Promises and Primroses the first book in a new series, Mayfield Family, by Josie Kilpack is one definitely worth reading if you love a strong independent female lead character, secrets, country life, and dogs. For romance lovers this story is a real treat as it has two, yes two, different generations parallel love stories and you won’t be disappointed with either one.

Being a member of Josi’s Street Team I have had the honor of reading all of her historical clean & wholesome romance regency stories, but I must say that Promises and Primroses is her best writing thus far. Josi gave us such a captivating story from beginning to end with scenery and characters that were so picturesque they jumped right off the page, and out of the book making one feel as if you are right there in the thick of things. Plus there is never a dull moment. For those like me who have a tendency to cry when animals are involved have a hanky/tissue close at hand.

Now for a personal note: The field of Primroses was my favorite scene in the story as it was so enchantingly written. It reminded me of where I grew up, but instead of Primroses we had fields of Buttercups.

I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the author as a member of her Street Team. I was under no obligation to write a review, and all options expressed in this review are completely my own. ( )

Peter Mayfield is determined to keep himself and his daughters far from any hint of a scandal. He’s grown up in the shadow of one and does not wish the same for his girls. Thus, when he conducts interviews while searching for a governess, he steers clear of the young and pretty Julia Hollingsworth. When circumstances bring the two back together, and Julia’s gentle ways with his daughters—and his dogs—moves Peter.

Josi S. Kilpack writes what I consider middle-upper class regency—just a step down from he nobility. Her characters have large homes but also need a trade to support themselves. They still attend and host dinner parties, they have a wide circle of peers, and they have employees (just not tenants).

Julia’s tenderheartedness toward the girls and the puppies, as well as her desire to bring as little pain to Peter as possible, make her an extremely likable character. And Peter’s desire to live an upright life—to the point of foregoing what he wants most—is commendable. The two are a good fit for each other, but Julia’s mom has another agenda.

A pleasant and pleasurable story that looks at the simple and natural process of love burgeoning from admiration and the future that opens up when forgiveness is extended, Promises and Primroses is another winner from Kilpack.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. ( )

Peter Mayfield is dedicated to his children and helping his family but mostly keeping to himself. He tends to be closed off and withdrawn, he does little interaction with his household staff but does have a loving relationship with his two daughters. Elliot Mayfield has given up on love in order to restore his family's name to its once glory. He has now moved on to making sure his nieces and nephews are taken care of, but he has not forgotten the one woman who caught his attention.

Julia Hollingsworth has returned back to her small town roots but is intending to keep her job as a governess, no matter her mother disagrees with her decision. She is single, beautiful, but unmarried and has no plan of locating any suitors. She is easy going, loving, caring and motivating towards her young charges. Her mother Amelia Hollingworth, lives the simple life of taking care of her neighbours, children and grandchildren. She does not trust the Mayfield family because of the betrayal of Elliot's actions when they were young.

The story is written in the third person with a setting that is well described and easy to imagine. The characters show growth as the story progress and with that growth, it makes them easier to connect with. The storyline is evenly paced until the end when it goes into overdrive. The story contains two different romances. Elliot and Amelia, who once were almost engaged and Peter and Julia, who are now employer and employee. The relationships do feel real and are easy to connect with but also imagine taking place in the time period.

Yes, I would recommend this book. It is an excellent beginner Historical Romance read. The characters are well written and allow the readers to connect with them and their story. The story itself is an interesting read and a keeps your interest. ( )