All William wanted was to save the world. Now he cannot even save himself.
William Brook is an idealistic young cleric, desperate to escape dreary England for a mission adventure in exotic lands. It’s his worst nightmare come true when he is posted to a parish in a tiny backwater village, populated with small-minded people and husband-hunting mamas. He’s determined not to form any ties and to escape the country as an independent single man.
A free spirit, Cecilia Grant is perfectly content to remain in her family home in Amberley village – when she’s not wandering the countryside at all hours painting. Marriage options are few, but that won’t stop her mother from engineering a match with one of the ruling family’s sons. Cecilia attempts to win the man, but what is it about the new vicar and his brooding ways that is so appealing? Could he be the only one who has ever really understood her, and can she discover what he is running away from?
As William struggles not to fall in love with the lady’s intoxicating beauty and mysterious eccentricity, he finds himself drawn into the lives of the villagers, despite their best efforts to alienate the newcomer. When he makes it clear he’s not sticking around, Cecilia strives to restrain her blossoming feelings for him. Just when it seems love may triumph, dark secrets are revealed in Amberley and a scandal from William’s past may see the end of not only his career, but his chance at finding an everlasting love.
The Vagabond Vicar is an unashamedly romantic historical novel you’ll fall in love with. If you love Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer, can’t get enough of Downton Abbey or Cranford, or just prefer old-fashioned boy-meets-girl stories, try reading Charlotte Brentwood. Fans of traditional regency romance or clean historical romance won’t be disappointed.
Sensuality level: sweet,clean (only kissing)
Please note, although there is some mention of religious subject matter due to the hero’s occupation, this is not an “inspirational” novel.
BOOK DESCRIPTION COURTESY OF AMAZON
I was given a copy of this book by the Author for an honest review.
THE VAGABOND VICAR is a delightful, charming read. The characters and the story line is very well-developed. William wants to leave England and spread the word of God, but he is sent to a town to replace the Vicar who has passed away. He meets Cecilia and is thoroughly smitten. Cecilia loves to escape the house and paint in the outdoors. As Cecilia and William grow closer, William decides that he does not need to escape England to spread God’s word. He has everything he needs here with Cecilia . I give THE VAGABOND VICAR 4/5 STARS.
