The Elusive Miss Ellison

Written by Carolyn Miller

Narrated by Anna Parker-Naples

Hampton Hall's new owner has the villagers of St. Hampton Heath all aflutter-all except Lavinia Ellison. The reverend's daughter cares for those who are poor and sick, and the seventh Earl of Hawkesbury definitely does not meet that criteria. His refusal to take his responsibilities seriously, or even darken the door of the church, leave her convinced he is as arrogant and reckless as his brother-his brother who stole the most important person in Lavinia's world.

Nicholas Stamford is shadowed by guilt: his own, his brother's, the legacy of war. A perfunctory visit to this dreary part of Gloucestershire wasn't supposed to engage his heart, or his mind. Challenged by Miss Ellison's fascinating blend of Bluestocking opinions, hoydenish behavior, and angelic voice, he finds the impossible becoming possible-he begins to care. But Lavinia's aloof manner, society's opposition and his ancestral obligations prove most frustrating, until scandal forces them to get along.

Can Lavinia and Nicholas look beyond painful pasts and present prejudice to see their future? And what will happen when Lavinia learns a family secret that alters everything she's ever known?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tantor Media, Inc
• Release date: Feb 27, 2018
• ISBN: 9781541484870

Reviews for The Elusive Miss Ellison

[Rama Mohamed · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

I've only gotten to chapter 23 but it drags on soo long. The plot is excruciatingly slow and the Christian messaging goes on in great detail in some parts. They read and analyze biblical scripture far too often and in too much depth for anyone who isn't an avid Christian. It isn't merely spirituality, which I wouldn't have minded at all.
The main female is so much a goody two-shoes that I can't stand her sometimes. She frequently compares herself/her actions to Christ. If I finish the book I'll update my review...

[lcjohnson1988_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: The Elusive Miss Ellison (legacy of Grace #1)Author: Carolyn MillerPages: 303Year: 2017Publisher: Kregel PublicationsMy rating is 5 out of 5 stars.This story takes placed mostly in a small town in England in the year 1813. Lavinia Ellison is the daughter of the local reverend. She is used to speaking her mind and is independent and intelligent. She spends her days helping the poor in her town, playing on the pianoforte and helping around the house. She lost her mother in an accident several years ago. The accident involved one of the peerage in town. Lord Nicholas Hawkesbury is new to his title after the death of his older brother. He has come to his country home to put it in order. After he arrives, he begins to realize the sad state of his estate’s affairs thanks to his brother’s spending on other things. He entrusts his steward to see to the repair of tenant homes and planting of fields. After too much time, he finds out his steward is robbing him and not spending the money as Lord Hawkesbury has directed.Lord Hawkesbury meets Lavinia and they immediately clash. She speaks her mind about his lack of keeping his word to help the tenants. He thinks she is too forward for a lady. Lavinia continues to champion the poor and time and again Lord Hawkesbury says he will do something and then doesn’t. Lavinia jumps to conclusions as to the reasons why, which makes for more sparks. Amidst the sparks of irritation are also sparks of attraction. However, Lord Hawkesbury’s mother has a suitable woman of his station in society all picked out for him to marry. Lavinia is a reverend’s daughter and not in the same class of society, so she is certainly not an option for a wife. Nicholas longs for Lavinia, but supposes he should do what his mother wants and what society deems appropriate. By spending time with Lavinia, see her compassion and have her speak Scripture to him, even while pointing out his faults, he begins to seek out God.I could identify with the two main characters in that they were depicted as believable and I could relate to their emotions. They made mistakes, were quick to find the faults in each other’s character while not seeing their own and speaking without thinking often hurting the other’s feelings. Just like me sometimes! However, the generosity Lavinia displayed, the compassion for the poor and the self-sacrifice were amazing. Yes, she got caught up in prideful thinking, but once aware of this she tried to act as God would have her act. I also thought her living her faith and not just talking about it was great as then she could stand firm in her beliefs when challenged. The story has a wonderful romance and I can’t wait until book two in the series is released! This was a great book that will be going on my “keeper” shelf.

[robbyefaye · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Daughter of St. Hampton Heath Village’s pastor, Lavinia Ellison, isn’t affected by riches or looks. She believes everyone should help the poor, live modestly and own up to their obligations.Thwarted at every turn, Nicholas Stamford, Earl to St. Hampton Heath Village, just wants to turn his duties over to his bailiff and be done with it.I especially enjoyed Lavinia’s wit and somewhat sharp tongue. Critical of those not living up to their legal and moral responsibilities, she often had an acerbic tone. However, she was equally as condemnatory of her own failings.Interspersed throughout the story are rich portrayals of the villagers’ pitiable homes and the landscape of the area juxtaposed against the detailed narrative of the aristocrats’ estates and opulent lifestyle. The starkness of the contrasts leaves you feeling the despair and sadness against which Lavinia struggled.An impressively written book rich in history, the novel abounds with faith, aspirations, romance and just the right amount of intrigue and family mystery. It is so beautifully written; I had a hard time comprehending this was Carolyn Miller’s debut novel.The main characters’ development, tempered by their faith, added a unique perspective to this tale.Regency Era fans will love Carolyn Miller’s debut book, The Elusive Miss Ellison. I received The Elusive Miss Ellison from Celebrate Lit. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.

[virginia51-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This is the first book in a series that does not need to be read in order. I think I started with the third book in the series. I enjoyed the characters. I love when Lavinia learns who her grandmother really is and how she meets her. I enjoyed the love story between Lavinia and Nicholas. Both characters have to forgive themselves over what happened when they were younger and it is handled very well. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[harley0326 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

As Regency books go this was pretty typical of the time period with Lords and Queens . The people in the village are all a flutter with the arrival of the Earl of Hawkesbury. His presence will stir emotions and cause harsh words to be thrown around. Being an Earl is very prestigious and requires you to be in the best attires and surrounded by only the most important of people. Well I knew what was about to happen when our feature character Lavinia meets the Earl.Lavinia is sweet and has a big heart for the poor. She takes it upon herself to make sure others do without. I liked how she visited families and helped out with their needs. She has never been one to care about frilly clothes or being prim and proper. I adored her attitude of being herself without worrying what others though. Her encounters with the Earl are quite funny at times and other times I found myself hoping her heart would not get broken. Nicholas (Earl of Hawkesbury) was at times annoying to me. He had an air of arrogance and was quite direct at times. I do believe he has met his match though when Lavinia matches him with her oh so subtle distaste for him. The story seems to pick up when Lavinia takes ill and finds herself at the home of the one and only Earl. I won’t give any details about how she got there but here is where I began to see a softer side of Nicholas. The people in the town love to gossip and are so disrespectful when it comes to Lavinia’s unintended stay at the Earl’s. It really is about jealousy for the women who had high hopes of winning the Earl’s attention. The faith element is good and I especially liked how Nicholas started to hunger for a relationship with God. There are moments in the story where we find the characters calling out to God for help. The author does give us a few surprises in the story which I loved. Her ability to describe the time period was intriguing and I liked how she set the story around people who were in need. This allowed Nicholas to really see how the village was desperate for provisions. The best part of the entire story for me is one scene when a particular character finds their way to God. Oh it is so glorious to read how they surrender theirselves and find peace. I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[emily_anne-1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Okay, so this came to my door and I was surprised. Where did it come from? Turns out I had accidentally requested this from Library thing. Oops!

So my curiosity got the best of me and I read the mysterious book. The Elusive Miss Ellison was a pretty cute read with a sweet romance. It's definitely a Christian book, but it wasn't too heavy handed, thank goodness.

While the book isn't something I would read for fun personally, I'm sure there are lots of folks out there who would love it. Lavinia and Nicholas kind of have a Darcy-Elizabeth complex between them at first. Also, the book didn't just focus on the two love interests. The reader gets to know all of Lavinia's community. Good themes and values are spread throughout the book.

Was it for me? No. But I'm being fair in my review because I somehow accidentally requested it. I know I'm not (at all) the target audience for this novel. And I think Miller did an excellent job writing a sweet, funny, and thoughtful Christian fiction romance. I'll give credit where it's due. And if you're a fan of Christian romance, pick this up! You won't be disappointed.

*recieved for free from library thing (thank you!)*

[emmyson · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This started out pretty slowly for me, and I didn't care for either Nicholas or Lavinia. However, both of them made remarkable growth and became people I could respect and admire. I ended up liking this book a lot!

[jbarr5 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The Elusive Miss Ellison by Carolyn MillerThis book starts out with Lavinia and she lives with her father the pastor and her aunt Patience.Story also follows the Earl Nicholas who has come to their town. He's making sure the one in charge is keeping the town buildings up to date and everything is in order.Lavinia has a sharp tongue and is not like the other young females who take a fancy to Nicholas. She even points out his lack of concern in keeping the buildings up to date.She has a lot of talents and enjoys some of them. He's smitten with her and she finds herself liking him but always with a bitter tongue.Sermons in church and ones they all share in. During meals they are able to learn more about Nick's battle background and he learns of Lavinia's teachings during mass to the children, teaching them letters and numbers along with the teachings of God.Misunderstandings, illness, emergencies and disappearances, twists and turns til they realize what is important to each other. So many mysteries! Love all the travel and descriptions!Quotes from the Bible help them lean on each other and God for guidance. Other works by the author are highlighted at the end.Free Kindle book

[chrirob · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Lavinia has never found a suitor worthy of her attentions. They are either too full of their own arrogance, too silly, or too witless. Nicholas, Earl of Hawkesbury has spent years hiding from a tragic accident of his youth, attempting to find solace in running. However, now that he is the Earl, he can run from those mistakes, from St. Hampton Heath, from the Ellisons no longer. When Nicolas attempts to seek forgiveness for his past wrongs with the Reverend Ellison he meets and clashes wits with Lavinia, his daughter. Although the sparks fly between them, they are complete opposites and contemptuous of one another. Can each of them overcome their own pride and arrogance and begin to see one another for their virtues instead of their faults...and let the sparks begin to ignite? This book is book one of the Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace series. It was a fun love story that offered wit, humor, and drama. If you like historical Christian fiction you will enjoy The Elusive Miss Ellison. Thank you to LibraryThing and Kregel Publications for providing me with a free copy of this book to review!

[jaymewill-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I have mixed feelings about this book. I had never read Carolyn Miller before, and hoped she was a good author. I love regency fiction and started the book with high expectations. I found the beginning of the book very boring. It was all dialog. Nothing seemed to happen. I put it down again and again because I was bored. Finally, I resolved to read nothing else until I finished it. I was surprised at how the story picks up. After I got past page 100 or so, I was hooked. The plot became more interesting, the characters a bit more lively, and I wanted to know how the two main characters get together. The story centers around Lavinia Ellison, the pastor's daughter, and the new Earl of Hawkesbury, Nicholas. Again, at the beginning of the book, Lavinia is boring. She is bossy and puts her nose in other people's business. It seemed to me, the author tried to make an independent Jane Austen "Emma" character and it didn't quite work. But as the story progressed, more of her character is portrayed and I grew to like her. Nicholas is a self-centered man at the beginning, but he too changes by the book's end.All in all, I did enjoy reading The Elusive Miss Ellison. It has romance, danger, family secrets, guilt, pretty dresses, dancing and a happy ending. If you are considering reading this book, just persevere to the middle and you will want to read the end.

[lamb521 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: The Elusive Miss Ellison (legacy of Grace #1)Author: Carolyn MillerPages: 303Year: 2017Publisher: Kregel PublicationsMy rating is 5 out of 5 stars.This story takes placed mostly in a small town in England in the year 1813. Lavinia Ellison is the daughter of the local reverend. She is used to speaking her mind and is independent and intelligent. She spends her days helping the poor in her town, playing on the pianoforte and helping around the house. She lost her mother in an accident several years ago. The accident involved one of the peerage in town. Lord Nicholas Hawkesbury is new to his title after the death of his older brother. He has come to his country home to put it in order. After he arrives, he begins to realize the sad state of his estate’s affairs thanks to his brother’s spending on other things. He entrusts his steward to see to the repair of tenant homes and planting of fields. After too much time, he finds out his steward is robbing him and not spending the money as Lord Hawkesbury has directed.Lord Hawkesbury meets Lavinia and they immediately clash. She speaks her mind about his lack of keeping his word to help the tenants. He thinks she is too forward for a lady. Lavinia continues to champion the poor and time and again Lord Hawkesbury says he will do something and then doesn’t. Lavinia jumps to conclusions as to the reasons why, which makes for more sparks. Amidst the sparks of irritation are also sparks of attraction. However, Lord Hawkesbury’s mother has a suitable woman of his station in society all picked out for him to marry. Lavinia is a reverend’s daughter and not in the same class of society, so she is certainly not an option for a wife. Nicholas longs for Lavinia, but supposes he should do what his mother wants and what society deems appropriate. By spending time with Lavinia, see her compassion and have her speak Scripture to him, even while pointing out his faults, he begins to seek out God.I could identify with the two main characters in that they were depicted as believable and I could relate to their emotions. They made mistakes, were quick to find the faults in each other’s character while not seeing their own and speaking without thinking often hurting the other’s feelings. Just like me sometimes! However, the generosity Lavinia displayed, the compassion for the poor and the self-sacrifice were amazing. Yes, she got caught up in prideful thinking, but once aware of this she tried to act as God would have her act. I also thought her living her faith and not just talking about it was great as then she could stand firm in her beliefs when challenged. The story has a wonderful romance and I can’t wait until book two in the series is released! This was a great book that will be going on my “keeper” shelf.

[lanehillhouse · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Tuesday, March 28, 2017The Elusive Miss Ellison by Carolyn Miller, © 2017Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace, Book 1Regency England 1813Nicholas Stamford ~ the seventh Earl of HawkesburyMiss Lavinia "Livvie" Ellison ~ the reverend's daughterThis was an exquisite story! Two people unlikely to continually meet ~ the new landowner of his inherited property, Hampton Hall; and Miss Ellison, the noteworthy tender of St. Hampton Heath's villagers with dire needs, poor tenant families cared for by her mother before her.The dialogue is fantastic as the antagonists spar back and forth with words ~ which becomes a distinct fascination of quick wit between them. Out of the ordinary of aspiring ladies he usually meets, he is quickly drawn to her while she doesn't appear to be interested in his arrival at all. Not coyly, but ... not interested.Meet Miss Ellison's companion and chaperone allowing her to venture through the hillsides without an escort ~ her sweet beagle, Mickey, alerting her of trespassers in their domain and an excellent purveyor of true interests.Such a beautifully written story encompassing regrets, introspection, forgiveness, compassion, amid the realization of a love that surpasses all boundaries set by man."For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen..."--Romans 1:20aI hope we will continue to glimpse Nicholas and Livvie in the forthcoming stories, featuring a closer view of secondary characters introduced in this debut novel. I loved the adventures of God's grace received in a humble life turned to Him.This story is so strong as the realization of our own pride and merits we expel on someone else. So reminiscent of Psalm 139. We are known and seek to know who we truly can be. Accepted in the beloved.***Thank you to Kregel Blog Tours for inviting me on the tour for Carolyn Miller's novel, The Elusive Miss Ellison, and for sending me a copy. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***I look forward to reading the continuing stories in the series of Grace by this author!

[tealadytoo · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This novel spins the tale of Nicholas, Lord Hawkesworth and Miss Lavinia Ellison.Hawkesworth has recently come into the title, following Peninsular service in the Napoleonic wars, and the untimely death of his older brother. He is worried about his precarious financial status due to the free spending ways of his late brother and his mother, and discontented with London society life and his mother's attempts to marry him off to a "suitable" high-born and wealthy female. He retreats to a minor country estate to get away from all this and encounters Miss Ellison. The daughter of the local minister, she is devoted to the poor, kind-hearted, opinionated and somewhat quick to judge. The two are also linked by a tragic event from their childhoods.Naturally, sparks fly, misunderstandings and revelations occur, the characters grow and all ends happily.This is an enjoyable books, with solid writing. Enough secrets and drama to keep the reader engaged, but not so much that it becomes melodramatic. The characters are well defined, and engaging.There is nothing unpredictable here. The story has been told many times of people held at first apart by "pride and prejudice" who gradually overcome their first impression and class differences. The spiritual content is well done in that the hero's questions and doubts regarding his faith flow naturally from his experiences. However, to me, the language and sentiments with which it is expressed as he deals with his own doubts, and discusses them with Lavinia's father, a friend from the war who is a believer, and with Lavinia herself seem more natural for a 21st century man than a 19th century Anglican. And the treatment is a bit superficial, though not terribly so for what is fundamentally a romance.All in all, a pleasant story, well worth the reader's time, albeit not a future classic.This book was provided to me free of charge by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[arielfl · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

I picked this book in February when I guess I had romance on the brain. I don't usually gravitate towards this genre but in honor of Valentines Day I thought I would give it another shot. I also do like some Christian fiction, especially that by Francine Rivers. This book reminded me why I usually stay away from this type of book. Every romance trope was dragged out for this insipid Regency cliche.Lavinia, who is the elusive Miss Ellison of the title, is the reverend's daughter. She is of course innocent and beautiful. She spends her days caring for the poor and vexing the Earl of Hawkesbury who can never earn her approval or attention no matter how hard he tries. Part of this is due to the fact that his brother mowed down her mother. If this wasn't bad enough the Earl himself tramples her dog to death. This was the part of the book I was ready to throw in the towel. He killed her dog! He would have been lucky to still be alive if it was me. As this was a review copy I felt it was my duty to finish so I stuck through the predictable plot when the Earl saves Lavinia from death when she contract an illness from ministering to the poor and her almost rape at a ball. By this point I was seriously rolling my eyes and it was all I could do to force myself to finish this tired trope. Does the elusive Miss Ellison and the dog murdering Earl end up together? I think you know the answer.

[veragodley · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Delectably sweet and genteel and a highly recommended read for teens and adults of any age. The author takes the reader back to a gentler, nobler time and shows the differences between the haves and have nots and how one sweet pastor's daughter seeks to help the have nots.The story is infused with a budding romance between the Earl and the pastor's daughter although their society's mores coupled with Miss Ellison's strong minded will and contempt for the arrogance she perceives in the Earl (Nicholas) seems to doom it from ever blossoming.A serious illness coupled with Miss Ellison falling ill and collapsing along the path home during a raging winter storm brings the two together although it still looks as though a relationship is doomed.I am looking forward to reading more from the author, Carolyn Miller as she carries us further into the lives of those who lived during this period of history. DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate a review of my personal opinions which are freely given.

[vintagebeckie · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Fans of Austen-esque Regency novels will be happy to have another go-to author. Carolyn Miller’s debut novel, The Elusive Miss Ellison, meets all the requirements: an independent heroine, a hunky hero with more than a few flaws, and a love story filled with obstacles, yet possessing sweet hints of a happily-ever-after. Jane aficionados will recognize the many nods to Pride And Prejudice, but this novel is not a copy-cat. It’s firm foundation in faith is a very welcome addition. I give this one a recommended rating.Miss Lavinia Ellison has very decided opinions, one of which is that the newest Earl of Hawkesbury should be helping his tenants and the village of St. Hampton Heath. But the relationship between the independent Miss Ellison and Nicholas Stamford is marred by their common past, a past filled with tragedy and unforgiveness. Both will need to break through their walls for a future that just may include love.As stated above, The Elusive Miss Ellison pays homage to Jane Austen. You can hear hints of Austen in the dialog and in the characters that Miller has created. Familiar phrases sprinkle the conversations and there may be more than a little bit of Lady Catherine, Mr. Collins and Caroline Bingley in a few of the minor characters. Miller even uses a familiar plot device — get a sick heroine into the home of the hero to advance the story. But Miller’s theme of forgiveness extended and accepted is all her own. That theme, as well as a heroine that holds if not modern, then before-her-time, convictions, adds depth to the novel.If you are looking for a Regency romance that is more than just fluff, then The Elusive Miss Ellison is one to try.Recommended.Audience: older teens to adults.(Thanks to Kregel for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I enjoyed this look at old England, and living in a quaint village, spending time with the Reverends daughter Miss Lavinia Ellison as she goes about helping those in need. She seems to have a big heart and is always there in times of need, but she has deep sorrow that comes out when the Lord of this village comes back, and we find out that she lost her mother because of something one of his family did.Of course this is a romance story, and Nicholas and Livvie have an up hill battle to every be anything more than a passing look. There is her faith, she is a believer, and he is not, and then there is his station as a Lord and she a commoner. I can’t imagine living under such conditions, but not all of what we are viewing is true.This is the author debut novel and she sure doesn’t disappoint, I found myself page turning, and when it was over, I wanted more. She has created quite the spunky girl in Livvie, and I loved how she held her own at different points in this book. A sweet quick read that will linger with you.I received this book through Kregel Publishing and their Blogging Program, and was not required to give a positive review.

[klarsenmd · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

I received this book as part of the LT Early Reviewer program, however, if I had known it had such a strong religious christian agenda I would not have requested it. I had hoped it would simply be in the vein of Jane Austen, but the chunks of christian biblical teachings were too much for me. That aside, I found it to be unimaginative and much too long. Several of the plot devices were very tired and the dialogue repetitive. I did however like some of the supporting characters and found they did add a little life to the story. The general premise of falling in love with someone outside of your station and in every way unsuitable has been done much better in the past. This one just wasn't' my cup of tea.

[sheriawilkinson · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The Elusive Miss Ellison (Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace, #1) by Carolyn MillerLavinia, is a Reverend's daughter and care taker of the poor and sick. She is content with her life, then she meets Nicholas, the Earl of Hawksbury. Nicholas is everything Lavinia is not, arrogant, irresponsible, not an easy person to get along with. But Nicholas seems to be drawn to Lavinia despite their differences. Will he be able to win her heart?A well written story with secrets, inspiration and love. The detailed Historical setting transports the reader back in time, with rich dialog pulling you in. Livvie (Lavinia) is very likable, so was Nicholas despite his flaws. Overall I enjoyed The Elusive Miss Ellison and feel those who like Historical/Christian/Romance will enjoy it as well.

[mizroady · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Ms. Miller is one of my new “want to read and look forward to new books” authors. If you like the writings of Jane Austin, you will love this book! It is 1843, the Victorian Era but the setting is in small village in England instead of a big city. Lavinia Ellsion is the minister’s daughter. She lives with her father and her Aunt Patience who came to live with them after her mother’s tragic death. She steps to the beat of a different drummer than her friends. She casts aside the fluff of dress and stuffy conduct that her peers dote on. She thinks nothing of working in the garden without a hat or taking walks alone in the country. Both are big social faux pas for a young woman of that era. Her concerns are more with helping the needy and the poor. The village is all a twitter with the coming of the new Earl of Hawkesbury, Nicholas. All the mothers are preening their daughters in hopes of making him their new son-in-law. Lavinia has no interest in finding a husband. Her concerns are more that the new earl does more to care for the poor and alleviate their suffering, one of his duties that came with the position. Nicholas is prideful, arrogant and selfish. He loathes the new job forced upon him by his social position. No two people could be more opposites! Lavinia is disgusted by his smugness and haughtiness. I found it amusing that she had the same attitude but hers came from her religious and strong sense of duty to the destitute, whereas his came from his sense of entitlement and no sense of duty to the people.You can imagine the strong personality clashes as they are thrown together in many situations. We never know what circumstances life might throw our way or who will enter in that will challenge and change us. Such was the case with Lavinia and Nicholas. Tragedy opens the doors to their hearts and minds that would have otherwise stayed closed. Even as love blossoms, their Lavinia’s strong personality and stubbornness consistently sprouts misunderstandings and hurt. A beautiful love story filled with surprises. I had no idea that earls had any more to do than have their titles and be rich. It was fascinating to learn about the operations and expectations in a small village during that era. I so enjoyed the book and look forward to the next one. I was provided a review copy of this book set by Kregel Publications, with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[caslater83 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I received a copy of this book earlier this week from LibraryThing and Kregel Publications and agreed to give an unbiased review. This book is wonderful. If you love the regency period, you will enjoy this book. Miss Ellison is truly the type of person that I would want to befriend. She loves her father and cares deeply about the poor members of her community. She's not afraid to put Lord Hawkesbury in his place, especially when it comes to the welfare of the poor tenants. She is surrounded by snobby people whose only goals are to increase their wealth, the size of their lands, or to gain titles. They value things over people. Miss Ellison values people over possessions.The Earl has been through many battles in his lifetime. There is a battle of a different kind waiting for him on the homefront. He is expected to marry a wealthy heiress, and many women out there are vying for him. Even their mothers are trying to push their daughters onto him, but he won't have it. He meets the minister's daughter--a woman unlike any other woman in the ton. The attraction between the minister's daughter and the Earl is undeniable. The pressures of society make it difficult for the Earl to decide if he should follow his heart or do his duty. He knows he doesn't want his mother planning out his life for him. But he knows he doesn't want to imagine life without Miss Ellison either. Challenges crop up periodically and he often wonders if he'll ever win her over. A book worth reading and re-reading!

[rkchr · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

I didnt notice this was a christian romance when I requested it. There were a couple hints in the description, but I was oblivious.I am not into the christian thing.I found the many bible quotes rather annoying.The plot was tame but a typical romance plot. The characters were rather boring.Not my thing, but not a total disaster of a book either.

[bookwormmama14 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

A beautiful setting and a heart touching tale of forgiveness and redemption. A very sweet story that had me falling in love with Gloucestershire and Beagle puppies! The Elusive Miss Ellison is Carolyn Miller's debut novel and I applaud her creativity and gift for story! The descriptions of the settings, homes, and gowns were so detailed that I can still see the images in my mind. Miss Ellison and Lord Hawkesbury have so many challenges to overcome. In their personal lives as well as with their relationship with their families and each other. Learning to lay down their pride and lean on God for truth and guidance was a very encouraging thing to witness. I did enjoy this story and I am very excited to continue the series. However, the flow of the story and some inconsistency in the characters had me confused on multiple occasions. Hence my rating. That being said, the words and language was elegant and soothing. I found it very fun to read terms used in Regency times that I had to look up. This aspect added an extra level of depth to the story. There are several acknowledgements to Pride & Prejudice, which is always a delight to find in books. I am eagerly looking forward to following the author's growth and progress in her books to come. If you enjoy Regency stories with romance and redemption, I suggest you give this one a try!I received a complimentary copy of The Elusive Miss Ellison from Kregel Publications. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.