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La institutriz
Impoverished and untitled, with no marital prospects or so much as a single suitor, Beatrice Sinclair is forced to accept employment as governess to a frightened, lonely child from a noble family - ignoring rumors of dark intrigues to do so. Surely, no future could be as dark as the past she wishes to leave behind. And she admits a fascination with the young duke's adult cousin, Devlen Gordon, a seductive rogue who excites her from the first charged moment they meet. But she dares not trust him - even after he spirits them to isolation and safety when the life of her young charge is threatened.Devlen is charming, mysterious, powerful - and Beatrice cannot refuse him. He is opening new worlds for her, filling her life with passion ... and peril. But what are Devlen's secrets? Is he her lover or her enemy? Will following her heart be foolishness or a path to lasting happiness?
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First published December 27, 2005
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About the author
Karen Ranney
100 books949 followersI’m a writer who’s been privileged to have attained the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller Lists.
Although I've primarily written historical romance, I've also written contemporary romantic suspense, a murder mystery, and I'm having a wonderful time writing about a vampire who is being challenged by her new state of being. (The Montgomery Chronicles: The Fertile Vampire and The Reluctant Goddess coming March 12, 2015.)
I believe in the power of the individual, the magnificence of the human spirit, and always looking for the positive in any situation. I write about people who have been challenged by life itself but who win in the end.
Newsletter: http://karenranney.com/subscribe-warm...
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WriterKarenRa...
Website: http://karenranney.com
Email: karen@karenranney.com
Twitter: @Karen_Ranney
Although I've primarily written historical romance, I've also written contemporary romantic suspense, a murder mystery, and I'm having a wonderful time writing about a vampire who is being challenged by her new state of being. (The Montgomery Chronicles: The Fertile Vampire and The Reluctant Goddess coming March 12, 2015.)
I believe in the power of the individual, the magnificence of the human spirit, and always looking for the positive in any situation. I write about people who have been challenged by life itself but who win in the end.
Newsletter: http://karenranney.com/subscribe-warm...
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WriterKarenRa...
Website: http://karenranney.com
Email: karen@karenranney.com
Twitter: @Karen_Ranney
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
April 23, 2021
Someday, when I have the time (LOL), I'm going to reread this book. When I started it I was incredibly busy and even when I could steal some short reading time, my concentration was poo. I also stopped and read a bodice ripper in the middle. So, this quickie review is going to probably sound scattered but I want to talk about this book.
He folded his arms, ignoring the cold as he watched the carriage begin the descent to the village. She was going to be a problem.
I don't know if the first half of this was boring, vague, and meandering or if the personal issues I mentioned played a bigger role but I almost gave up on this book. Going by the cover and title, I was shocked when I started reading and the vibe was completely Gothic, not expected. Our heroine Beatrice lost her parents and friends to a sickness epidemic (think it was cholera?) and she's been on her own for a while now. She's poor and starving trying to get any job when someone tells her the castle on the hill is looking for a governess. It's dark, gloomy, storming, and the castle feels haunted. We meet Gaston, a servant to the uncle of the seven year old duke (Robert) she's to be a governess to, Cameron the uncle, and the son of Cameron and cousin to Robert, Devlen. I'm not going to even lie and admit I spent a good portion of the beginning not really knowing who the heroine was going to be paired up with or knowing what the heck was going on. (Right before I read a book, I don't usually read the back cover so I'm not spoiled on stuff) It's dripping with Gothic mystery; Robert's parents died in a carriage accident that left his uncle Cameron in a wheelchair and now someone is trying to kill Robert. Maybe. The vast majority of the story doesn't really dive into that, it was simultaneously the focus and to the side. I'm sure that's clear as mud but that's how it felt to me.
He breathed against her ear. She turned her head and brushed her lips against his bristly cheek. He'd traveled all night to be with her. He traveled in the darkness like a demon, and in the dawn light, he offered her a hint of depravity. Dear God, she wanted it so.
Now, either my attention finally could be focused or the story improved but the second half of this, particularly the last 35%, was richly good and all because of the relationship between Beatrice and Devlen (yes, the hero was finally obvious to me).
"Do you believe in love at first sight, Miss Sinclair?"
"No."
He laughed softly. "Now who's the cynic?"
"Why fall in love with someone's appearance? People get sick, or grow old. The character matters more than looks, Mr. Gordon. Wit, intelligence, kindness, all matter more than appearance."
"So, you would have love come after a conversation?"
"Perhaps."
"How long would it take?"
"The conversation?"
His smile chided her. "Falling in love."
"How should I know if it's never happened to me?"
"Perhaps we should talk longer, Miss Sinclair, have a few more conversations."
He looked away, and it was just as well, because she didn't know how to answer him.
Y'all. I mean, this stopped me in my tracks. Our stoic contained Devlen, just dropped a huge emotional bomb in a way that delighted the hell out of me. This was a hidden depth moment that always make me sit-up and pay attention.
Neither of these two hold titles and their first sex scene was not enjoyable to Beatrice (she was a virgin and there was a good padded thread to them dealing with this and to her enjoying the next time), and along with the Gothic vibe, this felt very different for what is usually found in this subgenre.
The mystery of/if and who could be trying to kill Robert was pretty meh, not flushed or highlighted enough for me and then the resolution is left to the very very end and answers we get were convoluted eye-roll-y for me. But dang, Beatrice and Devlen really hit me in the second half. The other characters never were clear or filled in enough (what even was Devlen's relationship with his dad??), probably to keep the mystery going but it just made the first half hard for me to get into until the romance really started going.
I also want to put this moment up because I thought the writing was beautiful and made Beatrice's character shine more:
Her eyes tickled with unshed tears. An odd moment to cry. Or perhaps the best moment, after all. There was so much loveliness in the world, the same world in which there dwelt so much horror. A paradox, one in which they were forced to live. She wanted something at this moment, something she couldn't quite define or explain. Something that would answer the restlessness deep inside her. She was either hungry or lonely or distraught and more than a little curious as to why she couldn't identify the feelings completely. Perhaps it was because all this time, she'd cocooned herself, protecting herself from the grief and fear that were too painful to experience on a daily basis. Perhaps she was separated from her own discomfort, like stubbing her toe and not feeling the pain until hours later. Was she just now recognizing the full extent of her own loneliness?
It may be hard to see why I felt like this was beautiful and defining for Beatrice without having read previously to this point but Beatrice was stoic too and this cracked her shell and you feel her grief over losing so many and her endurance to survive when she had no money.
The beginning was slow for me but the ending had me sitting up and taking notice and some scenes and Beatrice and Devlen will be lingering in my mind.
I hope Robert gets/got his own book!
He folded his arms, ignoring the cold as he watched the carriage begin the descent to the village. She was going to be a problem.
I don't know if the first half of this was boring, vague, and meandering or if the personal issues I mentioned played a bigger role but I almost gave up on this book. Going by the cover and title, I was shocked when I started reading and the vibe was completely Gothic, not expected. Our heroine Beatrice lost her parents and friends to a sickness epidemic (think it was cholera?) and she's been on her own for a while now. She's poor and starving trying to get any job when someone tells her the castle on the hill is looking for a governess. It's dark, gloomy, storming, and the castle feels haunted. We meet Gaston, a servant to the uncle of the seven year old duke (Robert) she's to be a governess to, Cameron the uncle, and the son of Cameron and cousin to Robert, Devlen. I'm not going to even lie and admit I spent a good portion of the beginning not really knowing who the heroine was going to be paired up with or knowing what the heck was going on. (Right before I read a book, I don't usually read the back cover so I'm not spoiled on stuff) It's dripping with Gothic mystery; Robert's parents died in a carriage accident that left his uncle Cameron in a wheelchair and now someone is trying to kill Robert. Maybe. The vast majority of the story doesn't really dive into that, it was simultaneously the focus and to the side. I'm sure that's clear as mud but that's how it felt to me.
He breathed against her ear. She turned her head and brushed her lips against his bristly cheek. He'd traveled all night to be with her. He traveled in the darkness like a demon, and in the dawn light, he offered her a hint of depravity. Dear God, she wanted it so.
Now, either my attention finally could be focused or the story improved but the second half of this, particularly the last 35%, was richly good and all because of the relationship between Beatrice and Devlen (yes, the hero was finally obvious to me).
"Do you believe in love at first sight, Miss Sinclair?"
"No."
He laughed softly. "Now who's the cynic?"
"Why fall in love with someone's appearance? People get sick, or grow old. The character matters more than looks, Mr. Gordon. Wit, intelligence, kindness, all matter more than appearance."
"So, you would have love come after a conversation?"
"Perhaps."
"How long would it take?"
"The conversation?"
His smile chided her. "Falling in love."
"How should I know if it's never happened to me?"
"Perhaps we should talk longer, Miss Sinclair, have a few more conversations."
He looked away, and it was just as well, because she didn't know how to answer him.
Y'all. I mean, this stopped me in my tracks. Our stoic contained Devlen, just dropped a huge emotional bomb in a way that delighted the hell out of me. This was a hidden depth moment that always make me sit-up and pay attention.
Neither of these two hold titles and their first sex scene was not enjoyable to Beatrice (she was a virgin and there was a good padded thread to them dealing with this and to her enjoying the next time), and along with the Gothic vibe, this felt very different for what is usually found in this subgenre.
The mystery of/if and who could be trying to kill Robert was pretty meh, not flushed or highlighted enough for me and then the resolution is left to the very very end and answers we get were convoluted eye-roll-y for me. But dang, Beatrice and Devlen really hit me in the second half. The other characters never were clear or filled in enough (what even was Devlen's relationship with his dad??), probably to keep the mystery going but it just made the first half hard for me to get into until the romance really started going.
I also want to put this moment up because I thought the writing was beautiful and made Beatrice's character shine more:
Her eyes tickled with unshed tears. An odd moment to cry. Or perhaps the best moment, after all. There was so much loveliness in the world, the same world in which there dwelt so much horror. A paradox, one in which they were forced to live. She wanted something at this moment, something she couldn't quite define or explain. Something that would answer the restlessness deep inside her. She was either hungry or lonely or distraught and more than a little curious as to why she couldn't identify the feelings completely. Perhaps it was because all this time, she'd cocooned herself, protecting herself from the grief and fear that were too painful to experience on a daily basis. Perhaps she was separated from her own discomfort, like stubbing her toe and not feeling the pain until hours later. Was she just now recognizing the full extent of her own loneliness?
It may be hard to see why I felt like this was beautiful and defining for Beatrice without having read previously to this point but Beatrice was stoic too and this cracked her shell and you feel her grief over losing so many and her endurance to survive when she had no money.
The beginning was slow for me but the ending had me sitting up and taking notice and some scenes and Beatrice and Devlen will be lingering in my mind.
I hope Robert gets/got his own book!
February 11, 2017
(4.5 stars) An Unlikely Governess was a strangely quiet yet wonderfully intense historical romance. The characters were much sadder and lonelier than one usually finds in this genre; even when authors try to make their characters the "loner-type," I don't think they succeed as well as Ranney does here.
SUMMARY (from inside page):
"Impoverished and untitled, with no marital prospects or so much as a single suitor, Beatrice Sinclair is forced to accept employment as governess to a frightened, lonely child from a noble family - ignoring rumors of dark intrigues to do so. Surely, no future could be as dark as the past she wishes to leave behind. And she admits a fascination with the young duke's adult cousin, Devlen Gordon, a seductive rogue who excites her from the first charged moment they meet. But she dares not trust him - even after he spirits them to isolation and safety when teh life of her young charge is threatened.
Devlen is charming, mysterious, powerful - and Beatrice cannot refuse him. He is opening new worlds for her, filling her life with passion ... and peril. But what are Devlen's secrets? Is he her lover or her enemy? Will following her heart be foolishness or a path to lasting happiness?"
NOTES ON ABOVE SUMMARY:
~ There's never a question as to whether Devlen is her lover or enemy: he becomes the former and he's never the latter. Also, he's never untrustworthy - I don't know why they always try to confuse and mislead in the summaries!
~ Robert, the 7-year-old duke who is Beatrice's charge, is actually under Devlen's father's guardianship and he is one of the questionable characters. If Robert died Cameron Gordon would become the Duke and though he may be confined to a wheelchair, he could still be orchestrating the attempts on Richard's life ... so is he?
~ There is also the interesting and tragic (though disturbingly so, you'll discover), character of Cameron Gordon's wife, Rowena.
~ Just my own PS: no major taking-over-the-plot-to-the-point-that-you-want-to-shoot-one-or-both-of-the-main-characters misunderstandings here! (There's a small one at the end, but it only lasts a few pages, is necessary for the plot, and is quickly resolved). Beatrice and Devlen are actually refreshingly honest with one another - it's one of the greatest things about their relationship and this book IMO.
COMMENTS:
For the first 20 pages or so I was not sure whether I would even like the book; I loved Beatrice and Devlen immediately, but their initial interactions were somewhat strange and I wasn't sure I would find their romantic relationship believable or compelling. It was like they were strangers meeting for the first time but they'd known each other their whole lives (if that explains it and doesn't make me sound crazy), which is why I was somewhat doubtful at first. I quickly realized how wrong I was, though, and if anything it only made their relationship more authentically intense; all in all they were absolutely amazing together and perfect for one another.
The supporting characters were very compelling and the mystery remained one until the end - I was never really sure who was behind the attempts on Robert's life. If anything, I would have liked some more clues as to who it was, because the reader ends up being almost too surprised. I was never sure about whether the other secondary characters were "good" or "bad" and of course nothing ended being that simple; they were all very three-dimensional and interesting.
Robert, the young duke, was a wonderful addition to the story and provided several humorous moments. Ranney did a wonderful job of writing a young boy who is wise beyond his years and has had to grow up too fast, feels alone and abandoned, covers his fear and loneliness by acting out, but essentially is a sensitive, perceptive, and clever child. So all in all: FABULOUS HISTORICAL and definitely a reread :-)!!
SUMMARY (from inside page):
"Impoverished and untitled, with no marital prospects or so much as a single suitor, Beatrice Sinclair is forced to accept employment as governess to a frightened, lonely child from a noble family - ignoring rumors of dark intrigues to do so. Surely, no future could be as dark as the past she wishes to leave behind. And she admits a fascination with the young duke's adult cousin, Devlen Gordon, a seductive rogue who excites her from the first charged moment they meet. But she dares not trust him - even after he spirits them to isolation and safety when teh life of her young charge is threatened.
Devlen is charming, mysterious, powerful - and Beatrice cannot refuse him. He is opening new worlds for her, filling her life with passion ... and peril. But what are Devlen's secrets? Is he her lover or her enemy? Will following her heart be foolishness or a path to lasting happiness?"
NOTES ON ABOVE SUMMARY:
~ There's never a question as to whether Devlen is her lover or enemy: he becomes the former and he's never the latter. Also, he's never untrustworthy - I don't know why they always try to confuse and mislead in the summaries!
~ Robert, the 7-year-old duke who is Beatrice's charge, is actually under Devlen's father's guardianship and he is one of the questionable characters. If Robert died Cameron Gordon would become the Duke and though he may be confined to a wheelchair, he could still be orchestrating the attempts on Richard's life ... so is he?
~ There is also the interesting and tragic (though disturbingly so, you'll discover), character of Cameron Gordon's wife, Rowena.
~ Just my own PS: no major taking-over-the-plot-to-the-point-that-you-want-to-shoot-one-or-both-of-the-main-characters misunderstandings here! (There's a small one at the end, but it only lasts a few pages, is necessary for the plot, and is quickly resolved). Beatrice and Devlen are actually refreshingly honest with one another - it's one of the greatest things about their relationship and this book IMO.
COMMENTS:
For the first 20 pages or so I was not sure whether I would even like the book; I loved Beatrice and Devlen immediately, but their initial interactions were somewhat strange and I wasn't sure I would find their romantic relationship believable or compelling. It was like they were strangers meeting for the first time but they'd known each other their whole lives (if that explains it and doesn't make me sound crazy), which is why I was somewhat doubtful at first. I quickly realized how wrong I was, though, and if anything it only made their relationship more authentically intense; all in all they were absolutely amazing together and perfect for one another.
The supporting characters were very compelling and the mystery remained one until the end - I was never really sure who was behind the attempts on Robert's life. If anything, I would have liked some more clues as to who it was, because the reader ends up being almost too surprised. I was never sure about whether the other secondary characters were "good" or "bad" and of course nothing ended being that simple; they were all very three-dimensional and interesting.
Robert, the young duke, was a wonderful addition to the story and provided several humorous moments. Ranney did a wonderful job of writing a young boy who is wise beyond his years and has had to grow up too fast, feels alone and abandoned, covers his fear and loneliness by acting out, but essentially is a sensitive, perceptive, and clever child. So all in all: FABULOUS HISTORICAL and definitely a reread :-)!!
June 9, 2021
DNF at 14%. Tried as I might, I just couldn't get into the story and the author's writing style. I had to read a couple of sentences over and over again so I just abandoned my effort. 2 stars for the story as the story seems promising and interesting. Maybe it's just me...
August 13, 2022
Ik heb de Nederlands talige uitgave gelezen : Verleidelijke redder - Candlelight Historische roman 791.
Beatrice Sinclair heeft na de dood van haar ouders dringend een baan nodig , gelukkig wordt ze aangenomen als gouvernante voor de 7 jaar jonge Hertog Robert . Op het sinistere kasteel Cranoch probeert zij voor de bange weesjongen een veilige haven te maken , maar dat valt niet mee omdat er aanslagen op zijn leven worden gepleegd .
Reden voor zijn neef Devlen Gordon om hem en Beatrice mee te nemen naar zijn huis in Edinburgh . Helaas weten Roberts bedreigers hem daar ook te vinden .
Beatrice Sinclair heeft na de dood van haar ouders dringend een baan nodig , gelukkig wordt ze aangenomen als gouvernante voor de 7 jaar jonge Hertog Robert . Op het sinistere kasteel Cranoch probeert zij voor de bange weesjongen een veilige haven te maken , maar dat valt niet mee omdat er aanslagen op zijn leven worden gepleegd .
Reden voor zijn neef Devlen Gordon om hem en Beatrice mee te nemen naar zijn huis in Edinburgh . Helaas weten Roberts bedreigers hem daar ook te vinden .
June 10, 2015
Aww. Me encantó. Y creo que se debe a que la novela no se propone romper con el género, ni está espectacularmente narrada, ni es fielmente apegada al contexto histórico. Ni siquiera empieza de lleno con el romance. Pero le pongo 5estrellas porque logra lo que pocas novelas pueden: engancharme de principio a fin y que pueda realmente disfrutarlo.
Al principio, cuando vi que tiene más peso la relación de ella con su pupilo que el romance, y que lo primero que tienen los protas es esta atracción infernal por el otro, solo me quedé rogando que la autora no lo arruinara con algun Creo que me estoy enamorado en poco tiempo. No fue así, y yo feliz ♪
Me encanta Beatrice, es tan atípica, tan sincera, tan directa, tan curiosa. Me gustan las conversaciones que tiene con Devlen. Realmente hablan. Y no solo de tonterías, sino que van buscando la forma de conocerse al otro. Y me gusta cómo luego se desenvuelve su relación. Era bonito verlos juntos, porque me hace pensar que a larga las cosas funcionarían de verdad, cuando no puedan pasar todo el tiempo en la cama.
Me gusta cómo pasan de gustarse infernalmente a quererse.
Con respecto a la intriga, fue lo bastante interesante para que lo leyera. Realmente supuse quién sería, pero me sorprendió un poco de todos modos.
El final es cuando todo decae un poco, pero disfruté tanto leerlo, que le dejo las estrellitas. Repito, no es un novelón. Pero yo disfruté con su lectura. No sé si alguien que lo lea le guste también este ritmo en la historia o la forma en que se dan las cosas.
***
Leo las otras reseñas y me siento como pececito fuera del agua XD
Al principio, cuando vi que tiene más peso la relación de ella con su pupilo que el romance, y que lo primero que tienen los protas es esta atracción infernal por el otro, solo me quedé rogando que la autora no lo arruinara con algun Creo que me estoy enamorado en poco tiempo. No fue así, y yo feliz ♪
"Un botón, simplemente eso. La mera idea de desabrocharle un botón le excitaba desaforadamente."
Me encanta Beatrice, es tan atípica, tan sincera, tan directa, tan curiosa. Me gustan las conversaciones que tiene con Devlen. Realmente hablan. Y no solo de tonterías, sino que van buscando la forma de conocerse al otro. Y me gusta cómo luego se desenvuelve su relación. Era bonito verlos juntos, porque me hace pensar que a larga las cosas funcionarían de verdad, cuando no puedan pasar todo el tiempo en la cama.
"Mientras estaba sentado a oscuras se le ocurrió que quizá ella fuera lo que más se pareciese a un amigo. Nadie había ocupado antes aquel lugar."
Me gusta cómo pasan de gustarse infernalmente a quererse.
Con respecto a la intriga, fue lo bastante interesante para que lo leyera. Realmente supuse quién sería, pero me sorprendió un poco de todos modos.
El final es cuando todo decae un poco, pero disfruté tanto leerlo, que le dejo las estrellitas. Repito, no es un novelón. Pero yo disfruté con su lectura. No sé si alguien que lo lea le guste también este ritmo en la historia o la forma en que se dan las cosas.
***
Leo las otras reseñas y me siento como pececito fuera del agua XD
July 24, 2019
Le doy 3 siendo generosa. Que no está mal, pero no pasará a los anales de mis lecturas. Destacar que la protagonista es bastante echada para adelante y no se corta un pelo con su oponente masculino. También que aquí la primera vez que trocotró no es todo tan maravilloso, un toque de realismo que no está mal.
August 30, 2014
Lo mejor que tiene la novela es que sus personajes resultan originales. Él no es noble y ella tampoco es la típica institutriz. Escrita bajo un prisma algo gótico... el final me ha oarecido muy precipitado, y razona poco los motivos de algunas acciones cometidas durante la novela
May 14, 2019
The story of an "unlikely governess" and her sort of employer.
Beatrice's life has been more than a little difficult and we meet her just as she hits rock bottom, with everyone she loves gone, no way to support herself and one very last, slim hope that she might be able to find employment at Castle Crannoch.
On her way up the mountain towards the looming castle, she is nearly run over by the carriage of Devlen Gordon, who turns out to be the young duke's cousin, while Devlen's wheel-chair bound father is the boy's guardian. There are instant sparks between them, but Beatrice has survival on her mind, so when the job of governess for the unruly young duke is offered to her, she accepts it, hoping it will bring about some positive changes in her life.
Unfortunately, someone wants the young duke dead, and Beatrice doesn't know who to trust. Devlen, who seems to be the only adult in the duke's life who actually cares for him, seems like the safest choice, and the three of them end up .
It turns out that .
Engaging story with a gloomy atmosphere, an unconventional heroine and young duke and villains that are as twisted as they are loyal. No real warm and fuzzies but a happily ever after that is well deserved.
Beatrice's life has been more than a little difficult and we meet her just as she hits rock bottom, with everyone she loves gone, no way to support herself and one very last, slim hope that she might be able to find employment at Castle Crannoch.
On her way up the mountain towards the looming castle, she is nearly run over by the carriage of Devlen Gordon, who turns out to be the young duke's cousin, while Devlen's wheel-chair bound father is the boy's guardian. There are instant sparks between them, but Beatrice has survival on her mind, so when the job of governess for the unruly young duke is offered to her, she accepts it, hoping it will bring about some positive changes in her life.
Unfortunately, someone wants the young duke dead, and Beatrice doesn't know who to trust. Devlen, who seems to be the only adult in the duke's life who actually cares for him, seems like the safest choice, and the three of them end up .
It turns out that .
Engaging story with a gloomy atmosphere, an unconventional heroine and young duke and villains that are as twisted as they are loyal. No real warm and fuzzies but a happily ever after that is well deserved.
June 30, 2012
This is the second time I have read Karen Ranney's wonderful novel, "An Unlikely Governess." The story centers around Beatrice Sinclair who has lost her parents in an epidemic and she is now left penniless and needing a way to earn a living. After a difficult journey, she finds a position as a governess to a young boy who has recently become a Duke after the deaths of his parents. While he attempts to act like as spoiled and arrogant, our heroine sees through him and recognizes a frightened and grief-stricken little boy. Her heart goes out to him and she finds him to be a clever young person in need of a friend. Enters Devlen Gordon, uncle to the young Duke, and someone who truly cares for him. An attraction begins to grow between Beatrice and Devlen which results in her first physical love-making encounter. Unexplained "accidents" begin to occur that threaten the life of the young Duke. Beatrice is challenged to find a way to protect the young boy and her own life as well.
I do hope you will read this wonderful novel. I have always loved a good governess novel and Ms. Ranney's works. So, what better way to "scratch that itch" than to read "An Unlikely Governess." After that, you must read her latest release, "A Scandalous Scot." I can sum that one up in one word: Wonderful! Enjoy!
I do hope you will read this wonderful novel. I have always loved a good governess novel and Ms. Ranney's works. So, what better way to "scratch that itch" than to read "An Unlikely Governess." After that, you must read her latest release, "A Scandalous Scot." I can sum that one up in one word: Wonderful! Enjoy!
August 22, 2016
Lo que más me ha gustado de La Institutriz han sido los personajes que ha creado la autora.
La vida de Beatrice ha estado plagada de desgracias así que se merece tener un final feliz, pero para llegar a él deberá pasar unos cuantos obstáculos. La personalidad de esta joven es genial y sus diálogos son fantásticos.
Devlen por otro lado es el típico mujeriego que parece intocable y al final termina cayendo en las redes del amor. Su lealtad y sus ganas de triunfar en la vida son muy contagiosas.
Y Robert es un pequeño que a pesar de que a veces resulta un poco irritante termina encantando a todo el mundo.
Las intrigas que se suceden a lo largo de las páginas, hacen que se mezclen en proporciones perfectas el suspenso y la pasión.
A pesar de que no es una historia con muchos giros argumentales, merece mucho la pena. Recomendable.
La vida de Beatrice ha estado plagada de desgracias así que se merece tener un final feliz, pero para llegar a él deberá pasar unos cuantos obstáculos. La personalidad de esta joven es genial y sus diálogos son fantásticos.
Devlen por otro lado es el típico mujeriego que parece intocable y al final termina cayendo en las redes del amor. Su lealtad y sus ganas de triunfar en la vida son muy contagiosas.
Y Robert es un pequeño que a pesar de que a veces resulta un poco irritante termina encantando a todo el mundo.
Las intrigas que se suceden a lo largo de las páginas, hacen que se mezclen en proporciones perfectas el suspenso y la pasión.
A pesar de que no es una historia con muchos giros argumentales, merece mucho la pena. Recomendable.
June 2, 2024
Intense. The mystery was engaging but the resolution was not. Plus, a disturbing facet came to light, out of the blue, with no real background or build up. It was jarring to say the least.
December 24, 2017
This is one of the best HR books that I have read in
a very long time, both Devlen and Beatrice were
such likable characters. Beatrice was such a self-
assured woman who spoke very bluntly and never
cared about conventionality. Devlen on the other
hand was a character who demonstrated his flaws
and was not afraid to admit when he was struggling
with his feelings.
I liked the fact that the plot isn't overshadowed
by the typical HR formulas like, following
conventional societal rules, spiteful fiances, and
despite the fact that a former lover makes a very
brief appearance, the author doesn't spend too
much time dwelling on this subject. The book
kept me very entertained from page one even
though not a lot of things happen in the story,
and I like the fact that the murder attempts are
neither forgotten or overpowering in the story.
Also, the first sex scene between D and B was
such a breath of fresh air, because the author made
it so incredibly realistic. As someone who grew up
reading HR novels obsessively and is very tired
of the typical formula that most of these novels
have, I was pleasantly surprised by how unique
and enjoyable this book was.
a very long time, both Devlen and Beatrice were
such likable characters. Beatrice was such a self-
assured woman who spoke very bluntly and never
cared about conventionality. Devlen on the other
hand was a character who demonstrated his flaws
and was not afraid to admit when he was struggling
with his feelings.
I liked the fact that the plot isn't overshadowed
by the typical HR formulas like, following
conventional societal rules, spiteful fiances, and
despite the fact that a former lover makes a very
brief appearance, the author doesn't spend too
much time dwelling on this subject. The book
kept me very entertained from page one even
though not a lot of things happen in the story,
and I like the fact that the murder attempts are
neither forgotten or overpowering in the story.
Also, the first sex scene between D and B was
such a breath of fresh air, because the author made
it so incredibly realistic. As someone who grew up
reading HR novels obsessively and is very tired
of the typical formula that most of these novels
have, I was pleasantly surprised by how unique
and enjoyable this book was.
July 31, 2016
Após perder os pais para a cólera e ficar sozinha no mundo passando fome, Beatrice procura trabalho em Castle Crannoch, um lugar sombrio e assustador. No caminho ela encontra Devlen, um rosto de arcanjo com nome diabólico e bastante atrativo. Consegue ser aceita e é contratada como professora do futuro duque, um garoto de 8 anos, assustadiço,perdido e tão arrogante quanto o primo.
Beatrice é uma jovem simples, que sabe ler, é inteligente e tem resposta prontas para tudo, não baixa a cabeça diante de ninguém. Mas também escondia sua tristeza por trás da valentia.
Devlen é arrogante, misterioso e rico demais. Achava que era um privilegio e um honra dar-lhe atenção.
Eles se sentem de imediato atraídos um pelo outro. Assim, além de proteger seu coração Beatrice terá que proteger o garoto das ameaças de morte.
E um livro bastante sensível, te emociona algumas vezes e os personagens são fortes e fascinantes.
Há um ar de mistério no ar o que me agradou bastante, além das cenas quentes entre os personagens.
Beatrice é uma jovem simples, que sabe ler, é inteligente e tem resposta prontas para tudo, não baixa a cabeça diante de ninguém. Mas também escondia sua tristeza por trás da valentia.
Devlen é arrogante, misterioso e rico demais. Achava que era um privilegio e um honra dar-lhe atenção.
Eles se sentem de imediato atraídos um pelo outro. Assim, além de proteger seu coração Beatrice terá que proteger o garoto das ameaças de morte.
E um livro bastante sensível, te emociona algumas vezes e os personagens são fortes e fascinantes.
Há um ar de mistério no ar o que me agradou bastante, além das cenas quentes entre os personagens.
March 19, 2015
This one is a bit difficult for me to rate and write a review.
The h/H have some bizarre conversations here. Not sure if bizarre is the right word, their verbal ping pong matches are bizarre, brilliant and wtf, all at the same time. There is this connection between them on a intellectual level I guess, from the moment they meet.
This book has a bit of a gothic feel with the dark castle, strange uncle and well....Lots of candles, so I had this feeling of dark shadows and dreary barely light.
Some bizarre actions, a terrorized child duke, villains that aren't clear at first, and lots of captivating conversation between the h/H.
I am never bored reading Ranney, that is for sure.
The h/H have some bizarre conversations here. Not sure if bizarre is the right word, their verbal ping pong matches are bizarre, brilliant and wtf, all at the same time. There is this connection between them on a intellectual level I guess, from the moment they meet.
This book has a bit of a gothic feel with the dark castle, strange uncle and well....Lots of candles, so I had this feeling of dark shadows and dreary barely light.
Some bizarre actions, a terrorized child duke, villains that aren't clear at first, and lots of captivating conversation between the h/H.
I am never bored reading Ranney, that is for sure.
August 16, 2018
3,5 Estrellas
Lo mejor de la novela es, sin duda, los diálogos entre ambos protagonistas. Resultan de lo más chispeantes y divertidos.
Es cierto que la novela emula cierto ambiente gótico, sin que llegue a ser especialmente destacable.
En general me ha gustado la manera de actuar de los personajes sobre todo de los principales aunque nunca entenderé esa manía de
En general una lectura bastante decente aunque hacia el final pierde fuerza y la resolución resulta precipitada.
Lo mejor de la novela es, sin duda, los diálogos entre ambos protagonistas. Resultan de lo más chispeantes y divertidos.
Es cierto que la novela emula cierto ambiente gótico, sin que llegue a ser especialmente destacable.
En general me ha gustado la manera de actuar de los personajes sobre todo de los principales aunque nunca entenderé esa manía de
En general una lectura bastante decente aunque hacia el final pierde fuerza y la resolución resulta precipitada.
July 30, 2016
This one started slow for me. The first couple chapters were dark, moody, almost melancholy. Then, we me meet, Devlin. He is strong, broody, sexy. Beatrice is the complete opposite of governess. She is strong, smart and always speaks her mind. Her charge Robert, just needed someone to care for him. What a great story. Only regret, no epilogue!
December 8, 2020
Quite good historical romance.
More or less safe.
Hero was a playboy and had a mistress, but he was very interested in heroine. Thank you, author, we dont get any image of him with other woman.
Heroine was a strong sassy one. Liked her a lot.
More or less safe.
Hero was a playboy and had a mistress, but he was very interested in heroine. Thank you, author, we dont get any image of him with other woman.
Heroine was a strong sassy one. Liked her a lot.
October 4, 2021
Es llevadera, linda historia con un poco de misterio pero el romance de los protagonistas va muy rápido, me recuerda a las novelas insta-love.
May 25, 2016
Why did I lost interest in this book?
The characters:
1. Devlen : your usual rakish rake. He's so handsome and so charming he melted the heroine's panties not long after their meeting. Tempting her with sexy low voices and naughty whispers. Did I tell you he was sooo handsome? Because he was, so handsome. As the inner thoughts of the heroine repeatedly mentioned, he's so handsome. The falling in lust was instantaneous, within a day they longed to bang each other.
2. Beatrice : intelligent and forward talking, a bit too forward in my opinion for the historical setting. She's also your usual I was so sinful because I want to bang that oh so handsome dude historical heroine. She's an orphan because a cholera epidemic took her parents.
And although I like the banters between them, it went sour whenever entering their minds, which consisting the longing to bang each other.
3. Robert: a seven going on seventy Duke who would randomly quoting something in Latin. Beatrice's pupil.
4. Cameron : Devlen's father, who's bounded to the wheelchair because of carriage accident, which also killed Robert's parents and making him the Duke's guardian.
5. Rowena: Cameron's second wife (Devlen's stepmother) who adored Cameron a lot, like a lot lots.
The story : Someone was watching and tried to harm or kill Robert. Devlen was suspicious of Cameron because he had been lusting over the title and the estates. Beatrice was thrown into this fued when she became Robert's governess.
It should be an intriguing book, if not for the instalust and the repeating I long to bang Devlen/Beatrice inner monologue.
I skimmed a lot and felt didn't miss much.
The conclusion:
Anyway, I'm sure there were other readers who would be entertained by this book. The dialogue was fun, the characters and the mystery was pretty intriguing. Maybe I was just bored with rake heroes and instalust.
The characters:
1. Devlen : your usual rakish rake. He's so handsome and so charming he melted the heroine's panties not long after their meeting. Tempting her with sexy low voices and naughty whispers. Did I tell you he was sooo handsome? Because he was, so handsome. As the inner thoughts of the heroine repeatedly mentioned, he's so handsome. The falling in lust was instantaneous, within a day they longed to bang each other.
2. Beatrice : intelligent and forward talking, a bit too forward in my opinion for the historical setting. She's also your usual I was so sinful because I want to bang that oh so handsome dude historical heroine. She's an orphan because a cholera epidemic took her parents.
And although I like the banters between them, it went sour whenever entering their minds, which consisting the longing to bang each other.
3. Robert: a seven going on seventy Duke who would randomly quoting something in Latin. Beatrice's pupil.
4. Cameron : Devlen's father, who's bounded to the wheelchair because of carriage accident, which also killed Robert's parents and making him the Duke's guardian.
5. Rowena: Cameron's second wife (Devlen's stepmother) who adored Cameron a lot, like a lot lots.
The story : Someone was watching and tried to harm or kill Robert. Devlen was suspicious of Cameron because he had been lusting over the title and the estates. Beatrice was thrown into this fued when she became Robert's governess.
It should be an intriguing book, if not for the instalust and the repeating I long to bang Devlen/Beatrice inner monologue.
I skimmed a lot and felt didn't miss much.
The conclusion:
Anyway, I'm sure there were other readers who would be entertained by this book. The dialogue was fun, the characters and the mystery was pretty intriguing. Maybe I was just bored with rake heroes and instalust.
January 3, 2012
The books story is going along great with the dark brooding cousin. The evil uncle, bitch of a aunt and the sneaky, rude kid even. The plot is wonderful and im enjoying it greatly.
However the first scene in which they make love was so bland that I kept waiting for more and never got it. Beatrice was a bore in bed. And all she did was comment on how bored she was. If I was Devlen, i'd never again wanna bed her. Even though it is uncomfortable at first, most of them time they get into the swing of things and enjoy it. But not her, and said she regretted it right away. Not because of her being ruined, but because it wasn't what she thought. I pray the rest of the book has better love scenes.
OMG when they go to talk about what happened the first time they had sex, she is still such a cold fish! How can he even want her again!! She tells him it was so bad she doesn't want to ever do it again. Im all for honesty, but come on! She's such a bitch about it. If not for the fact I want to see how it ends and who's out to get Robert, i'd toss the book out now! I feel so sorry for Devlen, to be attracted to such a bland, cold woman.
Then he seduces her, and bed her again. She's not as cold but my God does the woman talk too much during. She goes on later to say she's virtuous! What a bunch of bull. She's gave her virtue up when she slept with him.
But I did manage to finish to see what happens. I was a little shocked that it wasn't the uncle. I still think the aunt had a hand in it. Since she'd do to her husband what she did out of jealousy. She seems the murdering type. The only reason this book got 1 star was the plot was good. The mystery of it played out very well. But what started as mild dislike turned into hate as soon as the first love scene and stayed with me. I do not recommend this book at all unless you want a good plot with nothing else expected.
However the first scene in which they make love was so bland that I kept waiting for more and never got it. Beatrice was a bore in bed. And all she did was comment on how bored she was. If I was Devlen, i'd never again wanna bed her. Even though it is uncomfortable at first, most of them time they get into the swing of things and enjoy it. But not her, and said she regretted it right away. Not because of her being ruined, but because it wasn't what she thought. I pray the rest of the book has better love scenes.
OMG when they go to talk about what happened the first time they had sex, she is still such a cold fish! How can he even want her again!! She tells him it was so bad she doesn't want to ever do it again. Im all for honesty, but come on! She's such a bitch about it. If not for the fact I want to see how it ends and who's out to get Robert, i'd toss the book out now! I feel so sorry for Devlen, to be attracted to such a bland, cold woman.
Then he seduces her, and bed her again. She's not as cold but my God does the woman talk too much during. She goes on later to say she's virtuous! What a bunch of bull. She's gave her virtue up when she slept with him.
But I did manage to finish to see what happens. I was a little shocked that it wasn't the uncle. I still think the aunt had a hand in it. Since she'd do to her husband what she did out of jealousy. She seems the murdering type. The only reason this book got 1 star was the plot was good. The mystery of it played out very well. But what started as mild dislike turned into hate as soon as the first love scene and stayed with me. I do not recommend this book at all unless you want a good plot with nothing else expected.
November 16, 2011
I came across this book in my files as I was organizing my ebooks this past weekend, and as I had no memory of what happens in it, I decided to reread it.
Now I know why it made so little impression on me. It's one of those historicals where the sense of values congruent with past times is not established much at all, except in minor references to things we don't deal with much today, like stays and cholera.
There were several irritating incidents, such as the heroine whisking off the child duke out of town, informing no one, and yet at no time did anyone suggest she could be in serious trouble for what amounted to, essentially, a kidnapping. The revelation of who the villain was was surprising (sort of), but mainly because the characterization of the person was simply not developed enough - all the parties involved appear in the book in only one or two scenes (at most).
In terms of the romance, apart from wickedly glinting eyes (or something like that), I'm not sure what the hero's big draw was for the heroine. Well, in the case of one big draw, she couldn't have known about that until after they first sleep together, and in that instance, it just added to her discomfort. It was only later she came to appreciate it. Speaking of which, the sex scenes seemed not terribly necessary, in the sense that they didn't seem like the inevitable result of the progress of the relationship; they felt more tacked on.
All in all, it's not the best piecing together of elements.
2.5 stars
Now I know why it made so little impression on me. It's one of those historicals where the sense of values congruent with past times is not established much at all, except in minor references to things we don't deal with much today, like stays and cholera.
There were several irritating incidents, such as the heroine whisking off the child duke out of town, informing no one, and yet at no time did anyone suggest she could be in serious trouble for what amounted to, essentially, a kidnapping. The revelation of who the villain was was surprising (sort of), but mainly because the characterization of the person was simply not developed enough - all the parties involved appear in the book in only one or two scenes (at most).
In terms of the romance, apart from wickedly glinting eyes (or something like that), I'm not sure what the hero's big draw was for the heroine. Well, in the case of one big draw, she couldn't have known about that until after they first sleep together, and in that instance, it just added to her discomfort. It was only later she came to appreciate it. Speaking of which, the sex scenes seemed not terribly necessary, in the sense that they didn't seem like the inevitable result of the progress of the relationship; they felt more tacked on.
All in all, it's not the best piecing together of elements.
2.5 stars
July 12, 2021
This was more than a gothic romance. Ranney’s characterization of her heroine, Beatrice – a woman made orphan because of the sweep of cholera in her village – allowed the story to be philosophical about life. It perfectly set up Beatrice’s confusion once Devlen entered her life. He offered her temptation, desire, and pleasure which contradicted with her virtuous upbringing. But after experiencing the loss of her parents, and her struggle to survive afterwards, practicality warred with virtue. Life is short and can be taken from you any time. Should she turn her back on something and someone who made her feel alive after experiencing death?
I also appreciated Ranney’s unconventional treatment of Devlen’s character. It was shown that he was a wealthy, cunning, demanding and ruthless businessman/industrialist. This was evident in one scene when he talked to a gunpowder manufacturer whose business he was buying. The manufacturer was crying over the business that he didn’t want to sell but Devlen was unmoved. And even at the end, Devlen’s father warned Beatrice of the kind of man his son was. But it wasn’t treated as though it was a character flaw that had to be changed. Beatrice accepted it. It was only hinted at how Devlen was different with her, how her opinion of him mattered to her but we know that after we saw them hand in hand at the end that they would make each other a better version of themselves. I didn’t expect to like this book but Ranney’s deft handling of the story and her sensitive and beautiful writing won me over.
I also appreciated Ranney’s unconventional treatment of Devlen’s character. It was shown that he was a wealthy, cunning, demanding and ruthless businessman/industrialist. This was evident in one scene when he talked to a gunpowder manufacturer whose business he was buying. The manufacturer was crying over the business that he didn’t want to sell but Devlen was unmoved. And even at the end, Devlen’s father warned Beatrice of the kind of man his son was. But it wasn’t treated as though it was a character flaw that had to be changed. Beatrice accepted it. It was only hinted at how Devlen was different with her, how her opinion of him mattered to her but we know that after we saw them hand in hand at the end that they would make each other a better version of themselves. I didn’t expect to like this book but Ranney’s deft handling of the story and her sensitive and beautiful writing won me over.
December 22, 2017
How steamy and sexy this one is... tho there's a time of separation between the hero and heroine I didn't mind it because after Devlin came back to castle Crannoch everything started to be so interesting for both the hero and heroine....
I am not saying that the beginning was boring or anything, it's just that the hero left after only a day or is it two when he met the heroine... there isn't much time for them to be together but even at the beginning the hero is already acting like a besotted fool.. Well he is a fool and I must agree with him when he called himself a "Lustful Idiot" XDDDD
The end isn't so satisfying the person responsible for the young duke's parent's death wasn't severely punished for her sins. The mistress of the hero deserves more set down as well... I don't like her attitude.... I have read many books with the hero having mistresses and they are mostly shrewd acting so high and it boils my blood that the hero didn't do much about her especially when she was one of the reason the heroine had fled back to her cottage....
Well despite it all it's still a 5 stars for me... I like the fact that the child on this book isn't some bastard or a child of the hero from his first wife... I am tired of reading widowed hero or a hero with a bastard son or daughter...
I am not saying that the beginning was boring or anything, it's just that the hero left after only a day or is it two when he met the heroine... there isn't much time for them to be together but even at the beginning the hero is already acting like a besotted fool.. Well he is a fool and I must agree with him when he called himself a "Lustful Idiot" XDDDD
The end isn't so satisfying the person responsible for the young duke's parent's death wasn't severely punished for her sins. The mistress of the hero deserves more set down as well... I don't like her attitude.... I have read many books with the hero having mistresses and they are mostly shrewd acting so high and it boils my blood that the hero didn't do much about her especially when she was one of the reason the heroine had fled back to her cottage....
Well despite it all it's still a 5 stars for me... I like the fact that the child on this book isn't some bastard or a child of the hero from his first wife... I am tired of reading widowed hero or a hero with a bastard son or daughter...
April 24, 2022
This is not the best of books. It had potential, but it did very little with it. Worse than that, the book felt sloppy. There were too many ends not tied, too much not explained. And the relationship between Beatrice and Devlen was not given enough time to develop into something real - I believed that they lusted after each other, but never that they really 'loved' each other. And Robert just turned perfect overnight - absolutely ridiculous, that should have been more of a challenge. And to top it all off, the climax was quite dissapointing, after building up the whole book for it. Still, I've read worse.
January 14, 2015
Estas novelas tienen un muy buen fondo histórico pero las echa a perder esos capítulos para mí innecesarios, aunque supongo que las personas que lean estos libros los comprarán por esas partes.
No me ha gustado el final. Un personaje que ha salido tan poco en la trama de la historia me parece muy simple que termine siendo el malo. Y encima no se explica prácticamente nada de por qué lo hacía, tan sólo son conjeturas.
Me gustaría leer algo de estas autoras que escriben este tipo de historias pero sólo con las partes históricas. Serían grandes novelas.
No me ha gustado el final. Un personaje que ha salido tan poco en la trama de la historia me parece muy simple que termine siendo el malo. Y encima no se explica prácticamente nada de por qué lo hacía, tan sólo son conjeturas.
Me gustaría leer algo de estas autoras que escriben este tipo de historias pero sólo con las partes históricas. Serían grandes novelas.
June 20, 2009
Unlikely governess is an unlikely story
there is a twist at the end (when cameron unveils his handicap) but there is no build up or foundation to the revealing - just once scene showing the interaction between cameron and rowena
Beatrice always feels that devlan is dangerous which devlan's thoughts also reveal with no indication of an heart but then intermittently there are glimpses of compassion. Hmm, I am unable to decide what was the purpose.
there is a twist at the end (when cameron unveils his handicap) but there is no build up or foundation to the revealing - just once scene showing the interaction between cameron and rowena
Beatrice always feels that devlan is dangerous which devlan's thoughts also reveal with no indication of an heart but then intermittently there are glimpses of compassion. Hmm, I am unable to decide what was the purpose.
February 19, 2019
Great story
The governess trope is a well trod path but well dealt with by Ms Ranney a new author to me. Beatrice Sinclair comes to work at Castle Grannoch as the governess of the 7 year old Duke of Brechin.The poor boy is the victim of a number of accidents and the book examines the likely suspects- the crippled uncle who would be the Duke of the wealthy\rakewell cousin Devin. Great romance,good story. Wish there was an epilogue but that's just me !
The governess trope is a well trod path but well dealt with by Ms Ranney a new author to me. Beatrice Sinclair comes to work at Castle Grannoch as the governess of the 7 year old Duke of Brechin.The poor boy is the victim of a number of accidents and the book examines the likely suspects- the crippled uncle who would be the Duke of the wealthy\rakewell cousin Devin. Great romance,good story. Wish there was an epilogue but that's just me !
December 21, 2010
4.5 stars.
The first 20% of this book, I was afraid I wasn't going to like it. Turned the page and didn't want to put it down.
The first 20% of this book, I was afraid I wasn't going to like it. Turned the page and didn't want to put it down.
May 6, 2013
As always, Karen Ranney delivers a romance that, whereas the ending is predictable, how she takes you there is detailed and varied.
May 15, 2018
Such an unexpected gem. I savored every page.
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