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Mackenzies & McBrides #7
Rules for a Proper Governess
To Kiss A Thief...
Scottish barrister Sinclair McBride can face the most sinister criminals in London - but the widower’s two unruly children are a different matter. Little Caitlin and Andrew go through a governess a week, sending the ladies fleeing in tears.
Roberta “Bertie” Frasier enters Sinclair’s life by stealing his watch - and then stealing a kiss. Intrigued by the handsome highlander, Bertie winds up saving his children from a dangerous situation and returns them to their father. Impressed with how they listen to her, Sinclair asks the lively beauty to be their governess, never guessing that the unconventional lady will teach him a lesson or two in love.
Scottish barrister Sinclair McBride can face the most sinister criminals in London - but the widower’s two unruly children are a different matter. Little Caitlin and Andrew go through a governess a week, sending the ladies fleeing in tears.
Roberta “Bertie” Frasier enters Sinclair’s life by stealing his watch - and then stealing a kiss. Intrigued by the handsome highlander, Bertie winds up saving his children from a dangerous situation and returns them to their father. Impressed with how they listen to her, Sinclair asks the lively beauty to be their governess, never guessing that the unconventional lady will teach him a lesson or two in love.
320 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 7, 2014
267 people are currently reading
4210 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Ashley
207 books7,317 followersNY Times Bestselling author Jennifer Ashley writes historical, contemporary, and paranormal romance, historical mysteries, and urban fantasy as Jennifer Ashley, Allyson James, and Ashley Gardner.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 503 reviews
August 4, 2020
4 Stealing Basher McBride's heart Stars
First read 5/11/2015
Reread 9/4/2016
Re reread 8/4/2020
*Spoilers*
I have been very vocal about my total crazy fan-girl love for this series. It has to rate up on my top 5 series of all time. But I have to be honest and say that Sinclair is tied with Hart for my least liked hero of the series. He just didn't have the charm and awesomeness the other absolutely amazing heroes have. That is not to say he was a bad hero or that I didn't like him because I did. Just not as much as the others. Now our heroine Bertie, I loved her to pieces. She was a born on the trashy side of London, cockney, pickpocket with a sassy mouth. What I really loved about Bertie is that even though she was poor and had a hard life she was still sweet, upbeat and seen the beauty of life. This book kinda reminded me of the TV show The Nanny with Fran Drescher.
My Bertie
Sinclair was a shell of a man since his wife Daisy died 7 years ago. The kids are out of control and running Governesses off left and right. Sinclair and the kids are drowning in pain, loss and living a half life at best. Bertie shows up and breathes new life into them. I love how Berite and the kids interact with each others. She doesn't cure them over night, trust comes slowly, but there was an instant connection. I also loved the fact that Sinclair really did love his first wife and yet I didn't feel like Bertie was second best or was ever being measured up to Daisy. In a lot of widow love stories either the new love feels second place or the widow says how they never really loved the deceased spouse. I love that Sinclair loved them both. Truly and passionately. Daisy never felt like she was a ghost in their love story she was the past. Someone he loved, lost, hurt for and then Bertie brought him back to life. Gave him joy and happiness again. I think it helped that Sinclair never felt guilt or sorrow at moving on with Bertie. He meets her and she is all that is on his mind.
My Sinclair
There are a few villains in this book. They seem to have enemies coming out of the woodwork. Daisy's brother and wife blaming Sinclair for Daisy's death and trying to take the kids away, Bertie's ex beau Jeffery, her drunk abusive father, and the mysterious bad guy sending blackmail letters there was never a dull moment. Throw in a little bit of Cam, Ian ,and Fellows and you had a pretty awesome read. Although it would have been more awesome if there was more Ian just sayin'! The ending was sweet. I really liked their Hea. I did feel that the thing with Daisy's brother resolved it self too easy. I would have liked to see his hateful self get some comeuppance for being a prick. A great addition to the series!
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
First read 5/11/2015
Reread 9/4/2016
Re reread 8/4/2020
*Spoilers*
I have been very vocal about my total crazy fan-girl love for this series. It has to rate up on my top 5 series of all time. But I have to be honest and say that Sinclair is tied with Hart for my least liked hero of the series. He just didn't have the charm and awesomeness the other absolutely amazing heroes have. That is not to say he was a bad hero or that I didn't like him because I did. Just not as much as the others. Now our heroine Bertie, I loved her to pieces. She was a born on the trashy side of London, cockney, pickpocket with a sassy mouth. What I really loved about Bertie is that even though she was poor and had a hard life she was still sweet, upbeat and seen the beauty of life. This book kinda reminded me of the TV show The Nanny with Fran Drescher.
My Bertie
Sinclair was a shell of a man since his wife Daisy died 7 years ago. The kids are out of control and running Governesses off left and right. Sinclair and the kids are drowning in pain, loss and living a half life at best. Bertie shows up and breathes new life into them. I love how Berite and the kids interact with each others. She doesn't cure them over night, trust comes slowly, but there was an instant connection. I also loved the fact that Sinclair really did love his first wife and yet I didn't feel like Bertie was second best or was ever being measured up to Daisy. In a lot of widow love stories either the new love feels second place or the widow says how they never really loved the deceased spouse. I love that Sinclair loved them both. Truly and passionately. Daisy never felt like she was a ghost in their love story she was the past. Someone he loved, lost, hurt for and then Bertie brought him back to life. Gave him joy and happiness again. I think it helped that Sinclair never felt guilt or sorrow at moving on with Bertie. He meets her and she is all that is on his mind.
My Sinclair
There are a few villains in this book. They seem to have enemies coming out of the woodwork. Daisy's brother and wife blaming Sinclair for Daisy's death and trying to take the kids away, Bertie's ex beau Jeffery, her drunk abusive father, and the mysterious bad guy sending blackmail letters there was never a dull moment. Throw in a little bit of Cam, Ian ,and Fellows and you had a pretty awesome read. Although it would have been more awesome if there was more Ian just sayin'! The ending was sweet. I really liked their Hea. I did feel that the thing with Daisy's brother resolved it self too easy. I would have liked to see his hateful self get some comeuppance for being a prick. A great addition to the series!
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
August 12, 2018
I love it when a Governess finds Love!!!
Scottish barrister Sinclair McBride's wife passed years ago. He's become a sad shell of a man and his kids have grown to be wild as hell. He can't keep a governess to save his life. That is, until Bertie comes along.
She's a pickpocket and straight from the gutter. But she is also beautiful, and his children love her.
What a wickedly sexy read!! Sinclair seduces his innocent governess into his bed, just as she seduces her way into his heart!!
The Mcbrides are fun and sexy reads. They will never outdo my Mackenzies, but I can still recommend them as enjoyable reads!!!
Sexxy Mackenzie Reviews:
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie
Lady Isabella's Scandalous Marriage
The Many Sins of Lord Cameron
The Duke's Perfect Wife
A Mackenzie Family Christmas: The Perfect Gift
The Untamed Mackenzie
The Wicked Deeds of Daniel Mackenzie
Scandal and the Duchess
Rules for a Proper Governess
The Stolen Mackenzie Bride
A MacKenzie Clan Gathering
Scottish barrister Sinclair McBride's wife passed years ago. He's become a sad shell of a man and his kids have grown to be wild as hell. He can't keep a governess to save his life. That is, until Bertie comes along.
She's a pickpocket and straight from the gutter. But she is also beautiful, and his children love her.
What a wickedly sexy read!! Sinclair seduces his innocent governess into his bed, just as she seduces her way into his heart!!
The Mcbrides are fun and sexy reads. They will never outdo my Mackenzies, but I can still recommend them as enjoyable reads!!!
Sexxy Mackenzie Reviews:
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie
Lady Isabella's Scandalous Marriage
The Many Sins of Lord Cameron
The Duke's Perfect Wife
A Mackenzie Family Christmas: The Perfect Gift
The Untamed Mackenzie
The Wicked Deeds of Daniel Mackenzie
Scandal and the Duchess
Rules for a Proper Governess
The Stolen Mackenzie Bride
A MacKenzie Clan Gathering
Read
October 8, 2014Sinclair McBride's story (Sinclair is the older brother of Ainsley (McBride) Mackenzie, and Elliot McBride). Bertie Frasier is a governess. Of sorts. Full-length novel. Please see http://www.jenniferashley.com/jennifer-ashley-books/highland-pleasures/mackenzies-series-chronology-and-reading-order/ for why Rules takes place before Daniel's book. I'm not just messing with your head. :-)
March 21, 2021
Turns out I'm really into the nanny trope.
But make it historical.
Governesses landing their surly and gruff employers are my jam!
In this case, reading Rules for A Proper Governess feels like reading an episode of The Nanny (TV show circa the 90s), the hero—widowed Sinclair McBride— can't help falling for the lively thief with blue eyes, a smart mouth and adorable cockney accent, turned governess in a day because his kids have both taken a liking to her. I am LOVING Bertie and Sinclair!
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
But make it historical.
Governesses landing their surly and gruff employers are my jam!
In this case, reading Rules for A Proper Governess feels like reading an episode of The Nanny (TV show circa the 90s), the hero—widowed Sinclair McBride— can't help falling for the lively thief with blue eyes, a smart mouth and adorable cockney accent, turned governess in a day because his kids have both taken a liking to her. I am LOVING Bertie and Sinclair!
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
May 18, 2021
Η συγγραφέας μας έδωσε το δεύτερο καλύτερο βιβλίο της σειράς,μετά το ένα φιλί τη φορά.Κατάφερε να με καθηλώσει και να με παρασύρει με μια ιστορία που θυμίζει παραμύθι.
Δεν έχω διαβάσει καμιά συνέντευξη της συγγραφέως αλλά έχω την αίσθηση εμπνεύστηκε την ιστορία από βιβλίο του Ντίκενς.Οι περιγραφές της φτωχικής ζωής του Λονδίνου,θυμίζουν λίγο βιβλίο του κλασικού συγγραφέα.
Υπάρχουν και πιο ενδιάφεροντες χαρακτήρες.Τι να τους κάνεις του Δούκες και του κόμηδες όταν η Άσλι σου παρουσιάζει ένα νέο χαρακτήρα και τι χαρακτήρα,Σκωτσέζικο.Ο Σινκλέρ ΜακΜπράιντ δικηγόρος στο επάγγελμα,γνωστός και ως ο καταπέλτης του Λονδίνου είναι ένας άντρας δυναμικός με κύρος που τον σέβονται.Δυστυχώς χήρεψε πολύ νωρίς και βρέθηκε αντιμέτωπος,εκτός από τις δύσκολες υποθέσεις που φέρνει στον δρόμο του το επάγγελμά του,που περιλαμβάνει τους μεγαλύτερους εγκληματίες του Λονδίνου,και με δύο μικρά,ανυπότακτα παιδιά,με τα οποία δεν καταφέρνει να τα φέρει βόλτα.Δυστυχώς δεν υπάρχει καμία νταντά που να μπορεί να τα καταφέρει εκεί που αποτυγχάνει αυτός.Μέσα από το προσωπικό του δράμα,μας παρουσιάζεται μια διαφορετική εικόνα από αυτή που δείχνει στον υπόλοιπο κόσμο.έναν άντρα κουρασμένο,θλιμένο,που έχει βυθιστεί στα σκοτάδια.Μέχρι τη στιγμή τουλάχιστον που στον δρόμο του θα βρεθεί η Μπέρτι,μια έξυπνη και γεμάτη ζωντάνια γυναίκα που τυγχάνει να είναι και κλέφτρα,με τον Σινκλέρ να πέφτει θύμα της όταν αυτή του κλέβει το ρολόι του,χωρίς όμως να φαντάζεται κανείς τους το που θα μπορούσε να τους οδηγήσει εκείνη η στιγμή και φέρνει φως στη ζωή του.
Σώζει τα παιδιά του Σινκλέρ,με τα οποία φαίνεται να έχει μια ιδιαίτερη επικοινωνία και η παρουσία της να επιδρά θετικά πάνω τους,πράγμα που οδηγεί τον πατέρα τους στο να της προτείνει να γίνει η νταντά τους. Και παρά που η Μπέρτι φαίνεται να είναι εντελώς ακατάλληλη σύμφωνα με τα κοινωνικά πρότυπα,δέχεται την πρότασή του και εκτός από τα παιδιά του, μέρα με τη μέρα καταφέρνει να αλλάξει και αυτόν.Κάπως έτσι, η οικογένεια ΜακΜπράιντ αρχίζει να βγαίνει από τα σκοτάδια στα οποία βυθίστηκε μετά τον θάνατο της Νταίζη και να κατευθύνεται προς το φως.
Λάτρεψα την Μπέρτι ως χαρακτήρα.Μια γυναίκα που δεν είχε και την πιο εύκολη ζωή,μεγαλωμένη στη φτώχεια,μ‘έναν απαράδεκτεκτο πατέρα που την αναγκάζει να κλέβει,έχει μάθει να λειτουργεί με το ένστικτο για να επιβιώσει.Παρά τις δυσκολίες έχει καρδιά μάλαμα.
Τι να πρωτοπώ για το ζευγάρι μας.Μπήκε στη λίστα με τα αγαπημένα μου.Η χημεία τους είναι το κάτι άλλο.Οι σκηνές ανάμεσα τους είναι εκείνες που κλέβουν κυριολεκτικά την παράσταση σε όλο το βιβλίο.Μπορεί να μην είχαν τις συνηθισμένες αντιπαραθέσεις που συναντάμε.Η ρομαντική ένταση σιγοβράστηκε σε χαμηλή φωτιά,σιγά σιγά.
Είχε έρωτα,τρυφερότητα,πάθος,δράση,περιπέτεια,η αστυνομική πλοκή ήταν πιο πετυχημένη και πιο ιντιγκαδόρικη,πνευματικούς διάλογους,χιούμορ,σεξουαλική ένταση,ματιές γεμάτες νόημα.Οι ερωτικές σκηνές είναι πλούσιες,χορταστικές,πιπεράτες.Σπαρταράνε από ζωντάνια και πάθος,με τολμηρή γλ��σσα και γλαφυρές περιγραφές.
Εν κατακλείδι πρόκειται για μια πολύ γλυκιά ιστορία.Δεν ξέρω γιατί αλλά μου θυμίζει Χριστούγεννα,όταν έκλεισα το βιβλίο ένοιωθα ένα ζεστό συναίσθημα να πλημυρίζει την καρδιά μου.
July 3, 2022
I liked Sinclair, the still-grieving widower whose life feels flat and empty. He loves his children but doesn't really know how to help them get past losing their mother.
I also liked Bertie, the charming, cheeky, clever, full-of-life Cockney heroine. She's a very appealing character. Her life has been hard but she doesn't let it get her down. She's honest and resilient and she copes with anything. And the two of them are a perfect match.
The characters and plot line of this book were far from the usual HR cliches. The class mismatch was beautifully done and it worked well. The children were well-drawn and convincing. The storyline had a few unexpected twists, and kept my interest all the way through. A very enjoyable read, and one of the best in this series.
I also liked Bertie, the charming, cheeky, clever, full-of-life Cockney heroine. She's a very appealing character. Her life has been hard but she doesn't let it get her down. She's honest and resilient and she copes with anything. And the two of them are a perfect match.
The characters and plot line of this book were far from the usual HR cliches. The class mismatch was beautifully done and it worked well. The children were well-drawn and convincing. The storyline had a few unexpected twists, and kept my interest all the way through. A very enjoyable read, and one of the best in this series.
March 28, 2018
4 1/2 "Pickpocket stole my heart" Stars!!
I absolutely love these McBrides and MacKenzies! This one was really great! Sinclaire was just banner! Loved him! But Bertie really "steals" the show in this one. Loved, loved her!! I'll be on to the next book very soon. Happy reading!
I absolutely love these McBrides and MacKenzies! This one was really great! Sinclaire was just banner! Loved him! But Bertie really "steals" the show in this one. Loved, loved her!! I'll be on to the next book very soon. Happy reading!
October 20, 2016
3.5 stars
I liked this, but the whole time I read this I kept thinking I'd already read this story before. It seemed very similar to another, but I guess the plot was a common one - unique woman comes into the family's life and helps tame the wild children and help the grief ridden father. It's a little Mary Poppins and Nanny McPhee, except Bertie is a Cockney pickpocket. That was a definite twist, her being so very unsuitable as a governess.
Despite feeling that I'd already read this story before, I liked it and enjoyed Bertie and Andrew. Bertie is interesting as a pickpocket and a street smart woman. She's fun and understands that kids want to have fun, not be cooped up inside all day. I really liked her view of the world and being happy for the small things. Andrew was a fun character due to his loud and wild ways. His sister, Cat, was less of a character, being stuck in her grief. Sinclair was not my favorite hero of this series. He's so moody and only seemed to emote when he was seducing Bertie. I didn't like how remote he was with the children.
The romance of this book is odd. It's all sort of tension and longing with two incidents of kissing, then bam, it's all the way. I didn't like how it went from 0 to 100 so quickly. I think it's more interesting when there's a progression.
The mysterious villain in the book was pretty lackluster and barely a threat. Not thrilling.
In all, a good book, but not a favorite of this series. Maybe a second read will improve that sentiment one day.
I liked this, but the whole time I read this I kept thinking I'd already read this story before. It seemed very similar to another, but I guess the plot was a common one - unique woman comes into the family's life and helps tame the wild children and help the grief ridden father. It's a little Mary Poppins and Nanny McPhee, except Bertie is a Cockney pickpocket. That was a definite twist, her being so very unsuitable as a governess.
Despite feeling that I'd already read this story before, I liked it and enjoyed Bertie and Andrew. Bertie is interesting as a pickpocket and a street smart woman. She's fun and understands that kids want to have fun, not be cooped up inside all day. I really liked her view of the world and being happy for the small things. Andrew was a fun character due to his loud and wild ways. His sister, Cat, was less of a character, being stuck in her grief. Sinclair was not my favorite hero of this series. He's so moody and only seemed to emote when he was seducing Bertie. I didn't like how remote he was with the children.
The romance of this book is odd. It's all sort of tension and longing with two incidents of kissing, then bam, it's all the way. I didn't like how it went from 0 to 100 so quickly. I think it's more interesting when there's a progression.
The mysterious villain in the book was pretty lackluster and barely a threat. Not thrilling.
In all, a good book, but not a favorite of this series. Maybe a second read will improve that sentiment one day.
November 12, 2017
I don't know if I am going to like this story or not as I have my reservations.
However, I will say this for Jennifer Ashley, she knows how to create and build romantic/sexual tension. Already in Rules for a Proper Governess, she has created more passion and sexual tension between the Victorian era cold Hero and lawbreaking heroine in a simple kiss than Chantelle Shaw did in a ONS or even the whole book, The Secret He Must Claim.
And who doesn't like a heroine that buys a new hat the minute she has a few pence?
Review
I enjoyed, but did not love it for some reason. Skipping the plot except it's kind of a My Fair Lady in reverse where the cute little Cockney girl reforms the stuffy lawyer.
Bertie is an adorable and feisty heroine. She disarms the hero who is a former bad boy now grieving stuffed shirt, and she disarmed me. The hero is okay, and at least he accepts the heroine as she is.
The H's children are done very well, and I hope Anthony gets his own book as he was a mischievous charmer.
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie is still the ruler and champeen of this series.
However, I will say this for Jennifer Ashley, she knows how to create and build romantic/sexual tension. Already in Rules for a Proper Governess, she has created more passion and sexual tension between the Victorian era cold Hero and lawbreaking heroine in a simple kiss than Chantelle Shaw did in a ONS or even the whole book, The Secret He Must Claim.
And who doesn't like a heroine that buys a new hat the minute she has a few pence?
Review
I enjoyed, but did not love it for some reason. Skipping the plot except it's kind of a My Fair Lady in reverse where the cute little Cockney girl reforms the stuffy lawyer.
Bertie is an adorable and feisty heroine. She disarms the hero who is a former bad boy now grieving stuffed shirt, and she disarmed me. The hero is okay, and at least he accepts the heroine as she is.
The H's children are done very well, and I hope Anthony gets his own book as he was a mischievous charmer.
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie is still the ruler and champeen of this series.
March 15, 2018
4.25 Single Daddy Stars
I’m obsessed with this series, I’m obsessed with historical romance and I’m obsessed with single daddies!
Sinclair McBride is a barrister and he puts bad people away. He’s a good man, but he’s also a widow. And he is a single daddy! Yup, You know I gobbled this up like mad.
Bertie isn’t your typical Heroine. She lives in the slums with her Dad and needs to rob Sinclair. The only thing is, when she robs him she gets more than what she bargained for.
What I loved most about this book was that it wasn’t typical! The angst was low, but the tension was high and almost everything about this book was amazing. I love the kids, they were adorable and I love that they loved Bertie.
I loved that Bertie was kind of like the temporary governess until a proper one came along. I love her cockney accent and they way she spoke. I loved reading it and it just flowed in my head. I love the banter and the awesome chemistry between her and Sinclair.
I loved how Sinclair had so many elements to him. He loves his ex-wife and he’s trying to see life in a better light, but he can’t, until Bertie comes along. I love how strong and light Bertie is. She takes pleasure in everything and is always honest. I loved that.
I still love Ian the best, but Rules for a Proper Governess is becoming one of my top favorite in the series.
I’m obsessed with this series, I’m obsessed with historical romance and I’m obsessed with single daddies!
Sinclair McBride is a barrister and he puts bad people away. He’s a good man, but he’s also a widow. And he is a single daddy! Yup, You know I gobbled this up like mad.
Bertie isn’t your typical Heroine. She lives in the slums with her Dad and needs to rob Sinclair. The only thing is, when she robs him she gets more than what she bargained for.
What I loved most about this book was that it wasn’t typical! The angst was low, but the tension was high and almost everything about this book was amazing. I love the kids, they were adorable and I love that they loved Bertie.
I loved that Bertie was kind of like the temporary governess until a proper one came along. I love her cockney accent and they way she spoke. I loved reading it and it just flowed in my head. I love the banter and the awesome chemistry between her and Sinclair.
I loved how Sinclair had so many elements to him. He loves his ex-wife and he’s trying to see life in a better light, but he can’t, until Bertie comes along. I love how strong and light Bertie is. She takes pleasure in everything and is always honest. I loved that.
I still love Ian the best, but Rules for a Proper Governess is becoming one of my top favorite in the series.
February 18, 2022
So I am slowly working my way through the MacKenzies & McBrides series and "Rules for a Proper Governess" other than Lord Ian have been my favs so far, especially this one. I loved the class differential aspect of this story and enjoyed Bertie and Sinclair as a couple. He is still grieving his decease wife Daisy and have two children that are very mischief where he can't keep a governess (evident from the last book). She on the other hand is honest and resourceful but tries to overcome the hard life she's dealt at the hands of her wicked father.
I thought these two people were made for each other regardless of the difference in class. This story was so different from the others in the series when it comes to historical romances but I thought the plot worked. Nicely written and loved this one totally. Definite 4.5 Stars.
I thought these two people were made for each other regardless of the difference in class. This story was so different from the others in the series when it comes to historical romances but I thought the plot worked. Nicely written and loved this one totally. Definite 4.5 Stars.
December 18, 2020
Μετά τους λατρεμένους αδελφούς Μακένζι, στη σειρά βιβλίων της Jennifer Ashley με γενικό τίτλο «Οικογένεια Μακένζι» έχουν πάρει σκυτάλη οι ΜακΜπράιντ, τα αδέλφια της πρωταγωνίστριας του τρίτου βιβλίου της σειράς. Στο έβδομο, λοιπόν, ήρθε η ώρα να γνωρίσουμε καλύτερα τον Σινκλέρ ΜακΜπράιντ.
Μέσα στις αίθουσες των δικαστηρίων, ο Σινκλέρ είναι σωστός καταπέλτης ως δικηγόρος. Έξω από αυτές, όμως, είναι ένας άνθρωπος που μοιάζει παραιτημένος και μόνιμα κουρασμένος από τη ζωή και τα βάρη που σηκώνει στους ώμους του. Χήρος εδώ κι εφτά χρόνια και πατέρας δύο μικρών, ατίθασων παιδιών, δεν έχει καταφέρει να ξαναφτιάξει τη ζωή του και μοιράζει τον χρόνο του αυστηρά ανάμεσα στο γραφείο και το σπίτι του.
Η Ρομπέρτα Φρέιζερ θα εισβάλλει κυριολεκτικά στη ζωή του πέφτοντας πάνω του στον δρόμο, ενώ επιχειρεί να τον κλέψει. Ο επιβλητικός, πανέμορφος Σκοτσέζος έχει τραβήξει την προσοχή της από την πρώτη στιγμή και η περιέργειά της θα την οδηγήσει μέχρι το σπίτι του. Κι όταν, από ένα παράξενο καπρίτσιο της τύχης, πάρει τη θέση της γκουβερνάντας των παιδιών του, θα καταφέρει να έρθει κοντά σε αυτόν και στα παιδιά του. Για πρώτη φορά στη ζωή της, η Μπέρτι νιώθει να ανήκει σε ένα πραγματικό σπιτικό, σε μια αληθινή οικογένεια. Και όσο περνάει ο καιρός, τόσο πιο ανυπόφορη της γίνεται η ιδέα πως κάποια στιγμή θα αναγκαστεί να φύγει μακριά τους.
Παρόλο που ο Σινκλέρ ξέρει για την προηγούμενη ζωή της Μπέρτι, αυτό δεν τον εμποδίζει από το να αρχίσει να νιώθει έναν ολοένα αυξανόμενο πόθο για εκείνη. Η καταγωγή της δεν παίζει κανέναν ρόλο για εκείνον, από τη στιγμή που φαίνεται να έχει κατακτήσει και αυτόν και τα παιδιά του, που για πρώτη φορά μετά τον θάνατο της μητέρας τους βρίσκουν στο πρόσωπό της μια μητρική φιγούρα. Υπάρχει όμως ένα άτομο που γνωρίζει τα καλά κρυμμένα μυστικά και των δύο και απειλεί να τα αποκαλύψει σε όλους. Ποιος είναι τελικά αυτός ο άνθρωπος, τι ρόλο παίζει και μέχρι πού είναι ικανός να φτάσει; Θα καταφέρουν ο Σινκλέρ και η Μπέρτι να αφήσουν πίσω τους το παρελθόν και να προχωρήσουν μαζί στο μέλλον;
Μετά από τους Έινζλι και Έλιοτ Μακ Μπράιντ, σειρά έχει ένα ακόμα μέλος της οικογένειας. Και αν το παρατσούκλι του Σινκλέρ είναι «Σκοτσέζικο Θηρίο», εξαιτίας του πάθους με το οποίο αγορεύει στο δικαστήριο, στην πραγματικότητα το πάθος του για ζωή έχει θαφτεί μαζί με τη γυναίκα του και ο ίδιος ουσιαστικά είναι ένα άδειο κέλυφος ανθρώπου, που προσπαθεί να επιβιώνει για χάρη των παιδιών του. Και μπορεί να απολαμβάνει πού και πού τη γυναικεία συντροφιά, όμως η καρδιά του είναι κλειδωμένη. Η Μπέρτι, έχοντας μεγαλώσει στις φτωχογειτονιές του Ιστ Εντ, ορφανή από μητέρα και με έναν μέθυσο, βίαιο πατέρα, είναι αναγκασμένη να κλέβει ώστε να επιβιώσει. Και με αυτό το «ταλέντο» της δεν θα κλέψει μόνο το ρολόι του Σινκλέρ, όπως σκόπευε αρχικά, αλλά σιγά-σιγά και το ενδιαφέρον και την προσοχή του, ώσπου τελικά ξεκλειδώνει και την καρδιά του.
Το πρωταγωνιστικό ζευγάρι δεν θα μπορούσε να είναι πιο αταίριαστο – αν αναλογιστεί κανείς την καταγωγή του, γιατί οπωσδήποτε δεν είναι η πρώτη ιστορία αγάπης ανάμεσα σε ένα αφεντικό και στην γκουβερνάντα των παιδιών του. Αν όμως αναλογιστεί κανείς ότι μιλάμε για μια ιστορία που διαδραματίζεται στα τέλη του 19ου αιώνα, και λαμβάνοντας υπόψη τις κοινωνικές προσταγές και τις προκαταλήψεις που επικρατούσαν τότε, η ευτυχής κατάληξη αυτής της σχέσης θα ήταν σκανδαλώδης το λιγότερο! Ευτυχώς, αυτές οι προκαταλήψεις δεν έχουν καμία θέση στα σπιτικά της οικογένειας των ΜακΜπράιντ, και φυσικά ούτε σε εκείνα των Μακένζι. Αντίθετα, όλοι χ��ίρονται που βλέπουν τον κλεισμένο στον εαυτό του Σινκλέρ και τα παιδιά του να ξαναβρίσκουν την όρεξη για ζωή, χάρη στη νέα τους γκουβερνάντα. Όσο για τη χημεία ανάμεσα στους δύο, αυτή υπάρχει μεν εξαρχής, όμως ωριμάζει και δυναμώνει σταδιακά, μέσα από μικρότερης ή μεγαλύτερης σημασίας συμβάντα, που τους κάνουν να έρθουν πιο κοντά και να συνειδητοποιήσουν πως είναι γραφτό τους να είναι μαζί.
Το μεγαλύτερο μέρος της πλοκής είναι εστιασμένο στην εξέλιξη της σχέσης του ζευγαριού. Υπάρχουν όμως και σκηνές δράσης στα στενά, κακόφημα σοκάκια του ανατολικού Λονδίνου, όπως και στην άγρια αλλά πανέμορφη εξοχή της Σκοτίας. Οι περιγραφές αυτών των άκρως αντίθετων μεταξύ τους τοπίων είναι γλαφυρές και καλοδουλεμένες κι αποτυπώνουν ρεαλιστικά, με έναν λιτό λυρισμό, όσα αντικρίζουν οι ήρωες. Καταφέρνουν έτσι να μεταφέρουν τον αναγνώστη εκεί όπου κάθε φορά εκτυλίσσονται τα γεγονότα κι αποδεικνύουν το πολύπλευρο ταλέντο της συγγραφέως, που καταφέρνει να γεννήσει και να μεταδώσει συναισθήματα είτε όταν περιγράφει ένα χιονισμένο τοπίο, είτε ένα βρόμικο στενό, είτε μια ερωτική σκηνή.
Εξαιρετικά είναι και τα ψυχογραφήματα των ηρώων. Ο φαινομενικά ψυχρός μα παθιασμένος Σινκλέρ, η σκληραγωγημένη μα φωτεινή Μπέρτι, ο υπερδραστήριος και χαρωπός γιος του Σινκλέρ, ο Άντριου, και η εσωστρεφής και λιγομίλητη αδελφή του, η Κατριόνα, αποκαλύπτονται μπροστά στα μάτια του αναγνώστη και αφήνονται στην κρίση του, μέσα από την ευαίσθητη και αιχμηρή ματιά της δημιουργού τους. Η χαρά και η συγκίνηση χορεύουν ένα γαϊτανάκι με τον πόνο και τον έρωτα, ώσπου το φως να γεμίσει τις ζωές τους με ελπίδα και αισιοδοξία και να τους δείξει τον δρόμο για το μέλλον τους και το ευτυχισμένο τέλος που οπωσδήποτε αξίζουν.
Η κριτική μου για το βιβλίο και στο site "τοβιβλίο.net" και τον παρακάτω σύνδεσμο: Κλέφτης φιλιών
Μέσα στις αίθουσες των δικαστηρίων, ο Σινκλέρ είναι σωστός καταπέλτης ως δικηγόρος. Έξω από αυτές, όμως, είναι ένας άνθρωπος που μοιάζει παραιτημένος και μόνιμα κουρασμένος από τη ζωή και τα βάρη που σηκώνει στους ώμους του. Χήρος εδώ κι εφτά χρόνια και πατέρας δύο μικρών, ατίθασων παιδιών, δεν έχει καταφέρει να ξαναφτιάξει τη ζωή του και μοιράζει τον χρόνο του αυστηρά ανάμεσα στο γραφείο και το σπίτι του.
Η Ρομπέρτα Φρέιζερ θα εισβάλλει κυριολεκτικά στη ζωή του πέφτοντας πάνω του στον δρόμο, ενώ επιχειρεί να τον κλέψει. Ο επιβλητικός, πανέμορφος Σκοτσέζος έχει τραβήξει την προσοχή της από την πρώτη στιγμή και η περιέργειά της θα την οδηγήσει μέχρι το σπίτι του. Κι όταν, από ένα παράξενο καπρίτσιο της τύχης, πάρει τη θέση της γκουβερνάντας των παιδιών του, θα καταφέρει να έρθει κοντά σε αυτόν και στα παιδιά του. Για πρώτη φορά στη ζωή της, η Μπέρτι νιώθει να ανήκει σε ένα πραγματικό σπιτικό, σε μια αληθινή οικογένεια. Και όσο περνάει ο καιρός, τόσο πιο ανυπόφορη της γίνεται η ιδέα πως κάποια στιγμή θα αναγκαστεί να φύγει μακριά τους.
Παρόλο που ο Σινκλέρ ξέρει για την προηγούμενη ζωή της Μπέρτι, αυτό δεν τον εμποδίζει από το να αρχίσει να νιώθει έναν ολοένα αυξανόμενο πόθο για εκείνη. Η καταγωγή της δεν παίζει κανέναν ρόλο για εκείνον, από τη στιγμή που φαίνεται να έχει κατακτήσει και αυτόν και τα παιδιά του, που για πρώτη φορά μετά τον θάνατο της μητέρας τους βρίσκουν στο πρόσωπό της μια μητρική φιγούρα. Υπάρχει όμως ένα άτομο που γνωρίζει τα καλά κρυμμένα μυστικά και των δύο και απειλεί να τα αποκαλύψει σε όλους. Ποιος είναι τελικά αυτός ο άνθρωπος, τι ρόλο παίζει και μέχρι πού είναι ικανός να φτάσει; Θα καταφέρουν ο Σινκλέρ και η Μπέρτι να αφήσουν πίσω τους το παρελθόν και να προχωρήσουν μαζί στο μέλλον;
Μετά από τους Έινζλι και Έλιοτ Μακ Μπράιντ, σειρά έχει ένα ακόμα μέλος της οικογένειας. Και αν το παρατσούκλι του Σινκλέρ είναι «Σκοτσέζικο Θηρίο», εξαιτίας του πάθους με το οποίο αγορεύει στο δικαστήριο, στην πραγματικότητα το πάθος του για ζωή έχει θαφτεί μαζί με τη γυναίκα του και ο ίδιος ουσιαστικά είναι ένα άδειο κέλυφος ανθρώπου, που προσπαθεί να επιβιώνει για χάρη των παιδιών του. Και μπορεί να απολαμβάνει πού και πού τη γυναικεία συντροφιά, όμως η καρδιά του είναι κλειδωμένη. Η Μπέρτι, έχοντας μεγαλώσει στις φτωχογειτονιές του Ιστ Εντ, ορφανή από μητέρα και με έναν μέθυσο, βίαιο πατέρα, είναι αναγκασμένη να κλέβει ώστε να επιβιώσει. Και με αυτό το «ταλέντο» της δεν θα κλέψει μόνο το ρολόι του Σινκλέρ, όπως σκόπευε αρχικά, αλλά σιγά-σιγά και το ενδιαφέρον και την προσοχή του, ώσπου τελικά ξεκλειδώνει και την καρδιά του.
Το πρωταγωνιστικό ζευγάρι δεν θα μπορούσε να είναι πιο αταίριαστο – αν αναλογιστεί κανείς την καταγωγή του, γιατί οπωσδήποτε δεν είναι η πρώτη ιστορία αγάπης ανάμεσα σε ένα αφεντικό και στην γκουβερνάντα των παιδιών του. Αν όμως αναλογιστεί κανείς ότι μιλάμε για μια ιστορία που διαδραματίζεται στα τέλη του 19ου αιώνα, και λαμβάνοντας υπόψη τις κοινωνικές προσταγές και τις προκαταλήψεις που επικρατούσαν τότε, η ευτυχής κατάληξη αυτής της σχέσης θα ήταν σκανδαλώδης το λιγότερο! Ευτυχώς, αυτές οι προκαταλήψεις δεν έχουν καμία θέση στα σπιτικά της οικογένειας των ΜακΜπράιντ, και φυσικά ούτε σε εκείνα των Μακένζι. Αντίθετα, όλοι χ��ίρονται που βλέπουν τον κλεισμένο στον εαυτό του Σινκλέρ και τα παιδιά του να ξαναβρίσκουν την όρεξη για ζωή, χάρη στη νέα τους γκουβερνάντα. Όσο για τη χημεία ανάμεσα στους δύο, αυτή υπάρχει μεν εξαρχής, όμως ωριμάζει και δυναμώνει σταδιακά, μέσα από μικρότερης ή μεγαλύτερης σημασίας συμβάντα, που τους κάνουν να έρθουν πιο κοντά και να συνειδητοποιήσουν πως είναι γραφτό τους να είναι μαζί.
Το μεγαλύτερο μέρος της πλοκής είναι εστιασμένο στην εξέλιξη της σχέσης του ζευγαριού. Υπάρχουν όμως και σκηνές δράσης στα στενά, κακόφημα σοκάκια του ανατολικού Λονδίνου, όπως και στην άγρια αλλά πανέμορφη εξοχή της Σκοτίας. Οι περιγραφές αυτών των άκρως αντίθετων μεταξύ τους τοπίων είναι γλαφυρές και καλοδουλεμένες κι αποτυπώνουν ρεαλιστικά, με έναν λιτό λυρισμό, όσα αντικρίζουν οι ήρωες. Καταφέρνουν έτσι να μεταφέρουν τον αναγνώστη εκεί όπου κάθε φορά εκτυλίσσονται τα γεγονότα κι αποδεικνύουν το πολύπλευρο ταλέντο της συγγραφέως, που καταφέρνει να γεννήσει και να μεταδώσει συναισθήματα είτε όταν περιγράφει ένα χιονισμένο τοπίο, είτε ένα βρόμικο στενό, είτε μια ερωτική σκηνή.
Εξαιρετικά είναι και τα ψυχογραφήματα των ηρώων. Ο φαινομενικά ψυχρός μα παθιασμένος Σινκλέρ, η σκληραγωγημένη μα φωτεινή Μπέρτι, ο υπερδραστήριος και χαρωπός γιος του Σινκλέρ, ο Άντριου, και η εσωστρεφής και λιγομίλητη αδελφή του, η Κατριόνα, αποκαλύπτονται μπροστά στα μάτια του αναγνώστη και αφήνονται στην κρίση του, μέσα από την ευαίσθητη και αιχμηρή ματιά της δημιουργού τους. Η χαρά και η συγκίνηση χορεύουν ένα γαϊτανάκι με τον πόνο και τον έρωτα, ώσπου το φως να γεμίσει τις ζωές τους με ελπίδα και αισιοδοξία και να τους δείξει τον δρόμο για το μέλλον τους και το ευτυχισμένο τέλος που οπωσδήποτε αξίζουν.
Η κριτική μου για το βιβλίο και στο site "τοβιβλίο.net" και τον παρακάτω σύνδεσμο: Κλέφτης φιλιών
January 25, 2018
I have thoroughly enjoyed every book in the MacKenzies & McBrides series, so this one will automatically load to my Kindle on October 7.
Read the first four chapters on Jennifer Ashley's web site. http://www.jenniferashley.com/jennife...
Read the first four chapters on Jennifer Ashley's web site. http://www.jenniferashley.com/jennife...
May 22, 2023
⭐⭐⭐💫
3½ stars.
➕ What I liked :
Intriguing and interesting characters and plot.
Rather good chemistry and romantic build up.
Interesting side characters.
None of the main characters were aristocrats/nobility.
Scottish hero.
That the heroine was a unconventional main character for a historical romance book.
The heroine was rather resourceful and strong.
Not a naive or sheltered heroine.
The heroines way with the children.
➖ What I disliked:
The heroines abusive father. (And no real closure or anything with that situation.)
A tiny bit too much focus on the children.
A little too much focus on the heroes deceased wife.
To little time is spent on the main characters and them becoming an official couple.
Some of the improbability of the situation …. a barrister hero and a pickpocket/criminal heroine etc.
(But most especially that the heroine was taking care of the children and nobody really cared about her background, and she more or less had free rein to do as she pleased.)
The hero kissed and touched another woman after meeting and kissing the heroine.
(And the heroine saw this.)
The sex scenes were lackluster.
(Too brief and tame, but also boring.)
January 1, 2022
4 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was cute. I love The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie, so I have decided to revisit this series/author and the blurb drew me in. I like stories where there is a difference in classes between the mcs and I got that here. The h was a pickpocket from the bad part of town and the H was a barrister that was on the career path to becoming a judge. I liked the interactions with the kids and how the h was such a natural with them. I also liked seeing Ian and Beth again as well as the rest of the crazy family. If I had anything to gripe about, it would be that we don’t really get to experience them as an official couple (I know, I know! Same review, different book 🙈). Otherwise, I enjoyed this one!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Bertie and Sinclair’s story. Bertie first sees Sinclair when he is the barrister in a trial against one of her friends and her father forces her to pickpocket him afterwards. After he chases her down and their night ends with a kiss, Bertie can’t forget the man who seems so sad and ends up finding out where he lives. What she doesn’t expect is to be left in charge of his children after yet another governesses quits in public. She gets the job because she’s the only one that seems to get through to the children. Sinclair tried to avoid the draw to Bertie at first, but eventually gives in. There is some family and enemy drama, some sexy times, and a few suspenseful scenes…and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Bertie and Sinclair in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Sinclair. I liked him. I appreciated how he didn’t let status or upbringing influence what he thought of others.
h (heroine) rating: 4.5 stars. Bertie. I really liked her. I appreciated her strength and smarts and how she cared for others instinctually.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Not really
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: Not quite
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends in a good place and with what I would call a HEA ending
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: This was cute. I love The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie, so I have decided to revisit this series/author and the blurb drew me in. I like stories where there is a difference in classes between the mcs and I got that here. The h was a pickpocket from the bad part of town and the H was a barrister that was on the career path to becoming a judge. I liked the interactions with the kids and how the h was such a natural with them. I also liked seeing Ian and Beth again as well as the rest of the crazy family. If I had anything to gripe about, it would be that we don’t really get to experience them as an official couple (I know, I know! Same review, different book 🙈). Otherwise, I enjoyed this one!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Bertie and Sinclair’s story. Bertie first sees Sinclair when he is the barrister in a trial against one of her friends and her father forces her to pickpocket him afterwards. After he chases her down and their night ends with a kiss, Bertie can’t forget the man who seems so sad and ends up finding out where he lives. What she doesn’t expect is to be left in charge of his children after yet another governesses quits in public. She gets the job because she’s the only one that seems to get through to the children. Sinclair tried to avoid the draw to Bertie at first, but eventually gives in. There is some family and enemy drama, some sexy times, and a few suspenseful scenes…and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Bertie and Sinclair in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Sinclair. I liked him. I appreciated how he didn’t let status or upbringing influence what he thought of others.
h (heroine) rating: 4.5 stars. Bertie. I really liked her. I appreciated her strength and smarts and how she cared for others instinctually.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Not really
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: Not quite
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends in a good place and with what I would call a HEA ending
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
January 4, 2023
I really love the nanny/governess trope and there was so much to endear me to this one. Think a warm, totally in each other's pockets Scottish family, a withdrawn widower, a Cockney pickpocket and two sweet children.
April 1, 2019
When petty thief Bertie Frasier picks the pocket of Scottish Barrister Sinclair McBride, she certainly didn't think he would chase her down to get his watch back. Lucky for Bertie, Sinclair agrees to let her to if she returns his watch. Feeling grateful for not locking her up, Bertie follows him home. She quickly runs across Sinclair's two unruly children who are in a dangerous situation. Bertie takes the children home to their father who is happy they are safe and decides to hire Bertie as their new governess.
Sounds implausible, right? Well, I can suspend plausibility for a good story. Their love story was actually very easy to buy into. Sinclair was a widower who loved his wife and was still grieving for her. Bertie was a petty criminal who wanted a better life. She was honest to a fault and told Sinclair exactly what was on her mind. It was easy to imagine them falling in love. The children acted like real children. The oldest one missed her mother and buried herself away from the rest of the family. The youngest was lively and needed an outlet for his energy. Bertie quickly came to love the children as much as their father. My rating: 4 Stars.
Sounds implausible, right? Well, I can suspend plausibility for a good story. Their love story was actually very easy to buy into. Sinclair was a widower who loved his wife and was still grieving for her. Bertie was a petty criminal who wanted a better life. She was honest to a fault and told Sinclair exactly what was on her mind. It was easy to imagine them falling in love. The children acted like real children. The oldest one missed her mother and buried herself away from the rest of the family. The youngest was lively and needed an outlet for his energy. Bertie quickly came to love the children as much as their father. My rating: 4 Stars.
October 8, 2017
I liked it. But the elements I hated brought down my enjoyment. Hate beloved dead exes. Especially when they are a constant presence in the book. He talked about his dead wife constantly. She has been gone 7 years!
The kids were fun and sweet. Sinclair tried to take another woman to his bed, which Bertie got to witness. Only reason he did not was because his son was in his bedroom. This is HATED. Plus as soon as the woman left he was all over Bertie. She should have kneed him in the nuts. I got past it, but did not forget.
The kids were fun and sweet. Sinclair tried to take another woman to his bed, which Bertie got to witness. Only reason he did not was because his son was in his bedroom. This is HATED. Plus as soon as the woman left he was all over Bertie. She should have kneed him in the nuts. I got past it, but did not forget.
February 22, 2025
February 2025: I think this has become one of my favorite installments in this series.
March 2023: The MacKenzies and McBrides are so fun to follow. In this one, we have one of the more unlikely pairs - Sinclair McBride, the solicitor, falls for Roberta “Bertie,” the pickpocket who becomes his governess in a series of funny events.
It’s quite a romp, going from London to Scotland, back to London, and back to Scotland.
I listened to the audiobook and am so impressed by the accents, especially Bertie’s cockney one.
March 2023: The MacKenzies and McBrides are so fun to follow. In this one, we have one of the more unlikely pairs - Sinclair McBride, the solicitor, falls for Roberta “Bertie,” the pickpocket who becomes his governess in a series of funny events.
It’s quite a romp, going from London to Scotland, back to London, and back to Scotland.
I listened to the audiobook and am so impressed by the accents, especially Bertie’s cockney one.
September 20, 2021
Bertie was amazing! Such an unconventional female lead in HR, but it really works and she makes this book! However, it was a bit too lusty and not enough romance in my opinion.
February 20, 2021
Nice historical romance. Liked the hero being a lawyer rather than a lord and also liked him taking in his illegitimate children. The feisty heroine was nice. Here I accepted the sexual relationship as she was not a member of the ton and was taking her happiness where she could.
October 8, 2014
My review cross-posted from Wit and Sin: http://witandsin.blogspot.com/2014/10...
Rules for a Proper Governess is both touching and cheeky good fun. Jennifer Ashley’s seventh Mackenzies & McBrides novel is fast-moving, engrossing entertainment, thanks to the story’s utterly lovable characters.
Sinclair McBride has been a living ghost since the death of his wife. Though he fights passionately for what is right, the only reason he keeps going is his two children. It broke my heart that Sinclair had forgotten how to truly live. Of course, when Bertie enters his life his world is turned upside down in the most delightful way. Bertie Fraiser is one of my favorite Jennifer Ashley heroines. She grew up on the streets and has lived a hard life, but she hasn’t lost her sense of wonder. She’s got a huge heart and it opens almost instantaneously to Sinclair and his two children, Andrew and Cat. Bertie isn’t exactly governess material – on paper. She’s a woman from the streets with quick fingers and a charming smile. But she’s exactly what the McBride family needs. I loved watching her with Cat and Andrew; they need love as much as their father does. The four of them made the most wonderful family, even before they realized that is what they’d become. As for the romance between Sinclair and Bertie, it was easy to become invested in it as the two have crackling chemistry. It doesn’t hurt either that both of them are incredibly likeable. Quite simply, it was pure pleasure to watch their relationship develop.
There’s a bit of danger and intrigue in Rules for a Proper Governess , mostly tied to vile letters Sinclair receives regarding his late wife. But truly, what makes this book stand out is the focus on family. Sinclair may only be related to the infamous Mackenzies through his sister, but that doesn’t make him any less one of them. Fans of the Mackenzies & McBrides series are surely going to delight in the roles their favorite past heroes and heroines play in Rules for a Proper Governess . The Mackenzies are as entertaining as ever, and I had to smile every time my personal favorite Mackenzie, Ian, showed up on page. That being said, Ms. Ashley did a fantastic job of not letting the boisterous Mackenzies overpower Sinclair and Bertie. The two of them not only held their own, but shined even among the crowd, which is as it should be in their book.
Rules for a Proper Governess was a joy to read from beginning to end. The Mackenzies & McBrides is one of my favorite series, and Sinclair and Bertie’s book shows just why. Ms. Ashley has once again delivered a wonderfully engaging romance filled with unique characters who capture your heart and stay with you long after you’ve finished their tale.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Rules for a Proper Governess is both touching and cheeky good fun. Jennifer Ashley’s seventh Mackenzies & McBrides novel is fast-moving, engrossing entertainment, thanks to the story’s utterly lovable characters.
Sinclair McBride has been a living ghost since the death of his wife. Though he fights passionately for what is right, the only reason he keeps going is his two children. It broke my heart that Sinclair had forgotten how to truly live. Of course, when Bertie enters his life his world is turned upside down in the most delightful way. Bertie Fraiser is one of my favorite Jennifer Ashley heroines. She grew up on the streets and has lived a hard life, but she hasn’t lost her sense of wonder. She’s got a huge heart and it opens almost instantaneously to Sinclair and his two children, Andrew and Cat. Bertie isn’t exactly governess material – on paper. She’s a woman from the streets with quick fingers and a charming smile. But she’s exactly what the McBride family needs. I loved watching her with Cat and Andrew; they need love as much as their father does. The four of them made the most wonderful family, even before they realized that is what they’d become. As for the romance between Sinclair and Bertie, it was easy to become invested in it as the two have crackling chemistry. It doesn’t hurt either that both of them are incredibly likeable. Quite simply, it was pure pleasure to watch their relationship develop.
There’s a bit of danger and intrigue in Rules for a Proper Governess , mostly tied to vile letters Sinclair receives regarding his late wife. But truly, what makes this book stand out is the focus on family. Sinclair may only be related to the infamous Mackenzies through his sister, but that doesn’t make him any less one of them. Fans of the Mackenzies & McBrides series are surely going to delight in the roles their favorite past heroes and heroines play in Rules for a Proper Governess . The Mackenzies are as entertaining as ever, and I had to smile every time my personal favorite Mackenzie, Ian, showed up on page. That being said, Ms. Ashley did a fantastic job of not letting the boisterous Mackenzies overpower Sinclair and Bertie. The two of them not only held their own, but shined even among the crowd, which is as it should be in their book.
Rules for a Proper Governess was a joy to read from beginning to end. The Mackenzies & McBrides is one of my favorite series, and Sinclair and Bertie’s book shows just why. Ms. Ashley has once again delivered a wonderfully engaging romance filled with unique characters who capture your heart and stay with you long after you’ve finished their tale.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
March 30, 2020
Ridiculous. From concept to execution. Who takes a known thief from the slums into their home to guide their children and take them about the place unsupervised?
Add to that that children were like cardboard cutout characters and the male lead was just plain weird in the decisions he made as a supposed intelligent legal professional. Other characters like the Duchess, the servants etc. had completely unlikely supportive reactions to the situation at hand.
Also in that era no one can interfere with a living father's supreme rights over the possession of his kids, so I do not get that inane set up for conflict with his late wife's brother. Honestly I just can't with this.
Add to that that children were like cardboard cutout characters and the male lead was just plain weird in the decisions he made as a supposed intelligent legal professional. Other characters like the Duchess, the servants etc. had completely unlikely supportive reactions to the situation at hand.
Also in that era no one can interfere with a living father's supreme rights over the possession of his kids, so I do not get that inane set up for conflict with his late wife's brother. Honestly I just can't with this.
July 3, 2018
Downgrade to three stars on this reread. It is a decent read but pales in comparison to others in the series. No sharp criticism or glowing praise from me.
Thanks Missy and Mariana for the Buddy Read.
Thanks Missy and Mariana for the Buddy Read.
January 7, 2015
Rules for a Proper Governess
4.5 Stars
Since the death of his wife, Sinclair McBride has lost his spark and struggles through the trials and tribulations of raising two equally damaged children. That is until the day he literally stumbles into beautiful pick-pocket, Bertie Frasier, who steals both his watch and his heart. Suddenly things are looking up for Sinclair, but someone out there has it in for him and is not above using Bertie to destroy his life …
After the disappointment of Daniel and Violet’s book, I have to admit that my expectations weren’t high for this installment in the Mackenzies & McBrides (formerly Highland Pleasures) series. While readers who require more realism in their historical romance might find the lack of credibility in Sinclair and Bertie’s story problematic, for me, their romance more than meets expectations; it exceeds them and then some.
Bertie is a wonderfully original and engaging heroine able to charm the pants of Sinclair and bewitch his two hell-on-wheels children. The subtle allusions to Eliza Doolittle and her My Fair Lady make-over only add to her appeal. Sinclair is the perfect, tortured hero fighting his incomprehensible attraction to a Cockney pick-pocket and failing miserably. Their witty banter leads to an inevitable emotional connection and their romance is sweet and angst free.
The suspense plot revolves around the mystery of who is sending threatening letters to Sinclair and the dangerous escalation in this person’s intentions once Bertie arrives on the scene. The identity of the villain is quite obvious once certain facts of Sinclair’s past emerge, but the climax and resolution are action packed and exciting. Definitely one of the better mysteries in the series.
The cameo appearances by the rest of the MacKenzie and McBrides clans add a real sense of family to the story and it was great catching up with some of my favorite characters.
One small quibble is that the timeline is slightly off with the events in this book preceding those in The Wicked Deeds of Daniel MacKenzie, but this does not detract from the story at all.
All in all, a lovely addition to the series and it looks like Ashley will be going in a different direction with the series by investigating the Mackenzie family roots. Looking forward to it.
4.5 Stars
Since the death of his wife, Sinclair McBride has lost his spark and struggles through the trials and tribulations of raising two equally damaged children. That is until the day he literally stumbles into beautiful pick-pocket, Bertie Frasier, who steals both his watch and his heart. Suddenly things are looking up for Sinclair, but someone out there has it in for him and is not above using Bertie to destroy his life …
After the disappointment of Daniel and Violet’s book, I have to admit that my expectations weren’t high for this installment in the Mackenzies & McBrides (formerly Highland Pleasures) series. While readers who require more realism in their historical romance might find the lack of credibility in Sinclair and Bertie’s story problematic, for me, their romance more than meets expectations; it exceeds them and then some.
Bertie is a wonderfully original and engaging heroine able to charm the pants of Sinclair and bewitch his two hell-on-wheels children. The subtle allusions to Eliza Doolittle and her My Fair Lady make-over only add to her appeal. Sinclair is the perfect, tortured hero fighting his incomprehensible attraction to a Cockney pick-pocket and failing miserably. Their witty banter leads to an inevitable emotional connection and their romance is sweet and angst free.
The suspense plot revolves around the mystery of who is sending threatening letters to Sinclair and the dangerous escalation in this person’s intentions once Bertie arrives on the scene. The identity of the villain is quite obvious once certain facts of Sinclair’s past emerge, but the climax and resolution are action packed and exciting. Definitely one of the better mysteries in the series.
The cameo appearances by the rest of the MacKenzie and McBrides clans add a real sense of family to the story and it was great catching up with some of my favorite characters.
One small quibble is that the timeline is slightly off with the events in this book preceding those in The Wicked Deeds of Daniel MacKenzie, but this does not detract from the story at all.
All in all, a lovely addition to the series and it looks like Ashley will be going in a different direction with the series by investigating the Mackenzie family roots. Looking forward to it.
February 8, 2016
This is a tough book to 5 star review, only because a reader will start reading this book thinking or hoping to become enraptured by another one of Ashley's Scottish heroes but it is the heroine, Bertie, who steals the show with such depth of character and feeling:
"You've done something to me, Basher McBride. I'll never be the same again, no matter how far I go or what I do, I'll never be just Bertie ever again. Some part of you will always be a part of me."
I loved every page she was on. I think she was as brilliantly written as Ian Mackenzie was in the first book of the series. And bless Ms. Ashley for his brief cameo appearances in her subsequent books!
"You've done something to me, Basher McBride. I'll never be the same again, no matter how far I go or what I do, I'll never be just Bertie ever again. Some part of you will always be a part of me."
I loved every page she was on. I think she was as brilliantly written as Ian Mackenzie was in the first book of the series. And bless Ms. Ashley for his brief cameo appearances in her subsequent books!
November 11, 2023
I read this book long ago and completely forgot to write a review. I remember enjoying quite a lot, but being upset by the fact that had the heroine being born a lady, the hero would have shown her more respect. That despite everything, she was an innocent.
But besides that, it was a highly enjoyable read.
But besides that, it was a highly enjoyable read.
November 2, 2019
4-4.5 stars - Historical Romance
I utterly adored the heroine, Bertie, and loved the hero's kids, and the audiobook narrator was fabulous, especially when she did the heroine's East End Cockney accent.
I utterly adored the heroine, Bertie, and loved the hero's kids, and the audiobook narrator was fabulous, especially when she did the heroine's East End Cockney accent.
November 19, 2017
Bertie the girl from the gutter and Sinclair the work-a-holic,
(and the dead first wife; Maggie aka Daisy)
Well, I liked Bertie... A LOT, but Sinclair, was just meh. He's hot and all, but I wanted him to 'let go' of his dead wife sooner and love Bertie unabashedly.. He does, but it took too long for my comfort.
Bertie meets Sinclair; the barrister known for his bull doggedness in the courtroom. There's an immediate 'zing' between them and she finds herself seeking him out. One thing leads to another and she ends up taking the place of governess for his kids after the previous governess (with a stick up her butt) leaves them in the lurch.
Lots of bad-guys; the mysterious evil letter writer, the evil ex-brother-in-law and Bertie's ex-boyfriend (wannabe boyfriend???).
Sinclair's kids were great. They are quite young, (8 and 4 or 5?) and hardly remember their mother. Sinclair has been a widower for 7 years... SEVEN YEARS!!!! So forgive me for being a bit short of sympathy for the stubborn asshat.
By 60% I was feeling kinda let down, 'cause his head still seemed firmly stuck up his self pitying ass. Bertie and the kids steal the show!
Then Ian shows up (I love Ian! still my fave hero in the series) and gives her his enigmatic seal of approval. The romance finally starts to move forward in very frustratingly small increments.
I did not like that Sinclair held all the power in the relationship until, literally, the 11th hour (the last few pages).
Yet... I did feel that he loved her for herself and not as a replacement for his first wife. She brought out something in him that his first wife had repressed. I just wish he had realized it sooner so I could enjoy it longer.
...
safety wasn't too bad
(and the dead first wife; Maggie aka Daisy)
Well, I liked Bertie... A LOT, but Sinclair, was just meh. He's hot and all, but I wanted him to 'let go' of his dead wife sooner and love Bertie unabashedly.. He does, but it took too long for my comfort.
Bertie meets Sinclair; the barrister known for his bull doggedness in the courtroom. There's an immediate 'zing' between them and she finds herself seeking him out. One thing leads to another and she ends up taking the place of governess for his kids after the previous governess (with a stick up her butt) leaves them in the lurch.
Lots of bad-guys; the mysterious evil letter writer, the evil ex-brother-in-law and Bertie's ex-boyfriend (wannabe boyfriend???).
Sinclair's kids were great. They are quite young, (8 and 4 or 5?) and hardly remember their mother. Sinclair has been a widower for 7 years... SEVEN YEARS!!!! So forgive me for being a bit short of sympathy for the stubborn asshat.
By 60% I was feeling kinda let down, 'cause his head still seemed firmly stuck up his self pitying ass. Bertie and the kids steal the show!
Then Ian shows up (I love Ian! still my fave hero in the series) and gives her his enigmatic seal of approval. The romance finally starts to move forward in very frustratingly small increments.
I did not like that Sinclair held all the power in the relationship until, literally, the 11th hour (the last few pages).
Yet... I did feel that he loved her for herself and not as a replacement for his first wife. She brought out something in him that his first wife had repressed. I just wish he had realized it sooner so I could enjoy it longer.
...
safety wasn't too bad
October 9, 2014
This is one of my favorite series; I fell in love with the MacKenzie’s from the first book and have read each as soon as I can. The men and the women they love are bold, brave and very sexy. This newest tale features a McBride brother and is a wonderful addition that I enjoyed immensely.
Sinclair McBride is a barrister in London. They call him Basher McBride because of his successful conviction record. However his personal life is not as triumphant; he is a grieving widow, even after seven years and has two precocious children that go through governesses regularly. When he meets a spirited woman on the street he is surprised when long suppressed feelings make an appearance.
Roberta (Bertie) lives in the east side of London with a father who treats her poorly. He does give her a place to stay that is somewhat safe, but she must do as he wants and has become a successful pickpocket to satisfy him. When her father asks her to lift something from the barrister because he is angry she balks but knows he will beat her if she does not perform. But she feels another type of fear when Sinclair comes after her.
Sinclair and Bertie are equally intrigued when they meet and form a lasting impression, so much that he can’t stop thinking about her and she spends several days following him to find out where he lives. While stalking him she unintentionally becomes his children’s governess and when Andrew and Cat immediately bond with her, she realizes her world will never be the same.
I truly enjoyed this story; yes you have to suspend some of your reality to believe in this HEA between a barrister from a wealthy Scottish family and a very poor woman from the east side of London who has become a very good pickpocket. But that is what romance is, the belief in the something special.
Sinclair is the perfect hero, he has lost his spark in life, and his eyes seem lifeless when he is not performing for the courts, he lost his love several years ago and other than his children there is nothing he feels passionate about, until he meets a woman with memorable eyes who just happens to pick his pocket. Their meeting is hilarious and when he chases after her the banter between them is classic. She yells at him for not trying to save himself from a beating when she is the one that led him to the spot. Their witty conversations continue from that point on and create several brilliant moments.
Bertie is a unique and amazing heroine; she is poor with a cockney accent from the wrong side of London and has developed a true art for picking people’s pocket; her dad thinks she is a natural. She knows she is not trained to be a governess but I like the fact that she feels the children need her, which they do.
Complete review at: Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind
Copy from publisher for an honest review
Sinclair McBride is a barrister in London. They call him Basher McBride because of his successful conviction record. However his personal life is not as triumphant; he is a grieving widow, even after seven years and has two precocious children that go through governesses regularly. When he meets a spirited woman on the street he is surprised when long suppressed feelings make an appearance.
Roberta (Bertie) lives in the east side of London with a father who treats her poorly. He does give her a place to stay that is somewhat safe, but she must do as he wants and has become a successful pickpocket to satisfy him. When her father asks her to lift something from the barrister because he is angry she balks but knows he will beat her if she does not perform. But she feels another type of fear when Sinclair comes after her.
Sinclair and Bertie are equally intrigued when they meet and form a lasting impression, so much that he can’t stop thinking about her and she spends several days following him to find out where he lives. While stalking him she unintentionally becomes his children’s governess and when Andrew and Cat immediately bond with her, she realizes her world will never be the same.
I truly enjoyed this story; yes you have to suspend some of your reality to believe in this HEA between a barrister from a wealthy Scottish family and a very poor woman from the east side of London who has become a very good pickpocket. But that is what romance is, the belief in the something special.
Sinclair is the perfect hero, he has lost his spark in life, and his eyes seem lifeless when he is not performing for the courts, he lost his love several years ago and other than his children there is nothing he feels passionate about, until he meets a woman with memorable eyes who just happens to pick his pocket. Their meeting is hilarious and when he chases after her the banter between them is classic. She yells at him for not trying to save himself from a beating when she is the one that led him to the spot. Their witty conversations continue from that point on and create several brilliant moments.
Bertie is a unique and amazing heroine; she is poor with a cockney accent from the wrong side of London and has developed a true art for picking people’s pocket; her dad thinks she is a natural. She knows she is not trained to be a governess but I like the fact that she feels the children need her, which they do.
Complete review at: Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind
Copy from publisher for an honest review
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