Winning the Gentleman - (Hearts on the Heath) by Kristi Ann Hunter (Paperback)
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About this item
Highlights
- Aaron Whitworth hasn't had control over most aspects of his life, but he's always taken pride in being an honorable businessman and better-than-average horseman.
- About the Author: Kristi Ann Hunter is the author of the Hawthorne House and Haven Manor series and a RITA Award winner and Christy Award finalist.
- 352 Pages
- Fiction + Literature Genres, Christian
- Series Name: Hearts on the Heath
Description
About the Book
When his reputation is threatened, Aaron Whitworth makes the desperate decision to hire a circus horse trainer as a jockey for his racehorses. Most men don't take Sophia Fitzroy seriously because she's a woman, but as she fights for the right to do the work she was hired for, she finds the fight for Aaron's guarded heart might be a more worthwhile challenge.Book Synopsis
Aaron Whitworth hasn't had control over most aspects of his life, but he's always taken pride in being an honorable businessman and better-than-average horseman. When both of those claims are threatened, he makes the desperate decision to hire the horse trainer of a traveling circus as a temporary jockey for his racehorses.Sophia Fitzroy knows that most horsemen don't take her seriously because she's a woman, but she can't pass up the opportunity to get away from the tumultuous world of travel and performing. As she fights for the right to do the work she was hired for, she learns the fight for Aaron's guarded heart might be an even more worthwhile challenge.
As secrets come to light and past vulnerabilities are confronted, will Aaron and Sophia sacrifice their former dreams and forge a new one together--against all odds?
From the Back Cover
"Hunter's sweet tale nicely weds Regency society intrigue, struggles of faith, and a romance kindled through mutual love of horses."--Publishers Weekly on Vying for the ViscountAaron Whitworth hasn't had control over most aspects of his life, but he's always taken pride in being an honorable businessman and better-than-average horseman. When both of those claims are threatened, he makes the desperate decision to hire the horse trainer of a traveling circus as a temporary jockey for his racehorses.
Sophia Fitzroy knows that most horsemen don't take her seriously because she's a woman, but she can't pass up the opportunity to get away from the tumultuous world of travel and performing. As she fights for the right to do the work she was hired for, she learns the fight for Aaron's guarded heart might be an even worthier challenge.
As secrets come to light, will Aaron and Sophia's past vulnerabilities be an insurmountable stumbling block, or will they sacrifice their former dreams and forge a new one together?
About the Author
Kristi Ann Hunter is the author of the Hawthorne House and Haven Manor series and a RITA Award winner and Christy Award finalist. Kristi graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in computer science but always knew she wanted to write. She lives with her husband and three children in Georgia. Find her online at www.kristiannhunter.com.Dimensions (Overall): 8.4 Inches (H) x 5.5 Inches (W) x 1.1 Inches (D)
Weight: .66 Pounds
Suggested Age: 22 Years and Up
Number of Pages: 352
Genre: Fiction + Literature Genres
Sub-Genre: Christian
Series Title: Hearts on the Heath
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Format: Paperback
Author: Kristi Ann Hunter
Language: English
Street Date: April 20, 2021
TCIN: 81048643
UPC: 9780764235269
Item Number (DPCI): 247-70-6493
Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
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Estimated ship dimensions: 1.1 inches length x 5.5 inches width x 8.4 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.66 pounds
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4.9 out of 5 stars with 9 reviews
100% would recommend
1 recommendations
Wonderful and Inspirational
5 out of 5 stars
LM15 - 4 years ago
I loved everything about this book! Kristi Ann Hunter writes a story that speaks truth through funny and romantic scenes and lovable characters. The complex and caring Aaron Whitworth finds himself in a predicament of locating a jockey in a very short amount of time. Quite by accident and by some amount of deception, circus performer Sophia Fitzroy becomes the answer to his problem. Opposites attract is seen so clearly with Aaron and Sophie. He is quiet, brooding, and likes to be alone. Sophie is talkative to a fault, optimistic, and thinks the more people the better. I saw their combined personalities as being an unbreakable bond and that together they are a wonderful couple. The changes that Aaron goes through in this story were profound. He realizes that all of the years that he falsely believed things about himself is really not who he is, and that he can be free. There are so many applications to this one truth that I have been considering since I finished the book. I was so happy to see several characters from Aaron’s life who are in previous books be mentors and guides. Their love, encouragement, and truth-speaking helped Aaron to let go of past misconceptions and start afresh. Some of my favorite quotes are from Aaron’s friends. Harriet :) “Because in my opinion, which I value rather highly, people in love are stupid.” I’m not in love.” “No, she sighed, “But you could have been. And there is something to be pitied about a man who avoids even the chance.” Oliver’s conversation with Aaron- “Stop being a chub and fight for the woman you love.” There are hints of things to come for book three of the Hearts on the Heath series. I am eagerly waiting to see whose story will be told next. I highly recommend this inspirational Regency romance. I was given this book by the author and was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sweet Romance
5 out of 5 stars
- 4 years ago
Kristie Ann Hunter is a joy to read. Her writing takes me on a journey to another time and place, and I love every moment of it. The characters she creates are some of the most unique, eccentric and completely lovable. I could not wait to get my hands on this book. Having read the first book in the series, I was already in love with most of the characters. That being said, this can easily be read as a stand alone novel as well. I Couldn’t wait to learn more about Aaron. His loyalty and the love between him and his friends is unlike any other. Being born as a different class than his friends he sees himself in a certain light. I enjoyed watching his friends push his boundaries and frustrate him to no end. Sophia is perfect for him, but neither of them know that yet. Sophia is sweet and charming and isn’t afraid to step up to a challenge. But she also has some secrets of her own. In a world where your birth determines your value, can the two of them find a place where they belong? I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. Hunter kept me turning the pages, and I couldn’t wait to see what might happen next. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Love. Love. LOVE!
5 out of 5 stars
bookswithnopictures - 4 years ago
Love. Love. LOVE! I am currently in a contemporary rom/com mood reading fix lately but have randomly picked up a different genre here and there over the last few months only to go right back to them. I've not felt very inspired to deviate. I just knew in my gut that Kristi Ann Hunter would change my mind. One of the best things about Kristi's writing - besides her flair for banter and humor - are the characters that weave in and out through all of her books. Aaron has been an interesting character since hi introduction into her books. How can a fellow who introduces himself as illegitimate not be? I'm so glad I got to know him better and see him meet his match in Sophia. My faith has been restored and now I'm off to dive into another regency asap. I could easily just reread this without blinking an eye or maybe I should reintroduce myself to Amelia and go through the whole lot of them. Thank you to the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
One of My Favorites by Kristi Ann Hunter!
5 out of 5 stars
Rebecca Maney - 4 years ago
4.5 stars "Mr. Whitworth had said she was trouble . . . . .She'd thought it was more the type of trouble that made someone uncomfortable or doubled their workload for a day. Instead, she was the sort of trouble that crushed a man's life . . . . " And Sophia Fitzroy certainly did not want to ruin Aaron Whitworth's livelihood, for he had thrown Sophia and her twin brother a lifeline, albeit under dubious circumstances; nonetheless, her new employer had provided them with an opportunity to leave one life behind and literally race towards another. Why did making a right decision, suddenly feel wrong, unless . . had she missed God's voice? Were her dreams, just that . . . dreams? A woman jockey, horse trainer, instructor? And at the tip top of her concerns; how to handle the sizzle of attraction towards the moody, broody Aaron Whitworth. Aaron Whitworth had fought off feelings of inferiority his entire life. Being the illegitimate son of an earl placed him squarely in the crosshairs of English society. He had the monetary advantages of the gentry, comparatively speaking, but with it came the scorn and disownment that one would expect. Except for horses; he had always loved working with horses, building a solid reputation among his few titled friends in order to manage two reputable stables. And then . . . . along came Sophia, who could ride like the wind, and whisper endearments to the most powerful of creatures. And fool that he was . . . he had hired her to race. "What if, instead of trying to imitate what he'd been taught a gentleman should be, Aaron started living by God's standards for one?" When you turn every page with eager anticipation for discovery, it's a guarantee that you have landed between the covers of an extraordinary book. And "Winning the Gentleman" is just that . . . extraordinary! So romantic, so inspiring, so well balanced between pause and pursue. May every reader rest in the the truth that God's intentions for their future are the only ones that truly matter. I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
Wonderful Historical Romance with a horse race setting!
5 out of 5 stars
Paty Hinojosa - 4 years ago
I’ve always been a big fan of Kristi Ann Hunter books, and I have to say this is definitely one of my favorites! I loved everything about this book. The plot was very engaging, it never dragged. But what I loved most was the depth of the characters. I was happy to revisit with previous characters, but Aaron and Sophia were the most special. They both had a sad past full of grief and loss, and I was rooting so much for them to finally get theirhappy ending. They so much deserved it. I loved the traits each of the main characters presented: Aaron was strong, determined, yet so vulnerable, even if only on the inside, and loyal to the core. He was kind and compassionate, and yes, brooding (I love brooding heroes). My heart ached because of his internal pain and battles so much; he needed a big and loving hug. Sophia was also strong and determined, passionate, and a dreamer. She was more optimistic and so loving of what is hers (her brother, her horse), selfless to the core. They both had some character growth in the story, especially Aaron. There’s a strong faith inspiring message about learning to trust God and let Him guide your life. There’s also the redemption and forgiveness theme. Rigsby, Aaron’s legitimate half brother, plays an important part in this. I loved that part. And I loved the part Aaron’s growing circle of friends play in the story, their strong bond, their loyalty, their true affection and generosity in seeing to what the other friend needs. This is definitely a story I immensely enjoyed and I vividly recommend! Can’t wait for the next one in the series! I’m hoping Jonas or Rigsby’s story will come out soon. Both secondary characters I loved and admired. There’s serious drama and a bit of intrigue in the story, but at the same time there’s wit, humor and banter, and a lightheartedness that made the story so enjoyable and more endearing.
Oh my goodness, what a great read!
5 out of 5 stars
MWilliams - 4 years ago
Oh my goodness, what a great read! I recommend that you read this and share it with your friends. Aaron Whitworth is a stoic stable manager who knows his place. He always has. Sophia Fitzroy is a circus performer that has a obsession with horses. They are her life. When Aaron is in a pickle and needs a jockey, Sophia worms her way in to his life. Of course, Aaron wants nothing to do with a woman, but if she doesn't help, his life could be ruined. Sophia needs a job to survive and provide for herself and her small "family." Whether she likes her new job is not a care; she knows horses and can do this, she thinks. Stubbornness is a theme in Aaron's life considering his life is perfect as it is, he thinks. No additional friends needed, and no lengthy conversations. There is plenty of angst as the story twists and turns, but there's also love and trials and yearning and strife. I'm happy to say if you've read any of Kristi Ann Hunter's books, you might meet a character you already know! I love this about her books! I was given this book for an honest review.
Winning Regency Romance
4 out of 5 stars
Suzie W - 4 years ago
For those who have been long-time Kristi Ann Hunter fans, Aaron’s story has arrived!! We first met him in A Defense of Honor, and he had a larger role in Vying for the Viscount, so I was thrilled he finally gets the leading role in Winning the Gentleman. And oh, boy does he have a time of it! It starts with a wager and a fired jockey then takes you to a circus and the hiring of a new jockey…a very memorable one. Despite his illegitimacy, Aaron is a gentleman through and through. While he prefers to avoid them, he understands the workings of the ton and the repercussions of the impetuous decisions of some of his friends. He is also a man of his word when it comes to agreements. When he meets Sophia, he’s both suspicious and entranced. The woman can talk (which just adds Hunter’s characteristic humor), but she also knows her horses (more so than many of the men who own them). The romance between Aaron and Sophia is set at the perfect pace, their somewhat opposite personalities made for some delightful (and a few frustrating) scenes, some fictional friends from previous books make cameos, and the history of horse racing in Newmarket is well-researched. Hunter once again delivers an enjoyable regency romance that is hard to put down. Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
A Must Read!
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Brianna - 4 years ago
Kristi Ann Hunter has done it yet again! She effortlessly weaves humor, history, and romance together in a way that makes it impossible to put the book down! Sophia’s heritage and legacy is working with horses; she is the horsewoman that every young girl dreams of being after watching their first horse movie. Although she currently works for the circus, she has bigger dreams. Aaron’s life as a stable manager for two prominent racing stables is perfectly organized; as the first-born but illegitimate son of an earl, Aaron has settled for his job as the stable manager and convinced himself he has no further ambitions. Then Sophia comes along and puts a big kink in all his well-orchestrated plans. When Aaron, believing he is hiring Sophia’s brother as a horse trainer inadvertently hires Sophia, her horse skills are put to the test. Hiring her is a risk that causes big waves in the horse community and jeopardizes Aaron’s position and livelihood. When push comes to shove Aaron has to decide what he is going to let define his self-worth: his birth, his job, or what God says he is. Sophia demonstrates grace under pressure, but like a clown in the circus she is juggling a lot of things, and ultimately has to decide what she is going to prioritize and what she is going to give up. Overall I loved this book! The characters are so well-written, both fun and relatable.
The True Meaning of a Gentleman
5 out of 5 stars
TimelessNovels - 4 years ago
Hunter always writes unique story-lines with characters we fall in love with. However, this story was especially unique with the main characters a female circus performer turned jockey and a man born on the wrong side of the blanket. Aaron Whitworth was a fan favorite from his previous appearances, but this book can be read as a standalone. The situation of Aaron’s birth was far more common than it should have been, and it was interesting to see the child’s point of view in this situation. On the outside Aaron is very quiet and standoffish, but there is an endearing quality about him. Sophia Fitzroy has had to spend the last few years taking care of herself and her injured twin brother. Her situation has made her more independent and determined. I liked how she was such a strong female lead and different from the typical aristocrat. I really like that this book was different from any other book I’ve read from this time period. And I’ve read a lot of books from this time! If you’ve read previous books by Hunter, be on the lookout for some fun cameos in this one.