the night...losing much needed hours of sleep but not finding it in myself to care. Great romantic tension, kissing scenes, and character development all rolled up into one charming book that is now a favorite.
Rebecca has a fiery spirit and a stubborn nature...always looking for the next thrill. When she engages herself to a man she clearly knows will not be accepted by her family...her troubles only start from there. After a life changing event her mind isn’t so set and clear as it used to be and maybe that’s because someone else has started to sneak his way into her heart. And yes, he is in fact every bit as dreamy as you would expect him to be. Not only because of who he is, but how he makes Rebecca feel about herself.
Read it. Put it on your Christmas list, your birthday list or just treat yourself to a new book because if you adore a proper romance like I do....this is for you.
February 4, 2021
4 they-only-kissed-in-this stars!
Something is wrong with me. Why the hell did I like this so much? It's a clean historical romance, dammit. I always need my daily dose of smut. Gaahhhhhhhh
Anyhow, it was pretty amazing if I dare say so. I was so ready to hate-read this because you know, she was engaged to another man while getting to know the hero... So I expected some angsty shit. Oh no. The way the author did it was flawless and now, I'm grudgingly wanting to read more books by this author (grudgingly because they are too clean for my taste 😛).
But it was soooo gooddddd. I may have fallen into my spell and again shed a tear in the end. Oh god, how it was so good. The way it progressed. The slow burn. The loving family. The banter. So good.
Something is wrong with me. Why the hell did I like this so much? It's a clean historical romance, dammit. I always need my daily dose of smut. Gaahhhhhhhh
Anyhow, it was pretty amazing if I dare say so. I was so ready to hate-read this because you know, she was engaged to another man while getting to know the hero... So I expected some angsty shit. Oh no. The way the author did it was flawless and now, I'm grudgingly wanting to read more books by this author (grudgingly because they are too clean for my taste 😛).
But it was soooo gooddddd. I may have fallen into my spell and again shed a tear in the end. Oh god, how it was so good. The way it progressed. The slow burn. The loving family. The banter. So good.
October 13, 2020
This book was such a delight to read! I was torn between wanting to slowly read and savor every moment, or rush as fast as I could and devour it all. Tough decision. In the end I was middle ground and thoroughly enjoyed the story.
Rebecca was such a well written and developed character. Her spunk was fun. I was laughing multiple times over her antics. And then on the other hand I loved watching her interacting with her family, neighbors and friends and seeing the kindness and love she offered them. She's trying to discover some family secrets and this causes her to sneak behind her mother and brother's backs. There are some consequences that happen from her doing this. But the growth she has to go through leaves her a better person than she was before.
And Nicholas. Oh, Nicholas. The first meeting he has with Rebecca...hysterical, embarrassing, and a whole myriad of other words. You're gonna love it! Not only that meeting but the next meeting, and the next and the next. Ha! They were all so very enjoyable. There's a bit of a misunderstanding between them, one that she thinks he understood and one that he doesn't fully understand. It's a perfect little storm by the end. And it creates some heart wrenching moments and uncertainty and some big self discovery.
Get ready for lakes, hats, horses, family time, secret escapades, shooting pistols, sudden surprises, friendship, secret notes, humor and sweet, sweet romance. *happy sigh*
This is up there as one of my top favorite Regency stories. Loved it a lot. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did if you take the chance to read it.
Content: Clean. Just kissing and nothing further.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Rebecca was such a well written and developed character. Her spunk was fun. I was laughing multiple times over her antics. And then on the other hand I loved watching her interacting with her family, neighbors and friends and seeing the kindness and love she offered them. She's trying to discover some family secrets and this causes her to sneak behind her mother and brother's backs. There are some consequences that happen from her doing this. But the growth she has to go through leaves her a better person than she was before.
And Nicholas. Oh, Nicholas. The first meeting he has with Rebecca...hysterical, embarrassing, and a whole myriad of other words. You're gonna love it! Not only that meeting but the next meeting, and the next and the next. Ha! They were all so very enjoyable. There's a bit of a misunderstanding between them, one that she thinks he understood and one that he doesn't fully understand. It's a perfect little storm by the end. And it creates some heart wrenching moments and uncertainty and some big self discovery.
Get ready for lakes, hats, horses, family time, secret escapades, shooting pistols, sudden surprises, friendship, secret notes, humor and sweet, sweet romance. *happy sigh*
This is up there as one of my top favorite Regency stories. Loved it a lot. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did if you take the chance to read it.
Content: Clean. Just kissing and nothing further.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
December 24, 2020
Barker is an auto-buy author for me. In fact, I don't even read the back blurb anymore; I just drive right into whatever world she has created with full confidence that she will deliver something magical. This book did not disappoint. The characters, the setting, the swoon. Sigh. I highly recommend this delightful book!
September 25, 2020
This was so well done. Normally I do not really go for the whole 'I already have someone but I am going to accidentally fall in love with someone else" idea. The woman or man come off fickle and messy. This worked and it worked because Barker got you so into her head and thoughts that you completely understood this girl and all her choices. It was so well done and very character driven. I really enjoyed this heroine. I understood her and her motivations. I liked her spirit and dang I liked how they fell in love. I normally like a lot more tension but this was so well done and felt so real I loved it. I hope Olivia gets her story next:} I would love to see her fall in love:}
January 6, 2021
Joanna Barker is one of my favorite Regency authors. I fell in love with her work after I read her debut, The Truth About Miss Ashbourne. From the moment I read it I eagerly awaited Rebecca’s love story and am so happy to finally have it in my hands.
Otherwise Engaged was a pure delight to read. Not only is the premise of falling in love with a man whom she believes to only be a friend when secretly engaged to another her family doesn’t approve of thoroughly intriguing, but Rebecca herself was a very fun and spunky character, with such spirit and a thoroughly engaging narrative voice, and it was delightful watching the story unfold through her eyes.
Nicholas was also a wonderful character; I adored him, especially he and Rebecca together. Their relationship starts off rocky but quickly blossoms into a wonderful friendship…one that quickly spirals out of control as Rebecca tries to remain faithful to her fiancé while sorting out her feelings for her dear neighbor.
From the first page the story’s premise was intriguing, the characters endearing, and the plot that unfolded thoroughly engaging. I loved watching the romance develop, reading all of the flirting and witty banter, and seeing Rebecca and Nicholas come together as Rebecca learns the meaning of real, lasting love. All their interactions were so enjoyable and had me smiling the entire way through. I also really enjoyed the appearances from Juliana and William, and loved how everything was resolved, especially between her and Edward.
Overall, Otherwise Engaged is a delightful and beautiful Regency romance, perhaps my new favorite from Joanna Barker. I enjoyed it immensely and already can’t wait to reread it.
Otherwise Engaged was a pure delight to read. Not only is the premise of falling in love with a man whom she believes to only be a friend when secretly engaged to another her family doesn’t approve of thoroughly intriguing, but Rebecca herself was a very fun and spunky character, with such spirit and a thoroughly engaging narrative voice, and it was delightful watching the story unfold through her eyes.
Nicholas was also a wonderful character; I adored him, especially he and Rebecca together. Their relationship starts off rocky but quickly blossoms into a wonderful friendship…one that quickly spirals out of control as Rebecca tries to remain faithful to her fiancé while sorting out her feelings for her dear neighbor.
From the first page the story’s premise was intriguing, the characters endearing, and the plot that unfolded thoroughly engaging. I loved watching the romance develop, reading all of the flirting and witty banter, and seeing Rebecca and Nicholas come together as Rebecca learns the meaning of real, lasting love. All their interactions were so enjoyable and had me smiling the entire way through. I also really enjoyed the appearances from Juliana and William, and loved how everything was resolved, especially between her and Edward.
Overall, Otherwise Engaged is a delightful and beautiful Regency romance, perhaps my new favorite from Joanna Barker. I enjoyed it immensely and already can’t wait to reread it.
January 6, 2021
I don't have a list of favourite authors but reading everything Joanna Barker writes is a no brainer for me. I do love a good slow-burn romance and Otherwise Engaged is that. Rebecca Rowley was a great character and it was hard not like Nicholas Avery, and his half-sister Olivia who finds an ally in Rebecca. Really enjoyed this!
October 6, 2021
What a delightful read! Plenty of chapters were five-stars for me, though overall I can't quite award the book five stars as I had a few quibbles. Sometimes I feel the Regency novels written today are too caught up in showing "modern ideas" and having their characters be "progressive" to the detriment of historical accuracy -- and this is one of them. But, ah well. It makes for an entertaining read. Our heroine is quite spirited, loves riding bareback, learning to shoot pistols, and speaking her mind. Her sister-in-law runs a "girls school" with a "wide variety of curricula" that teaches girls the same subjects boys would be taught. (It seemed quite unusual to me that she would do so even after she is married and with child!) And, of course, magically the gentlemen in their lives are rare treasures who believe these progressive females are absolutely wonderful and support them in their endeavors. Once I could suspend disbelief, it made for pleasant reading. I really enjoyed all of the characters, and it was refreshing to find a Regency romance in which no one was a terrible ogre -- well, perhaps the potential mother-in-law, but we never actually see her. The mother-daughter relationship between our heroine and her mother was very sweet. I enjoyed our heroine’s voice from the first page and loved our hero. The plot is one that generally makes me roll my eyes (Girl falls in love with her One True Love while she is engaged to The Man She Thought She Loved) but it was done in such a way here that I didn't actually despise our hero or heroine and I appreciated that . It's a clean romance, kisses-only, but oh! is it swoony. In fact, the first two kisses are so sizzling, and the "love confession" so sweet and pitch-perfect, that the ending almost fizzled a little, and I could have done without the final chapter showing us a slice-of-life "seven years later" (it didn't ruin anything but, again, felt a bit anti-climactic). Still, on the whole, I found this immensely enjoyable and I will look for more from Joanna Barker in the future.
August 27, 2020
Omg it must be something wrong with me. I did not love this book. It was just ok. I really liked the male Main character. I felt less about the female.main character. She annoyed med a little bit. With her inmatureness and ways i guess. But thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc
October 20, 2020
What's a young lady to do when she finds herself attracted to a man her family would never approve of her marrying? Get secretly engaged of course! Rebecca Rowley is a spirited young lady who goes against the constraints of her time by riding without a groom, secretly riding bareback and keeping her engagement a secret from her family. She plans to break it to them in due time, after she and her betrothed, Edward Banbridge, find out why their families, who were once close associates, now despise each other.
How can you not love a book that starts off with a love letter? Who doesn't love a love letter? Anyone? Of course not! They're lovely, sweet and oh so swoony. Then we have a hilarious and embarrassing (for both parties) first meeting between our destined lovers. I could just picture Rebecca in full riding habit (including hat with a plume) in the water trying to save a young girl. Oh my! I loved how Rebecca quietly rebelled against the constraits put upon her--riding bareback and learning to shoot a pistol! My first thoughts of Rebecca's secret engagement were: "what a tangled web we weave, when we first we practice to deceive" and if the best laid plans can go awry, and this one was far from a 'best laid plan', then something is bound to go wrong, and of course it does in the most spectacular way. I thought it was funny that although she couldn't lie convincingly she thought she could hide her snooping about from her family. Although she can act rashly, Rebecca is also kind and genuinely loves her family, but she learns the hard way that honesty, although not always easy, is the best policy.
Now about Lieutenant Nicholas Avery! Be still my middle-aged heart. Nicholas is a Royal Navy man taking care of a much younger half-sister and has just moved to the property next to the Rowley's. He's been a sea so long he finds himself befuddled around Rebecca at their first meeting, which makes for some funny scenes. He's intrigued with this young woman who rides bareback. I enjoyed all Nicholas' interactions with Rebecca, but the scene that touched me the most was when he soothed his young sister after a nightmare. If that doesn't make you fall in love with him, I don't know what would.
I think this is my favorite book by Joanna Barker. This is a clean romance with just swoony kisses.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
How can you not love a book that starts off with a love letter? Who doesn't love a love letter? Anyone? Of course not! They're lovely, sweet and oh so swoony. Then we have a hilarious and embarrassing (for both parties) first meeting between our destined lovers. I could just picture Rebecca in full riding habit (including hat with a plume) in the water trying to save a young girl. Oh my! I loved how Rebecca quietly rebelled against the constraits put upon her--riding bareback and learning to shoot a pistol! My first thoughts of Rebecca's secret engagement were: "what a tangled web we weave, when we first we practice to deceive" and if the best laid plans can go awry, and this one was far from a 'best laid plan', then something is bound to go wrong, and of course it does in the most spectacular way. I thought it was funny that although she couldn't lie convincingly she thought she could hide her snooping about from her family. Although she can act rashly, Rebecca is also kind and genuinely loves her family, but she learns the hard way that honesty, although not always easy, is the best policy.
Now about Lieutenant Nicholas Avery! Be still my middle-aged heart. Nicholas is a Royal Navy man taking care of a much younger half-sister and has just moved to the property next to the Rowley's. He's been a sea so long he finds himself befuddled around Rebecca at their first meeting, which makes for some funny scenes. He's intrigued with this young woman who rides bareback. I enjoyed all Nicholas' interactions with Rebecca, but the scene that touched me the most was when he soothed his young sister after a nightmare. If that doesn't make you fall in love with him, I don't know what would.
I think this is my favorite book by Joanna Barker. This is a clean romance with just swoony kisses.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
June 14, 2020
Rebecca Rowley declares herself “deliriously happy”, well that’s exactly how you are going to feel as you finish the final page.
As a beta-reader I fell in love with this story long ago, and that certainty remains. This is one incredible regency-era romance.
Everything about this story, from its deeply developed characters, to the multitude of sub-plots running along together makes for the very best of story telling.
You will love Avery, his character is so fresh and engaging - his heart so true. His half sister Olivia, in need of love and kindness and Rebecca, an extremely fun personality to get to know more of. She’s pushing all the boundaries of the expectations of her day, and I loved that. This story is unique and exciting and the chemistry between Nicholas & Rebecca is electric.
Pretty sure I’ll still be *sighing* for days to come.
As a beta-reader I fell in love with this story long ago, and that certainty remains. This is one incredible regency-era romance.
Everything about this story, from its deeply developed characters, to the multitude of sub-plots running along together makes for the very best of story telling.
You will love Avery, his character is so fresh and engaging - his heart so true. His half sister Olivia, in need of love and kindness and Rebecca, an extremely fun personality to get to know more of. She’s pushing all the boundaries of the expectations of her day, and I loved that. This story is unique and exciting and the chemistry between Nicholas & Rebecca is electric.
Pretty sure I’ll still be *sighing* for days to come.
January 1, 2021
This was a cute, pleasant regency. I enjoyed the country setting and thought the author did a good job creating a welcoming ambiance for our characters. Rebecca finds herself in a tricky situation, being secretly engaged to a man her parents don’t approve of, while slowly building a friendship with her new handsome neighbor Nicholas.
Content: clean, kissing. No language or violence.
Content: clean, kissing. No language or violence.
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September 18, 2024
What I liked was beautiful flower drawings through the pages and how Rebecca and Nicholas met! 😂 I enjoyed seeing William and Rebecca in their sibling rivalry! I didn’t like that Nicholas kissed her even though she was engaged to another man. The man she was engaged hadn’t even appeared in the book yet and they barely knew each other. That didn’t take down my ratings unfortunately. I didn’t like that she continued to stay engaged to Edward when she clearly loved Nicholas. And that she wasn’t straight with him in telling him that she was engaged to Edward! I also felt bad for Edward when he did show up. She was unfair to him. She kissed Nicholas more than once when she was still engaged to Edward. That just felt wrong to me. I know it all worked out in the end, but it still just didn’t sit right with me.
July 6, 2021
Everything a sweet historical romance ought to be, yet rarely ever is.
Synopsis:
1822, Hertforshire:
Spirited Miss Rebecca Rowley is a passionate equestrian, with a penchant for riding bareback & astride.
She is galloping when she hears cries for help. Riding towards the noise, she finds a young girl drowning in a lake. Jumping in to rescue her, she is met on the shore by the guardian and brother of the girl. They get off to a rocky start as Nicholas Avery, aka ‘Lieutenant Avery’ recently returned from the navy, is not as gentlemanly as one ought to be to a lady who saved his baby sister. They have just moved in to Linwood hall, the neighboring estate.
As Rebecca gets to know Lieutenant Avery and feels the undercurrent of chemistry therein, she worries he may become interested in her. She sets out to discourage this, see Rebecca has recently secretly betrothed herself to a Mr Edward Bainbridge, whom her family would not approve off due to a mysterious business fall out between Mr. Bainbridge sr & Rebecca's father.
In an attempt to be less appealing there is a hilarious scene where she enacts her,' Ways to Drive Lieutenant Avery Mad' scheme, and boy you just have to read it.
Not this exact tactic, but in the same vein.
Despite her hesitation they grow closer, and Rebecca begins to worry her heart may have developed a new attachment. How can that be when she is sure she cares for Edward to whom she has already given her word. Will Rebecca stick to her engagement? Or will Avery prove to waylay all her plans?
What Charmed:
♡Witty 1st POV.
♡Great dialogue, pacing, & characters. Rebecca is a charming protagonist with both virtues and follies that round her out.
♡Uber romantic! Hit all the emotional notes and the leads get 90% of the page time together. Their every interaction was memorable, charming, and established the leads chemistry & developed their relationship.
♡Lieutenant Avery is a swoon worthy romantic lead:
Honorable, mature, supportive, and funny- a breath of fresh air after suffering so many immature rake dolts in text as of late!
I could not manage to scrape together a single complaint.
The Brass Tacks:
Perfection, I could not put it down! I've been in such a book rut as of late I had forgotten just how engrossing it is when a book is effortless to read. The hours jut slipped by. Everything was executed to perfection and the conclusion was utterly satisfying!
I highly recommend for all historical romance fiends.
꙳ Spice Scale rating: Bell Pepper Chaste 🌶 /5 ꙳
Very well developed tension & emotional build up, with some culmination in snogging.
Synopsis:
1822, Hertforshire:
Spirited Miss Rebecca Rowley is a passionate equestrian, with a penchant for riding bareback & astride.
She is galloping when she hears cries for help. Riding towards the noise, she finds a young girl drowning in a lake. Jumping in to rescue her, she is met on the shore by the guardian and brother of the girl. They get off to a rocky start as Nicholas Avery, aka ‘Lieutenant Avery’ recently returned from the navy, is not as gentlemanly as one ought to be to a lady who saved his baby sister. They have just moved in to Linwood hall, the neighboring estate.
As Rebecca gets to know Lieutenant Avery and feels the undercurrent of chemistry therein, she worries he may become interested in her. She sets out to discourage this, see Rebecca has recently secretly betrothed herself to a Mr Edward Bainbridge, whom her family would not approve off due to a mysterious business fall out between Mr. Bainbridge sr & Rebecca's father.
In an attempt to be less appealing there is a hilarious scene where she enacts her,' Ways to Drive Lieutenant Avery Mad' scheme, and boy you just have to read it.
Not this exact tactic, but in the same vein.
Despite her hesitation they grow closer, and Rebecca begins to worry her heart may have developed a new attachment. How can that be when she is sure she cares for Edward to whom she has already given her word. Will Rebecca stick to her engagement? Or will Avery prove to waylay all her plans?
What Charmed:
♡Witty 1st POV.
♡Great dialogue, pacing, & characters. Rebecca is a charming protagonist with both virtues and follies that round her out.
♡Uber romantic! Hit all the emotional notes and the leads get 90% of the page time together. Their every interaction was memorable, charming, and established the leads chemistry & developed their relationship.
♡Lieutenant Avery is a swoon worthy romantic lead:
Honorable, mature, supportive, and funny- a breath of fresh air after suffering so many immature rake dolts in text as of late!
I could not manage to scrape together a single complaint.
The Brass Tacks:
Perfection, I could not put it down! I've been in such a book rut as of late I had forgotten just how engrossing it is when a book is effortless to read. The hours jut slipped by. Everything was executed to perfection and the conclusion was utterly satisfying!
I highly recommend for all historical romance fiends.
꙳ Spice Scale rating: Bell Pepper Chaste 🌶 /5 ꙳
Very well developed tension & emotional build up, with some culmination in snogging.
December 6, 2020
First of all, I have to gush about how much I adore this book's cover and the interior artwork. It's one of the prettiest books I've met. Naturally, it was judged accordingly and I'm so happy it met expectations.
I first came across Joanna with her self-published Beauty and the Beast retelling. She became an author to watch. She is one of the best authors I know with the way she writes hooks and swoony kisses. The way she writes pulls me in in the best of ways.
Rebecca has a modern girl's heart in a Regency England world. She craves adventure and going against the grain. I appreciate how she acts appropriately in public and saves her antics for when she thinks no one is watching. When she returns home to her brother's estate, she is secretly engaged. It's a bit of a Romeo and Juliet moment. Meeting Lieutenant Avery is not at all conducive to her plans for her future with Edward.
Otherwise Engaged is one of the few love triangles I've come across in regency. Even if this isn't a favorite trope, it's handled so well. It's no surprise who Rebecca ends up with but the journey is poignant and sweet.
I first came across Joanna with her self-published Beauty and the Beast retelling. She became an author to watch. She is one of the best authors I know with the way she writes hooks and swoony kisses. The way she writes pulls me in in the best of ways.
Rebecca has a modern girl's heart in a Regency England world. She craves adventure and going against the grain. I appreciate how she acts appropriately in public and saves her antics for when she thinks no one is watching. When she returns home to her brother's estate, she is secretly engaged. It's a bit of a Romeo and Juliet moment. Meeting Lieutenant Avery is not at all conducive to her plans for her future with Edward.
Otherwise Engaged is one of the few love triangles I've come across in regency. Even if this isn't a favorite trope, it's handled so well. It's no surprise who Rebecca ends up with but the journey is poignant and sweet.
April 23, 2023
I admired Rebecca's independent spirit and even though I found her little and not-so-little ways of rebelling often immature or thoughtless, the author soon showed us her deeper layers as she became acquainted with Nicholas and a natural friendship developed amid humorous situations, witty banter, and dynamic chemistry. I didn't care for Rebecca's deception (but I also had parents who answered my questions) and Rebecca's frustration grew each time her inquiries were turned aside. A love triangle and misunderstanding create complications that force Rebecca to face some realizations and make decisions that will direct her future happiness. A sweet, slow-burn romance with a satisfying ending!
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
September 25, 2020
A sweet regency with everything you’d expect from a book from that time period. The kissing scenes were on fire and I appreciated the character arcs through the progression of the story.
October 24, 2020
Otherwise Engaged is a sweet Regency Romance layered with humor, deception, betrayal, forgiveness, and of course some excellent kisses and romance.
Readers meet Rebecca Rowley who is a fiery beauty who relishes her independence that she exudes behind her family's back. Nothing she does is malicious, but she is tired of being babied after she had an almost fatal horseback riding accident a few years before. Her older brother William can be stern and protective but loves his little sister. I absolutely loved that William and Juliana are in the novel as I cherished their love story in, 'The Truth about Miss Ashbourne'. It was great to see how their life was going.
Rebecca on one of her bareback horse rides saves the life of a young girl named Olivia. Then we meet the dashing Lieutenant Nicholas Avery who is Olivia's older half-brother. This meeting begins a whirlwind friendship and romance that neither Rebecca nor Nicholas was planning on. Nicholas soon becomes Rebecca's outlet for all of her secrets including riding bareback and her secret engagement to the son of her late father's old partner. The partnership ended badly and the two families are now feuding.
Nicholas became a favorite right from the beginning. This navy man seems harsh at the beginning but shows his true genuine heart as he not only takes care of his half-sister, but he also supports Rebecca in all of her somewhat crazy actions at times. When the truth comes out of Rebecca's secrets, the family is left in chaos and sadness. The last twenty pages of the book bring the whole novel full circle where truths are unearthed. There are a few scenes in particular that had my heart racing and also brought me to tears. Joanna truly knows how to write heartfelt scenes where emotions are strongly felt.
Otherwise Engaged will definitely take you on a wild ride of ups and downs. The growth that Rebecca makes is extraordinary and satisfying to read. There is one quote I want to add to my review that shows her betterment:
“This was it. This was the love I longed for. I had tried to convince myself I could have it with Edward, but now I knew that what I’d felt for him was but a shallow reflection of what love should be. Love was real and strong and brave. Love was sacrifice and compromise. Love was everything I felt between Nicholas and me, everything that had brought us together and bound our hearts as one.”
Regency readers, this is a book that you must read. I know that you will love this clean love story. Author Joanna Barker has once again written a novel full of great characters, engaging dialogue, and a story you will long remember after the turn of the last page.
Readers meet Rebecca Rowley who is a fiery beauty who relishes her independence that she exudes behind her family's back. Nothing she does is malicious, but she is tired of being babied after she had an almost fatal horseback riding accident a few years before. Her older brother William can be stern and protective but loves his little sister. I absolutely loved that William and Juliana are in the novel as I cherished their love story in, 'The Truth about Miss Ashbourne'. It was great to see how their life was going.
Rebecca on one of her bareback horse rides saves the life of a young girl named Olivia. Then we meet the dashing Lieutenant Nicholas Avery who is Olivia's older half-brother. This meeting begins a whirlwind friendship and romance that neither Rebecca nor Nicholas was planning on. Nicholas soon becomes Rebecca's outlet for all of her secrets including riding bareback and her secret engagement to the son of her late father's old partner. The partnership ended badly and the two families are now feuding.
Nicholas became a favorite right from the beginning. This navy man seems harsh at the beginning but shows his true genuine heart as he not only takes care of his half-sister, but he also supports Rebecca in all of her somewhat crazy actions at times. When the truth comes out of Rebecca's secrets, the family is left in chaos and sadness. The last twenty pages of the book bring the whole novel full circle where truths are unearthed. There are a few scenes in particular that had my heart racing and also brought me to tears. Joanna truly knows how to write heartfelt scenes where emotions are strongly felt.
Otherwise Engaged will definitely take you on a wild ride of ups and downs. The growth that Rebecca makes is extraordinary and satisfying to read. There is one quote I want to add to my review that shows her betterment:
“This was it. This was the love I longed for. I had tried to convince myself I could have it with Edward, but now I knew that what I’d felt for him was but a shallow reflection of what love should be. Love was real and strong and brave. Love was sacrifice and compromise. Love was everything I felt between Nicholas and me, everything that had brought us together and bound our hearts as one.”
Regency readers, this is a book that you must read. I know that you will love this clean love story. Author Joanna Barker has once again written a novel full of great characters, engaging dialogue, and a story you will long remember after the turn of the last page.
May 27, 2022
4.5 STARS
SMITTEN.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Wow. I was blown away by this regency! It’s the first one from the author I’ve read and I found it enjoyable on many levels.
One of those being the unique nature of both Rebecca (the narrator) and Nicholas (the love interest). I loved that Rebecca rode bare-backed and was interested in learning how to shoot guns and other things that really added to her personality. Nicholas was a Navy lieutenant who was totally cool with Rebecca’s interests and willingly helped her improve those skills. They were such a match from the moment they met.
Which leads me to my 1/2 star deduction. I struggle with this across genres. I don’t like a current love that takes up most of the book. It takes away from the romance I’m trying to be fall for. Because it always creates instances of cheating (as it did here) and no amount of wording really makes me feel completely fine about it. This one did end that plot line better than I expected so I’ll give it that at least.
Overall, a really great regency. I love this genre, especially when swoony kisses are added in. The writing was beautiful and kept me captivated. The plot moved steadily and I loved the introspection from Rebecca. Even with that one issue I had I liked the way she easily acknowledged she messed up and could apologize and work towards her character arc. Many things to love on in this one!
Overall audience notes:
- Regency Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Trigger/Content Warnings: gun use (not in a violent matter), recollection of a bad fall from a horse, medical trauma, depiction of difficult birth, cheating
SMITTEN.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Wow. I was blown away by this regency! It’s the first one from the author I’ve read and I found it enjoyable on many levels.
One of those being the unique nature of both Rebecca (the narrator) and Nicholas (the love interest). I loved that Rebecca rode bare-backed and was interested in learning how to shoot guns and other things that really added to her personality. Nicholas was a Navy lieutenant who was totally cool with Rebecca’s interests and willingly helped her improve those skills. They were such a match from the moment they met.
Which leads me to my 1/2 star deduction. I struggle with this across genres. I don’t like a current love that takes up most of the book. It takes away from the romance I’m trying to be fall for. Because it always creates instances of cheating (as it did here) and no amount of wording really makes me feel completely fine about it. This one did end that plot line better than I expected so I’ll give it that at least.
Overall, a really great regency. I love this genre, especially when swoony kisses are added in. The writing was beautiful and kept me captivated. The plot moved steadily and I loved the introspection from Rebecca. Even with that one issue I had I liked the way she easily acknowledged she messed up and could apologize and work towards her character arc. Many things to love on in this one!
Overall audience notes:
- Regency Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Trigger/Content Warnings: gun use (not in a violent matter), recollection of a bad fall from a horse, medical trauma, depiction of difficult birth, cheating
September 1, 2020
Let’s get real for a minute. There are a lot of regency romances out there. And I’ve read a very large number of them. I enjoy them. I do. There is just something about a man in a cravat.
But we also need to recognize that many regency romances are similar. We’ve seen these tropes, these characters, and these conflicts before.
But Joanna Barker has changed the game.
I have never read a heroine the likes of Rebecca Rowley before, and she is glorious. Her drive for adventure and her zeal for life are refreshing and unparalleled. She is positively one-of-a-kind. Barker has written the most engaging female character I have ever read in the genre.
And, again, I’ve read a lot.
Lieutenant Avery is the perfect man to play off Rebecca’s spirit, and their story is one I will not be leaving behind any time soon.
Don’t borrow this one. Buy it.
But we also need to recognize that many regency romances are similar. We’ve seen these tropes, these characters, and these conflicts before.
But Joanna Barker has changed the game.
I have never read a heroine the likes of Rebecca Rowley before, and she is glorious. Her drive for adventure and her zeal for life are refreshing and unparalleled. She is positively one-of-a-kind. Barker has written the most engaging female character I have ever read in the genre.
And, again, I’ve read a lot.
Lieutenant Avery is the perfect man to play off Rebecca’s spirit, and their story is one I will not be leaving behind any time soon.
Don’t borrow this one. Buy it.
August 31, 2020
What a lovely story with such engaging characters and an excellent writing style!
Rebecca is a free spirit. She's just returned from a holiday and is keeping her secret from her family. After saving a girl from drowning, she becomes friends with the girl's older half-brother and guardian.
I've read other books by the author and have come to appreciate her writing and characterization. Rebecca and Nicholas are nuanced alone and they truly shine together. The supporting characters are well rounded and help fulfill the story splendidly.
I also enjoyed the uniqueness of the main characters's traits in forming a story that leaves a mark in the reader.
The epilogue was a treat! Maybe there's a story for Olivia in the future?
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
Rebecca is a free spirit. She's just returned from a holiday and is keeping her secret from her family. After saving a girl from drowning, she becomes friends with the girl's older half-brother and guardian.
I've read other books by the author and have come to appreciate her writing and characterization. Rebecca and Nicholas are nuanced alone and they truly shine together. The supporting characters are well rounded and help fulfill the story splendidly.
I also enjoyed the uniqueness of the main characters's traits in forming a story that leaves a mark in the reader.
The epilogue was a treat! Maybe there's a story for Olivia in the future?
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
December 27, 2022
I was so sure I was going to love Otherwise Engaged, but, unfortunately, this book just wasn't for me. The first half of the book started out so strong. I loved the humor effortlessly entwined in Rebecca and Nicholas's interactions, whether by witty banter or circumstance. I also thought there was great romantic tension and connection between the two leads.
Sadly, the more the lines blurred and then eventually were crossed, despite Rebecca's engagement to another man, the more my zeal for the romance and the story wilted - especially towards the end, when excuses waned and they were both fully aware of their actions yet disregarded integrity anyway. And that sucked the swoon right out of the book for me.
I did enjoy the writing and I might read another book by this author in the future, but this book left me feeling more peeved rather than sweetly satisfied. Not for me.
Sadly, the more the lines blurred and then eventually were crossed, despite Rebecca's engagement to another man, the more my zeal for the romance and the story wilted - especially towards the end, when excuses waned and they were both fully aware of their actions yet disregarded integrity anyway. And that sucked the swoon right out of the book for me.
I did enjoy the writing and I might read another book by this author in the future, but this book left me feeling more peeved rather than sweetly satisfied. Not for me.
October 2, 2020
I really enjoyed this book! Loved Rebecca and Nicholas from the start. I enjoyed how spunky Rebecca was. I didn’t want to put this book down! I would recommend this book for fans of Kristi Ann Hunter. It had the right amount of humor and romance to it.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
January 17, 2022
LOVE Joanna's classic romance. She offers such relationship focused stories. It's super fun. This one is one of my favs.
November 6, 2020
The more I think about this book, the more I like it. This heroine is a flawed, headstrong, and bordering on annoying young woman when the book opens, but by the end she matured beautifully. I so enjoyed the fact that, when confronted with certain childishness, she didn’t lash out, but reflected on it and found the truth in it. I was a proud mother hen in that moment. This book offers interesting characters and situations, and the language of the day was so well done! I will definitely read more by this author.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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