No Stone Unturned by Jenelle Hovde
Miss Bridget Littleton’s passion for history and antiquities defies most social conventions, even in her small village nestled in the beautiful English countryside. When a local farmer discovers an elaborate mosaic buried in his field, Bridget dreams of making a name and future for herself by excavating the Roman ruins. Unfortunately, her quest puts her at odds with the ambitious new lord who recently inherited the title and Hawthorn Abbey from his estranged uncle.
Recovering from wounds of both body and spirit, Captain Rafe Hawthorn is intent on restoring his long-neglected ancestral home. His plans to rebuild the abbey’s once thriving orchards require a road that will pass straight through Bridget’s potential trove of artifacts. He will not—cannot—fail again, even if he is moved by Bridget and her passion.
Yet this impasse might not be their greatest obstacle. A natural disaster and a series of suspicious accidents threaten both their plans, along with the livelihood of the nearby villagers dependent on their success. With their dreams in the balance, Bridget and Rafe must work together to fend off an unexpected enemy that may prove more dangerous than either could have imagined.
Sweet Regency romance filled with hope, faith, and an enemies-to-lovers dynamic. Historical fiction that’s perfect for fans of Julie Klassen, Sarah Ladd, or Abigail Wilson. Includes discussion questions for book clubs.
Review: A huge thank you to Goodreads giveaways and Tyndale Fiction for a free electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
This was such a beautiful mix of Regency romance, archaeological exploration, and sabotage and theft, all with Christian faith naturally woven throughout. I especially loved how passionate Bridge is about excavating from Roman artifacts! This was such a fun way to weave in history. The author has clearly researched extensively, and I even learned some things about Roman beliefs that I didn't know previously, such as their feelings that children weren't true people yet and were thus buried wherever was convenient and not in designated graveyards. I love that Bridget is such a scholar when it comes to Roman history and is able to swiftly identify Roman artifices by name upon sight. And she will not let the fact that women were not accepted in the field stop her!
This book had major Pride and Prejudice vibes, with Bridget and the Viscount having similar societal standings as Elizabeth and Darcy, and the two taking a similar dislike to each other. There were so many lines that reminded me of Pride and Prejudice as well, such as references to "boiled potatoes" and a dramatic scene when the whole crowd goes quiet when Rafe and his two companions enter a ball. Just as I love that classic story, so I love Bridget and Rafe's slow burn, enemies to lover's tale. Rafe is such a strong leading man, with a complicated past. He is slow to trust or warm up, but it makes it all the more worthwhile when he finally does.
And if the archeology and the love story isn't enough for you, the author also skillfully weaves in an action plot! There is theft and betrayal! Gunshots ring out! This book truly has it all. I also really appreciated Bridget's slow realization that those she has earnestly given her time and devotion to have not been as giving back to her. Recognizing that those you love don't always love you well back is a hard lesson to learn, but this felt really realistic and relatable to me, and I like that Bridget comes to some heavy conclusions that lead her to better relationships throughout her life, not just in her romantic interests.
Stars: 4
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