When Two Rivers Meet by Deborah Hathaway

Almost four years after coming out into society as an accomplished young woman, Miss Lilyanna Crosgrove has become tired with her way of life at Heatherhill, the stately home she lives in right outside of Bath. Her mother decides what Lilyanna does and whom she speaks with each day. And when Lilyanna comes to discover what she wishes for most in life, as well as in a future companion, her desires remain unheard. One evening, however, Lilyanna's life promises to change forever when Mr. Elijah Bainbridge, a man as caring as he is handsome, asks her for a dance. Through various assemblies and balls, entertaining dinner parties, and horse rides across the green countryside, their attraction to each other grows. Their relationship does not come without difficulty, however, as outside forces, including an unrelenting suitor and a secret from Elijah's past, will stop at nothing to keep the couple apart. Will Lilyanna and Elijah waver under the pressure of cruel rumors and persistent threats? Or will they be able to join together, eventually overcoming the opposition surrounding their union?

Sweet Regency Romance

I was excited to receive a review copy of When Two Rivers Meet and couldn’t wait to get started. I enjoyed Ms. Hathaway’s first book and since Regencies are a weakness of mine, I knew I would enjoy this one as well.

I thought this was a sweet, pleasant read. Lilyanna is trying hard to be a dutiful, perfect daughter. Unfortunately, her mother has rather high, unobtainable expectations. As Lilyanna starts to receive the attention of two very different gentlemen she realizes she doesn’t want to spend her life making other people happy at the expense of her own happiness. It was nice to see Lilyanna stand up for herself and what she believed in. As time goes on, she quickly realizes she is developing real feelings for Mr. Elijah Bainbridge. Both Elijah and Lilyanna were likable characters and have a sweet relationship. Outside forces may be trying to keep them apart, but they work together to keep their connection alive and fight for a way to be together. I have to say, Lilyanna's mother drove me nuts, I wanted to shake some sense into her. She was true to the time period though. It always makes me wonder how many happy couples were broken up because of "well meaning" parents meddling in things.

I thought this was an enjoyable read and a pleasant way to pass the time. It kind of reminded me of the Proper Romance line that Shadow Mountain publishing has. Overall, an enjoyable read and one I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys sweet regencies.

Content: Squeaky Clean

Source: Received advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

This has been nominated for a 2015 Swoony Award, you can vote for it here.