Fair as a Star
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4.4 • 53 Ratings
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- $3.99
Publisher Description
--A LIBRARY JOURNAL BEST ROMANCE of 2020--
A Secret Burden…
After a mysterious sojourn in Paris, Beryl Burnham has returned home to the village of Shepton Worthy ready to resume the life she left behind. Betrothed to the wealthy Sir Henry Rivenhall, she has no reason to be unhappy—or so people keep reminding her. But Beryl's life isn't as perfect as everyone believes.
A Longstanding Love…
As village curate, Mark Rivenhall is known for his compassionate understanding. When his older brother's intended needs a shoulder to lean on, Mark's more than willing to provide one. There's no danger of losing his heart. He already lost that to Beryl a long time ago.
During an idyllic Victorian summer, friends and family gather in anticipation of Beryl and Sir Henry's wedding. But in her darkest moment, it's Mark who comes to Beryl's aid. Can he help her without revealing his feelings—or betraying his brother?
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Matthews (The Lost Letter) spins a moving friends-to-lovers Victorian romance that stands out for its sensitive portrayal of a heroine living with depression at a time when the condition was misunderstood and maligned. Beryl Burnham returns to Somerset, England, after an abrupt, year-long trip abroad that sent rumors flying through her quaint little village. Though her marriage to Sir Henry Rivenhall looms, Beryl is less eager to reconnect with her betrothed than she is to reunite with Henry's younger brother, Mark, who had been her faithful correspondent while she was away. Unaware of Mark's unspoken love for her, Beryl confides in him about the sadness that has been with her since childhood and reveals the reason for her sudden trip: she overdosed on sleeping medication and was sent away on doctor's orders. While compassionate Mark offers support and works to understand Beryl's condition, callous Henry reveals his true colors, causing a rift between the couple. Beryl's strength and kindness shine even at her darkest moments, and Mathews does an admirable job of showing that, while Mark's love cannot cure her, it can help her become more courageous and self-aware. A humorous subplot involving Beryl's headstrong sister, Winifred, balances out the heavier moments with levity. Historical romance fans won't want to miss this. (Self-published)
