A Comfortable Alliance

4 stars

A sweet, quiet, charming story of love & family.

[What I liked:]

•I really like the characters! Helena & Will especially. I liked seeing them grow as people & as a couple. I enjoyed seeing them work through their fears & flaws, & seeing them enjoy life together.

•The writing gives such nice details of nature, setting, fashion, political events, manners, social expectations, etc. It really felt like reading a Regency story, rather than just a vaguely historical one.

•It was extremely refreshing to read a book that had depth of emotion, but wasn’t full of extreme danger or hate or fear or betrayal. I do like those books too, but it’s nice to find a quiet read sometimes & this hit the spot!


[What I didn’t like as much:]

•Occasionally the dialogue is clunky, full of all sorts of background details that seem out of place In everyday conversation. For example, at one point Will is telling Helena about his childhood. He says his mother remarried in 1803, & then gives all these details about his step father’s estate. Maybe that’s how people talked back then? It just felt odd to specify the exact year, rather than say, “when I was ten”, or just not be so exact, or what have you.

•The plot is meandering, which I think works for this book, but if you’re used to a very straightforward & tight plot you may not like the approach. What I mean is, there are small scandals & domestic disputes that give the narrative conflict, but these are more explored in terms of how they shape Will & Helena’s growing relationship (which I think works well!). There is no grand, over arching danger or threat; no external tension runs throughout the entire story. So don’t expect that, & perhaps you won’t even miss it.

[I received an ARC ebook copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you for the book!]

A lovely novel with a surprising flow. The timeline is perhaps unexpected, mainly because it really begins at the start of a marriage instead of ending at one. It’s unusual timeline makes it’s very promising. I’ve greatly enjoyed reading this book and would highly recommend it.

A COMFORTABLE ALLIANCE by KATHERINE KULLMAN is a most enjoyable historical romance novel which takes place in England in the 1830's, after the end of the Napoleonic war. I enjoy the whole society scene, together with the scandal mongers and self important members of the "ton", who contrast well with the more sincere members of society.
When Will, Earl of Rastleigh, meets and marries Miss Helena Swift it is seen by them both as a comfortable alliance. Will they every go from being good friends to loving one another?
I will leave things there as I do not want to spoil the read for you.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from BooksGoSocial. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

A Comfortable Alliance by Catherine Kullmann. BooksGoSocial, 2021.

This engaging new regency romance is the story of when Will met Helena. Will is the very appealing and long sought-after Earl of Rastleigh, looking for an attractive intelligent wife. Young, intelligent, and attractive Helena has not thought about wanting a husband since the man she intended to marry succumbed to injuries sustained at Waterloo. When Will meets Helena, he realizes she is exactly what he wants, so he sets out to make her his wife and the mother of his children. Neither is looking for romantic love.

As I’ve found with Kullmann’s other books, this is a positive, well written, easy to read story with historical facts to enjoy and enough background detail provided on characters and situations to make the story flow. My only distraction was that Helena, with her obvious intelligence, took six years to question whether she wants to live with her mother and play with her brother’s children for the rest of her life. Otherwise, the main and supporting characters are kind, believable, behave consistently and are easy to like.

A Comfortable Alliance is as comfortable to read, as warm and captivating as a wood-burning fireplace on a cold winter night. I read until I finished it, and warmly recommend it. I would give it 4.7 stars if I could.

Disclosure: I received a review copy of A Comfortable Alliance for free via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. #AComfortableAlliance #NetGalley

I absolutely loved this book! I received, A Comfortable Alliance, as an ARC through Netgalley. I requested it because the plot was interesting, but since I had just finished reading one of the best books I have ever read, I approached this with reservations. In spite of that, I found the book so well written and sweet, that I want to read it again—immediately!

The plot contains the sweetest romance I have read in a long time with a hero, Will, the Earl of Rastleigh and heroine, Helena Swift, who are not only likable, but also admirable. Their evolving love story shows them overcoming past heartaches and loneliness. Their characters were so fully drawn and their dialogue so natural that I could picture perfectly. I loved the way that they did not “write off” family and friends who were either weak or lacking in character. In spite of the fact that they were self sufficient in their own company, they allowed others into their lives and helped them become better people--Will and Helena were truly good!

The plot has something for everyone: famous historical events, romance, mystery, and human drama. It was absolutely fascinating! Historical events such as, the Duchess of Richmond’s Ball, the Battle of Waterloo, and King George IV’s coronation were included. Contemporary historical issues of the day were touched upon: the abolition of slavery, women’s rights, and the Irish question among others. But none of these were boring in any way. Catherine Kullmann has done such a wonderful job of researching this era that her seamless writing enriched the story and gave it authenticity.

I was pleasantly surprised by how good this was and I’m so happy that I “discovered“ Catherine Kullmann.

#AComfortableAlliance #NetGalley

This was my first Catherine Kullmann book -- but it won't be the last. I very much liked the "slow burn" of the developing feelings of the H and h. I did find the h's reluctance to wed for her particular reason a bit weak, but her doubts were ultimately overcome by her strong feelings for the H, so I will give a pass on that rather contrived excuse for angst. There was some sex after marriage, though not too lurid and sensitively presented, All in all, if you're looking for character development along with relationship development and you're NOT looking for love mostly as a result of physical attraction on as illustrated in major "steamy" hot sex scenes, then I think this is a book you will enjoy. I am definitely going to look for some more books by this author because I appreciate the way she builds characters, motives, growing emotional attraction (in addition to physical attraction), and a good story line. These are the mainstays for me in a good historical romance, and this books checks all my boxes. #NetGalley #AComfortableAlliance Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for allowing me to read this ARC.

A Comfortable Alliance by Catherine Kullman is a beautifully written historical novel set right after the Napoleonic Wars. From the start, I could tell this was a gentle read, in other words, a peaceful-evening-sitting-by-the-fire-with-a-glass-of-wine kind of book. Ms Kullman does not disappoint in her ability to transport you with her true-to-the-era dialogue and situations. The overall story is quite lovely, giving you enough romance while not being gratuitous in any way which, to me, gives credibility to the time period in which she writes. The dialogue is easy, not cumbersome, except for a few out-of-place descriptive passages which I thought a person might not ordinarily say in regular conversation. But, then again, sometimes we read with a more modern eye. I think of this book as a meandering river, flowing along with Will and Helena’s relationship as their characters develop over the course of the book – a comfortable alliance becoming a very sweet romance. The title is perfect in that respect! Along with the historical backdrop, which Ms Kullman portrays with great skill, this book is a great read for anyone wanting a well-told Regency story. Very recommended!!

Book rating: 3.5 stars (rounded up)

Synopsis:
Helena lost her first love to injuries sustained at Waterloo and doesn't think she will ever learn to love the same way again.  Will, the Earl of Rastleigh, knows he must marry to produce an heir but is tired of being pursued for his wealth and title.  Will is impressed with Helena's kindness and intelligence, and while he is not passionately in love with her, he asks if she'll marry him in the hopes of developing an affectionate companionship and mutual respect.  Their rushed marriage begins with a sorrowful event and Helena has a hard time adjusting to being a countess instead of a country lady.  She is a strong woman and mourns the loss of her independence.  But as they build their new life together, Helena's heart opens up to the possibility of marriage meaning something more than just a comfortable alliance.

Review:
It took me a little while to get used to the prose in the book, but once I did I really enjoyed it (thank goodness for the dictionary feature in Kindle, which I used extensively). The author did a fantastic job of using language appropriate to the Regency era, which gives it a true sense of authenticity while still being relatable.  The writing did seem a bit choppy at times, with the author moving on to a new section before fully finalizing the current section.  But I did not think it affected the flow overall.

I was surprised at how much Helena's demeanor changed as soon as she was presented as the mistress of the house, but I understand she felt she needed to establish respect from the very beginning.  It was nice to see the character development for both Helena and Will over the course of the book.

This is not a "proper" romance (one without any sex scenes) but the scenes which are included are not as detailed as a typical romance novel. However, it is definitely targeted toward an adult audience. It has everything you would look for in a noteworthy Regency novel: a strong female lead, a handsome eligible Earl who owns his own castle on the sea (swoon!), scandals waiting to be uncovered, and much more.

If you're a fan of Jane Austen and Bridgerton, be sure to give this one a read and support this lesser-known author!

Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

#AComfortableAlliance  #NetGalley

I really enjoyed it. A refreshing change from the usual 'girl meets earl' novel plot. I particularly liked the slow steady build of the relationships, and careful background research. It felt so much more plausible than so many of this type of book.

Not least the very naive idea that so many books promulgate that there were hundreds of Earls and Dukes in England; there never were that many and they were mostly old, and the bizarre belief the young ones would be delighted to marry a maid servant. As if!

This Regency romance came as a charming surprise. True, the writing is a bit on-the-nose, but the characters are so endearing that I didn't mind much. This is a gentle story about two people who wed without expectations for love but find it anyway, and the writer understands that while external conflict adds some excitement, the real draw is watching the leads learn and grow together. Filled with likable characters and stakes that never get quite high enough to cause actual concern, A Comfortable Alliance turned out to be a comfortable, soothing read. I'm so glad I gave it a chance to pull me in.

Thank you to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.

A well-written, gentle Regency Romance concerning the marriage and developing relationship between an Earl ,who accepts he needs to do his duty and sire an heir to his estate, and a young woman of status and intelligence, but who still holds at least a flickering candle for her deceased not-quite-betrothed (died following action at Waterloo). Some lovely dialogue with the old pussies who can't wait for scandal, and their gentle comeuppance from the new Countess; a few scoundrels and rakes but nothing gratuitous; misunderstandings of course. Feels true to what I think of as the period, early 19th century, with characters' dialogue and dress drawing in the reader. Very pleasant read. Thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

I am surprised by how much I liked this. It was really like going back in time. More understandable then a Austen novel but so like it. I felt like I had stepped back in time to visit this couple and watch thier story. This is an arranged marriage story where both parties were agreeable and friends. It was so different and so interesting. This is not like my normal book. This was reading the first year of marriage where normally you read up to the marriage. She just had such an interesting way of writing.
Sex: This does have some matter of fact sex scenes. Nothing erotic just told like the rest of the book. This is after marriage.
Drinking: There is always alcohol in these kinds of books.
Violence: NONE
No religion

Helena Swift was engaged to Richard Harbury. She thought, he was the love of her life. When Bonparte surrendered the first time, they joined them in Brussels.. Bonapart escaped, the men had to go back to war. A bomb exploded in front of him and schrapnel slapped into his body.. He was sent home to recover. He died about three weeks later.
Five years later, she lives a quiet life with her mother.. until she meets Will Holt, Earl of Rastleigh.. He is a kind man and does not like the ton. He does not want a debutant.
They get married Thy are two very sweet people and very caring. He married into a large family. He had been raised as a lonely boy. .There are some interesting twists to the book. Also some surprises. They have some issues to work through. The author has done such a great job with this novel. It entertains you, delights and entices. loved It and the heart warming emotions that swept you up in their arms.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.

Catherine Kullmann has written another wonderful Regency novel that I know I will read again. What I love about her books is the care she obviously takes in developing memorable characters and authentic settings, including the impact of the war on the various families. One of the elements I really appreciated was her depiction of the character development that Will and Helena undergo after their marriage. Although they were compatible sexually from the start, as the story unfolds we seem them making an effort to learn about each other, and they also look hard at their own shortcomings and work to overcome them. They had some honest conversations that helped move their relationship forward and as a result their marriage became a loving one – to the surprise of both. I loved seeing Helena’s improvements for the castle, and how grateful Will was when he saw the results. I was glad to see Will reach out to his heir, a young man who was drifting and needed guidance. While there were some nasty characters most of the supporting players were kind and helpful. Kullmann includes background notes on the sources she consulted for historical accuracy. I heartily recommend “A Comfortable Alliance: A Regency Novel.” I received an ARC from the author and NetGalley but I liked the book so much I decided to buy a copy.

Helena and Will were a sweet couple who had a few hurdles to step over before finding their way to true love. A bit on the staid side, but very interesting and entertaining nonetheless. Okay, I admit, it wasn’t all that dreary, there were a few dramatic episodes that liven things up a bit. It was a clean romance without much fire or steam.

this was a historical fiction romance, I enjoyed going through this journey. The characters were great and I really loved getting to watch this romance happen.

This was a lovely slow-burn romance; excellently researched and put together. The relationship between the main characters seemed very realistic and I found myself really hoping that their relationship would turn into a deep love. I enjoyed the side characters and all the historical detail. I always come away from a Catherine Kullmann novel feeling that I've really lived and experienced the era I'd been immersed in during the story.

Ms. Kullmann is a new-to-me author, so I didn't know what to expect when I picked this up. I read the blurb and was intrigued, so I decided to give it a try. The author did a very nice job of researching the time and provided vivid details to help understand the era and visualize the story and provide a sense of authenticity. I really liked the character of Helena. She was a strong, independent woman and also kind and compassionate person. Will meets Helena while visiting family friends. While he isn't particularly keen on marrying, he does need an heir and he finds Helena quite pleasant and easy to get along with. Helena also sees him as sensible and someone she can trust, so they agree an alliance between them would be quite agreeable. What they didn't expect was to actually fall in love. This was a very sweet and charming story and the characters were endearing. This Regency was nicely written and I enjoyed reading it.

I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.

Helena's first love was tragically killed at Waterloo and she has retreated to the country to be a companion to her mother and a devoted aunt. She doesn't believe she will love again, so has made up her mind to stay single.

Will, The Earl of Rastleigh has lost his family in tragic circumstances, as a result he knows he must marry and have children to secure the succession. Bored by the managing mamas and empty headed debutantes throwing themselves at him, he retreats to a country house party where he meets the calm and lovely Helena. Drawn to her serene demeanour and interesting conversation, Will decides to court the reserved Helena, and manages to convince her that he will respect and treat her as an equal in a marriage based on mutual respect and companionship.

As he gets to know his remarkable wife, and learns how to be a good and respectful husband (with a couple of misteps), Will realises that he wants more than respect and companionship, but is unsure how to broach this with Helena, little does he know that her heart is engaged too.

As always Catherine Kullman has delivered a well written romance, with a wealth of historical detail, she describes key events such as Waterloo, and George IV's coronation, and also weaves in a lot of the political issues of the day, such as the fight to abolish slavery, and the position of women in the eyes of the law and society, in a way that serves the plot. Really enjoyable read.

I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book and all opinions are my own.

A charming marriage of convenience story that rings true with an authentic Regency feel and behavior that actually sorts well with the period. I enjoyed this book a great deal.

I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the ebook. A beautiful cover. Great historical fiction romance. Highly recommend.