Winning the Gentleman (#02 in Hearts On The Heath Series)

I loved reading Kristi Ann Hunter's Winning the Gentleman. Not surprising at all given she's one of my favorite authors and one I come back to time and time again when I need a book to sigh over and characters to laugh with, but still. So good. \\n\\nThis one's a historical romance about a female jockey back when that was just unheard of. Add to that a main character who just can't stop talking, a boss/friend/more than friend who barely talks at all, a few secrets, some opposition, and a whole lot of matchmaking friends (some who I already loved from other books) and yep, this one was a definite winner :)\\n

Just a gentleman with a regular job who falls in love with a middle to lower class woman, and how refreshing that was! They have friends who are lords and ladies, but I loved reading about some 'normal' people from the early 1800s. The lords, ladies, parlour maids, and dukes were getting old. This story had plenty to snag my interest. \\n\\nI loved how the heroine's brother often encouraged his sister in her faith in a real and practical way. Do we get to have a story about him one day? I'd love that. \\n\\nI think Kristi's really coming into her own, adding more spiritual depth, especially for the hero's journey to God. \\n\\nI loved the lack of a 'kidnapping' plot. Those were getting old too. There is still conflict at the end, but it was more wholesome and less theatrical. Very excited with this new direction which is still full of Kristi's signature charm, romance, and intrigue.

Kristi Ann Hunter's books always have great dynamics between families and friends. This book does not disappoint on that count. This story is so enjoyable. Sophia is such an entertaining character. The interactions between her and Aaron is so fun. Although you can just read this book on it's own it does have far more depth and encouragement if you have already met Aaron and his friends in Kristi Ann Hunter's Defence of Honour ( book 1 Haven Manor series) and Vying for the Viscount (book 1 Hearts on the Heath). The friendships are inspiring. I really enjoyed finding out more about Aaron and journeying with him as he grew in understanding of who he is. I am looking forward to the next book in the series and journeying more with these friends.