Review ~ The Last Lord of the Moors by Isabella Brooke

Paperback received from the author in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: 29th December 2013

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
In the twenty-first century, who needs Lords anymore? Richard, Lord of the Manor of Arkthwaite, lives alone in his crumbling house, resenting his hereditary position. He’s hoping to drink himself to an early grave and bring the title to an end. His bleak plans are upset when newcomer Helena decides to shake up this fading community. She’s been jilted and she needs a new project, so she joins forces with local headmistress Vicky and together they hatch a plan to bring broadband to this remote spot. Their lives clash with Richard’s as the cable needs to be dug across his land. But when Richard falls for Helena, it gets more complicated. She’s suspicious of men and their compliments; and he has his own reasons for wanting to stay single. Can they both shake off their histories to bring a better future to the village - and their own lives? Contains: romance, community regeneration, pagans, over-the-top mothers, British humour, rain.

My Opinion

The Last Lord of the Moors interested me for two reasons. The first was because I was intrigued to see how the author tied in the concept of Lords into a modern-day romance. The second was because there was also the promise of humour and I love chick-lit that makes you smile. So, there wasn't really much of a question about what to do when I got a request to read this book.

The Last Lord of the Moors was a simple and easy read that was a great book to switch off with in the evenings to just relax. It made me smile on more than one occasion so I definitely wasn't disappointed with the humour and I liked how that lightheartedness was carried throughout the novel rather than just coming in bursts. I felt that the author did a good job with the characterisation to keep the banter between all characters no mater who they were with.

Another thing I liked was how the relationship developed slowly and wasn't without its issues. Richard was an interesting character and I liked his rule of living up to gossip--that made me laugh. It was also a good contrast to his real personality and the problems he faces with his life and family. Helena challenged him to be better and he challenged her views, the characters worked well together creating a seamless romance that flowed nicely. The third person narrative which switches between character gave a good overview of feelings, thoughts and helped too keep things moving at a good pace.

If there is one thing I would say about this book that I didn't like, it was that the chapters were a bit too long. I'm the type of person who won't stop midway through a chapter so I prefer short and plenty rather than fewer but longer. For me 30 pages (on average) is slightly too long, especially at the start when you're learning about everyone. However, by the end, I did find them easier to get through as I was engaged with the characters.

Overall The Last Lord of the Moors was a good, easy read that kept a smile on my face, kept me reading and kept me engaged. It's believable and realistic and I enjoyed it more than I expected.