A Return of Devotion is the second novel in Kristi Ann Hunter’s Haven Manor series. (You can read my review for the first book, A Defense of Honor, in my post Just Read: A Defense of Honor by Kristi Ann Hunter.) Daphne was running a home for illegitimate children in a neglected home. But when the estate’s owner decides to live at the estate, Daphne exchanges her role as surrogate mother for housekeeper. William, Marquis of Chemsford, doesn’t know what to make of his new housekeeper. Or the secrets that multiply faster than they’re answered.
While A Return to Devotion is the second in a series, it can be read as a standalone. However, I highly recommend you read A Defense of Honor first.
My Thoughts
A Return of Devotion is a poignant novel of second chances. Daphne and William both struggle with their past mistakes. But they also struggle with looking ahead to the future instead of worrying over their pasts. The misunderstandings they work through as Daphne tries to hide her secrets from William lead to some humorous moments. But through these we see the strength of Daphne’s character, even if she is a bit misguided. Daphne can be shy and reserved, but she has no problem trying to protect her son. I loved the way Hunter brought that out.
And I loved William’s sense of honor. In fact, William had me swooning more than once. His housekeeper baffles him but he doesn’t want to let her go because he’s afraid she won’t find another job. Who wouldn’t love a hero like that? And his response to Benedict…well, I don’t want to give away any spoilers. But it made me respect William even more.
I read this book in a day, and it wouldn’t surprise me if you did, too. Hunter packs so much in it. I kept holding my breath as one revelation came after another, and just when I thought things were settling down, Hunter throws a curve-ball that had me reeling almost as much as Daphne.
I didn’t swoon, though. I’m quite proud of myself for that.
Where to Find It
If you want to check out A Return of Devotion for yourself, you can click the book cover to purchase it from Christianbook.com. The next book in the series, A Pursuit of Home, comes out November 5, so catch up with the series while you can!
Don’t forget to stop by Kristi Ann Hunter’s website, where you can sign up for her newsletter and read an excerpt of A Pursuit of Home. You can also follow her on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
