I was charmed by this book. I had my share of problems with it, but overall it was wonderful. I'll be putting it on my keeper shelf for a future reread.
The letter exchange that Lily and Avery participated in was so perfect. Their back and forth banter was one of my favorite parts of the story. I really loved the feel of the scenes when Avery would pull out the newest letter and read it aloud to his friends. Being able to see a little of his interaction with his friends in that setting really helped add insight to Avery too.
I loved that Avery kept bellowing that he was a gentleman. It cracked me up. His ability to ignore or insist on his gentlemanly qualities as the situation warranted was cute. I really found his character endearing. The scene where he comes in and bellows for Francesca really illustrates his personality.
I didn't warm to Lily as much as I did to Avery. I thought she was a little hypocritical. I loved the scene where Avery acted like he felt violated because she had forced her attentions on him. I really felt like she got what she deserved then. I didn't enjoy her reasons for not wanting to marry. I thought wanting to be with Avery but only her way was selfish. I really respected Avery when he refused to have children with her if they did things her way. Bravo for him.
I found Francesca more interesting that Lily and couldn't help but want to know more about her. I really felt that she stole the show whenever she was in a scene with one of the other characters.
This was my first Connie Brockway book, but I'll be on the lookout for more.

Tram N. (
gummy13) wrote on 2/14/2006...
I really enjoyed this story.

Erin O. (
Erin) wrote on 8/30/2005...
Dear Mr Thorne,
I give you fair warning I intend to do whatever I must to abide by your late uncle's will and win Mill House. though I know he never expected me to succeed,and for whatever reason is using me to shame you. I accept his challenge. For the next five years,I will profitably manage the estate.I will deliver to you an alllowance and I will prove that women are just as capable as men. And at the end,I shall accept Mill House as my reward. Sincerly Lillian Bede
My Dear Miss Bede
Forgive me fi I fail to shudder. Pray,do whatever you bloody wellwant,can or must .I shall look forward to making you acquaintance in my lawyer's office five years hence,when I take possession of Mill House. Avery Thorne