The cover is pretty. I was feeling guilty for avoiding things labelled 'romance.' I thought maybe it was fate?

I'm pretty picky when it comes to romance in books. It's either because I'm not a romantic, or because I'm too much of a one. Who knows? Whatever the case, I feel hesitant about picking up books that actually focus on the romance - because I'm so afraid of them getting it wrong and ruining it for me. Luckily for me, in addition to a sweet romance, Dawn at Emberwilde also provided some intrigue in the form of a nice sub-plot, so overall I was a happy camper.

The characters are the driving force here, and Isabel is precisely the kind of protagonist I like: caring, stubborn, and knows her own mind. Especially when it comes to a historical setting, I appreciate a woman actually having agency - or at least trying to achieve it. Alternating points-of-view for the chapters make the story move efficiently, and we get to know the two main characters, Isabel and Mr. Galloway. well enough to care about their happiness.

So yes, I did like this HR novel. It was sweet and innocent and romantic and I enjoyed every page of it, okay? (No, I'm not being overly defensive.)

So. Would it be acceptable to go on a bender and start on pride & prejudice next?

What are your feelings about historical romance? Any recommendations? Let me know in the comments :)