The Vicar and the Village Scandal

Allen Abbey Romances, Book 3

By: Rosanne E. Lortz

Narrated by: Maria Johnson

Following the demise of the old rector, newly reformed Thomas Allen receives a position as vicar near Allen Abbey, his boyhood home. But memories of Thomas’ wild youth cause both the gentry and the country folk to doubt his sanctity and sincerity. Only Mary Bates, the daughter of the Abbey’s steward, seems willing to believe that the leopard has truly changed his spots.

When the appearance of a mysterious child threatens to completely blacken Thomas’ chequered reputation, he must decide whether doing the honourable thing is worth losing both his living and his chance at love....

This clean and wholesome Regency romance is third in the Allen Abbey Romance series, and although it could be listened to alone, it is best enjoyed in sequence.

©2023 Rosanne E. Lortz (P)2024 Rosanne E. Lortz

Perfection

I was given this audiobook today, and I finished it already. I loved the book when I read it, but the narrator for the audiobook did such a great job bringing all these characters to life they felt like I was reliving this wonderful story. She had so many characters to work with, and none of the voices were the same. She’s pretty amazing.

Once again, Roseanne wrote such a fun, beautiful book. It was filled with scandal and hypocrisy towards people. I can’t imagine being in this situation, where no matter what you did, you could not be forgiven for the sins of your past. It was amazing how some of these people acted towards Thomas and Luca. It was sad how people treated Luca differently because he was thought to be an illegitimate child.

I liked the chemistry between Thomas and Mary. I am still wondering what are fine boned fingers because that is how the author described Mary’s hands. Ha ha. There were also secondary characters who you will love, and who you will love to hate.

I totally recommend this book but I also recommend that you listen to the first two before this one. It is a standalone, but so many characters from previous books are mentioned quite a bit, and it’ll be fun to the relationship they have with each other.

I was given a free copy of this audiobook, and I’m leaving my review voluntarily.

Another excellent audiobook

I have enjoyed listening to the stories written by Rosanne and narrated by Maria. This was another excellent audiobook with these two teamed up. I loved this story as much as the other books written by Rosanne and Maria's narration was excellent as always. I always love how she narrates a unique voice for each character. Two thumbs up, 5 stars, a definite must listen!

Delicious Regency Romance

I love the rascal to hero theme, and not many characters undergo such a radical change of heart as Thomas Allen. His forbearance under unjust gossip makes me love him all the more. Glad he got his happy ending!The narration of this delightful book is outstanding- so many distinctive voices and characters. A wonderful audiobook on every level.

Wonderful characters!

A charming, engaging story with characters you have to love, hate, laugh at, or rejoice with right through to the end. I find this volume vying for favorite status among my Roseanne E. Lortz reads.