Book Description:
The vicar’s son and the draper’s daughter have fought against all odds to be together, but a storm is coming. One that will shatter everything.
Life hasn’t been easy for Obadiah Howard, especially after that misstep at Oxford which nearly obliterated his chances of joining the church. Added to that, he fell in love with the draper’s daughter. But a miracle revived his dreams of having a curacy and his strict father allowed his betrothal to Miss Hill. Only, what if there was no miracle? What if all of Obadiah’s bright future is built on a lie?
Eliza Hill never expected a gentleman to pay her court, let alone ask for her hand in marriage. With their wedding day less than a fortnight away, life is an impossible dream come true. Although, it would be nice if Obadiah called her Eliza instead of the more genteel Elisabeth, and she finds the rigors of acting like a perfect lady stifling. But, surely, being married to the man she loves will be worth wearing a mask for the rest of her life.
When the fierce storms of life break over their world, the cracks in their relationship don’t just show. They shatter. Can two hearts torn apart by pride find their way back to each other?
In this Broader Regency, reverse rags-to-riches, interclass romance novella, you’ll find faith, a clean and wholesome romance, and a happy ending. While this book doesn’t feature Jane Austen, it is set the year she turned 19. Ever wonder what England was like when Austen was a teen? Read A Heart to Treasure to find out!
Narelle’s Thoughts:
I enjoyed reading A Heart to Treasure, a historical romance novella set in 1794 England during the Georgian era. Obadiah is a vicar’s son who grew up poor despite his family’s aristocratic roots. He made a monumental mistake while studying at Oxford and ruined his opportunities for a career in the church. His father saves him by providing a Curate role and accommodation within his parish. At the start of the story Obadiah is preparing to marry Eliza, the love of his life, in less than two weeks.
Eliza’s father is a wealthy merchant and she works as a shopkeeper in his drapery store. She’s a strong and independent woman who’s marrying above her station. Eliza isn’t impressed by Obadiah’s desire to turn her into a lady who’ll fit into his genteel world.
A series of disastrous events combined with family drama put Obadiah and Eliza’s wedding in jeopardy. I loved journeying with them as they face many obstacles, including danger from unknown sources and societal expectations that made it hard for people from different social classes to marry for love. The side characters play important roles in the story and an adorable feisty feline creates mayhem. Shocking secrets are revealed that challenge Obadiah and Eliza’s faith and their belief in the possibility of a future together.
The historical setting is intriguing and I was fascinated to learn how the French Revolution impacted English society. The story includes strong faith elements that aren’t preachy. I appreciated how the characters are challenged to live their faith despite their pride issues and difficult circumstances. Redemption and forgiveness themes are explored in the story.
The romance simmers in the background due to circumstances keeping Obadiah and Eliza apart for a large part of the story. I encourage historical fiction readers who don’t usually read romance to consider reading this one. I recommend A Heart to Treasure to historical romance readers who like Georgian era novellas with a twist on the reverse rags to riches trope, second chances, family drama and deep faith threads woven into the story.
So glad you enjoyed A Heart to Treasure. Thanks for recommending it!
A pleasure 😊